New Providence families have a busy few days ahead: three schools are holding new-student orientations before classes begin Monday, Aug. 31, according to Patch.

Allen W. Roberts School held a new-student open house Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 10 to 11 a.m. New Providence Middle School welcomes new students Thursday, Aug. 27, from noon to 1:30 p.m., and Salt Brook School follows the same day from 3:45 to 5 p.m.

Teachers and staff returned earlier this week. Staff opening day was Monday, Aug. 24, with professional development sessions Tuesday, Aug. 25, and Wednesday, Aug. 26, before students arrive.

The first week will be short. Students get an early dismissal Sept. 4, ahead of the Labor Day weekend.

What's different this year

Incoming kindergarten families at Allen W. Roberts and Salt Brook should note a policy change approved at the Board of Education's July 23 meeting: the board eliminated the sibling exception in the district's elementary redistricting plan for 2026-27. Superintendent Dr. Lauren Zirpoli said at that meeting that "modifying the sibling exception provision is in the best interest of the district while continuing to support overall balanced enrollment between AWR School and Salt Brook School," according to TAPinto New Providence.

The district also hired three new staff members starting Tuesday, Sept. 1: Lily Collins and Barrie Schwarz as special education teachers at New Providence High School and AWR respectively, and Megan Laterra as an English language arts teacher at the high school.

Before the first bell

The district's website has school calendars, supply lists and transportation details. The district advises families to confirm bus routes and opening-day instructions before Monday.

The Board of Education meets Monday, Aug. 31, at 7 p.m., the same evening as the first day of school.