Warren Teachers Are Ready For the New School Year

WARREN, NJ — It was an enthusiastic start to the 2016-2017 school year as staff of Warren Township Schools gathered on September 1 and 2 for the traditional opening day sessions before students arrive on Tuesday, September 6.

“There is something about the energy of a new school year that is so invigorating,” says Superintendent Dr.

Matthew Mingle, who addressed a nearly standing room only crowd at Warren Middle School on Sept. 1. “The
optimism in the room was contagious. There are always challenges but we are doing great things here, which
makes it a joy to come to work every day.”

Mingle, who began his tenure in Warren on July 1, acknowledged the dedication and hard work of all of the
district’s employees, many of whom were meeting him for the first time. He applauded last year’s winners of
the Excellence in Education awards - Catherine Maguire, Catherine Murphy, Vivien Plesmid, Jennifer
SanAntonio, Adam Yenish - while pointing out that “there are countless examples” of others who strive for
this kind of excellence every day.

Warren Township Board of Education President Tia Allocco echoed that sentiment.

“What makes [this district] so special?” she asked the gathering. “It’s every single professional in this room.”
Each building principal spoke to what he or she feels makes Warren Township Schools so strong, while
Mingle reiterated his continued commitment to the “whole child” approach to education, saying “this focus on
defining academic achievement on more than just a few standardized tests scores is not new in Warren.”

The superintendent also introduced staff members new to the district, who attended a two-day orientation
earlier this week as part of a year-long program to provide valuable support as they transition into their new
positions.

“I do not think I have ever seen such commitment to working together on behalf of children in one place
before arriving here,” he says. “Warren is a place where going beyond the call of duty is so routine that many
do not really stop to recognize the extraordinary work being done here. I hope to shine a light on students
and staff who embody the district’s mission to shine brighter every day.”

- By Mary Ann McGann

(Photos by Mary Ann McGann)

Photos 1 and 2: Superintendent Dr. Matthew Mingle addressed school district staff on Sept. 1, as all gathered to prepare for the return of students on Sept. 6.

Photo 3: Staff of Warren Township Schools attended a two-day session on Sept. 1 and 2.

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