Good afternoon Saint Joseph School Community. I continue to pray that all are well and safe. We continue to ask for prayers for special intentions for our school Community. As we are ending September and beginning a new month of October, we thank God for protecting and guiding us through this school year's journey.  October begins our month of the Rosary, which we participate in each day of October. It is also Hispanic Heritage Month which will be recognized.

This week is a full week of school. The following events will take place this week:
Fall Map Testing: This testing is to see where students might need extra help in Reading and/or Math. It also guides our teachers in preparing and adjusting their curriculum goals to meet the needs of our students. Students in grades 2 thru 8 will be taking these tests. They will begin Tuesday September 30 and must be completed by Friday October 17, 2025.  In order to prepare our students for the tests, we need your support. Students must be on time to school, eat a good breakfast, get a good night's sleep. and have their Chromebook charged.  Please encourage your child to do their best, take their time. These tests have no bearing on their academic grades.  If they miss a test,  there is time to make it up.  Testing is only done in the morning. Grade 1 will test during the Winter testing in January.

Extra Pizza Money: This will be collected Monday thru Thursday only. $2.00 per extra slice. No money are collected on Fridays.

Culture Color Tag Day: Thursday October 2, 2025 Students can wear the colors of their family's country flag. Tag day dress policy will be in effect. No torn, distressed or inappropriate writing on clothing. No Crocs, clogs, or slippers can be worn. Sneakers  or other shoes may be worn. Donation $2.00.

Fall Fundraiser: All order forms and money due Friday October 3, 2025. Please make sure the form is legible. If needed orders can be delivered here to the school. Our Address: 115 Telford Street East Orange, NJ 07018  World Finest Chocolate Bars are still available. Please fill out a form in your email to order.

Please remember flu season and all other illnesses seem to be on the rise. If your child is sick, please keep them home. If they are feverish, vomiting or other illnesses, they must be free of these conditions at least 24 hours before they can return to school.  If students are absent three or more days for illness, they must have a doctor's note to return to school. Medication can only be given in school, if a medication form prescribed by a doctor is on file. Any questions or concerns can be directed to Ms. Barnes, our Health director at lbarnes@stjosepheo.com.

We are still accepting recycled uniforms and they are available in the main hallway.

Information regarding extra curricular activities will be sent home this week.  The October Breakfast and Lunch Menus will be posted on the school web site.

Any questions or concerns can be directed to the school office between 8 AM and 4 PM

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation of Saint Joseph School.

God bless, 
Ms. Cavaness
Principal