FKS Community,

Well this last week of school before the 2 week break was filled with laughter, love and learning. Our 5th grade Mars Rover challenge, Ugly Sweater Day, Polar Express celebration, class parties and general level of excitement made it a whirlwind week!!!!

As a reminder, school is closed for a full 2 weeks and we will see everyone in the new year on Monday January 5th, 2026 when school reopens.

On behalf of the FKS faculty and school community we wish you and your family a safe, healthy and happy holiday break and look forward to partnering with you in 2026.

Sincerely,

Dr. Christopher Marangon and Mr. John Winsted

FKS Principal & Asst. Principal

DECEMBER

Mon 22 to Fri Jan 2: Winter Break

JANUARY

Mon January 5th: School Reopens 

Mon 5: 4 PAWS Assembly

Wed 7: Wolf Wednesday

Fri 9: PTA School Store

Wed 14: PTA Mtg (7pm, Flocktown Library)

Wed 14: Wolf Wednesday

Mon 19: School Closed (Staff Professional Development)

Wed 21: Wolf Wednesday

Our 5th grade students have been working diligently to design, plan, collaborate and create their very own Mars Rover. They had several requirements and tasks to complete in order for thier Rover to be able to participate in the challenge. The students then had the opportunity to put their Rover to the test in our grade level culminating acvitiy in the multi purpose room in front of their peers, Board of Education members and school and district administrators. 

As is our 5th grade tradition, students read Patricia Polacco's 'An Orange for Frankie', where a simple gift of an orange symbolizes love and generosity. Even in tough times, we can show each other kindness. Teachers shared oranges with students and talked about the ribbon that binds us as a class community.

Reminder - Support the FKS 5th grade Girl Scouts who are working on their Bronze Award project: A communication board at the Kossmann playground. 

For those that may not know, a communication board is a visual tool that displays pictures, symbols, and words to help individuals, especially those with limited or emerging speech, express their needs, feelings, and ideas. These boards foster inclusion by giving all children a way to communicate and connect during play.  The girls hope to ensure that every child has a voice and can fully participate in their play experiences.

To do this they have created beautiful Long Valley 2026 Calendars that are available to purchase for just $10.

The calendar features photos taken by the girls themselves, showcasing the places and moments they love most around Long Valley.  All proceeds from calendar sales will directly support the purchase and installation of the communication board.  Thank you for your consideration and support of this wonderful project that will benefit the FKS community! 

Order your calendars via:  https://calendar-fundraiser-for-fks-communication-board.cheddarup.com 

The FKS PTA Welcomes You!

Grab your seat at the table and help us decide on programs, events and improvements for our children! If you find yourself with a spare hour, volunteer and help us pull off all the great events we have planned! PTA members get discounts on our most popular events and access to our Facebook page!

We would love you to get involved!!!! Join HERE and help us support students.

Website: www.fkpta.org

Email:fkpta@gmail.com

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/FKPTA

Next Mtg: 1/14/2026

Flocktown School Store: Click HERE to volunteer

First Friday of the month our Flocktown students will have the chance to shop during lunches! Change and small bills please - anything larger than a $5 bill will not be accepted. 

All new Spirit Wear designs available now! If you already got yours and are looking for some new ideas, or haven't had a chance yet, check out the amazing items now!!! Go to the shop HERE.

Links

• Code of Conduct: Please find the district code of conduct for student behavior HERE.

• Communication Framework: Use the communication guidelines listed HERE to ensure successful resolution of any questions and/or concerns.

• Transportation questions: email transportation@wtschools.org or call 9088765311 x1. 

• Arrival/Dismissal: Indicate your child’s dismissal on the PickUp Patrol website.

• After Care: Please find information about MVCA at this link.

• Lunch: Please find information from Maschio’s food service HERE

• Attendance: Regular attendance is essential for a child’s success. Board Policy (5200)

• Drop off/Pick-Up: All new procedures and traffic patterns for 2025-2026. 

  • Click HERE, HERE and HERE for maps of drop off instruction

  • Click HERE and HERE for maps of how to exit school

• School Hours: See school hours and schedules HERE.

Flocktown-Kossmann Elementary School

Website: Click HERE

Location: 90 Flocktown Rd, Long Valley, NJ 07853

Phone: (908) 850-1010

Principal: Dr. Christopher G. Marangon

Assistant Principal: Mr. John W. Winsted