W.O.K. Middle School outlines plan for 2025-26; district emphasizes science and attendance

Dr. Roy T. Wilson, principal of Walter O'Connell (W.O.K.) Middle School, presented a comprehensive vision and strategic plan for the 2025-26 school year at the Hillside Board of Education meeting, emphasizing academic rigor, social-emotional learning and family engagement. "We emphasize the word global citizenship," Dr. Wilson said during the presentation, summarizing the school's mission to prepare students academically and socially for high school and beyond. Wilson described academic priorities by subject and programs the school uses: Amplify and i-Ready for English language arts, Envision and SuccessMaker for mathematics, OpenSciEd for science with a focus on hands-on learning, and accelerated social-studies coursework. He highlighted specialized offerings such as robotics, art, construction and design, Spanish, and leadership programs including Leader in Me, National Junior Honor Society and Rho Kappa. Wilson said the school uses targeted supports, including ESL/MLL programs and WIN tutoring that leverages i-Ready to close learning gaps. He noted a first-year Algebra I pass rate at 75 percent for students taking that course in the building. Superintendent Glover opened the meeting noting districtwide visits to every school and said instructional teams had been "knee deep in instructional practices," with science a particular focus. He told the board the district's September attendance was strong and praised several schools for high attendance rates. Student leaders and clubs were also recognized: Jada Ferrer, the Hillside High School student council representative, briefed the board on fall activities including Chromebook distribution, spirit week, a pep rally and homecoming on Sept. 20. Principal Willard and the Hillside High School TSA/Jet Club were acknowledged for qualifying a team as one of the top 10 national finalists at a presentation challenge in Nashville. The superintendent and principals also announced community events and supports: a Breast Cancer Awareness Walk and Hispanic Heritage Festival on Oct. 11 beginning with an 8:30 a.m. walk at Hillside High School, a mother-son sneaker ball and family bowling nights at W.O.K., and expanded community partnerships for career and dual-enrollment opportunities. On student supports, Glover described the district's social-services network and said staff must be attentive to students experiencing trauma or family instability. He warned the board and community that the district will align discipline and attendance practices with a recent township ordinance aimed at reducing vaping and nicotine use among students, including possible fines under local rules. No formal board action was taken on the W.O.K. presentation; it served as an informational report and a preview of upcoming events and instructional priorities.