PTA Newsletter – Week of 11/4

November 6, 2025

Get Out and VOTE Today!

As a reminder, you can check out the Montclair Board of Ed candidates forum hosted by PTAC here.

 

Don’t know where your polling location is? Find it quickly here.

PTAC Looking for DEI Committee Volunteer

The Montclair PTA Council is relaunching their Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee for the 2025–26 school year, and are looking for at least one volunteer to serve as each school’s representative.

 

Our Purpose
The DEI Committee works to help close the opportunity gap across our schools by:

  • Identifying barriers that impact equitable access to academic and extracurricular opportunities;
  • Sharing inclusive practices that foster belonging for every student and family;
  • Supporting schools in creating environments where all children can thrive; and
  • Advising PTAC on strategies to promote fairness, inclusion, and representation in school activities and communications.

Who We’re Looking For
PTA Board members, parents and caregivers who believe every child deserves equal opportunity, are open-minded, and can commit to regular engagement.

 

Time Commitment

  • Monthly meetings (virtual, with possible occasional in-person sessions)
  • Light coordination within your school community

First Meeting: TBD
Volunteer Deadline: 11/11/2025

 

Please email Marisa Russell at ptapres@bradfordpta.org with your name and contact information.

 

Together, we can ensure every Montclair student has the support, access, and opportunity to reach their full potential.

No ASE Class This Week

Due to the school closures this week there will be no afternoon ASE classes all week. ASE will return next week!

Important Voting Information for
Special Election on 12/9

Everything you need to know about making sure you vote! Since polls will only be open for four hours on 12/9, please consider voting by mail.

  • Request a mail-in ballot: https://www.essexclerk.com/Services/6
    • You must apply for a mail-in ballot either by mail before Dec. 2 or in person before 3 pm on Dec. 8
    • If you are already signed up to vote by mail, you will automatically receive a ballot for the 12/9 election! If you’d like to vote by mail exclusively for 12/9 election, you can wait until after 11/4 election to request and specify “Montclair School Board”

 

Governor’s Educator of the Year
Nominations are Open!

Do you know a classroom teacher or educational services professional who is dedicated, inspiring, and making a difference? If so, please take the time to recommend this person for the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program by completing this nomination form and returning it to the building principal by Monday, November 17, 2025. Administrators, staff members, students, parents and community members are encouraged to participate. Each candidate will be scored based on the criteria below:

    • Serves as an exceptionally skilled and dedicated educator in a public or charter school
    • Inspires students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn
    • Demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside the classroom
    • Has the respect and admiration of students, parents, administrators and colleagues
    • Plays an active role in the community as well as the school.
    • To learn more regarding the GEOY program and selection process, please visit the following website: https://www.nj.gov/education/recognition/educators/geoy/index.shtml 

Upcoming Events & Reminders:

  • 11/4 – School Closed Election Day
  • 11/6 & 11/7 – School Closed NJEA Convention
  • 11/26 – Abbreviated School Day Schedule
  • 11/27 & 11/28 – School Closed Thanksgiving
  • 12/1 – Bedtime & Books PTA Event (Kindergarten & 1st Grade Families)
  • 12/9 – Special Election 4:00 – 8:00 PM

Thanks for reading,

Your Bradford PTA Squad
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