The Chimera Chronicle
March Edition
Week of March 2, 2026
Welcome to Women's History Month!
Welcome to March, Chimera Community! As we step into spring, we are excited to celebrate Women's History Month — a time to honor the extraordinary contributions of women who have shaped our nation and world. Throughout March, our classrooms will come alive with stories of trailblazers, innovators, and leaders who have broken barriers and inspired generations.
This month also marks the beginning of our spring assessment preparation. Our teachers are working diligently to ensure every student feels confident and ready for the upcoming NJSLA assessments. We encourage families to support this preparation by ensuring students get adequate rest, eat nutritious meals, and maintain regular attendance.
As we celebrate Read Across America Day this week, let's embrace the joy of reading and the power of stories to transform minds and hearts. Together, we continue building a community of learners united by Chimera Pride!
Here's to a month of celebration, growth, and achievement!
With Chimera Pride,
Marti Hill-Parker
Acting Superintendent of Schools
Women's History Month Spotlight
Week 1 Theme: "Pioneers & Pathbreakers"
This week, we launch Women's History Month by celebrating Harriet Tubman, the courageous freedom fighter who led hundreds of enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad. Her bravery and determination continue to inspire us today.
Classroom Activities This Week:
- Research projects on women pioneers in various fields
- Creative writing: "Letters to a Trailblazer"
- Interactive timeline: Women Who Changed History
- Art projects celebrating women's achievements
Teaching & Learning Focus
Literacy Focus
Students are exploring biographies and autobiographies of influential women, developing reading comprehension skills while learning about historical figures.
- • Read Across America celebrations
- • Biography book clubs by grade level
- • Writing personal narratives inspired by women leaders
STEM Connections
Celebrating women in STEM fields, students are learning about groundbreaking scientists, mathematicians, and engineers who shaped our world.
- • Spotlight on Katherine Johnson & NASA pioneers
- • Women inventors research projects
- • STEM career exploration activities
Assessment & Academic Growth
Spring assessment preparation begins this week. Teachers are implementing targeted review strategies to ensure all students feel confident and prepared.
- • NJSLA preparation resources distributed to families
- • Practice sessions integrated into daily instruction
- • Focus on test-taking strategies and time management
Important Dates & Reminders
Women's History Month Begins
Sunday, March 1
Celebrating the vital role of women in American history and their contributions to society
Read Across America Day
Monday, March 2
Celebrating Dr. Seuss and the joy of reading across all schools
Spring Assessment Prep Begins
Throughout Week
Teachers begin focused preparation for upcoming NJSLA assessments
Board of Education Meeting
Wednesday, March 4
Regular Board meeting - Public welcome to attend at 7:00 PM
Week 1 Reminders
- ✨ Encourage your child to participate in Women's History Month activities
- 📚 Join Read Across America celebrations — read together at home!
- 📝 Assessment preparation materials coming home — review with your student
- 😴 Ensure students get adequate sleep for optimal learning
School Highlights
🏫 Willingboro High School
Women in Leadership Assembly
Thursday, March 5
Guest speakers sharing career journeys and inspiring our students to pursue their dreams.
NJSLA Preparation Sessions
Ongoing
Targeted review sessions during Chimera Time to boost student readiness.
🏫 Memorial Middle School
Women's History Month Kickoff
Monday, March 2
Morning announcements featuring "Women Who Made History" spotlights.
Read Across America Celebration
Monday, March 2
Special reading activities and Dr. Seuss-themed classroom celebrations.
🏫 J.A. Cotten Intermediate School
"Dress as Your Favorite Book Character"
Monday, March 2
Students celebrate Read Across America Day with costumes and storytelling.
Harriet Tubman Learning Stations
Throughout Week
Interactive learning experiences exploring Harriet Tubman's heroic journey.
🏫 Hawthorne Elementary School
Author Visit Preparation
This Week
Students reading books by this month's visiting author in preparation for their visit.
Women's History Art Project
Begins This Week
Creating portraits of inspiring women to display throughout the school.
Looking Ahead
Coming Up This Month:
- →March 17-24: Parent-Teacher Conferences across all schools
- →Late March: Spring assessment window begins
- →April 6-10: Spring Recess — Mark your calendars!