Letter to the Hackensack Community

Dear Hackensack School District Community, As we close out the school year today, I want to extend my heartfelt Congratulations to the graduating Class of 2025. Your hard work, perseverance, and growth have brought you to this exciting milestone. I also want to thank our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment to our students throughout the year. I want to make sure you are aware, at our June 18th Board of Education meeting, we appointed Ms. Andrea Oates-Parchment as Acting Superintendent of Hackensack Public Schools, effective immediately. Ms. Oates-Parchment brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership and a deep passion for student success. We are confident that her leadership will guide us into a bright and promising future. While leadership transitions can bring change, our shared mission remains unchanged—delivering an exceptional education to every student. Our teams are already hard at work preparing for the new school year, ensuring a smooth and strong start this fall. We will continue to share important updates over the summer through ParentSquare. As we turn the page on this school year, I hope each of you takes time to relax, recharge, and enjoy time with family and friends. Thank you for being a vital part of our school community. Wishing you all a joyful, restful, and safe summer. With gratitude, Jennifer Harris President, Hackensack Board of Education

Monday, Jun 23 2025

Special Message Concerning a Recent Incident

Dear Hackensack Public Schools Community, I am writing to address a troubling incident that occurred recently involving our soccer coach, Shaun Holder. During a moment when Coach Holder was standing in support of our students, he was subjected to vile and hateful racial comments. This act is not only unacceptable, but it is an affront to the values of our district and community. I want to be clear: Hatred and racism have no place in Hackensack Public Schools. As a Black man and leader, I have faced similar situations where individuals have tried to demean, belittle, and berate me—without cause or justification—simply because of who I am. These experiences resonate deeply, and they only strengthen my commitment to speaking out against such acts of racism and hatred. We must stand united against this kind of behavior and ensure that we hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Coach Holder’s unwavering dedication to our students and his role in our community is invaluable, and he deserves nothing less than our full support. He has shown resilience and grace in the face of an unprovoked attack, and we, as a district, are standing firmly with him. I want to personally commend Coach Holder for his courage, and assure him—and all of you—that we will not tolerate any form of racism or discrimination directed toward any member of our community. This incident is a reminder of the work that still needs to be done, not just within our schools but throughout society. We must be intentional in our efforts to create an environment where every student, staff member, and family feels safe, respected, and valued. Now is the time for each of us to reflect on how we can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive community, one where accountability is not just a word but a shared responsibility. Coach Holder, we stand with you. To anyone who has experienced similar discrimination or racism, please know that we stand with you as well. We will continue to confront these issues head-on, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that Hackensack is a place where hatred has no home. Let us work together, every day, to build a community where respect, empathy, and understanding guide us. We must actively foster the kind of environment that not only denounces hate but uplifts and supports all individuals, regardless of race or background. We must work diligently to ensure that instances like these do not continue to happen. The great Dr. King reminds us that, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” and "Silence in the face of bigotry and hate is complicity." Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your ongoing commitment to making Hackensack Public Schools a community where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Wednesday, Oct 09 2024

District Assessment Notification for 2024-25 SY

Dear Hackensack Public Schools Community, Please see attached information regarding assessments for the 2024-2025 school year.

Tuesday, Sep 24 2024

Feedback Requested

Dear valued staff member, We want to hear your voice! By now, you should have received an email from  Thought Exchange inviting you to share your insights on our district's culture and your experiences. Your perspective is crucial in shaping our future.  This is your chance to make a real impact. Please take a few moments to complete the survey. Your input is invaluable and will help guide our efforts to create an even better environment for all. The sooner you respond, the quicker we can start putting your ideas into action. We can't wait to hear what you have to say! Thank you for being an essential part of our district's success. Hackensack Public Schools [Friday, Sep 27 at 11:07 AM] If you have not already done so, please complete the survey, which closes Monday, September 30, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. Thanks in advance!

Tuesday, Sep 24 2024