The final phase of the Crawfords Corner Road Widening Project has now been completed with the planting of new trees and landscaping enhancements to replace the mature white pine trees that were removed as part of the roadway improvements.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Holmdel Township Committee for securing the state grant funding that made this important generational infrastructure project possible.

In collaboration with Spiezle Architects, a comprehensive landscape plan was developed utilizing a diverse mix of tree genera and species to promote long-term sustainability, resilience, and a balanced visual aesthetic. Through close coordination with the project team, the district successfully advocated for larger, more mature tree selections ranging from approximately 16 to 18 feet in height, which will provide enhanced screening from roadway lights and sound near Roggy Field.

In addition to the tree installations, flowering ornamental trees and lower shrubs were planted along the driveway areas to add seasonal color and further beautify the campus surroundings. The project also includes a three-month courtesy maintenance program consisting of watering, fertilization, and mulching to support the healthy establishment of the new plantings. To assist with ongoing care, the district provided access to the school irrigation system to help ensure proper and timely watering throughout the establishment period.

In a previous newsletter last month, I outlined the district’s forthcoming work over the summer and into next year focused on evaluating the balance between digital and analog learning in our schools. This work is especially timely as we prepare to implement the new cell phone ban legislation signed into law by Governor Murphy earlier this year.

Supporting students in developing a healthy and productive relationship with technology during the school day is an important and worthwhile goal. However, if students are not also cultivating that same balance outside of school, the positive impacts of our in-school efforts will inevitably be limited. For that reason, providing guidance and support to parents and guardians in helping students maintain this balance at home remains a district priority.

Through this newsletter, we will continue to share updates on the Balance Project, including webinars, in-person events, and digital resources designed to support this important work.

Last Wednesday, the Holmdel chapter of the Balance Project hosted its inaugural Perspectives Panel at Holmdel High School. The event took place in the high school auditorium and was also streamed live, allowing broader community participation.

The panel featured professionals in occupational therapy, mental health, and school leadership, alongside student voices from Holmdel High School.

Panelists included Emily McCue, Katie McEvoy, Chantal M. Simonelli, and Samantha Saffioti, as well as three Holmdel High School students: Sebastian Aung (12th), Sienna Marzocca (9th), and Ariella Albrecht (9th).

For those who were unable to join live, click HERE to view the recording of the panel discussion

We also encourage families who have not yet done so to stay connected and receive updates about future Balance Project events and resources by joining the email list: Balance Project Email List.

The administration and Board of Education have been receiving inquiries regarding the elimination of courtesy busing. In particular, one common question has been how the district calculates distance. This question, along with answers to other salient points, was addressed in the Courtesy Busing FAQ shared several weeks ago. You are invited to review the FAQ for relevant information and answers to frequently asked questions. Should you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact the Transportation Department or district administration.

A beautiful and moving Memorial Day Ceremony was held at Holmdel Township Hall yesterday, bringing together residents, local officials, students, and community leaders to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

The program featured a performance by musicians from Holmdel High School, whose participation certainly enhanced the occasion. Their music provided a fitting tribute to the courage and sacrifice of veterans, emphasizing the meaning of Memorial Day for all in attendance.

Special recognition is extended to Dr. Riso for her efforts in coordinating student participation and ensuring the musicians were prepared to contribute meaningfully to this important community event.

Holmdel Township Public Schools extends sincere appreciation to all who participated in and supported the event, and especially to our student musicians for representing the district with respect, dignity, and pride.

We remain deeply grateful to all veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice in defense of our freedom.