Students lauded for theater, music and athletics; district notes pre‑K funding bump and renovations on schedule

Student Representative Matthew Lee updated the board on a busy month of student activities at Nutley High School, citing observances such as Irish American Heritage Month and Women’s History Month, a wellness panel on substance abuse, a production of Once Upon a Mattress, a senior citizens dinner hosted by culinary students, a senior fashion show and induction ceremonies for arts honor societies. He also noted spirit week themes and an upcoming March Madness event prior to spring break.

Superintendent Banya recognized the theater production and thanked directors and staff by name; he congratulated student artists selected for the Morris Museum exhibit and multiple students accepted to New Jersey All‑State and junior high all‑state choirs, naming several students. He also celebrated athletic accomplishments, including wrestlers advancing toward state competition and Coach DiPiano’s recognition as NJSIAA State Coach of the Year.

On academics and operations, the superintendent said the district received a slight increase in state pre‑K funding and that demand still exceeds seats (a lottery was held). He reported the middle school media center renovation is on track to be completed this week and that building principals will communicate schedules for upcoming New Jersey Student Learning Assessment testing.

The district also announced community events and fundraisers organized by the Nutley Educational Foundation, including a May 8 benefit concert and a June 11 fundraising event at Kingsland Manor.