2020 will go down as one of the most memorable years in our lifetimes. For many of us, this was the first time we ever heard the terms PPE or social distancing. The first time we saw our parents/guardians working from home, the first time we had to miss out on or delay important milestones like proms, graduations, fireworks and holiday gatherings. We pivoted to ordering in more and experimenting with outdoor dining, we gained a new appreciation for our frontline health care workers, we stood in solidarity to show Black Lives Matter in West Orange, and of course who can forget the joys of virtual learning!

 

Our technology department worked overtime to ensure all students and families had the proper technology & support to make this new way of learning for everyone as easy as possible. The food services division provided tens of thousands of meals to those who would normally receive breakfast/lunch in the building, and our administration continued working diligently to ensure the buildings would be safe & ready for an eventual return to in-person learning. Our teachers/staff went above and beyond creating new ways of learning and interacting with students, and our community rallied to support each other to provide the best output given the option at hand. 

 

We all ‘masked up’ while hoping for a vaccine break-through that would bring us back to normal, Tik Toks, video chats, masked sporting events, one of the most important elections of our lives, and more. 2020 presented challenges none of us could have imagined, but we did it. YOU DID IT. Take a minute and say that again. YOU DID IT. 

 

So, before we jump into 2021, here's a look back at some of the top moments of 2020. Happy New Year! #wostrong

 

Edison Middle School named a '2020 School to Watch' by the National Forum of Schools to Watch.

 

Sandra Guerrero (WOHS '20) becomes first female wrestling state champion in school history

 

Former & current students bring community together at Black Lives Matter rally

 

WOHS Class of 2020 conducts first-ever virtual graduation followed by outdoor COVID-safe ceremony

 

Food Services Division assembly line prepares food boxes for families

 

'Stronger Together' campaign raises over $25K for Mayor's Sunshine Fund

 

Kelly Elementary School Principal Dr. Joanne Pollara retires after 37 years in education

 

Current & former students offer their musical talents to raise spirits of community

 

Community votes in one of the most important elections of our lives

 

West Orange Public Schools win 1st place for our 'Leaders Wear Masks' campaign

 

Hometown hero and Kelly Elementary School namesake Mark Kelly wins Senate race!

 

Superintendent Dr. Cascone sings "You've Got a Friend"

 

Fall Sports teams win division titles - Football, Soccer, Tennis, Cross Country

 

Local eateries go above and beyond offering free lunch for students

 

Staff create fun & inspirational videos to stay engaged with students

 

Community mourns the loss of neighbor, teacher, and coach - Mr. Joseph Suriano

 

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