Superintendent’s Report

Erskine R. Glover, Superintendent

Jan. 8, 2026

Volume 12 Issue 5

 

Student Leaders Pay It Forward

 

Science symposium unveils research opportunities

PHS students interested in furthering their studies in science got the opportunity to meet with like-minded students and start building their academic and professional network. The PHS ACS Chem Club hosted a Science Symposium on Wednesday, Dec. 17, which offered a glimpse into a pathways into science. Current PHS students got to hear from students and alumni who have completed research projects and internships and to learn about opportunities that could kickstart their future in science. The Chem Club, affiliated with the American Chemical Society, is guided by adviser Amina Elmahalawy.

 

AP tutors share knowledge

Piscataway High School students got an extra shot of learning on Friday, Dec. 19, when the AP Ambassadors student group hosted an after-school tutoring session. Students went to breakout rooms for specific AP subject tutoring led by PHS AP teachers. AP Ambassadors is a diverse network of students with AP course experience who support and encourage the success of current and future advanced-level course participants at PHS. Thanks to social studies teacher Holly Cregar-Porch and counselor Rodney West for helping the students organize the tutoring event.

 

PHS Future Educators inspire 3rd graders

Members of the Future Educators Association at Piscataway High School took over the third-grade classrooms at Knollwood Elementary School to share age-appropriate lessons about finance and economics – while getting a good deal of experience teaching. The visit on Friday, Dec. 5, was part of the High School Heroes program through Junior Achievement, which provides the curriculum. Lessons include teaching community, collaboration, and basic economics through activities like building a city, understanding banks, jobs, and the free enterprise system. The third-graders delighted in making connections with their older peers and in taking part in games and creative learning activities. Knollwood was the first stop, but the PHS Future Educators will be visiting all the elementary schools as the year goes on. The Future Educators Club is guided by PHS English teacher Jillian Alonso and math teacher Briana Bennett.

 

Thanks to Departing Board Member Brenda Smith

Great thanks to Brenda Smith for her dedication and effort as a member of our Board of Education for the past six years. Our December Board meeting was Ms. Smith’s final meeting, and Board President Shantell Cherry praised her for her tireless work “in the best interest of the students of Piscataway, along with their families” since joining the Board in 2020. Ms. Cherry presented Ms. Smith with flowers and a plaque and said her commitment, leadership of the Board’s Policy/Legislative Committee, and hours of hard work in the search for a new superintendent are appreciated and she will be greatly missed.

 

District Leaders Study AI’s Impact in the Classroom

Our district leaders participated in a conference on Friday, Dec. 5, where the future of Artificial Intelligence in education took center stage. Superintendent Erskine R. Glover, center, was joined by Assistant Superintendent of Schools Dr. Glenn Lottmann and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Dr. William Baskerville at the AI Unlocked Conference at Kean University. They uncovered useful tools and strategies to keep our district ahead of the curve as AI becomes more prevalent in the classroom. Topics included the growing role of AI as a practical teaching assistant and creative partner; strategies that begin in history class but translate across disciplines; using AI in all aspects of the critical thinking and writing process; and much more.

 

AFJROTC and Engineering Students Visit USS NJ

About 30 PHS students who are part of the Air Force Junior ROTC and engineering programs recently had the great opportunity to visit and explore the USS Battleship New Jersey in Camden. In addition to a guided tour, the students got the chance to meet and speak with several veterans who shared their personal experiences in the Navy. Thanks to engineering teacher Paul Mazur and AFJROTC senior aerospace instructor Lt. Col. Richard Kerr for arranging and chaperoning this amazing experience.

 

LIFT Mentor Students at PHS Get Look at TCNJ Campus Life

The PHS LIFT Mentoring Group recently enjoyed an exciting campus tour at The College of New Jersey. During their Nov. 17 visit, LIFT scholars had the opportunity to hear from a TCNJ admissions representative about academic programs, scholarships, and opportunities available to students. They explored the campus with a TCNJ student, visited a dorm room, and had lunch in the Student Center. LIFT stands for Ladies of Inspiration, Fortitude, and Talent and is made up of freshmen through seniors. This experience helped them envision their future beyond high school. Thank you to advisors Dawn Dionisio and Shar-Mekka Pernell, and to College and Career Counselor Mawiyah Husbands for organizing this trip.

Science Supervisor in the Spotlight

Congratulation to Dr. Jeffrey Celebre, our supervisor of science K-8 and engineering, who was spotlighted on the website of the National Science Education Leadership Association as a leader in science education and our district.

 

Coming Up

Jan. 12: Budget Workshop meeting, 7 pm

Jan. 14: Fiscal Planning & Operations Committee meeting, 7 pm

Jan. 15: Policy / Legislative Committee meeting, 6:30 pm

Jan. 19: Schools Closed – Martin Luther King Day

Jan. 27: Culture, Climate & Community Relations Committee meeting, 7 pm

Feb. 2: Marking Period 3 begins

Feb. 2: Curriculum Committee Meeting, 6:30 pm

Feb. 4: Fiscal Planning & Operations Committee meeting, 7 pm

Feb. 5: Policy / Legislative Committee meeting, 6:30 pm

Feb. 12-13: Schor Musical: “Honk Jr.,” 7 pm

Feb. 12: Board of Education meeting, 6:30 pm

 

Virtual Link Gives Students a Live Look at Neurosurgery

PHS students recently got an opportunity to delve into the world of neurosurgery. Students in the PHS Science Department took part in an extraordinary Surgical Insights experience on Wednesday, Dec. 3, hosted in partnership with Liberty Science Center. Through a live stream from one of LSC’s partner hospitals, students watched a real neurosurgical procedure and engaged in an interactive Q&A with the “Live from Surgery” educators. Students explored the science, technique, and decision-making behind neurosurgery – asking thoughtful questions and gaining rare behind-the-scenes insight.

 

Cullen Scholarship Winners Connect with Benefactors

Former Piscataway High School students who are recipients of the Cullen Family Scholarship met recently with their generous benefactors for a luncheon at Rutgers University. James G. Cullen, a member of the first PHS graduating class in 1960 and former President and CEO of Verizon, has endowed scholarships for more than 25 years for high-achieving PHS students who plan to attend Rutgers. Five scholarships are awarded each year, and this year will mark his 100th scholarship awarded to PHS graduates. The luncheon on Oct. 28 was an opportunity for the PHS alumni who are recipients of the scholarship to connect with Mr. Cullen, his family, and one another.

 

PHS Theatre Students Make Debut on Paper Mill Stage

Congratulations to PHS theater students who made their debut on the Paper Mill Playhouse stage. As part of the Paper Mill Playhouse Adopt-a-School program, students have been working with Paper Mill teaching artist Alexis Slade to write and devise their own play. They premiered the play at Arts Fest on Dec. 9, and performed with joy, artistry, and passion. Their play is about the experiences students have in school within social groups and finding their identity. They also got to connect with two Pway Arts alums who are now working at Paper Mill Playhouse: Najm Muhammad and Kira Harris. Thank you to theatre teacher Mike Yoson for coordinating these special experiences.

 

News 12 NJ Spotlights Great Work of Buddy Ball Program

Our Piscataway Buddy Ball team did an amazing job in their interview on News 12 New Jersey the weekend of Dec. 6-7. Six segments about our sports and physical education program for special-needs students aired over two mornings. If you missed the broadcast, go to the News 12 website and search for their Spotlight New Jersey page to watch all six parts.

 

Everybody Wins at King Game Night

Families at Martin Luther King Intermediate School came together on Thursday, Dec. 4, for an evening of laughter, friendly competition, and community fun. From classic board games to the excitement of the game truck, students and their families teamed up with staff for a night of unforgettable moments. A huge thank you to the amazing ML King PTO for organizing such a fantastic event.

 

PHS Mentors Volunteer as Role Models at Eisenhower

Students in the PHS 50 Strong male mentorship program have returned to Eisenhower Elementary School to act as strong role models for boys in Grades 1-3. On December 17, mentors and mentees got together at Eisenhower for fun icebreakers and an exciting game of castle ball. This initiative, inspired by Eisenhower Principal Vincenzo Stio, provides boys with positive high school mentors who volunteer their time. Activities are designed by Eisenhower behaviorist Sara Haarburger with support from PHS counselors Mark Kiang and Rodney West.

 

PHS Athletes Christen Newly Renovated Anthony Gym

The fourth episode in our “Building for the Future” video series focuses on the renovations to Piscataway High School’s Anhony Gym. What began as a project to improve the aesthetics of PHS’s main gym turned into a full renovation after flood waters damaged the gym floor. The floor was rebuilt, with new stain and graphics, plus the gym got new bleachers, wall paneling, paint, and more. The new gym made its debut in the Lady Chiefs girls basketball home opener on Tuesday, Dec. 16, against North Plainfield. A short rededication ceremony before the game featured our district administration and Board of Education, who hailed the project as an investment in the future of PHS. See the full video on our @PwaySchools YouTube channel or on our district website under the “Building for the Future” tab.

 

Boys Basketball Coach Records 400th Career Win

Congratulations to Piscataway High School boys basketball head coach Bob Turco on reaching an extraordinary milestone when he notched his 400th career victory as a head coach! The Chiefs defeated West Orange, 94–73, at home on Wednesday, Dec. 17. Coach Turco’s career spans decades of excellence across New Jersey high school basketball. He previously served as head coach at Monroe High School, Notre Dame High School, and St. Thomas Aquinas High School. In his first season at PHS in 2024-25, Coach Turco made an immediate impact by leading the Chiefs to a 24–6 record, tying the school record for wins in a season.

 

Chiefs Student Athletes Celebrate College Choices

Congratulations to three PHS students-athletes who committed on Thursday, Dec. 11, to continue their academic and athletic pursuits in college. Aiyan Patel will play volleyball at SUNY-New Paltz; Robert Lamptley will run for the track & field team at Caldwell University; and Brianna Genteel will play volleyball at Fairleigh Dickinson-Florham. The three were honored at a signing ceremony at Piscataway High School hosted by Athletic Director Rob Harmer, with their proud family, friends, teammates, and administrators there to honor their accomplishments. Coach Brian Tuscan of the boys and girls volleyball teams and Pete Buccino of the boys track & field team spoke about their high regard for the three talented Chiefs athletes.

 

28 Girls from Arbor and King Part of Champion Cheer Team

Congratulations to 28 girls from Arbor and Martin Luther King intermediate schools who won first place in a national cheerleading competition with the Piscataway Braves 10 & Under Cheerleading Team. In a standout performance in the Pop Warner Queen City Crown Open in Charlotte, NC, December 9-12, the team delivered an impressive routine that earned them first place in the Junior Pee Wee Large division. This victory secured the Braves Cheerleaders a spot in the Pop Warner Cheer & Dance Nationals.

 

Wrestlers Capture Medals at Season-Opening Tourney

Congratulations to Piscataway High School junior Vincent Williams, at right, for winning the gold medal in the 285-pound weight class in the Mike Dessino Invitational Wrestling tournament on Saturday, Dec. 13 at Middlesex High School. Freshman Maximino Aviles took third place in the 106-pound weight class, and the Chiefs finished 6th overall out of 13 teams.

 

Children's Corner toy drive makes season joyful for 60 families

Children's Corner Preschool is making the holiday season merry and bright for 60 children who they are sponsoring with gifts! During the school's monthlong community toy drive, Parent Involvement Specialist Harry Vanderburg (pictured with Principal Jen Sernotti) collected hundreds of gifts from families and our partners at United Way. He also had the help of "Choppy Claus," the googly-eyed toy bin where preschoolers enjoyed dropping off gifts to help make this holiday season joyful for other children.

Grandview Winter Singalong spreads music and joy

Grandview Elementary School was filled with music, joy, and seasonal cheer during the school’s annual Winter Sing-a-Long!The celebration, led by music teacher Jennifer Perry, highlighted the incredible talents of our students. Second-graders delighted the audience with their beautiful bell performances, while classes sang and danced along to festive favorites. The joyful event wrapped up with a flurry of snow confetti that brought smiles to every face in the room!

ML King Community Service Club sends words of cheer to those in need

The Community Service Club at Martin Luther King Intermediate School wrote and mailed out more than 100 holiday cards for The Angel Card Project during the holiday season! The organization connects volunteers with individuals who may be experiencing a difficult time during the holiday season and could use a little extra kindness and encouragement. Each card was filled with warm wishes, positive messages, and thoughtful words meant to brighten someone’s day. By taking the time to write these cards, the students demonstrated compassion, empathy, and the true meaning of service. Thanks to Support Specialist Sharon Davis for leading the students through such a meaningful and inspiring exercise.

Knollwood celebrates togetherness and creativity at Winter Fun Night

Knollwood Elementary School was filled with creativity, laughter, and family fun during Winter Family Fun Night on Dec. 12! A huge thank you to Knollwood mom Vanessa Lopez, who led two groups in creating beautiful snowflake canvases that families were proud to take home. This special evening was the perfect way to wrap up an exciting week that included the Knollwood Holiday Shop, bringing the school community together to celebrate the season through art and togetherness.

Randolphville sings season's greetings to Board

Thanks to singers from Randolphville Elementary School for bringing the holiday spirit to our December Board of Education meeting! Students under the guidance of music teacher Danielle Barnes sang two songs from their annual winter singalong, “We Will Jingle” and “Here Comes the Snow.” They were also supported at the meeting by Randolphville Principal Dr. Avi Slivko, and were presented with certificates from Board President Shantell Cherry for sharing their talents and dedication with the Board.

Door-decorating contest puts seasonal icons on display

Students and staff at Conackamack Middle School did a tremendous job decorating their doors for the holiday season! The winner of the contest was social studies teacher Sean Demarest and his students, who had a working video of a fireplace at the center of a history theme and holiday lights. Here's a sampling of the festive designs.