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Whiton Elementary School

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Family Newsletter 1/16/2026

Posted Date: 01/16/26 (04:00 PM)
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Whiton letterhead

Principal’s Message

January 16, 2026


Dear Whiton Families,


We had an exciting morning yesterday as the SBS Chorus visited our school and performed their winter concert. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to see what awaits them at SBS and to build excitement about joining this part of the music program as they grow older. A special thank you to the SBS Choir (we are so proud of you) as well as our music teachers—Ms. Clarke, Ms. Maroon, and Ms. Bontomase—for making this meaningful experience possible.

Music plays a vital role in elementary education by supporting the development of the whole student—academically, socially, and emotionally. Through music, students build essential skills such as listening, pattern recognition, memory, and coordination, which directly support learning in reading, mathematics, and language development. Music also encourages creativity and self-expression, helping students build confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Equally important, music fosters connection and community within our school. Singing, rhythm activities, and ensemble experiences teach collaboration, discipline, and respect for others while promoting empathy and perseverance. In the elementary years especially, music makes learning joyful and meaningful, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning and an appreciation of the arts.

Reminders:
-School will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
-When picking up students early, please ensure that all emails to the office/teachers and early dismissal notices entered in Genesis are submitted by 2:00 p.m. to prevent a delay and allow for a timely dismissal.

Sincerely, 

Dee Shober signature in blue   


School Reminders/ News
A cartoon owl wearing an orange beret holds a paintbrush and a palette with colorful paints.ART NEWSLETTER
Please find a newsletter from Mr. Boehm here. 
nurse clip art
NURSE REMINDER
Your student must stay home if they have a temperature of 100.4 or higher. The student may not return to school if they have received fever reducing medication. Students must be fever free for 24 hours before they can return to school.  Please find more information here.

The nurse is looking for clothing donations if you are cleaning out your closets. If you have extra pants (girls/boys) in small or medium, the nurse would love them! Thank you for your consideration. 

The word 'SCIENCE' is depicted with various scientific icons, including a plug, test tube, microscope, ruler, and magnifying glass.SCIENCE FAIR
The 2nd and 3rd grade science fair will be Wednesday, February 25. Registration is now open and CLOSES TODAY, January 16. Please find more information here. 

A cartoon illustration of a two-story library building with a red roof and blue doors.LIBRARY VOLUNTEERS
The Whiton library is welcoming volunteers. This is a great opportunity to help with shelving books, assisting students with book checkouts, and guiding students in finding books on the shelves. Because initial training is needed, Ms. Gale is looking for anyone who is able to volunteer on a regular or semi-regular basis -  Here is the sign up.  Any questions, please email Ms. Gale - sgale@branchburg.k12.nj.us. 

An open blue lunchbox filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and a sandwich.CAFETERIA VOLUNTEERS

Parents/guardians interested in volunteering in our lunch room should use this PTO sign up link here through March. Please make sure to read the very important information about volunteering located on the sign up. 


Owl in green and white sweaterSCHOOL SPIRITWEAR
Great news! Our School Spirit wear can be purchased at anytime! The orders will be processed on the 1st and 15th. Please find the link to order here.  

A brown cardboard box with 'LOST & FOUND' printed on its flaps.LOST AND FOUND
Reminder: As the colder months approach, please label your student’s belongings to make it easier for us to return misplaced items. 

Community Information

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
Please find community information on our school website here.

PTO/BEF Events
PTO EVENTS
Dine out schedule
Flyer for the Branchburg PTO 'Me & Mine' Dance with Your Favorite Grown-Up event on Friday, January 23, 2026.Tickets are now available- see information here. If you are interested in volunteering at the dance, here is the link. 

Upcoming Calendar Dates:

2.13- Single Session- Staff Development

2.16- School closed- President's Day

3.27- Single Session- Staff Development

3.30-4.3- School Closed- Spring Break