Current eNews

Saturday, May 9th

MTSD Music from the Heart: All Shook Up (2 PM and 7:30 PM, MHS MPAC | Tickets)

Monday, May 11th

LMS NJSLA Testing (continues through 5/13)

VES 4th Grade NJSLA Testing (continues through 5/15)

MES PTA Meeting (10 AM, OHES Room 56)

Tuesday, May 12th

MMS PTO Meeting (9:30 AM, LMS)

VES 3rd Grade Choir and Art Show (7 PM, VES)

Wednesday, May 13th

UMS Spring Band Concert (7 PM, UMS)

Thursday, May 14th

VES 3rd Grade Choir and Art Show (7 PM, VES)

Web Calendar | District Calendar | District Budget Information | Food Services

NEW ITEMS

MTSD Music from the Heart - All Shook Up - Saturday, May 9, 2026

To purchase tickets, use this link: All Shook Up Tickets

On Saturday, May 9^th at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, the Montgomery Township Education Association and the Montgomery High School Instrumental Music Parents Association are thrilled to present the musical All Shook Up  for the twenty-fourth production of Music from the Heart!  The fully volunteer cast and crew are assembled from an eager group of district teachers, support staff, retirees, and students. Proceeds from the production fund the graduating senior class scholarships awarded by both the MTEA and the MHS Instrumental Music Parents Association.

Set in 1955, All Shook Up is a high-energy jukebox musical that reimagines William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night through the music of Elvis Presley. The plot kicks off when Chad, a guitar-slinging, leather-jacketed rebel, rides into a repressed Midwestern town governed by strict laws that forbid loud music and public affection. His arrival sparks a chaotic web of unrequited love: a local mechanic named Natalie falls for Chad and disguises herself as a man named "Ed" to get close to him, only for the intellectual Miss Sandra to fall for "Ed" while Chad pursues Sandra himself. As the town awakens to the power of rock and roll, the characters navigate mistaken identities and forbidden romances, eventually breaking free from their social constraints to find true love and a "hunka-hunka" burning soul.

The performances will occur in the Montgomery Performing Arts Center at Montgomery High School. Reserved seats are available for purchase online at mfth.ludus.com and will also be available at the door. The cost is $12.00 for adults and $8.00 for senior citizens and children 12 and under. Bring your friends and family—this is a show you won’t want to miss!

MTEA Virtual Read Aloud - Monday, May 11, 2026

The Montgomery Township Education Association invites OHES and VES students, along with their parents, to attend our next virtual read-aloud. We will be reading "What If Everyone Thought That?" by Ellen Javernick on Monday, May 11, 2026. Families who attend will receive copies of the book delivered to their child's classroom after the event. Use the link below for more information and to sign up:

MTEA Virtual Family Read Aloud - Monday, May 11, 2026

MTEA Spirit Wear "Recycling" Program

Spirit Wear Selection: May 14th, 2026 and May 15th, 2026 from 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM at UMS

Have your children outgrown their "Monty" gear and/or moved up to a new building? The most eco-friendly way of dealing with unwanted clothing is to keep it right here in Montgomery!  The Montgomery Township Education Association invites you to pick out “new to you” spirit wear in the UMS gym on Thursday, May 14th and Friday, May 15th from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM at UMS.

For more information, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Information

To view the program flyer, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Flyer

OLD ITEMS

2026-2027 School Year Budget

To view the User Friendly Budget for the 2026-2027 school year, use this link: 2026-2027 User Friendly Budget

To view the 2026-2027 Budget Presentation given at the April 28, 2026 BOE meeting, use this link: 2026-2027 Budget Presentation

Community Farm Share Program

The Montgomery Township School District has partnered with Fairgrown Farm! Fairgrown Farm will be bringing fresh, local food directly to families and funding meaningful school programs.

You can pick up your farm box every Tuesday from 2 PM - 5 PM at Montgomery High School. Each box includes a rotating selection of seasonal produce from 40+ local farms with the ability to add additional year-round and seasonal items. 10% of every purchase goes right back to our school district to support field trips, in-school farm experiences, tastings, and local food in school lunches.

To sign-up, use this link: Community Farm Share Sign-Up

To view the flyer for additional information, use this link: Community Farm Share Flyer

Children's Inter-Agency Coordinating Council Webinar - Wednesday, May 13, 2026

The Montgomery Township School District Special Services Department is sponsoring the Children's Inter-Agency Coordinating Council (CIACC) of Somerset County. You are invited to join a CIACC webinar to learn about the Children's System of Care (CSOC). The webinar will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 6 PM - 7:30 PM and will feature a special presentation from a parent and CIACC member.

To register for the webinar, use this link: CIACC Webinar Registration Form

To view the webinar flyer, use this link: CIACC Webinar Flyer

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar + A/B Day and 6-Day Schedules

Please note that all schools will now be open on the following days due to closures:

• Friday, May 22, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, February 23, 2026)
• Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, January 26, 2026)

Updated calendars can be viewed and downloaded using the links below and can also be accessed at any time on our district and school websites:

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar

Updated 2025-26 A/B Day Schedule (LMS/UMS/MHS)

Updated 2025-26 6-Day Rotation Schedule (OHES/VES)

Expanded Free and Reduced School Meal Qualifications

New Jersey has expanded the income eligibility guidelines for families with children in grades K–12. Please review the updated guidelines to see if your family qualifies for the school meal program:

Income Eligibility Guidelines Chart

If your family is now eligible, please visit our Free and Reduced School Meal webpage. If you have any questions, please contact Jamie Chaya via email at jchaya@mtsd.us. Families experiencing food insecurity who do not meet the expanded income guidelines may access free food resources in Somerset County by using this link: Somerset County Food Resources

Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program

As we continue working to support every student in our school community, we want to be sure all families are aware of the Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program available to eligible students.

This program helps ensure that every child has access to healthy, nutritious meals during the school day. Many families qualify and don't realize. All applications are kept completely confidential. Submission of this form should be done annually.

If you believe your family may qualify, or if you'd like to learn more, we encourage you to reach out to Jamie Chaya (jchaya@mtsd.us) for more information.

2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule 

The 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule was approved at the January 6, 2026 Board of Education Meeting. To view the schedule, use this link: 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule

2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar

The 2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar was approved at the December 16, 2025 Board of Education Meeting.

PaySchools Update

Attention PaySchools users--please note that you can manage notification settings to stay connected with meal balances, fees, funding and statements. Please see Page 9 of the PaySchools Central User Guide for set-up instructions.

Montgomery Township Food Pantry and Resources

Please see below for information from Montgomery Township regarding food resources. For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Resources

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is located at Otto Kaufman Community Center. It is located on the Senior Center side of the Otto Kaufman Center. Food Pantry visits, volunteers, and donations are by appointment only to protect the privacy of Pantry clients. For more information, you may call Township Community Resource Manager Lisa Carra at 609-466-1054 or contact her via email by clicking here.

For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Donations and Food Drives

Notification of Standardized Assessments

In accordance with state requirements, we are notifying all parents and guardians about the standardized assessments that will be administered during the course of this school year. Please follow the link below for important information regarding these assessments including subject area, grade level, and approximate dates that the assessments will be administered.

2025-2026 Standardized Assessments Information

A Message from Superintendent McLoughlin

Superintendent McLoughlin sent out a message to the school district community on Thursday, September 18th regarding WhatsApp groups. The message can be viewed using the link below:

A Message from Superintendent McLoughlin

Curriculum Updates for the 2025-2026 School Year

The district’s curriculum can be accessed on the district’s website. Families can see which New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) are covered in each course, the content that will be taught, and the skills that will be learned.  Additionally, primary instructional resources are included.  

The district's curriculum can be found in the Assessment, Curriculum, and Instruction section of the district website. New classes and courses that were significantly updated are also located in this section of the website.

Web Calendar | PTA | Special Education PTA | Counseling/Guidance | Student Handbook | Instagram

NEW ITEMS

OHES Yearbooks

Don’t miss your chance to get this year’s yearbook. Filled with smiling faces, special moments, and all the memories that made this year unforgettable!

Yearbooks are available online only and quantities are limited. Once they sell out, we won’t be able to accept additional orders.

Make sure to order yours from the PTA Online Store now so your student can look back on all the fun, friendships, and milestones from this school year.

MTEA Virtual Read Aloud - Monday, May 11, 2026

The Montgomery Township Education Association invites OHES and VES students, along with their parents, to attend our next virtual read-aloud. We will be reading "What If Everyone Thought That?" by Ellen Javernick on Monday, May 11, 2026. Families who attend will receive copies of the book delivered to their child's classroom after the event. Use the link below for more information and to sign up:

MTEA Virtual Family Read Aloud - Monday, May 11, 2026

Second Grade Music Concert

OHES second grade parents are invited to attend the Second Grade Music Concert in May! Each concert will be under 30 minutes and will begin at 10 AM in the OHES cafeteria. For more information and to see which date your child's class will have their concert, use this link: OHES Second Grade Concert Information

MTEA Spirit Wear "Recycling" Program

Spirit Wear Selection: May 14th, 2026 and May 15th, 2026 from 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM at UMS

Have your children outgrown their "Monty" gear and/or moved up to a new building? The most eco-friendly way of dealing with unwanted clothing is to keep it right here in Montgomery!  The Montgomery Township Education Association invites you to pick out “new to you” spirit wear in the UMS gym on Thursday, May 14th and Friday, May 15th from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM at UMS.

For more information, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Information

To view the program flyer, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Flyer

Rising 3rd Grade Parent Orientation - Monday, May 18, 2026

2nd grade parents are invited to the Rising 3rd Grade Parent Orientation on Monday, May 18, 2026 from 6 PM to 7 PM in the Village Elementary School gymnasium. This orientation presentation is designed for parents of 2nd graders who will transition to 3rd grade at VES in the fall.  This is a parent-only event, as students will be visiting VES during the school day.  

Parking will be available in the following locations:

• Front and side lots
• Lot across the street from VES
• Large lot in the back of the school

Front and rear doors will be open.  

OLD ITEMS

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar + A/B Day and 6-Day Schedules

Please note that all schools will now be open on the following days due to closures:

• Friday, May 22, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, February 23, 2026)
• Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, January 26, 2026)

Updated calendars can be viewed and downloaded using the links below and can also be accessed at any time on our district and school websites:

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar

Updated 2025-26 6-Day Rotation Schedule

OHES Winter Newsletter

The 2026 OHES Winter Newsletter is now available to view! Check it out with this link: 2026 OHES Winter Newsletter

2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule 

The 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule was approved at the January 6, 2026 Board of Education Meeting. To view the schedule, use this link: 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule

2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar

The 2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar was approved at the December 16, 2025 Board of Education Meeting.

PaySchools Update

Attention PaySchools users--please note that you can manage notification settings to stay connected with meal balances, fees, funding and statements. Please see Page 9 of the PaySchools Central User Guide for set-up instructions.

Montgomery Township Food Pantry and Resources

Please see below for information from Montgomery Township regarding food resources. For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Resources

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is located at Otto Kaufman Community Center. It is located on the Senior Center side of the Otto Kaufman Center. Food Pantry visits, volunteers, and donations are by appointment only to protect the privacy of Pantry clients. For more information, you may call Township Community Resource Manager Lisa Carra at 609-466-1054 or contact her via email by clicking here.

For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Donations and Food Drives

Cubs Helping Cubs

We are excited to continue our Cubs Helping Cubs Initiative in partnership with the PTA. To learn more about this initiative, use the link below:

Cubs Helping Cubs Information

Notification of Standardized Assessments

In accordance with state requirements, we are notifying all parents and guardians about the standardized assessments that will be administered during the course of this school year. Please follow the link below for important information regarding these assessments including subject area, grade level, and approximate dates that the assessments will be administered.

2025-2026 Standardized Assessments Information

Web Calendar | PTA | Special Education PTA | Counseling/Guidance | Student Handbook | Instagram

NEW ITEMS

VES Yearbooks

Don’t miss your chance to get this year’s yearbook. Filled with smiling faces, special moments, and all the memories that made this year unforgettable!

Yearbooks are available online only and quantities are limited. Once they sell out, we won’t be able to accept additional orders.

Make sure to order yours from the PTA Online Store now so your student can look back on all the fun, friendships, and milestones from this school year.

Rising 5th Grade Music Class Selection

We were happy to see so many 4th grade families at our rising 5th grade parent meeting. As we shared, all students will have a music class for the duration of their 5th grade school year and we need to ask all families to please select their child's music class by May 15th, 2026.  To do this, please login to the parent portal of Genesis and complete the music selection form.  

IMPORTANT: In order to ensure that you are making the appropriate selection for your child, please read all of the information on the form thoroughly before making any selections. Completing this form by May 15th will help us with scheduling for next year.

Upcoming 4th Grade NJSLA-A Testing

VES 4th graders will be taking the NJSLA-A (New Jersey Student Learning Assessment-Adaptive) Math and Language Arts beginning on Monday, May 11. Here are some important reminders for our students and their families:

1. No academic preparation is necessary. If you would like to support your student prior to the assessment, click here to read an interesting article with suggestions on getting your student ready for NJSLA or similar assessments. We know the NJSLA is only one of the many ways we, as adults, check students’ progress. We do not expect students to get everything correct, and we know this test does not assess what matters most, the kindness and creativity your students show as Villagers every day. 

2. Each student needs a working set of 3.5mm (wired) earbuds or headphones. If your child does not already have headphones in school, please send them inside a zipped bag with their name written on it. 

3. Get to school on time. If your student arrives after the test has started, they will make up that day’s test during the make up week. Please avoid scheduling appointments during testing week. However, if your student is sick, please keep them at home. We will reschedule testing as needed. 

4. For more information regarding the NJSLA-A, including district communication and additional resources, visit our District Site.

Our VES NJSLA Schedule:

• 4th Grade NJSLA Week: May 11-15

• VES NJSLA Make Up Week: May 18-22

MTEA Virtual Read Aloud - Monday, May 11, 2026

The Montgomery Township Education Association invites OHES and VES students, along with their parents, to attend our next virtual read-aloud. We will be reading "What If Everyone Thought That?" by Ellen Javernick on Monday, May 11, 2026. Families who attend will receive copies of the book delivered to their child's classroom after the event. Use the link below for more information and to sign up:

MTEA Virtual Family Read Aloud - Monday, May 11, 2026

MTEA Spirit Wear "Recycling" Program

Spirit Wear Selection: May 14th, 2026 and May 15th, 2026 from 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM at UMS

Have your children outgrown their "Monty" gear and/or moved up to a new building? The most eco-friendly way of dealing with unwanted clothing is to keep it right here in Montgomery!  The Montgomery Township Education Association invites you to pick out “new to you” spirit wear in the UMS gym on Thursday, May 14th and Friday, May 15th from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM at UMS.

For more information, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Information

To view the program flyer, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Flyer

Upcoming VES Spirit Days

Check out the upcoming VES Spirit Days!

Friday, May 15: School Spirit!

Wear V.E.S. or Monty gear to show school spirit!

Friday, May 22: Memorial Day Weekend!

Wear red, white, and/or blue!

Friday, May 29: Galaxy Day!

Wear sequins, sparkles, rhinestones, metallic or bright colors to show your friends they SHINE! (created by Alisha in the Damato class!)

To view all upcoming VES Spirit Days, use this link: VES Spirit Days

OLD ITEMS

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar + A/B Day and 6-Day Schedules

Please note that all schools will now be open on the following days due to closures:

• Friday, May 22, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, February 23, 2026)
• Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, January 26, 2026)

Updated calendars can be viewed and downloaded using the links below and can also be accessed at any time on our district and school websites:

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar

Updated 2025-26 6-Day Rotation Schedule

Village Bluebird Newsletter: February/March 2026

The February/March 2026 edition of the Village Bluebird newsletter can be viewed with this link: Village Bluebird Newsletter: February/March 2026

2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule 

The 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule was approved at the January 6, 2026 Board of Education Meeting. To view the schedule, use this link: 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule

2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar

The 2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar was approved at the December 16, 2025 Board of Education Meeting.

PaySchools Update

Attention PaySchools users--please note that you can manage notification settings to stay connected with meal balances, fees, funding and statements. Please see Page 9 of the PaySchools Central User Guide for set-up instructions.

Montgomery Township Food Pantry and Resources

Please see below for information from Montgomery Township regarding food resources. For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Resources

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is located at Otto Kaufman Community Center. It is located on the Senior Center side of the Otto Kaufman Center. Food Pantry visits, volunteers, and donations are by appointment only to protect the privacy of Pantry clients. For more information, you may call Township Community Resource Manager Lisa Carra at 609-466-1054 or contact her via email by clicking here.

For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Donations and Food Drives

Notification of Standardized Assessments

In accordance with state requirements, we are notifying all parents and guardians about the standardized assessments that will be administered during the course of this school year. Please follow the link below for important information regarding these assessments including subject area, grade level, and approximate dates that the assessments will be administered.

2025-2026 Standardized Assessments Information

VES News

Don't forget to check out the VES News! These student-run announcements air each school day and are posted to the VES News Google Site.

Web Calendar | PTO | Special Education PTA | Counseling/Guidance | Student Handbook | Co-Curricular | Instagram

NEW ITEMS

MTEA Spirit Wear "Recycling" Program

Spirit Wear Selection: May 14th, 2026 and May 15th, 2026 from 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM at UMS

Have your children outgrown their "Monty" gear and/or moved up to a new building? The most eco-friendly way of dealing with unwanted clothing is to keep it right here in Montgomery!  The Montgomery Township Education Association invites you to pick out “new to you” spirit wear in the UMS gym on Thursday, May 14th and Friday, May 15th from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM at UMS.

For more information, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Information

To view the program flyer, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Flyer

OLD ITEMS

Health Office and Media Center Newsletters

Please use the following links to check out the latest newsletters from the LMS Health Office and the LMS Media Center:

April 2026 LMS Health Office Newsletter

April 2026 LMS Media Center Newsletter

Math Placement Information

As we near the end of the school year, we are committed to supporting each student’s academic growth through thoughtful and purposeful math placement for the 2026-2027 school year.

Three data components are used to determine proficiency for 6th and 7th grade math course placement:

• Spring STAR benchmark assessment (25% weight)
• Course cumulative assessment (35% weight)
• Unit assessment average (40% weight)

Students will complete the spring STAR math assessment at the following times:

• 6th Grade: The week of Monday, April 20th
• 5th Grade: The week of Monday, May 4th

Course cumulative assessments will be scheduled in early June. Please be on the lookout for more information regarding this assessment, which will be shared by your student’s math teacher in May.

Students will continue to progress through the curriculum and complete unit assessments at the conclusion of each topic. This data will be used to calculate the unit assessment average.

Math placement decisions will be available for parents and guardians to view on Genesis in June once all data components have been compiled and reviewed.

Additional math placement information, including a list of course descriptions and specific qualifying scores for each course placement can be found on the LMS Mathematics Department website under Course Options. Please reach out to your child's math teacher or Mrs. Danielle Puglisi (dpuglisi@mtsd.us), Math Department Supervisor, if you have questions.

LMS Yearbooks Now On Sale!

The MMS PTO is pleased to announce sales of the LMS Yearbook through their online platform Membership Toolkit (MTK).

Sales continue until inventory runs out, so don't wait to make your purchase! For more yearbook information, please visit: www.montypto.org/lmsyearbook

Pricing Details:

• PTO Member Pre-Sale: $40 (until April 30): PTO Member Link
• Non-Member Pre-Sale: $45 (until April 30) Non-PTO Member Link
• Standard Pricing: $50 (starting May 1)

*all purchases require a MTK account (not a PTO membership) to track orders
*please log in to MTK first to view the form

If you have any questions about ordering, please email yearbook@montypto.org.

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar + A/B Day and 6-Day Schedules

Please note that all schools will now be open on the following days due to closures:

• Friday, May 22, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, February 23, 2026)
• Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, January 26, 2026)

Updated calendars can be viewed and downloaded using the links below and can also be accessed at any time on our district and school websites:

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar

Updated 2025-26 A/B Day Schedule

2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule 

The 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule was approved at the January 6, 2026 Board of Education Meeting. To view the schedule, use this link: 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule

2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar

The 2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar was approved at the December 16, 2025 Board of Education Meeting.

PaySchools Update

Attention PaySchools users--please note that you can manage notification settings to stay connected with meal balances, fees, funding and statements. Please see Page 9 of the PaySchools Central User Guide for set-up instructions.

Montgomery Township Food Pantry and Resources

Please see below for information from Montgomery Township regarding food resources. For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Resources

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is located at Otto Kaufman Community Center. It is located on the Senior Center side of the Otto Kaufman Center. Food Pantry visits, volunteers, and donations are by appointment only to protect the privacy of Pantry clients. For more information, you may call Township Community Resource Manager Lisa Carra at 609-466-1054 or contact her via email by clicking here.

For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Donations and Food Drives

Notification of Standardized Assessments

In accordance with state requirements, we are notifying all parents and guardians about the standardized assessments that will be administered during the course of this school year. Please follow the link below for important information regarding these assessments including subject area, grade level, and approximate dates that the assessments will be administered.

2025-2026 Standardized Assessments Information

Web Calendar | PTO | Special Education PTA | Counseling/Guidance | Student Handbook | Co-Curricular | Instagram

NEW ITEMS

MTEA Spirit Wear "Recycling" Program

Spirit Wear Selection: May 14th, 2026 and May 15th, 2026 from 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM at UMS

Have your children outgrown their "Monty" gear and/or moved up to a new building? The most eco-friendly way of dealing with unwanted clothing is to keep it right here in Montgomery!  The Montgomery Township Education Association invites you to pick out “new to you” spirit wear in the UMS gym on Thursday, May 14th and Friday, May 15th from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM at UMS.

For more information, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Information

To view the program flyer, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Flyer

OLD ITEMS

UMS Field Trips and State Testing

To celebrate the end of the school year, both grades will be attending a field trip. This is a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate all that our students have accomplished. These experiences would not be possible without the support of our PTO, which has given us a $4,000 donation to help us offset the price for students. Permission slips and payment options can be found in your PaySchools Account.

Participation in these events is a privilege; students must be in good standing to attend. Additionally, should your child decide not to attend their grade-level trip, the expectation is for the student to be in attendance at school.

Any family experiencing financial hardship at this time (we understand that the end-of-year activities can become costly) can request assistance by emailing either of us directly. We want to ensure every student can participate, regardless of financial circumstances.

Below is the information for each grade:

7th Grade:

• Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
• Location: Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, New Jersey
• Cost: $75 per student to cover admission, transportation, t-shirts, and lunch (provided by the venue - more info on permission slip)
• Due Date: Friday, May 22, 2026 Link to 7th Grade Trip permission slip

8th Grade:

• Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2026
• Location: Frogbridge Day Camp in Millstone, New Jersey
• Cost: $75 per student to cover all activities, transportation, promotion t-shirts, and lunch (provided by venue - options provided)
• Due Date: Friday, May 22, 2026 Link to 8th Grade Trip permission slip

State Testing:

UMS will conduct two assessments from May 7 through May 13, 2026: New Jersey Student Learning Assessments - Adaptive (NJSLA-A) and CogAT. 8th-grade students will be tested in Math, English Language Arts, and Science. Students in the 7th grade will be tested in Math and English Language Arts. Additionally, 7th graders will sit for the CogAT exam.

In preparation for the assessments, it is IMPORTANT to know the following:

• All students must bring headphones that can be plugged into their Chromebooks to school. Bluetooth headphones CANNOT be utilized. Please let us know in advance if bringing plug-in headphones is a challenge for you.
• Students MUST utilize their school-assigned Chromebook for the assessment. Please support us by having your student charge their Chromebook each night. School-issued Chromebooks will NOT be used unless your student has a Chromebook in for repairs.

Other Important Dates:

• 8th Grade Semi-Formal: June 12, 2026
• 8th Grade Promotion: June 22, 2026

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

2026 UMS Fall Sports Registration - Opens Monday, May 18

Registration for the 2026 UMS Fall Sports season will open on Monday, May 18, 2026.

New Newsletter and Podcast Episode

Be sure to check out the new edition of the UMS Newsletter and the new episode of the CougarCast podcast!

March 2026 UMS Newsletter

CougarCast Episode 7 - March 2026

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar + A/B Day and 6-Day Schedules

Please note that all schools will now be open on the following days due to closures:

• Friday, May 22, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, February 23, 2026)
• Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, January 26, 2026)

Updated calendars can be viewed and downloaded using the links below and can also be accessed at any time on our district and school websites:

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar

Updated 2025-26 A/B Day Schedule

2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule 

The 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule was approved at the January 6, 2026 Board of Education Meeting. To view the schedule, use this link: 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule

2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar

The 2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar was approved at the December 16, 2025 Board of Education Meeting.

Important Message from MTSD Health Services

The MTSD Health Services team has shared an important message regarding cold, flu, and GI Illness season.

PaySchools Update

Attention PaySchools users--please note that you can manage notification settings to stay connected with meal balances, fees, funding and statements. Please see Page 9 of the PaySchools Central User Guide for set-up instructions.

Montgomery Township Food Pantry and Resources

Please see below for information from Montgomery Township regarding food resources. For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Resources

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is located at Otto Kaufman Community Center. It is located on the Senior Center side of the Otto Kaufman Center. Food Pantry visits, volunteers, and donations are by appointment only to protect the privacy of Pantry clients. For more information, you may call Township Community Resource Manager Lisa Carra at 609-466-1054 or contact her via email by clicking here.

For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Donations and Food Drives

Notification of Standardized Assessments

In accordance with state requirements, we are notifying all parents and guardians about the standardized assessments that will be administered during the course of this school year. Please follow the link below for important information regarding these assessments including subject area, grade level, and approximate dates that the assessments will be administered.

2025-2026 Standardized Assessments Information

Web Calendar | PTSA | Special Education PTA | Counseling/Guidance | Athletics | Student Handbook | Program of Studies | Co-Curricular | Instagram

NEW ITEMS

Class of 2026 Graduation Signs

Graduation day is almost here! Make your graduate swell with pride with Class of 2026 graduation signs.  These signs can decorate your lawn and let everyone know what an accomplishment your student has attained! Graduation signs are 24" by 18", double-sided, and available for $20 each or $35 for 2. Orders are due to the Main Office by Thursday, May 21, 2026 and are to be picked up in the MHS foyer from 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Seniors with early dismissal can also pick up their sign-up during 4th block on June 2nd in the foyer. If you have any questions, please contact Colleen Shanahan at cshanahan@mtsd.us or Rickey Steeb at rsteeb@mtsd.us.

To view the order form, use this link: Class of 2026 Graduation Sign Order Form

MTEA Spirit Wear "Recycling" Program

Spirit Wear Selection: May 14th, 2026 and May 15th, 2026 from 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM at UMS

Have your children outgrown their "Monty" gear and/or moved up to a new building? The most eco-friendly way of dealing with unwanted clothing is to keep it right here in Montgomery!  The Montgomery Township Education Association invites you to pick out “new to you” spirit wear in the UMS gym on Thursday, May 14th and Friday, May 15th from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM at UMS.

For more information, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Information

To view the program flyer, use this link: 2026 MTEA Spirit Wear Program Flyer

OLD ITEMS

2026 MHS Fall Sports Registration - Opens Monday, May 18

Registration for the 2026 MHS Fall Sports season will open on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Class of 2026 High School Graduation Information

On Tuesday, June 23rd, the Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2026 will begin promptly at 6:00 P.M. The ceremony will take place indoors in the Main Gymnasium. Graduates will assemble in the Auxiliary Gymnasium at 5:15 P.M.

This year, we have made a single, consistent decision to hold graduation indoors in order to provide the safest and most comfortable experience for our graduates, families, and staff. Our students deserve to fully enjoy this milestone without the challenges that can come with late June weather. High temperatures and humidity are common, and on the turf and metal bleachers, these conditions are significantly intensified, particularly for graduates seated in gowns for extended periods. In addition, changing weather patterns can make outdoor planning unpredictable and often lead to last-minute adjustments.

By planning ahead and committing to an indoor ceremony, we are prioritizing the well-being of our community while also enabling families to plan with clarity and confidence. Our focus remains on creating a meaningful, joyful, and memorable celebration for the Class of 2026.

Participation in the graduation ceremony is optional. As such, any student may choose not to participate in the commencement exercise. If you decide not to participate, please contact Mrs. Matthews in the main office as soon as possible at lmatthews@mtsd.us 

Schedule of Events Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

7:30 A.M. – Senior Breakfast will occur outside, under the Science Eave, before graduation practice. Parents of seniors conduct this activity, which is funded by the senior class. 

8:00 A.M. – The Class of 2026 will check in under the Science Eave and be directed to the Main Gymnasium for graduation rehearsal.

8:25 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. –  Graduation Rehearsal.

• Dismissal depends on the class's cooperation and the successful completion of rehearsals for the Commencement Ceremony.
• Students must attend the entire rehearsal session to participate in the Commencement Ceremony. Students who miss rehearsal or leave prior to the conclusion of rehearsal will not be eligible to participate. Please do not schedule appointments before 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, June 23rd.

5:15 P.M. – Members of the Class of 2026 participating in the Commencement Ceremony report to the Auxiliary Gymnasium. Students should be in the gymnasium no later than 5:15 P.M.

6:00 P.M. – Commencement Ceremony

Dress Code

All students must be dressed in appropriate attire for graduation. Appropriate attire includes:

• Dresses, skirts, or dress pants with a blouse under the gown.
• Dress pants, dress shoes, and a dress shirt with a tie.
• Jeans and shorts are NOT permitted.
• Flip-flops are NOT permitted.
• Please be mindful of your footwear. Walking in heels on a polished floor may be difficult and uncomfortable. 
• Footwear should be more formal than on a typical school day.

If you have a question about your graduation attire, please speak with Mrs. Pino-Beattie in advance of the graduation ceremony.

Code of Conduct

• Members of the Class of 2026 must be in their assigned seats on time for all graduation rehearsals.  Failure to attend or unexcused lateness to the rehearsal sessions may jeopardize a student’s privilege to participate in the Commencement Ceremony.
• All members of the Class of 2026 are asked to cooperate fully during rehearsals. The sooner you get it correct, the sooner you will be dismissed.
• Please do not bring beach balls, silly string, air horns, water guns, or any other “items of distraction” to rehearsal or the Commencement Ceremony. The Marshals will check students prior to the ceremony to ensure that these items are not present.
• Cell phones must remain in the “OFF” position during graduation rehearsal and the Commencement Ceremony.
• Cameras and yearbooks are prohibited during the graduation rehearsal or the Commencement Ceremony.

Note: Students in violation of the Code of Conduct or who do not comply with the Dress Code as stated above may jeopardize their privilege to participate in the Commencement Ceremony and may be removed from the ceremony.  Remember, participating in graduation is a privilege, not a right.

Diplomas

• Please ensure all fines and obligations are paid by Thursday, June 11, at 10:00 a.m. so students can receive their diplomas. Unpaid fines and obligations will delay the receipt of your diploma.
• You must complete the Naviance Graduation Survey. You can access this by logging into your Naviance account, clicking on “about me,” and then selecting the “graduation survey.”
• Diplomas will be distributed in the media center immediately following the commencement ceremony. Graduates must report for diploma pick-up immediately following the ceremony.

Distribution of Caps and Gowns

Caps and gowns will be distributed on Monday, June 22nd. Graduates can pick up their caps and gowns from 10:40 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the reception desk in the foyer (outside the main office).

Distribution of Graduation Tickets

Tickets will be distributed on Tuesday, June 23rd, at the end of graduation rehearsal. Each graduate will receive four tickets for our commencement ceremony. We will have overflow seating in the Montgomery Performing Arts Center (MPAC) available on a first-come, first-served basis; we will live-stream the Ceremony for free on YouTube for those unable to attend in person. We will provide a link to the live stream in the days leading up to graduation.

Graduation Announcements in the July Issue of The Montgomery News

The Montgomery News is continuing the tradition and helping the community celebrate our 2026 graduates!  In their July issue, a special graduation section will highlight the accomplishments of local students from preschool to graduate school.  The Montgomery News will also donate 10% of the proceeds from the graduation announcements to the Montgomery Township Education Foundation (MTEF). The deadline to purchase graduation announcements is Monday, June 15, 2026. More information can be found on the linked Montgomery News Graduation Announcement site.

Pictures

• Montgomery graduates and parents will be able to purchase professional graduation pictures through Milan Rose.  Graduation pictures will feature each student receiving their diploma and will be available for purchase.     
• Order envelopes will be sent electronically, a hard copy will be available in the main office, and a downloadable form will be available on the MHS website. Payment must be received prior to the Commencement Ceremony.
• Completed order forms with payment should be submitted to the main office prior to the Commencement Ceremony.

Commencement Ceremony Estimated Run-Time

The graduation ceremony normally runs approximately 2 hours. 

Special Seating and Parking 

Families who need Special Seating and/or Handicapped Parking are asked to contact Mrs. Lori Matthews at lmatthews@mtsd.us. Please contact Mrs. Matthews by Wednesday, June 3rd, with your request. We will do our best to accommodate every request. As a reminder, handicapped seating requires one of your tickets upon entry

MHS Senior Events

Please note the following dates and information for a few important upcoming events for our seniors!

Senior Sunset will take place on Monday, June 8th, from 7:00–9:00 PM at Milich Field. Seniors are encouraged to bring food, games, and blankets as they gather together for one final lap around the track to celebrate their high school journey.

Senior Luncheon will be held on Friday, June 12th, during Unit Lunch. We will be reaching out to families of graduates in the coming weeks with opportunities to contribute donations and volunteer support to help make this event special for our students.

Additional information regarding graduation (June 23) will be shared when we return from spring break.

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar + A/B Day and 6-Day Schedules

Please note that all schools will now be open on the following days due to closures:

• Friday, May 22, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, February 23, 2026)
• Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (due to the closing on Monday, January 26, 2026)

Updated calendars can be viewed and downloaded using the links below and can also be accessed at any time on our district and school websites:

Updated 2025-26 District Calendar

Updated 2025-26 A/B Day Schedule

2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule 

The 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule was approved at the January 6, 2026 Board of Education Meeting. To view the schedule, use this link: 2026 Board of Education Meeting Schedule

2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar

The 2026-2027 MTSD District Calendar was approved at the December 16, 2025 Board of Education Meeting.

PaySchools Update

Attention PaySchools users--please note that you can manage notification settings to stay connected with meal balances, fees, funding and statements. Please see Page 9 of the PaySchools Central User Guide for set-up instructions.

Montgomery Township Food Pantry and Resources

Please see below for information from Montgomery Township regarding food resources. For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Resources

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is located at Otto Kaufman Community Center. It is located on the Senior Center side of the Otto Kaufman Center. Food Pantry visits, volunteers, and donations are by appointment only to protect the privacy of Pantry clients. For more information, you may call Township Community Resource Manager Lisa Carra at 609-466-1054 or contact her via email by clicking here.

For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Donations and Food Drives

Notification of Standardized Assessments

In accordance with state requirements, we are notifying all parents and guardians about the standardized assessments that will be administered during the course of this school year. Please follow the link below for important information regarding these assessments including subject area, grade level, and approximate dates that the assessments will be administered.

2025-2026 Standardized Assessments Information

Unified Champion School

MHS is proud to be a 2025-2026 Special Olympics Unified Champion School.

Athletics | Visual and Performing Arts | LMS Co-Curricular | UMS Co-Curricular | MHS Co-Curricular

MTSD Music from the Heart - All Shook Up - Saturday, May 9, 2026

To purchase tickets, use this link: All Shook Up Tickets

On Saturday, May 9^th at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, the Montgomery Township Education Association and the Montgomery High School Instrumental Music Parents Association are thrilled to present the musical All Shook Up  for the twenty-fourth production of Music from the Heart!  The fully volunteer cast and crew are assembled from an eager group of district teachers, support staff, retirees, and students. Proceeds from the production fund the graduating senior class scholarships awarded by both the MTEA and the MHS Instrumental Music Parents Association.

Set in 1955, All Shook Up is a high-energy jukebox musical that reimagines William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night through the music of Elvis Presley. The plot kicks off when Chad, a guitar-slinging, leather-jacketed rebel, rides into a repressed Midwestern town governed by strict laws that forbid loud music and public affection. His arrival sparks a chaotic web of unrequited love: a local mechanic named Natalie falls for Chad and disguises herself as a man named "Ed" to get close to him, only for the intellectual Miss Sandra to fall for "Ed" while Chad pursues Sandra himself. As the town awakens to the power of rock and roll, the characters navigate mistaken identities and forbidden romances, eventually breaking free from their social constraints to find true love and a "hunka-hunka" burning soul.

The performances will occur in the Montgomery Performing Arts Center at Montgomery High School. Reserved seats are available for purchase online at mfth.ludus.com and will also be available at the door. The cost is $12.00 for adults and $8.00 for senior citizens and children 12 and under. Bring your friends and family—this is a show you won’t want to miss!

2026 MHS/UMS Fall Sports Registration - Opens Monday, May 18

Registration for the 2026 MHS/UMS Fall Sports season will open on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Athletic Events

Spring sports season is here! The schedule for MHS and UMS Athletic events can be viewed at any time by using the link below:

• MHS and UMS Athletic Events Schedule
   

Visual and Performing Arts Events

The schedule for Visual and Performing Arts events across all of our schools can be viewed at any time by using the link below:

• Visual and Performing Arts Events Schedule

Community Bulletin Board | Township of Montgomery | Borough of Rocky Hill

To view a full listing of community events and updates, please visit our Community Bulletin Board.

Montgomery Township eBulletin

The latest edition of the Montgomery Township eBulletin can be viewed by using the link below:

• Montgomery Township eBulletin

2026 Montgomery Spring Fling - Saturday, May 16, 2026

Montgomery’s 5th Annual Spring Fling Festival of Colors will take place Saturday, May 16 from 2 PM to 4 PM on the Montgomery High School Front Lawn (1016 Rt. 601, Skillman, NJ 08558).

Come out to celebrate spring at this free event with your neighbors, as we toss color powders on each other to spread good luck and dance to some rockin' beats from the DJ! Don’t miss it!

Attendees are encouraged to wear white to accentuate the colored powder. There will be designated color-free zones for those who do not wish to participate in the powder toss.

This is a free event.

Please reach out to the Recreation Department with additional questions - 609-466-3023.

To view the event flyer, use this link: 2026 Montgomery Spring Fling Flyer

Somerset County Stigma-Free Summit - Thursday, June 4, 2026

Somerset County's Stigma-Free Summit will be held on Thursday, June 4th, 2026 from 5 PM - 9 PM at Raritan Valley Community College in Branchburg.

The theme, “Nourishment: Mind, Body, and Soul,” emphasizes a comprehensive view of well-being that recognizes mental health and substance use as part of the human experience, not something to be judged or stigmatized. It highlights the importance of care, compassion, and connection in supporting individuals and communities. This approach aligns with our county’s stigma-free initiative, which seeks to foster understanding, reduce discrimination, and promote a culture where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to seek help and thrive.

To register for this free event, use this link: Somerset County Stigma-Free Summit Registration

To view the event flyer, use this link: Somerset County Stigma-Free Summit Flyer

Montgomery Township Food Pantry and Resources

Please see below for information from Montgomery Township regarding food resources. For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Resources

Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is located at Otto Kaufman Community Center. It is located on the Senior Center side of the Otto Kaufman Center. Food Pantry visits, volunteers, and donations are by appointment only to protect the privacy of Pantry clients. For more information, you may call Township Community Resource Manager Lisa Carra at 609-466-1054 or contact her via email by clicking here.

For more information, use this link: Montgomery Township Food Donations and Food Drives

4-H Prep/Cloverbud Clubs Brochure

Attention children in grades K - 3, you can join 4-H! The Somerset County 4-H Prep/Cloverbud Program includes FREE, non-competitive, exploratory clubs led by volunteers.

Clubs typically meet 1-2x/month beginning in September through our 4-H Fair in August.

For information about joining 4-H and a complete list of 4-H clubs for grades K - 12, visit 4HisTops.org.

To view the brochure, use the link below:

4-H Prep/Cloverbud Clubs Brochure

May 2026

June 2026