The Glen Rock Board of Education needs the perspectives of all stakeholders as we begin the search for our next Superintendent. The GRBOE is seeking what is most important to stakeholders as the first step in recruiting the most suitable educational leaders who can lead our district in line with our community’s unique needs and aspirations.
Search Consultant, Kathleen Helewa, will be spending a day in our District on Thursday, May 21 to listen to our stakeholders in a series of in-person input sessions. Ms. Helewa will be meeting with administrators, teachers, and staff during the day, and with Glen Rock families and community members in the evening. These sessions will not be meetings of the Glen Rock Board of Education and Board members will not be present.
We urge our families and community members to come and meet Ms. Helewa in the MS/HS Cafeteria from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Glen Rock Middle School/High School Cafeteria to share your perspectives. Additionally, an anonymous online input survey will be available for all of our school stakeholders from May 14-May 22.
To follow along the Superintendent Search process, please visit our designated page at https://www.glenrocknj.org/superintendent-search.
Search Consultant, Kathleen Helewa, will be spending a day in our District on Thursday, May 21 to listen to our stakeholders in a series of in-person input sessions. Ms. Helewa will be meeting with administrators, teachers, and staff during the day, and with Glen Rock families and community members in the evening. These sessions will not be meetings of the Glen Rock Board of Education and Board members will not be present.
We urge our families and community members to come and meet Ms. Helewa in the MS/HS Cafeteria from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Glen Rock Middle School/High School Cafeteria to share your perspectives. Additionally, an anonymous online input survey will be available for all of our school stakeholders from May 14-May 22.
To follow along the Superintendent Search process, please visit our designated page at https://www.glenrocknj.org/superintendent-search.

Four students represented GRHS at the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, and each had a meaningful and rewarding experience. Ada Atli '27 and Arianna Renga '27 participated in the Emerging Leaders Series, where they engaged in workshops focused on developing leadership skills and had the opportunity to network with students from across the country. This experience allowed them to grow as leaders while connecting with a broader DECA community.
Avery Schwartz '26 competed at the national level in the Automotive Services Marketing Series. Her event included a comprehensive exam along with two role-play scenarios, where she demonstrated her knowledge and applied her skills in real-world business situations. Sarah Krasnopolsky '28 competed in the Principles of Hospitality and Tourism event, which included a Business Administration Core exam and a role-play component. Sarah was recognized on stage as a top performer in her event and earned a silver medallion, placing her among the top performers on the individual exam. We are incredibly proud of all four students for their hard work, dedication, and outstanding representation at the international level!
Avery Schwartz '26 competed at the national level in the Automotive Services Marketing Series. Her event included a comprehensive exam along with two role-play scenarios, where she demonstrated her knowledge and applied her skills in real-world business situations. Sarah Krasnopolsky '28 competed in the Principles of Hospitality and Tourism event, which included a Business Administration Core exam and a role-play component. Sarah was recognized on stage as a top performer in her event and earned a silver medallion, placing her among the top performers on the individual exam. We are incredibly proud of all four students for their hard work, dedication, and outstanding representation at the international level!





Ms. Siegel’s Honors Photography students recently took their final photo walk to Hoboken for an immersive street photography field trip inspired by the work of master street photographers.
Throughout the day, students explored the waterfront and downtown area capturing candid moments, striking compositions, and the energy of everyday life through their lenses. The trip challenged students to slow down, observe closely, and think creatively as they applied the visual storytelling techniques studied in class.
Throughout the day, students explored the waterfront and downtown area capturing candid moments, striking compositions, and the energy of everyday life through their lenses. The trip challenged students to slow down, observe closely, and think creatively as they applied the visual storytelling techniques studied in class.

Our 7th Grade G&T students, led by Ms. Margaret Kazancioglu, recently earned an Honorable Mention in the New Jersey State Bar Foundation’s Law Adventure Challenge. Out of 84 entries statewide, our students placed in the top 10, earning an invitation to perform their original mock trial case at the New Jersey Law Center on May 6.
We are incredibly proud of the poise and professionalism they displayed on the stand; their ability to present complex arguments with such clarity earned high praise from Law Center representatives and visiting districts alike. Congratulations to our young advocates for outstandingly representing Glen Rock!
We are incredibly proud of the poise and professionalism they displayed on the stand; their ability to present complex arguments with such clarity earned high praise from Law Center representatives and visiting districts alike. Congratulations to our young advocates for outstandingly representing Glen Rock!

The final Federated HSA meeting of the school year, open to all district parents, is on Friday, May 8 at 9:30 a.m. at Central Elementary School. Click on the link in bio for more information on the GR HSA Federated website.

Varsity boys golf finished in 6th place out of 16 teams at the Sectional Tournament at Newton Country Club. Congratulations to Senior Captain, Brendan Burkhardt, who qualified with a score of 75 and will compete at The Tournament of Champions next week at Raritan Valley Country Club!
The Varsity Boys Golf Team captured the NJIC Championship for the Colonial Division at Valley Brook, bringing home the team title in impressive fashion!
Leading the way was Josh Yoo, who shot a 72 to earn 1st place in the division and Overall Tournament Low Medalist honors.
Strong performances continued with Peter Dente (76), finishing 2nd in the division and 5th overall, and Brendan Burkhardt (77), who placed 3rd in the division and 6th overall. Congratulations, GR golfers!
Leading the way was Josh Yoo, who shot a 72 to earn 1st place in the division and Overall Tournament Low Medalist honors.
Strong performances continued with Peter Dente (76), finishing 2nd in the division and 5th overall, and Brendan Burkhardt (77), who placed 3rd in the division and 6th overall. Congratulations, GR golfers!
Our littlest learners showed up in a big way! The Early Childhood Program held its very first pep rally to cheer on our GRMS and GRHS students as they prepare for the NJSLA this week. Preschoolers lined the halls with high-fives, fist bumps, and positive affirmations, spreading smiles and encouragement every step of the way.
We’re so proud of this special moment of connection across our schools, and we thank our ECP students for their heartfelt support. Good luck to all of our test-takers; you’ve got this!
We’re so proud of this special moment of connection across our schools, and we thank our ECP students for their heartfelt support. Good luck to all of our test-takers; you’ve got this!





Bring Your Child to Work Day at Glen Rock Middle School & High School was a day full of creativity, connection, and hands-on fun!
Students and their families explored a wide range of activities—from Mystery Crafts and Art-Making Stations with the National Art Honor Society to fun in the gym with Phys Ed. Younger visitors enjoyed Story Time, puzzles, and mindfulness coloring, while others got creative producing their own family video clips in the TV studio. The Relay for Life Luminaria activity and NJHS Scavenger Hunt added even more meaningful and interactive experiences throughout the day.
From the classroom to the counseling office, every corner of the building showcased what makes Glen Rock Public Schools such a special place to learn and grow.
Students and their families explored a wide range of activities—from Mystery Crafts and Art-Making Stations with the National Art Honor Society to fun in the gym with Phys Ed. Younger visitors enjoyed Story Time, puzzles, and mindfulness coloring, while others got creative producing their own family video clips in the TV studio. The Relay for Life Luminaria activity and NJHS Scavenger Hunt added even more meaningful and interactive experiences throughout the day.
From the classroom to the counseling office, every corner of the building showcased what makes Glen Rock Public Schools such a special place to learn and grow.










What is art? On April 22, Mrs. Kazancioglu’s Middle School Gifted & Talented students hosted a special visitor, Dr. Nicola Lucchi, from Magazzino Italian Art in Cold Spring, New York. Dr. Lucchi talked about conceptual art, and students had the opportunity to create their own original pieces.
The 6th graders created art in a new way using stencils inspired by the work of Jannis Kounellis. The 7th and 8th graders began a collaborative piece replicating a current exhibition at the museum by Alighiero Boetti. The idea was that they would design postcards, use the mail service to have them travel through time and space, and then receive them again and arrange them in an artistic manner. This was originally done by Boetti in the 70s and is displayed at the museum now. It was a wonderful experience for all!
The 6th graders created art in a new way using stencils inspired by the work of Jannis Kounellis. The 7th and 8th graders began a collaborative piece replicating a current exhibition at the museum by Alighiero Boetti. The idea was that they would design postcards, use the mail service to have them travel through time and space, and then receive them again and arrange them in an artistic manner. This was originally done by Boetti in the 70s and is displayed at the museum now. It was a wonderful experience for all!





The Wellness Center hosted an impactful assembly for high school students on Thursday. The Black Poster Project provided students with a powerful opportunity to better understand the real impact of substance use and mental health challenges.
Students listened to a presentation from speakers who shared their personal recovery journey, offering an honest and hopeful perspective. Students then participated in a gallery walk featuring posters that honored individuals who lost their lives to substance abuse or suicide. This experience encouraged reflection, increased awareness, and reinforced the importance of asking for help and supporting one another.
Thank you to the Wellness Counselors for making this happen. Thank you to Dawn, Amy, Gary, and the entire Black Poster Project Team for all that they do.
Students listened to a presentation from speakers who shared their personal recovery journey, offering an honest and hopeful perspective. Students then participated in a gallery walk featuring posters that honored individuals who lost their lives to substance abuse or suicide. This experience encouraged reflection, increased awareness, and reinforced the importance of asking for help and supporting one another.
Thank you to the Wellness Counselors for making this happen. Thank you to Dawn, Amy, Gary, and the entire Black Poster Project Team for all that they do.









Congratulations to our GRHS 2026 Teacher of the Year, choir and orchestra director and teacher, Ms. Anna Lilikas!
For the past decade, Ms. Lilikas has been a driving force behind the success and growth of the Glen Rock music program. As a choir, orchestra, and general music teacher, she creates meaningful opportunities for students to perform, connect, and grow through music.
She directs four major concerts each year, plays a key role in the school musical through choreography and costume design, and leads choir competition trips across the country where our students consistently excel and represent Glen Rock with pride.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Lilikas dedicates countless hours to enriching student life. She leads select choirs, advises the Tri-M Music Honor Society, mentors students in regional and All-State ensembles, and was recently selected to conduct the Bergen County Choir. Her impact extends into the community through events like the town’s 9/11 tribute, graduation, Cabaret Night, and Karaoke Night. She also advises Sharing the Arts, fostering inclusive opportunities for students to collaborate through music.
In addition, Ms. Lilikas spent six years as a freshman volleyball coach—further demonstrating her commitment to supporting students in all aspects of their high school experience. Through her passion and dedication, Ms. Lilikas has made a lasting impact on her students and the entire Glen Rock community.
For the past decade, Ms. Lilikas has been a driving force behind the success and growth of the Glen Rock music program. As a choir, orchestra, and general music teacher, she creates meaningful opportunities for students to perform, connect, and grow through music.
She directs four major concerts each year, plays a key role in the school musical through choreography and costume design, and leads choir competition trips across the country where our students consistently excel and represent Glen Rock with pride.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Lilikas dedicates countless hours to enriching student life. She leads select choirs, advises the Tri-M Music Honor Society, mentors students in regional and All-State ensembles, and was recently selected to conduct the Bergen County Choir. Her impact extends into the community through events like the town’s 9/11 tribute, graduation, Cabaret Night, and Karaoke Night. She also advises Sharing the Arts, fostering inclusive opportunities for students to collaborate through music.
In addition, Ms. Lilikas spent six years as a freshman volleyball coach—further demonstrating her commitment to supporting students in all aspects of their high school experience. Through her passion and dedication, Ms. Lilikas has made a lasting impact on her students and the entire Glen Rock community.

Congratulations to GRMS Teacher of the Year, English teacher, Ms. Lisa Limongelli!
Ms. Limongelli brings both deep expertise and a genuine love for her craft and for her students into the classroom each day. Her classroom is a place where high expectations are paired with meaningful support, empowering every student to grow as both a writer and an individual.
By writing alongside her seventh graders, Ms. Limongelli models not only strong writing skills, but also vulnerability, creativity, and thoughtfulness. She challenges her students to reach their full potential while ensuring they have the confidence and tools to succeed.
For 22 years, GRMS students have benefited from her passion, dedication, and ability to make the writing process engaging and accessible. Her colleagues value her collaboration, insight, and friendship, and her warm welcome at the classroom door sets the tone for a positive and inspiring learning environment each day.
Ms. Limongelli brings both deep expertise and a genuine love for her craft and for her students into the classroom each day. Her classroom is a place where high expectations are paired with meaningful support, empowering every student to grow as both a writer and an individual.
By writing alongside her seventh graders, Ms. Limongelli models not only strong writing skills, but also vulnerability, creativity, and thoughtfulness. She challenges her students to reach their full potential while ensuring they have the confidence and tools to succeed.
For 22 years, GRMS students have benefited from her passion, dedication, and ability to make the writing process engaging and accessible. Her colleagues value her collaboration, insight, and friendship, and her warm welcome at the classroom door sets the tone for a positive and inspiring learning environment each day.

Congratulations to GRMS/HS Educational Specialist of the Year, GRMS/HS Wellness Counselor, Ms. Caelie Batelli!
Ms. Batelli goes above and beyond every day to support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of our students. She creates a safe, welcoming space where students feel heard, respected, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges.
Through her compassion, professionalism, and deep understanding of adolescent needs, Ms. Batelli builds strong, trusting relationships and works closely with staff and families to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive. From leading wellness initiatives to advocating for mental health awareness, her impact is felt throughout the entire school community.
Ms. Batelli’s commitment to fostering resilience, teaching positive coping skills, and promoting a culture of wellness continues to make a lasting difference in Glen Rock.
Ms. Batelli goes above and beyond every day to support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of our students. She creates a safe, welcoming space where students feel heard, respected, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges.
Through her compassion, professionalism, and deep understanding of adolescent needs, Ms. Batelli builds strong, trusting relationships and works closely with staff and families to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive. From leading wellness initiatives to advocating for mental health awareness, her impact is felt throughout the entire school community.
Ms. Batelli’s commitment to fostering resilience, teaching positive coping skills, and promoting a culture of wellness continues to make a lasting difference in Glen Rock.

