By: Richard L. Smith
The excitement was palpable as Irvington Township Superintendent Dr. April Vauss welcomed nearly 7400 students returning to school for the first day of the 2024-2025 academic year Wednesday, January 5.
I joined Superintendent Vauss on an exciting tour of three district schools and her presence was a beacon of encouragement and support as she saluted students and staff, setting a hopeful tone for the year 2024-2025 year ahead.
At the start of the day, Dr. Vauss made stops at Irvington High School, University Middle School, and the Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy, each time emphasizing the importance of robust parental involvement and community support.
“The first day of school is more than just a date—it’s the foundation for a successful year,” Dr. Vauss stated, urging parents to ensure their children’s readiness and presence. “We need all our scholars present as we continue to build our community, one student at a time.”
The day began bright and early at Irvington High School, where Principal Darnel Mangan and his staff were already in high spirits.
The district's vibrant blue T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan "NOW"—standing for "Nurturing Our Why"—symbolized the district's commitment to remembering why they serve: to give students their very best, despite the challenges.
Irvington High School, one of the largest in Essex County with about 1,742 students, boasts a diverse student body and offers dual enrollment courses through Essex County College and NJIT. This allows students as young as freshmen to earn college credits before graduation. Superintendent Vauss is also enthusiastic about a new magnet school program focusing on Media and Journalism.
To support the influx of new students and families, Dr. Vauss has introduced ESL and bilingual courses for Spanish, Creole, and French speakers, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
Principal Mangan’s smooth start to the school year was supported by the efforts of the administration, security, teachers, staff, and an officer from the Irvington Township Police.
With low crime rates over the summer ensuring neighborhood safety, Police Director proudly announced the completion of the department’s first Junior Police Academy program for youth. Despite a homicide in June and one in July, violent crime remains at an all-time low according to NJ State Police reports.
Just a short distance away, at University Middle School, Principal Michael Bussacco rolled out the blue carpet to welcome about 700 students.
The warm atmosphere was complemented by an immaculate building, a testament to the hard work of Maintenance Manager Najee Dwyer and his team.
“Everybody on this staff is important because I can’t get this work done by myself,” Dwyer told RLS Media. His personal connection to the community—being an Irvington native—fueled his dedication. “Compassion, work, and focus are what it took to get these buildings ready for our kids.”
The tour concluded at Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy, named in honor of a revered local educator.
Principal Tyisha Bennett, enthusiastic about the first day of school, expressed her appreciation for the smooth opening and her excitement to prepare for the year ahead with her approximately 225 students, who include freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. “My scholars work hard and always give their best effort, which motivates me to stay focused and work hard to give them my very best,” Principal Bennett said.
She also noted that this year will be more competitive, as the 11th graders will be preparing for a state standardized test. “We will be ready; we have no choice. My goal is to get them prepared,” Bennett added, acknowledging the additional effort required from her teaching staff.
Owens, the mother of renowned entertainer Queen Latifah, was celebrated for her resolved dedication to improving education in Irvington.
As Dr. Vauss and I spent nearly an hour visiting classrooms, we witnessed firsthand the school’s commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
Two honor students from Rita L. Owens STEAM Academy, Steeve Antoine and Trinity Pierce, met with Dr. Vauss and RLS Media to share their experiences. Both students have been with the magnet school since its inception three years ago and have made a significant impact through their leadership.
Maintaining GPAs of 3.5 and above, they have already completed multiple college placement courses and participated in the district's dual enrollment classes.
“I really love the school. It is really preparing me for the future of technology and engineering,” Antoine said. A busy student, Steeve is also a varsity cross-country runner and has already obtained his New Jersey driver’s permit, preparing for his driving test.
Pierce, focused on maintaining strong grades to gain entry into colleges outside New Jersey, shared her plans: “I am going to focus on getting a great score on the SAT so that I can apply to UMass Boston College.” Reflecting on her first day back, she added, “Today was an easy transition back to school, and the teachers and Principal Bennett made it so easy for us.”
Reflecting on the day’s events, Dr. Vauss continued to advocate for strong parental engagement. “When parents and schools work together, students are more likely to succeed,” she affirmed. The day’s success, marked by enthusiastic greetings and a smoothly organized start, underscored the district's commitment to creating a supportive and productive educational environment.
With a firm start to the school year and a clear call for community involvement, Irvington’s schools are ready to face the challenges and celebrate the successes that lie ahead.
