Use your imagination as you read these words to visualize a community of learners: Professional, Spectacular, Rigorous, Enjoyable, Immaculate, Leaders, Exciting, Safe, Dedicated, Comfortable.

These are some of the many words that describe our staff, students, parents, school and community. As Cranford High School moves into the 2018-2019 school year, we have reached new heights. Here are some of the highlights:

● Year Two of a 1 to 1 laptop situation in English class;
● Triple the number of devices available to students from 2016;
● A 9% increase in AP scores, the highest since 2013;
● SAT and PSAT scores on the rise as we widen the already large gap between CHS and the state and national averages;
● Security procedures greatly enhanced as per feedback from students, parents, staff, CPD, CFD and administrators;
● Student communication upgrade... we have added gmail accounts for all students. to use which is further explained in an attached letter;
● NJ Monthly Magazine’s “Top Schools in NJ” ranked CHS 31st in their biennial report. This is an increase from our 2016 ranking of 54th;
● We continue to look towards improving our school as we stay on the path towards greatness;

This summer I was fortunate to attend a New Jersey Department of Education-Principal’s Leadership Conference where a principal hopes to leave with confirmation that his/her school/district is doing great things and some new ideas. Cranford High School is definitely competitive with schools across the state. Many leaders questioned me about our programs, supports, structures and schedules for ideas on how to improve their schools. This is a credit to the outstanding staff and community at the high school and our continuing efforts to achieve.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit. “
-Aristole

I hope that this information is helpful to you. Please do not hesitate to call us if you need further assistance. The staff and I look forward to meeting you at our Back to School Night on Thursday, September 20, 2018.

Week of Respect was celebrated October 1 through the 5th. Each day the students and faculty joined in on several of the programs Mrs. Bradley organized . There was a week of respect banner where everyone was welcome to sign! Wristbands were sold during lunch and gym class; Acts of Kindness jars were available and kindness tear-offs were found around the building; Students had the opportunity to decorate rocks with inspiration messages to spread kindness in our community. The seniors distributed the rocks around town on their lunch for other youths in our community to find. Our Mindfulness Group run by Nurse Bacall, taught the students that to respect others, you first need to respect yourself by taking breaks and practicing self-care.

During School Violence Awareness Week on October 15 through the 19th, a quote about peace was read daily during announcements. The students were able to participate in a peace poetry contest for a chance to be featured on our school website! Our School resource officers set up tables during lunch displaying resources regarding school violence. They were there to answer any questions the students may have had. Wristbands were made available for sale where the proceeds supported fundraisers on our school. Students also has another opportunity to spread messages of peace on rocks and to attend the weekly mindfulness program focusing on being mindful of yourself in order to be mindful of others. On Friday purple was worn which is the symbolic color of peach and anti-violence.

Red Ribbon weeks was celebrated on October 23 through the 30th. Students and staff proudly wore the color red on Wednesday to spread awareness of the prevalence of substance abuse. They were also encouraged to take the Drug Free Pledge on the red ribbon organization’s website. It was a week filled with students helping to create a campaign theme, creating the largest paper chain pledge during lunch, and submitting pictures highlighting what they are passionate about for a chance to be featured on our school website!

The class of 2022 Motivational Murals have been completed in the 4th floor girls restroom. The students can now enjoy the inspirational quotes!

The Global Affairs Cohort is participating for the second year in a Habitat for Humanity build in Jersey City, NJ on Saturday, November 17. Last year the students and adult volunteers worked on putting down hardwood flooring in Orange, NJ. It was an outreach of gratitude and appreciation by all.

The Diary of Anne Frank was an outstanding show. The students and staff put tireless effort in to put on an absolutely riveting performance.

The Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society hosted a luncheon with two of our hometown veterans; Haniff Davis and Lee Blowe. They both spoke about their experiences serving in the military and they had an open question and answer discussion with the students.

We celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month in September. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, The Safety Team, along with Nikki Savino, was happy to welcome Nancy Arroyo Ruffin as a Guest Speaker to our staff and students. She taught us how to become motivated along with celebrating our talents and accomplishments.

On October 26th, University of Delaware Chorale will be at the high school to perform on stage for students. They will also have a question and answer panel for college bound students who are interested in such a program.

The students in the Child Development’s class has welcomed the 6 new Cougar Cubs that have started our school on October 2. The class and the Cubs are excited and look forward to a play-based learning experience.

The Open Gala Concert occurred on October 11th and simply rocked the house. In a few short weeks the students of Cranford High School with the leadership of our talented staff put an exquisite show together. We have stars at CHS!