Welcome to the Tatem Elementary School web page! We are extremely excited to have you join or return to our school community. Our school is fortunate to offer dynamic teachers and a creative approach to teaching and learning that your child is sure to enjoy. We embrace each child with the recognition that he/she has a unique learning style and pride ourselves on our ability to create opportunities which reach the social, emotional, and academic well-being of our students.

As we begin our 2011-2012 school year, we will continue to focus our attention on district literacy initiatives. We are pleased to announce the addition of a “bookroom” that houses over 5,000 books with a variety of genres. Our teachers are creating daily experiences that foster a love of reading and promote student success. Our goals is to have students read on his/her level and entice them to see reading as an important and enjoyable part of their daily life.

We are equally proud of the engaging lesson experiences that take place in the areas of mathematics, social studies, science, the arts, technology, language, and physical education. Each student at Tatem School has particular areas of interest and we know the importance of providing exciting opportunities in each discipline.

Our district continues to focus its attention on the importance of technology integration to prepare students for the 21st century. Our 4th and 5th grade classes are equipped with a set of netbooks for daily use. Each classroom has a projector which allows teachers to infuse a variety of websites and technological resources into their daily instruction. We would also like to recognize the efforts of our PTA who has dedicated their fundraising efforts to providing an Eno board in each classroom. As of September, all classes grades K-3 will be using this interactive technology to enhance lessons.

We encourage you to be part of our very active school community. There are numerous opportunities for you to be involved in your child’s education and we welcome your presence at school functions, classroom activities, and appreciate any support you can offer to our teachers and students. Our very active PTA is always looking for volunteers to assist with their efforts.

The state of New Jersey has adopted the National Common Core Standards to boost our students’ achievements and ensure their readiness for the future. At the core of their philosophy is the idea that students need to be able to think creatively, respond critically, and work collaboratively in order to be successful in our society. Tatem School will develop a true understanding of these skills and bring forth their ideas at the heart of its instruction. Additionally, we acknowledge that the foundation for learning begins with the opportunities provided by parents, and we will continue to work diligently to connect the knowledge and skills obtained at home with those presented in school. Through the efforts of our talented staff and dedicated parents, we will lead our students to greatness now and in the future.

~Jennifer McPartland
Building Administrator