I am incredibly proud to be the principal of Nathan Hale Elementary School. Our school is one that celebrates the beautiful diversity represented by our student and staff population. Our talented staff is dedicated to educating the whole child. In today’s world, students, families, and teachers are facing incredible challenges. We believe in the work we do daily to develop and foster relationships, support social emotional skills, and believe in the success of our students. This year, our teachers have embodied what perseverance looks like, and they demonstrate a “never give up” attitude each day. 

We recognize the importance of early childhood education, which is why we typically offer full day preschool and kindergarten programs featuring the Tools of the Mind Curriculum. We also recognize developmental needs come first, so at this time we are offering our program as half day virtual sessions until October 13th to help our youngest and newest learners transition into a new world of schooling. After that date, our full day programming in these grade levels will resume. Preschool and kindergarten students each received an iPad to assist with their instructional program. As our students transition to first grade, we provide a comprehensive academic program including 1:1 Chromebooks, Ready Math, and a hands-on approach where we nurture knowledge through hands-on inquiry. Our students develop strong reading skills through personalized, prescriptive programming via the Reader’s Workshop model supported by an iReady English Language Arts companion piece, and a phonics and word study program that meets students at their level. 

Nathan Hale School also acknowledges the importance of educating the whole child, and we understand that this past year has brought on additional stressors and adjustments to the typical rhythm of our world. For those reasons and more, our teachers deliver a comprehensive Social Emotional Learning curriculum each day, including Responsive Classroom and Mindfulness. We believe that all students can learn and we provide a variety of additional programming such as Response to Intervention and Math Intervention. We look forward to resuming Title I and Title III after school programs. In addition, our school also boasts an Asian Heritage Club and a Digital Journalism Club to enrich the lives of our students outside of scheduled school hours. Nathan Hale School honors the contributions of our students at monthly Student of the Month meetings, which coincide with PTO events. We believe in having parents and families, as partners in education and I encourage you to be an active participant in our school community. We believe open communication is vital to student success and look forward to strengthening the relationships we have already built between home and school. This year more than ever we are working closely together with families in a way we never have before and thank you for welcoming us into your homes each day. 

 Our goal this year, as always, is maintaining the health, safety, and well being of your children and our staff. In addition to this, we will work to target power standards to help bridge the gap improving student achievement in all areas and recognizing the importance of equity. We understand that accessibility is an issue this year, and we are working hard to meet the individual needs of each student.  Please assist us and make sure your child attends school for the duration of each school day so they can take advantage of all the amazing programming we have at Nathan Hale School. We appreciate your patience as we navigate bumps in the road in this new educational world. While there may be roadblocks, our destination is always success for your children and we will get there together, no matter what it takes. If you should have additional questions regarding our school or programming, please call (732) 541-8960 x 5002. I look forward to working with you and together making this a successful and rewarding school year.

Your partner in education,

Ms. Erika Barrett