It was another busy and productive week at Leonia High School. As we move further into the school year, it is great to see our students settling into their routines and the energy throughout the building continuing to grow.

This week, our seniors took an important step as our School Counselors began working with them on the college application process. This is an exciting time for the Class of 2027 as they begin planning the next phase of their educational journey. Our Student Services Department is here to support students throughout the process through individual meetings when necessary, Flex sessions, and workshops for students and families. As a reminder, our Financial Aid Night will be held on Tuesday, September 29 at 6:00 PM in the Little Theater. We are excited to see where this journey takes each of our seniors and look forward to celebrating their decisions with them on National College Decision Day on May 1, 2027.

There are also great things happening every day in our classrooms. Students are engaged in meaningful discussions, collaborating with their classmates, tackling challenging problems, and developing the skills they will need beyond high school. As I walk through the building and visit classrooms, it is great to see our students engaged in their learning and our teachers creating opportunities for them to think, explore, and grow.

Our Internet-Enabled Device Policy also continues to go well. Our students have done a great job adjusting to the new guidelines, and one of the most noticeable benefits has been seeing students interacting with their peers throughout the school day. Whether in the hallways, cafeteria, or classrooms, it is great to see more face-to-face conversations and connections taking place. We encourage parents and guardians to continue talking with their students about the guidelines and the importance of keeping personal devices off and away during the school day. Your continued support at home plays an important role in helping us maintain a learning environment focused on academic engagement and meaningful social interaction.

Outside of the classroom, many of our clubs and activities have already begun holding informational meetings, with many more scheduled over the next few weeks. One of the best ways for students to make LHS feel like their school is to find something that interests them and get involved. Whether through athletics, music, theater, student organizations, service opportunities, or one of our many clubs, there is something for everyone.

I encourage all of our students to get involved, challenge themselves, try something new, and make the most of their experience at LHS. High school goes by quickly, and some of the most memorable experiences happen when you step outside your comfort zone and become part of something beyond the classroom.

Have a great weekend!

Go Lions!

Chuck Kalender

Need volunteer hours? Join Age-Friendly Leonia! 

Age-Friendly Leonia connects high school students with older residents in our community who could use a helping hand. Volunteer opportunities will include fall leaf cleanup, snow shoveling, community events, and much more!

It’s a great way to earn volunteer hours right here in Leonia, meet other students, give back to your community, and make a real difference. You’ll also need to attend a short orientation once you sign up so you know exactly what to expect.

Ready to get involved? Scan the QR code or text “I want to volunteer” to 201-540-9364. You’ll answer a few quick questions, and we’ll follow up with the next steps!

Join us and be part of making Leonia a better community for everyone!

We are proud to recognize one of our LHS students, Eunice Hwang, for an outstanding achievement in the Gilder Lehrman Institute’s David McCullough Essay Prizes.

The competition received 765 submissions, and Eunice's essay was selected as one of just 23 finalists. A jury of distinguished historians reviewed the finalist essays and commended the quality of the research, writing, and historical analysis demonstrated in the work.

Being named a finalist among hundreds of submissions is an impressive accomplishment and a reflection of the hard work, scholarship, and writing skills of Eunice.

Congratulations on this well-deserved national recognition!

Consistent attendance and punctuality are two of the most important factors in a student’s success at LHS. At Leonia High School, absences and tardies are tracked closely, and students risk losing credit for courses if they exceed the allowed number of absences. Being on time to school and to every class is just as important, as it minimizes disruptions and helps students stay fully engaged in their learning. Regular attendance builds strong academic habits, keeps students connected to their teachers and peers, and ensures they don’t fall behind. We encourage families to schedule all appointments after school hours whenever possible to limit time away from class. Please take a few minutes to review the full attendance policy and guidelines in the Student Handbook so that expectations are clear for both students and parents.