Bridgewater Schools Ready to Open for 8,800 Students

When Bridgewater schools open Sept. 4, a total of 8,800 students are expected—that's 112 more than at the district's last official count in October, 2012, according to a summary of changes ahead of the first day issued by the district, Monday.

The district also noted lunch prices will range from $2.45 for primary and intermediate school students, $2.60 at the middle school, and $2.75 at Bridgewater-Raritan High School. All grades can enjoy lunch at school on the opening day—which is a full day of classes.

School hours will be: 

• Primary Schools - 8:35 a.m.-2:55 p.m.; Morning Kindergarten - 8:35 a.m.-11:15 a.m.; Afternoon Kindergarten – 12:15 p.m.-2:55 p.m.
• Intermediate Schools - 9:05 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Middle School – 7:35 a.m.-2:15 p.m.
• High School – 7:20 a.m-2:21 p.m. 

The district also will welcome a new principal at the Adamsville School, Jeff White, and also a new district math supervisor for grades 7-12, Michael Poe.

Here are some highlights of what’s been recently accomplished in the district: 

• All BRRSD curricula aligned to NJ Core Content Standards or Common Core State Standards;
• New teacher evaluation and administrator evaluation systems in place and will be implemented fully this year;
• Fiscally responsible budget established with minimal tax increase;
• New Supervisor of Math 7-12 appointed on July 23rd;
• All schools are now wireless;
• New library system implemented in all schools;
• Parent Portal upgraded;
• Recognition from the Department of Education as a high achieving school district;
• National ranking of the High School in Newsweek magazine;
• Contracts settled with supervisors association and principals association;
• Significant reduction in absenteeism at the high school due to consistent implementation of the attendance policy;
• Interim plan in place while the district transitions to a new superintendent.