When people hear about New Jersey's new law, they often think it's only about cell phones. In fact, the law addresses personal internet-enabled devices, including:
📱 Cell phones
⌚ Smartwatches
💻 Personal tablets
🌐 Other internet-accessible personal devices
Districts across New Jersey are required to establish policies for the use of these devices during the school day. Our goal is simple: create learning environments where students can stay focused, engaged, and connected with the people around them. Stay tuned for more information before the start of school about the new bell-to-bell ban.
#rockgrnj #newcellphonepolicy
The Counseling team has been busy this summer preparing for the upcoming school year. The elementary RULER teams have been updating and are developing new curriculum for the K–5 RULER program.
Ms. Higgins also held multiple sessions with 6th-grade parents to answer questions and provide support related to the transition to Glen Rock Middle School.
For our seniors, Camp College and essay workshops have begun. These sessions provide students with an opportunity to complete a significant portion of their college applications, receive essay review and revision support, and update their Naviance accounts and finish their brag sheets. Can’t wait to welcome everyone back in September! ❤️🐾🪨🧑🏫
#rockgrnj #glenrockcounseling #ruler #campcollege
📢!! As we get ready for another exciting school year, New Jersey is introducing new requirements for student use of cell phones and personal internet-enabled devices during the school day.
Why? Because classrooms are at their best when students are engaged, participating, collaborating, and connecting with one another.
Research continues to show that reducing distractions during the school day helps students focus, learn, and build stronger relationships with their classmates. Sometimes putting our phones away helps us reconnect with what’s right in front of us.
📚 More learning.
💬 More connection.
🎉 More moments that matter.
We’ll share additional information about the new state requirements and building-specific procedures before school begins. ❤️🐾🪨
#rockgrnj #newcellphonepolicy
With guidance from our Search Consultant, the Glen Rock Board of Education has carefully reviewed the application materials submitted by all of the candidates for Superintendent. The Board is grateful for all of the impressive talent that comprised the application pool, and we thank each of these accomplished educational leaders for their interest in leading our District.
Using the outcomes from the input survey and input sessions conducted with our stakeholders, the Board has selected twelve candidates for first-round interviews. Those interviews will be conducted in closed sessions during the publicly advertised GRBOE meetings on Wednesday, September 9 and Thursday, September 10. Second and third interviews with the candidates who advance through each round will be held later in the month.
We appreciate the Glen Rock educational community's support during the search process, and we look forward to posting future updates on our progress as they occur.
#rockgrnj #grboe #superintendentsearch
Using the outcomes from the input survey and input sessions conducted with our stakeholders, the Board has selected twelve candidates for first-round interviews. Those interviews will be conducted in closed sessions during the publicly advertised GRBOE meetings on Wednesday, September 9 and Thursday, September 10. Second and third interviews with the candidates who advance through each round will be held later in the month.
We appreciate the Glen Rock educational community's support during the search process, and we look forward to posting future updates on our progress as they occur.
#rockgrnj #grboe #superintendentsearch
Attention families with student e-bike riders! ‼️🚲
New Jersey’s new e-bike law is now in effect. If your child rides an e-bike to and from school, please review the updated requirements before the school year begins.
Key changes include:
• Riders must be at least 15 years old
• Riders ages 17+ with a valid driver’s license meet the licensing requirement. Riders who are 15 or 16 years old must obtain a Motorized Bicycle (Class F) license through the NJMVC
• All e-bikes must be registered with the New Jersey MVC
• Some e-bikes require liability insurance
• E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks unless allowed by local ordinance
Good news! The licensing and registration fees are waived through January 2027. Visit the NJMVC website or follow the GRPD on Instagram @glenrockpolice for reminders and more info.
#rockgrnj #njmvc #ebikelaws
The next Glen Rock Board of Education Regular Meeting is on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 6 p.m.
Meeting Agenda and YouTube Live Stream can be found at https://www.glenrocknj.org/o/grpsd/page/agendas-minutes-meeting-notices.
#rockgrnj #glenrockboe #grboe #grboemeeting
As of the close of the application window on July 19, 31 candidates have applied for the position of Superintendent: 10 Superintendents, 6 Assistant Superintendents, 10 candidates in other district-level director positions, and 5 school principals. Seventeen candidates have earned doctorates.
To see the full candidate pool report, visit https://www.khelewaconsulting.com/glen-rock-superintendent-search-candidate-pool-report
The GRBOE will convene in executive session during its meeting on Monday, July 27 to examine each of the candidates' qualifications and determine who will be selected for first-round interviews, using the insights gained from the online survey and the in-person school stakeholder input sessions conducted in May.
#rockgrnj #grboe #superintendentsearch
Congratulations to the Alexander Hamilton Elementary School fifth graders on their memorable Moving Up Ceremony! As they crossed the stage, families and staff celebrated not only all these students have accomplished, but the friendships, memories, and lessons they’ll carry with them.
We are so proud of this incredible group of students and can’t wait to see all they achieve as they begin the next chapter at Glen Rock Middle School.
We are so proud of this incredible group of students and can’t wait to see all they achieve as they begin the next chapter at Glen Rock Middle School.
Happy Fourth of July! ❤️🤍💙
As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we’re also marking America’s 250th anniversary celebration!
Wishing everyone a safe, happy, and memorable Independence Day! 🇺🇸✨
#July4th #IndependenceDay #America250 #USA250 #rockgrnj
Hamilton’s annual Spring Concert showcased the incredible talents of the 4th and 5th-grade instrumentalists, grade-level vocal performances, and a special performance by the Hamilton Singers that truly wowed the audience.
From the first note to the final applause, our students demonstrated confidence, dedication, and a love of music that filled the room with energy and pride.
Congratulations to Mr. Frey and all of our performers on an outstanding concert! Your hard work and commitment were on full display, and you made the Hamilton community proud. 🎶❤️🎵
Please click to read the June 1, 2026 BOE Meeting Highlights in our enewsletter, The Glen Rock Board Brief: https://app.smore.com/n/vghsy
At the June 1 Board of Education meeting, the district and BOE proudly recognized the 2026 Teachers and Educational Specialists of the Year. The dedication, passion, and commitment of these educators make a lasting impact on our students every day.
Presented by Dr. Damali Robinson, BOE president, and Mr. Gregory Van Nest, Acting Superintendent, congratulations are extended to:
🏆 Byrd School – Mrs. Lauren Carter, School Counselor
🏆 Central School – Mrs. Crissy Feifer, Special Education Teacher
🏆 Coleman School – Mrs. Susan Zisa, Reading Specialist
🏆 Hamilton School – Mrs. Jessica Falkenstern, School Counselor
🏆 Hamilton School – Mrs. Kimberly Castelli, School Nurse (Posthumous Honor)
🏆 Glen Rock Middle School – Ms. Lisa Limongelli, English Teacher
🏆 Glen Rock High School – Ms. Anna Lilikas, Choir and Orchestra Director
🏆 Glen Rock Middle/High School – Ms. Caelie Batelli, Wellness Counselor
At the June 1 Board of Education meeting, Glen Rock Public Schools proudly recognized 13 outstanding educators and staff members for 25 years of service to our students, schools, and community.
For a quarter century, these dedicated professionals have made a lasting impact through their commitment, compassion, and excellence in education. Their contributions have helped shape generations of Glen Rock students, and we are grateful for all they have done and continue to do.
Congratulations to:
⭐ Mrs. Lisa Brown, Special Education Teacher, GRHS
⭐ Ms. Dianne Carpenter, School Psychologist, GRHS
⭐ Mr. Kenneth Cavanagh, Health & Physical Education Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mr. Anthony Cece, Special Education Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mrs. Keri Holmgren, Grade 1 Teacher, Byrd School
⭐ Ms. Vanessa Hurley, Special Education Teacher, GRHS
⭐ Mr. Christopher Kelley, Latin Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mr. James Kurz, Health & Physical Education Teacher, GRHS
⭐ Mrs. Cathleen Mitchell, Intervention Strategies Coach/BSI Math Teacher, Coleman School
⭐ Ms. Stephanie Nerney, School Nurse, GRMS
⭐ Ms. Susan Stevens, Preschool Teacher, Early Childhood Program
⭐ Ms. Tracy Tellis, Special Education Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mrs. Elizabeth Wanagiel, Special Education Teacher, GRMS
Thank you for 25 years of supporting and empowering our students. Your dedication and care have helped make Glen Rock Public Schools the exceptional district it is today!
For a quarter century, these dedicated professionals have made a lasting impact through their commitment, compassion, and excellence in education. Their contributions have helped shape generations of Glen Rock students, and we are grateful for all they have done and continue to do.
Congratulations to:
⭐ Mrs. Lisa Brown, Special Education Teacher, GRHS
⭐ Ms. Dianne Carpenter, School Psychologist, GRHS
⭐ Mr. Kenneth Cavanagh, Health & Physical Education Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mr. Anthony Cece, Special Education Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mrs. Keri Holmgren, Grade 1 Teacher, Byrd School
⭐ Ms. Vanessa Hurley, Special Education Teacher, GRHS
⭐ Mr. Christopher Kelley, Latin Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mr. James Kurz, Health & Physical Education Teacher, GRHS
⭐ Mrs. Cathleen Mitchell, Intervention Strategies Coach/BSI Math Teacher, Coleman School
⭐ Ms. Stephanie Nerney, School Nurse, GRMS
⭐ Ms. Susan Stevens, Preschool Teacher, Early Childhood Program
⭐ Ms. Tracy Tellis, Special Education Teacher, GRMS
⭐ Mrs. Elizabeth Wanagiel, Special Education Teacher, GRMS
Thank you for 25 years of supporting and empowering our students. Your dedication and care have helped make Glen Rock Public Schools the exceptional district it is today!
Hamilton’s 5th graders recently visited Liberty Hall Museum for a Pre-Revolution-themed educational program that brought history to life in an unforgettable way. Through tours, storytelling, and interactive learning experiences, students deepened their understanding of the Revolutionary War era and explored New Jersey’s important role in America’s fight for independence.
Thank you to Hamilton's 5th-grade team for helping students experience history in such an engaging and impactful way!
Thank you to Hamilton's 5th-grade team for helping students experience history in such an engaging and impactful way!
History, innovation, sports, music, and so much more came to life at Hamilton’s 3rd Grade Wax Museum!
Students spent weeks researching, reading, and writing about famous athletes, musicians, historians, inventors, astronauts, and other notable figures before stepping into character and sharing their learning with pride.
Families joined us for this special event, and later in the day, other Hamilton classes had the chance to “meet” these remarkable figures as well!
A huge round of applause to our 3rd-grade students and teachers for bringing research, creativity, and learning to life!
Students spent weeks researching, reading, and writing about famous athletes, musicians, historians, inventors, astronauts, and other notable figures before stepping into character and sharing their learning with pride.
Families joined us for this special event, and later in the day, other Hamilton classes had the chance to “meet” these remarkable figures as well!
A huge round of applause to our 3rd-grade students and teachers for bringing research, creativity, and learning to life!
The Glen Rock Superintendent Search Online Stakeholder Input Survey closed on May 22, having garnered 330 participants.
Thanks to all who engaged in our in-person input sessions and completed the online survey. All outcomes will be compiled into an internal document which will guide our consultant, Ms. Helewa, and the Glen Rock Board of Education throughout the search process.
The information from our stakeholders will be of vital assistance in determining which candidates will be selected for interviews, and in the formulation of interview questions at each stage of the search (preliminary, first-round, second-round, and final interviews).
Please be advised that the results of the sessions and surveys will not be made public during the search, in order to ensure an authentic vetting and interview process.
Thank you for your support of the Glen Rock Board of Education during this process. Visit our Superintendent Search page for more updates: https://www.glenrocknj.org/o/grpsd/page/superintendent-search
Thanks to all who engaged in our in-person input sessions and completed the online survey. All outcomes will be compiled into an internal document which will guide our consultant, Ms. Helewa, and the Glen Rock Board of Education throughout the search process.
The information from our stakeholders will be of vital assistance in determining which candidates will be selected for interviews, and in the formulation of interview questions at each stage of the search (preliminary, first-round, second-round, and final interviews).
Please be advised that the results of the sessions and surveys will not be made public during the search, in order to ensure an authentic vetting and interview process.
Thank you for your support of the Glen Rock Board of Education during this process. Visit our Superintendent Search page for more updates: https://www.glenrocknj.org/o/grpsd/page/superintendent-search
As the GRBOE begins the search for our next Superintendent of Schools, we value the perspectives of all stakeholders in helping identify the qualities and leadership priorities most important to our community. We look forward to your participation in our live input sessions on Thursday, May 21, and are also pleased to offer a completely • confidential online survey • for all school stakeholders from May 14-22, 2026.
The survey is being wholly administered by our search firm, Kathleen Helewa Educational Consultants, LLC, NOT the school district. All responses will be reported to the Board in full, but contributors will remain anonymous.
Please take a few moments to thoughtfully participate in this brief survey, which will close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 22. Click to access the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NRNS6JW
We appreciate your support of the GRBOE in this crucial undertaking!
The survey is being wholly administered by our search firm, Kathleen Helewa Educational Consultants, LLC, NOT the school district. All responses will be reported to the Board in full, but contributors will remain anonymous.
Please take a few moments to thoughtfully participate in this brief survey, which will close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 22. Click to access the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NRNS6JW
We appreciate your support of the GRBOE in this crucial undertaking!
The Glen Rock Board of Education needs the perspectives of all stakeholders as we begin the search for our next Superintendent. The GRBOE is seeking what is most important to stakeholders as the first step in recruiting the most suitable educational leaders who can lead our district in line with our community’s unique needs and aspirations.
Search Consultant, Kathleen Helewa, will be spending a day in our District on Thursday, May 21 to listen to our stakeholders in a series of in-person input sessions. Ms. Helewa will be meeting with administrators, teachers, and staff during the day, and with Glen Rock families and community members in the evening. These sessions will not be meetings of the Glen Rock Board of Education and Board members will not be present.
We urge our families and community members to come and meet Ms. Helewa in the MS/HS Cafeteria from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Glen Rock Middle School/High School Cafeteria to share your perspectives. Additionally, an anonymous online input survey will be available for all of our school stakeholders from May 14-May 22.
To follow along the Superintendent Search process, please visit our designated page at https://www.glenrocknj.org/superintendent-search.
Search Consultant, Kathleen Helewa, will be spending a day in our District on Thursday, May 21 to listen to our stakeholders in a series of in-person input sessions. Ms. Helewa will be meeting with administrators, teachers, and staff during the day, and with Glen Rock families and community members in the evening. These sessions will not be meetings of the Glen Rock Board of Education and Board members will not be present.
We urge our families and community members to come and meet Ms. Helewa in the MS/HS Cafeteria from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Glen Rock Middle School/High School Cafeteria to share your perspectives. Additionally, an anonymous online input survey will be available for all of our school stakeholders from May 14-May 22.
To follow along the Superintendent Search process, please visit our designated page at https://www.glenrocknj.org/superintendent-search.
The final Federated HSA meeting of the school year, open to all district parents, is on Friday, May 8 at 9:30 a.m. at Central Elementary School. Click on the link in bio for more information on the GR HSA Federated website.
On Friday, May 1, our 4th Grade G&T students from all four Glen Rock elementary schools headed to Bergen County’s Makerspace Day! Hosted by Waldwick Public Schools and organized by the Bergen County Consortium of Teachers of Gifted, this day was all about creativity and critical thinking. Our students teamed up with peers from across the county to tackle a major challenge: using the Engineering Design Process to build flood-resistant house prototypes.
We are beyond proud of how our students:
🤝 Collaborated with new friends.
💡 Innovated unique solutions.
💪 Persevered through every design hurdle.
Way to represent Glen Rock! 🪨🐾❤️
