Dear Branchburg Families,

I hope your summer has been filled with rest, adventure, and time together. While it may feel like the school year just ended, the start of the 2025–2026 year is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome students back on Thursday, September 4 for a full day of school. Whether you’re new to Branchburg or have been with us for years, we want to make sure you have the information you need to start the year strong. Below are a few key updates and dates to keep in mind as we prepare for a great year ahead.

As we move closer to the September 16 bond referendum, I want to personally invite you to be part of the conversation about what this vote means for the future of our schools and community. We’ve created a short video that walks through the highlights of the proposed projects and how they would support safer, more sustainable, and future-ready learning environments across the district. I encourage you to take a look and share it with others. We’re also hosting two upcoming events where you can learn more and ask questions:

●    Virtual Community Forum – Wednesday, August 20 at 6:30 PM (Zoom link available here on our website)

●    In-Person Forum & Stony Brook School Tour – Monday, September 8 at 6:30 PM (Presentation and Q&A followed by a guided tour of the building). District leaders, board members, teachers, and our architectural and financial advisors will be on hand to answer questions.

To explore full project details, visual renderings, FAQs, voting logistics, and more, visit our website. You may also email us at referendum@branchburg.k12.nj.us  with any additional questions.

To ensure we can reach you quickly in an emergency, please take a moment to log into Genesis and confirm that your contact information is up to date. Be sure to include two emergency contacts in case you are unavailable.

We’re excited to have launched a new communications platform that includes a redesigned district and school websites and a mobile app to make it easier for families to stay connected and informed. Please visit this page on our website to learn how to register.

The Genesis Parent Portal will open for required forms on August 18 after 4:30 PM. Student schedules will become available on August 25 after 4:30 PM for all schools.

Our Back-to-School Nights will take place early in September to give you a chance to meet your child’s teacher and learn more about the year ahead. All events begin at 6:30 PM.

●    Stony Brook School – September 9

●    Whiton Elementary School – September 10

●    Branchburg Central Middle School – September 11

Bus routes will be shared with families soon through Genesis. We are in the process of developing a Transportation Parent Handbook to help answer common questions about procedures, safety, and expectations. The handbook will be shared shortly. Also, please take time to review the following bus rules with your child. Together, we can help ensure a safe and positive transportation experience for all students.

●    Sit in your assigned seat, facing forward, with your seatbelt fastened.

●    Remain seated while the bus is moving.

●    Keep the aisle clear of legs, bags, and other belongings.

●    Use respectful language and speak at a quiet volume.

●    Follow the driver’s directions at all times.

●    Keep hands, feet, and belongings to yourself and inside the bus.

●    Do not eat or drink on the bus.

●    Do not damage or tamper with the bus or its equipment.

●    Ride only your assigned bus and get off at your designated stop.

●    Bullying of any kind is not allowed.

●    Be kind and respectful to your driver and fellow students.

We’re looking forward to a smooth start to the new school year. Thank you, as always, for your partnership and support.

Enjoy the rest of the summer,

Dr. Karen Chase

Superintendent of Schools