Throughout the year, ninth graders will participate in a series of team-building activities designed to strengthen peer collaboration and deepen relationships across the school community.

As Maplewood Fire Chief, Alvarez guided the Maplewood and South Orange fire departments through a contentious consolidation in 2021 and 2022. He leaves behind a highly trained, professionalized and integrated South Essex Regional Fire Department.

Tad had a special way of making everyone he met feel welcome, valued, and important. His warmth, humor, optimism, and genuine love of people left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He had an incredible ability to see the good in life and share that with everyone around him.

The upgrades to the Zoo were funded with grants from the New Jersey Green Acres program and the Essex County Recreation and Open Space Trust Fund.

In late-breaking news, Board of Ed 1st VP Liz Callahan noted that the paras will be W-2 employees and the district was working to recruit more former aides, although all spots have been filled. Callahan said the Board is committed to ensuring “our special education classrooms are safe and joyful places where all students can learn and thrive.”

The Maplewood Village Association — in partnership with the Maplewood Division of Arts & Culture — is bringing “Summer Streets” to the Village starting Saturday, August 29 and running through …