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Back to School in West Orange: PHOTOS

WEST ORANGE, NJ — West Orange students from Preschool to high school started back to school on September 3, as welcoming principals and staff directed them to their new classrooms. 

"The new school year brings many opportunities of engagement for our families, and it is my hope that everyone takes full advantage of the programs the district provides," said Superintendent Hayden Moore, who stopped by Edison, Liberty, and Roosevelt Middle Schools to welcome the new students in grades 6-8.

"To this extent, I encourage parents and guardians to keep the lines of communication open. Become familiar with PowerSchool, Google Classroom, SchoolMessenger, or any of our web programs by reaching out to your school main office or by locating a tutorial on our website under the tab For Parents. And remember to get involved with your school organizations, your PTA, WOSEPAC, and attend their events and their programs," he added.

"We are looking forward to a wonderful school year filled with learning, community engagement, and success," he stated.

Hazel Principal Joel Castillo was enthusiastic about the school year.

What an incredible first day back at Hazel Avenue School! The smiles, the laughter, and the excitement in the air truly made today unforgettable. This year, our theme is World Cup – “One World, One Goal — Learning, Playing, Winning Together!” Just like the teams who come together from all around the globe, we at Hazel are united in our mission: to learn with curiosity, play with joy, and win together by supporting one another as a community.

From our youngest learners arriving with eager eyes to our older students proudly leading the way, today reminded us of the strength and spirit that makes Hazel so special. Every student is part of our “team,” and together we are ready to make this a championship year filled with growth, achievement, and celebration."
 
To see photos from the first day of school across the West Orange School District, go HERE. (Click on the "i" button to see what school they are from.)
 
Hazel
Hazel Principal Joel Castillo and students
 
EMS
BOE member Eric Stevenson (son started sixth grade), EMS Asst. Principal Dr. Keri Orange-Jones, Superintendent Hayden Moore, EMS Principal Steve Melendez
 
RMS
RMS students
 
Mt. Pleasant
Mt. Pleasant
 
St. Cloud
The St. Cloud play area has a new look
Cynthia Cumming
Sept. 4, 2025