Somerville Public Schools

November News

From the Superintendent JR Lubisco

Dear Somerville Family,

🏫 Somerville Schools: Building on Progress

As Thanksgiving approaches, it is a perfect time to pause and reflect on the strong community that defines Somerville. I want to express my sincere gratitude for our dedicated staff, the unwavering support of our families, and the remarkable curiosity and resilience of our students.

Our priorities for the 2025–2026 school year are focused on ensuring that every student is supported, challenged, and inspired. These goals—academic achievement, strong Tier 1 instruction, and a positive school climate and culture—will continue to guide all of our work.

🌱 Climate and Culture: Your Voice Matters

As part of our Culture & Climate Goal, Somerville Public Schools will soon participate in the New Jersey School Climate Improvement (NJSCI) Survey, developed by Rutgers University and the New Jersey Department of Education.

The survey will invite feedback from students, staff, and families about how it feels to be part of our schools — helping us celebrate what’s working and strengthen where we can grow.

In the coming weeks, families will receive additional information about the survey.

These results will directly inform our ongoing improvement efforts, ensuring that every student feels valued, supported, and connected.

📣 Why it matters: This survey represents a real opportunity on our district’s culture and climate goal — giving us the data and perspective we need to make Somerville an even better place to learn and work.

📘 Literacy: Building Strong Foundations

Literacy Leaders met to:

Review student data, discuss the science of reading research, and plan next steps to strengthen classroom instruction.

Align ELA strategies across content areas, promoting consistent academic language and skill development from grade to grade.

Teachers are analyzing Universal Screening Data and refining their use of current programs to better meet student needs.

🗓️ Coming soon: Families of K–5 students will receive Universal Screener reports, along with guidance on how to interpret results and support literacy at home. A Family Academy session is also being planned to share early literacy resources with parents.

➗ Math: Coaching for Growth

At VDV we launched a data-driven instructional coaching model this fall.

Professional learning on Oct. 3 focused on identifying prerequisite math skills and planning small-group instruction.

Teachers and administrators are reviewing NJSLA and i-Ready data to identify curriculum strengths and target areas for reteaching.

🗓️ Coming soon: A new Math Committee will convene to examine student outcomes and guide next steps in curriculum and instruction.

🎨 Preschool Expansion Update

We’re thrilled to share that three new preschool classrooms and a playground opened this week, marking a major milestone in Somerville’s ongoing preschool expansion project.

This initiative — funded in part by a New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) grant covering 40% of the total construction costs — expands access to high-quality early learning for more of our youngest students.

🧩 Why it matters: Although preschool is not mandated statewide, Somerville is proud to offer and grow this important opportunity for families. These new classrooms provide nurturing, play-based environments that build the foundation for future success throughout a child’s K–12 experience.

🚧 What’s next: The full project, which includes additional facilities, will be completed by the end of next summer — with a dedication ceremony to be announced soon.

👋 Leadership Update at Vanderveer Elementary School

We are pleased to share that Mrs. Karen Gabruk will be joining the Vanderveer administrative team as Substitute Assistant Principal, supporting the school while Mrs. Kelly Streko is on leave.

She is an experienced and respected educational leader who previously served as a principal in the Flemington–Raritan School District.

She is known for her steady leadership, thoughtful problem-solving, and strong commitment to students, staff, and families.

To ensure a smooth transition, Mrs. Gabruk will work closely with Mrs. Streko prior to her leave to maintain continuity of leadership and support for students and staff.

Please join me in extending a warm Somerville welcome to Mrs. Gabruk!

🏅 Stay Updated
Check out our website for the latest on school events and programs. You can also find our sports schedules and follow us on social media for real-time updates:

District Website

Referendum Updates

Sports Schedules

Facebook, X, YouTube, and Instagram

Looking forward to more great weeks ahead!

Warm regards,

Gary Lubisco, Jr.

Superintendent

Congratulations to
Mr. Colin Williamson!

Mr. Williamson has been selected by the New Jersey Department of Education as a 2025 New Jersey Exemplary Educator, an honor awarded to only 120 educators statewide.

This recognition celebrates outstanding educators in New Jersey public schools who demonstrate exceptional knowledge and skill, inspire those around them, and embody a clear vision for excellence in teaching and learning.

We are proud to have Mr. Williamson represents our school and community through this distinguished achievement!

Congratulations to the Somerville High School Pioneer Marching Band

2025 New Jersey State Champions

The Somerville High School Marching Band won the New Jersey State Championship. The band scored an 94.6, the highest of all 32 competing bands, and won best music, best overall effect, and Mr. Ferguson received the Outstanding Band Director award.

Additionally, the band clinched their second consecutive Regional Championship with an impressive score of 95.2. They also triumphed at the Ludwig Musser Classic at MetLife Stadium, taking home awards for best music, overall effect, color guard, and percussion. What an incredible season!

Ludwig Musser Classic Champions

TOB Regional Champions

Field Test for NJSLA and NJGPA

This past week, students across the district completed the field test for NJSLA and NJGPA.

Students will take the new adaptive assessment this Spring.

Kudos to all students and staff for a smooth completion of the field test!

Instructional Coaching is Underway at Van Derveer Elementary!

Jessica Meyers, Van Derveer Elementary’s newly appointed K-5 Instructional Coach, has started her instructional coaching cycles, partnering with teachers to strengthen core classroom instruction and use student data to drive informed decisions. Her focus directly supports our district’s goals for student achievement and tier 1 data-driven decision-making. The coaching cycles involve Jessica meeting with teachers to:

• Review student data in ELA and Math.

• Develop effective instructional plans.

• Set clear, measurable goals for student success.

• Provide job-embedded professional development and instructional support.

To learn more about Somerville Public School’s approach to instructional coaching and how we support our educators, please access our infographic here.