The Chimera Chronicle

February Edition

Week of February 16, 2026

February 2026 Weekly Editions

Honoring Our Leaders

Welcome to another exciting week, Chimera Community! This week begins with Presidents\' Day, a time to honor the leaders who have shaped our nation. We encourage families to discuss the importance of leadership, civic responsibility, and public service.

With the end of Marking Period 2 behind us, this is an excellent time to review your child\'s report card (available via Genesis) and discuss their academic progress. Celebrate achievements and set goals together for the remainder of the school year.

Our Black History Month celebrations continue with powerful programming, including the annual WHS Black History Month Program on Friday. Student performances, poetry readings, and historical presentations will highlight the ongoing importance of learning from and celebrating African American history.

Let\'s make this week meaningful through learning and connection!

With Chimera Pride,
Marti Hill-Parker
Acting Superintendent of Schools

Black History Month Spotlight

This Week\'s Theme: Leaders & Visionaries

This week, we honor the leaders and visionaries who shaped movements, inspired generations, and continue to influence positive change today. From civil rights leaders to modern-day change-makers, we celebrate those who dared to dream.

Students will learn about leadership qualities and how individuals can make a difference in their communities, no matter their age.

Featured Figure: John Lewis

Congressman John Lewis was a civil rights pioneer who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice and equality. From the March on Washington to the halls of Congress, he inspired generations to get into "good trouble."

"Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble."

This Week\'s Dates

Presidents' Day - No School

Monday, February 16

Schools closed in observance of Presidents' Day

Black History Month Continues

All Week

Continued celebrations and learning throughout the district

Spring Assessment Prep

Ongoing

Teachers continue preparing students for upcoming spring assessments

Black History Month Program

Friday, February 20

WHS presents annual Black History Month celebration featuring student performances

Teaching & Learning Focus

Report Card Review Tips

  • Review your child\'s Marking Period 2 report card via Genesis
  • Celebrate areas of growth and achievement
  • Identify areas for continued focus and improvement

Spring Assessment Preparation

  • Ensure students get adequate sleep each night
  • Encourage daily reading at home
  • Support consistent attendance and punctuality

School Spotlights

Willingboro High School

WHS students are preparing for the annual Black History Month Program on Friday. The event will feature student performances, spoken word poetry, and historical presentations honoring African American contributions.

Memorial Middle School

MMS students have created a "Wall of Heroes" display featuring research projects on influential African Americans. The display showcases student learning and creativity throughout Black History Month.

J.A. Cotten Intermediate School

Students are participating in a school-wide reading challenge featuring books by African American authors. Classrooms are competing to read the most books this month.

Hawthorne Elementary School

Hawthorne Elementary is hosting a "Leaders of Tomorrow" essay contest where students write about how they can make a positive difference in their community.

Weekly Reminders

  • Presidents\' Day: Schools closed Monday, February 16. Enjoy the long weekend with your family!
  • Report Cards: Marking Period 2 report cards are available via Genesis. Review your child\'s progress and celebrate their achievements!
  • WHS Program: All families are welcome to attend the Black History Month Program at WHS on Friday at 6:00 PM.