CEDAR HILL
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Educating Students Since 2003
Living History Museum
Living History Project Recap: A Night to Remember!
Our Living History Project was a huge success! On February 28, our middle school students brought the Roaring 20s to life, showcasing their research and creativity in honor of Black History Month. Through engaging presentations on Geography, Religion, Achievements, Politics, Economics, and Social Structure, students highlighted the significant contributions of Black individuals during this influential decade.
Thank you to all who attended and supported our students! Your enthusiasm made the event even more special. We look forward to continuing this tradition and celebrating history together in the future!
PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS
Valentine’s Day
Love and kindness filled our preschool classrooms on Valentine’s Day! The children dressed in festive Valentine colors and created “Love Bug” cards to show appreciation for their parents. Each child also brought special Valentine’s cards for their classmates and excitedly delivered them to individual Valentine bags.
Groundhog Day
February 2nd is Groundhog Day! According to tradition, if the groundhog sees its shadow, winter will last for six more weeks. If not, spring is just around the corner. After reading Wake Up, Groundhog, the children were eager to find out whether the groundhog would see its shadow or not!
Dental Week
Black History Month
Our preschoolers honored Black History Month by presenting projects on famous African Americans. Each child dressed up as the person they had chosen and created a poster, with help from their parents, showcasing their inventor, athlete, scientist, or celebrity. The children proudly shared their projects with classmates, enthusiastically stepping into the shoes of their historical figures as they explained their significance.
“Brush, brush, brush your teeth—brush them twice a day!” That was the cheerful chant of our preschoolers during Dental Week! The children learned about the importance of maintaining healthy teeth through proper brushing, flossing, and making smart food choices. We were fortunate to have Dr. Bindra, Rayna’s mom, visit our class for a special dental hygiene lesson. She gave a fantastic demonstration on why and how to floss and brush properly, and she also taught the children about healthy and unhealthy food choices for strong teeth.
PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS
Building Study
Our preschool fashion designers turned into builders as they embarked on a study of different types of buildings in the community. During a walk around the school campus, they observed that buildings come in different shapes and materials—some are rectangular or square, some are made of brick, some have unique roof designs, and others have many windows. They learned that buildings are all used for shelter. As part of their investigation, the children brought in pictures of their own homes and described their houses, including the number of levels, doors, windows, and even where their bedrooms were located. Then, they put on their builder hats! Each child was given a paper bag and various shaped pieces of colored paper to construct their own houses.
Spreading Love
Their creativity was on full display—some even designed houses with skylights! Over the past few weeks, the children worked in pairs and small groups to build structures using different-sized boxes. To further their exploration, they read The Three Little Pigs and discussed the materials used to build the pigs' houses. They concluded that brick was the strongest material compared to straw and sticks. It has been a month filled with exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning!
Valentine’s Day was celebrated with an abundance of love and kindness in Pre-K. Children dressed in Valentine’s colors and exchanged goodies and treats with their friends. As usual, both Pre-K classes combined to enjoy the Valentine’s party, and having Mr. Seeley join us was the icing on the cake!
PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS
Honoring Legacies: Pre-Kindergarten Celebrates Black History Month
During our Black History Month celebration, the Pre-K students engaged in a research project focused on influential figures who profoundly shaped the lives of many. Each student selected a prominent individual and explored their remarkable contributions.
Nurturing Healthy Smiles
In a captivating display, students dressed in attire reflective of their chosen figures and confidently shared their research findings, highlighting the achievements and legacies of these historical icons. The enthusiasm among the students was palpable, and their presentations were nothing short of outstanding. We couldn’t be prouder of their efforts and dedication to honoring Black history.
“Brush, brush, brush your teeth—brush them twice a day!” The cheerful chant of our preschoolers echoed through the halls as they enthusiastically embraced the importance of dental care. During Dental Awareness Week, our young learners discovered the significance of maintaining healthy teeth through proper brushing, flossing, and mindful eating habits.
We were delighted to welcome Dr Jalloh in Pre-K A and Dr. Sheth in Pre-K B, parents and dentists, who graciously visited our school to share invaluable lessons on dental hygiene with our preschool and Pre-K classes. With boundless enthusiasm, both the dentists led an engaging demonstration on proper brushing and flossing techniques. They made the learning experience both educational and fun. Through interactive sessions, our children also learned how to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy food choices, reinforcing the importance of excellent dental health.
PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS
100 Days Smarter!
Excitement filled the air on Wednesday, February 26th, as our Kindergarten students celebrated the 100th Day of School! After counting down the days with tally marks, the children learned place value along the way. Each student proudly presented their 100th Day project in front of their peers and on video, showcasing amazing and creative designs!
The celebration continued with a variety of fun activities, including 100 exercises with third grade, taking 100 steps outside, counting to 100 by 1s, 5s, and 10s, reciting a 100-day poem, and reading and coloring our “100 Days of School” book. It was a day full of learning, laughter, and unforgettable memories! Happy 100th Day of School, Cedar Hill Prep!
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
Honoring Black History: A First-Grade Tribute
First grade honored the courage and contributions of many African American historical figures at our Living History Museum. They presented “An Alphabetical Representation of Black History,” where each letter of the alphabet highlighted a different activist, civil rights leader, musician, inventor, athlete, or politician. The first graders did an outstanding job conveying the significance of each historical figure to the audience. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and excellent performance.
2nd Grade Living History Museum: Honoring Black Americans
Our second graders did an outstanding job bringing history to life at the Living History Museum! They presented powerful quotes from influential Black Americans and shared their personal reflections on what those words meant to them. It was inspiring to hear their thoughtful insights and witness the deep connection they had with the messages. Their presentations were heartfelt, meaningful, and truly impressive. Excellent work, second grade!
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
SUPER STUDENTS
A. Shah is a proud member of Mrs. Kotasthane’s class. Shah describes herself as a Ravenous Reader and an Amazing Artist. She comes from the galaxy of Planet Green and envisions the color orange whenever she feels happy. In her free time, Shah loves reading and chatting with her friends about all the exciting things happening at school. If she had a theme song, it would be Our Song by Taylor Swift—who also happens to be her hero! She dreams of starring in a movie about her life, with Taylor Swift as her ultimate inspiration. If Shah could change one thing in the world, it would be to eliminate pollution. She would take on this mission with her trusted sidekick—her sister. Shah’s favorite books include The Babysitter’s Club, My Weird School, Junie B. Jones, and Cam Jansen. With her passion for stories and creativity, she is truly a shining star!
R. Rajath is in Mrs. Haynoski’s class and describes himself as a Mighty Mathematician, Wonder Writer, Stellar Scientist, Ravenous Reader, and Harmonious Helper. Rajath’s family includes his dad, mom, sister, and both his grandmothers and grandfathers. His favorite book series is Wings of Fire, and he loves talking about Pokémon with his friends. If he had to choose a theme song, it would be Eye of the Tiger by Survivor, and the galaxy he hails from is none other than “Pokémon Paradise.” In his spare time, Rajath enjoys playing on his Nintendo and sharpening his chess skills. If he could correct one wrong in the world, he would put an end to all wars. The color that comes to mind when he’s happy is teal. Lastly, if he had to assemble a team of sidekicks, he’d choose his sister, T. G. Bhutia, M. Jalloh, and S. Mohammed-Arzaan Islam.
I. Shahid is in Mrs. Kotasthane’s class and describes himself as a Mighty Mathematician, Tremendous Team Player, Awesome Athlete, and Harmonious Helper. Shahid’s hero is his father, and he would choose his brother and sister as his sidekicks. His theme song is “Best Day of My Life.” He loves to play football and would also love to star in a movie about himself playing football. The galaxy Ibrahim hails from is the “Milky Way,” and when he is happy, he thinks of the color yellow. Ibrahim loves to read Harry Potter and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. He would love to make the world a better place by fixing climate change and contributing to a brighter future.
Meet N. Smith, who is in Mrs. Haynoski’s class. Smith describes himself as a Mighty Mathematician, Ravenous Reader, Awesome Athlete, and Amazing Artist. His theme song is the sound of guitar strings strumming. His hero is his twin brother, O. Smith, and if he could choose sidekicks, he would pick his mom, dad, twin brother, and his dog. In his free time, Smith enjoys tinkering with the treasures in his pencil pouch and hails from the legendary Super Galaxy. If he could fix one thing in the world, it would be pollution and lawbreaking. If Smith starred in a movie, it would be an actionpacked jail escape, where he plays the heroic cop saving the day. When he’s not on duty, he enjoys talking to his friends about games and reading his favorite books—Dog Man and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
Mystery Readers Bring Stories to Life in Third Grade!
Third grade welcomed Preston’s mom, Jacinta, as their mystery reader! She read I’m NOT Like Other Books, a witty and fun story for children ages 7 and up. However, readers of all ages will be charmed by the lively illustrations and will laugh out loud at Sloth, Narwhal, and Seal’s amusing high jinks. This delightful tale is sure to bring a smile to even the crankiest of curmudgeons! Imagine trying to describe a book but being unable to compare it to any other—because, well, it’s NOT like other books! Join Sloth, Narwhal, and Seal on a journey to uncover the true purpose of this story. As we know, grownups often seek deeper meaning in everything, and they’ll surely wonder: Why should you read this book? A big thank you to Jacinta for her animated and engaging reading!
Third grade was graced with the presence of our mystery reader, Ishani’s mom, Purvi, who read The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors by Drew Daywalt! In this vibrant tale, Rock, Paper, and Scissors are not just simple hand gestures—they’re heroic warriors from their own kingdoms, each on a quest for worthy challengers! Picture this: Rock triumphantly smooshes an apricot, Paper cleverly jams a printer into submission, and Scissors wreaks havoc on a roll of tape! The climax? They finally cross paths, and we all know the legendary showdown: Rock smashes Scissors, Paper covers Rock, and Scissors cuts through Paper! The students absolutely loved this book, and there was lots of laughter in the classroom as Purvi animatedly read the story.
Third graders were excited to welcome a mystery reader to their classroom— Jeremy Smith, Oliver and Noah’s dad, who read Dr. Seuss’s wonderfully wise Oh, the Places You’ll Go! From soaring to high heights and seeing great sights to being left in a lurch on a prickly perch, Dr. Seuss addresses life’s ups and downs with his trademark humorous verse and whimsical illustrations. The inspiring and timeless message encourages readers to find the success within themselves, no matter the challenges they face. Thank you, Jeremy, for sharing this beautiful book with us. We look forward to welcoming more mystery readers to our classroom!
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
Happy Valentine’s Day from 3rd Grade!
Our third graders had a heartwarming celebration filled with creativity, kindness, and fun! They crafted festive Valentine glasses and adorable mini heart characters, exchanged Valentines between classes, and dressed in red and pink to support the American Heart Association. To add to the excitement, students enjoyed heartfelt stories like The Night Before Valentine’s Day by Natasha Wing and How to Help a Cupid by Sue Fliess. It was a wonderful day celebrating love, friendship, and the joy of giving!
Exploring Genes and Inherited Traits
Students recently read The Code, a book that introduced them to the fascinating concepts of genes and inherited traits. Before diving into the book, they previewed it to make predictions about what “the code” might mean. While reading, students applied the sense-making strategy of asking questions, using the information in the book to help find answers. After reading with a partner, students shared their questions and insights with the class. They concluded that: Genes provide instructions for making a living organism, and these instructions are in cells and passed from parents to offspring. Next, students received instructions from the “parents” of a fictional creature. As a class, they worked together to create a family of offspring, using clay to represent different traits based on the instructions they were given. Since the offspring came from the same set of parents, they were siblings. In pairs, students received two instruction strips—one from Parent 1 and one from Parent 2—and used a guide in their notebooks to figure out which traits their creature should have. They then constructed their creatures, incorporating traits passed down from both parents. After building their creatures, students observed and compared the traits of three different creatures, recording their similarities and variations.
They concluded that a creature’s traits may resemble one parent more than the other, or could be a mix of both. Through continued observation, they also discovered that while offspring share similar traits with their parents, they don’t always have the same traits as each other. This hands-on exploration helped students deepen their understanding of genetics and inheritance!
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
Third Grade Brings African American Writers to Life
On February 27, 2025, third-grade students participated in the Living History Museum, honoring African American writers and poets in celebration of Black History Month.
Each student selected a writer or poet to research and created a poster showcasing their chosen figure. As part of the project, they transformed into their historical figure by dressing like them and presenting through a cut-out in their poster or cardboard. They memorized key details about their subject, including birth and death dates, occupation, personal life, and achievements, and shared their knowledge with their classmates and teacher. Everyone did an outstanding job bringing history to life!
Third Graders Ready for National Spanish Challenge
For the first time, our 3rd graders will be participating in the National Spanish Challenge (NSC)! They are thrilled to take on this exciting opportunity to showcase their Spanish language skills and earn well-deserved recognition.
The NSC is a prestigious online motivational contest designed for students in grades 1-6, organized by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish & Portuguese (AATSP). It serves as an engaging way to assess and celebrate students’ Spanish proficiency, with top performers earning ribbons and certificates based on their scores. Our young linguists have been working hard, and we can’t wait to cheer them on when they compete in April!
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
February in Grade 4
February has been a very busy month for Grade 4. Throughout the month, students have been working on their Living History presentations in honor of Black American Inventors. Each Grade 4 student’s performance was a celebration of the many Black American scientists and inventors who have made important contributions to our society. Dressed in costumes reflecting the period in which these inventors lived, from the mid-18 th century to the present day, each 4th grade “inventor” delivered a speech that discussed the challenges many of the inventors faced and their amazing successes. In preparation for the event, the students learned to do online research, collect and organize data, document their research, and write a speech to inform…in the 1st person! Their “museum” displays included artifacts that reflected the inventors’ accomplishments and provided the students with an opportunity to express their findings creatively. In addition, the students learned some public speaking techniques and wrote Bio Poems of their subjects. The gym was bustling with excitement on February 27 th as the students delivered their presentations to the many parents and other guests who visited their individual “museum” tables. Congratulations Grade 4 for your outstanding presentations!!! A special thank-you to our Grade 4 families for their assistance with this four- week project…and to Mr. Seeley and Coach Frankie for helping with set-up and breakdown of the event. As with all of our CHP events, it takes a village….and we are so grateful to all whose assistance has made Black American Living History a time-honored CHP tradition!
Day 100 was another commemorative February day as Grade 4 students participated in a House Competition to see which House could make the most words with the roots “cent” and “tele.” The results are: Ramapo won 1 st Place and won 40 points; Cherokee and Lenape tied for 2 nd Place and won 30 points each; and Shawnee came in 4 th place, earning 10 point. Congratulations to all! In the midst of all this, Grade 4 took time to celebrate Valentine’s Day as students shared cards and treats with their classmates. We hope everyone had a sweet February!
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
CHP Students Shine at Regional MATHCOUNTS Competition
Cedar Hill Prep’s 7th and 8th graders recently showcased their mathematical talents at the Regional MATHCOUNTS Chapter Competition, held at Mercer County Community College. Competing against 174 students from 16 schools across Central New Jersey, our students demonstrated incredible problem-solving skills and perseverance.
A special congratulations to M. Indupuru (8th grade) for earning the prestigious “Best in School” award! We are so proud of all our students who represented CHP with dedication and enthusiasm. Their hard work and passion for mathematics continue to inspire us all!
CHP Middle School Shines at the New Jersey Regional Science Bowl!
On Friday, February 21st, our CHP Middle School Academic Team showcased their scientific expertise at the New Jersey Regional Science Bowl, held at the prestigious Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory—a hub for cutting-edge research on energy through fusion. Competing among 100 bright students, our team demonstrated their deep knowledge in chemistry, biology, physics, earth science, astronomy, and math.
Led by team captain M. Indupuru, students V. Badhan, S. Desai, S. Dakhera, and Y. Subramaniam gave an impressive performance under the guidance of their dedicated coach, Middle School science teacher Ms Galiano. Team CHP came close to the semifinals and has much to be proud of. Up next: the NAQT (National Academic Quiz Tournament Regionals) on March 1st!
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
A. Mohamed Wins the USTA L7 Under-14 Tournament!
Cedar Hill Prep School is thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievement of 7th grader A. Mohamed, who recently won the USTA L7 Under-14 Tournament in Somerset, NJ. This impressive victory has elevated his UTR rating to 4.31, reflecting his dedication, skill, and continuous growth in the sport.
“CHP’s supportive environment and encouragement of extracurricular activities helped foster my competitive spirit and ultimately contributed to my success in the tournament,” shared A. Mohamed.
At Cedar Hill Prep, we believe in nurturing every child’s potential, empowering them to Transform, Empower, and Flourish—both in academics and extracurricular pursuits. A. Mohamed’s achievement is a testament to the school’s commitment to inspiring young athletes and scholars to reach their highest potential. Congratulations, A. Mohamed! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!
CHP Fundraiser for Sustainability: Donate & Plant a Tree!
At CHP, we have launched a fundraiser that teaches students about sustainability! A TreeMachine clothing collection bin has been placed at the back of the school parking lot. For every filled bin, a tree is planted—helping to absorb greenhouse gases and combat global warming. This initiative provides families with a hassle-free way to donate outgrown clothes and shoes while promoting reuse and environmental stewardship.
We encourage all families to participate and make a difference!
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
Grade 5 Student V. Vijayaraj Excels on the Global Stage at the International Environmental Science Olympiad!
At Cedar Hill Prep, we believe in nurturing young minds to Transform, Empower, and Flourish—and V. Vijayaraj’s remarkable journey at the International Environmental Science Olympiad (IESO) exemplifies this philosophy.
Held at Robinson School in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from December 27-31, 2024, the event brought together young environmental enthusiasts from around the world. V. Vijayaraj not only showcased his knowledge and skills but also formed meaningful connections with like-minded peers. His dedication to environmental science earned him outstanding accolades:
• Gold – Caribbean Environmental Geography Bee
• Bronze – Oceanography Exam
• Bronze – Meteorology Exam
• Overall 9th place in IESO (based on multiple event placements)
• Silver – Rainforest Alliance Youth Ambassador Task Force
Through competition, collaboration, and hands-on learning, V. Vijayaraj broadened his understanding of environmental challenges while gaining invaluable global exposure. His achievements serve as an inspiration to all CHP students, demonstrating that when we push boundaries and embrace new opportunities, the world opens up in extraordinary ways. We are incredibly proud of V. Vijayaraj’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing more CHP students explore, excel, and make an impact!
Exploring Science Through Owl Pellet Dissection
Our 7th-grade students recently had an exciting hands-on learning experience with an Owl Pellet Dissection activity. This engaging lesson allowed them to explore food chains, skeletal structures, and the role of owls in ecosystems. While the activity was initially designed for 7th grade, the curiosity of our 8th-grade students led them to join in as well! They eagerly participated, gaining valuable insight into scientific observation and analysis.
It was a fascinating experience that sparked curiosity and deepened students’ understanding of biology in a truly interactive way!
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
Signs of Spring: Grades 5 and 6 Explore Nature at NJIN Farm!
Grades 5 and 6 took their monthly trip to NJIN Farm, immersing themselves in nature while searching for signs of the upcoming spring season. As part of their exploration, students participated in a scavenger hunt to locate bird nests, observing the environment as it transitions into spring.
Following the activity, students formed groups to evaluate various tool shapes designed to mimic bird beaks. They studied how different beak shapes affect the ability to poke, scoop, and crush, gaining a deeper understanding of adaptation and function in nature.
After enjoying a picnic-style lunch outdoors, the students resumed their beak lab with an IB lesson focused on identifying factual, conceptual, and debatable statements about bird beaks. The day was filled with learning, fun, and the company of hundreds of birds soaring overhead and watching from the treetops. Welcome, Spring! Welcome, students! We are CHP.
Bringing Science to Life: Exploring Microbial Fuel Cells at CHP!
At CHP, experiential learning is at the heart of our science curriculum. Our Grade 7 students are currently exploring microbiomes and different types of bacteria, while Grade 8 students are diving into the study of energy and its various forms.
As part of their hands-on learning, students worked on assembling Microbial Fuel Cells—a project that bridges microbiology and physics. They collected soil from a farm and carefully layered it with aluminum mesh coated in graphite, creating an electrode system inside a food container. Using copper wire to connect the anode and cathode, they powered a small LED light or a low-voltage motor, demonstrating how bacteria can generate electricity. This experiment provided students with a deeper understanding of how science disciplines complement each other, reinforcing the real-world applications of their studies.
WILDCATS SPORTS
Girls' Basketball Team Shows Major Improvement in Final Game
The girls’ basketball team played their last game of the season this month against Metuchen Christian. This was a team we faced very early in the year, and although we lost both games, there was a noticeable improvement since our first match-up in December, at the start of the season. Their fundamental understanding of defensive tactics improved drastically. I continued to receive compliments from opposing coaches about how hard the girls played and how respectful they were on the court.
Resilience, heart, and teamwork
Despite facing numerous injuries throughout the season, the boys’ basketball team showed resilience and determination every time they stepped onto the court. Key players were sidelined at various points, forcing the team to adapt and rely on different lineups. However, instead of letting adversity bring them down, they used it as motivation to play even harder. The team hustled on both ends of the floor, diving for loose balls, contesting every shot, and refusing to back down from any challenge. Their effort and heart kept them competitive in every game, proving that success comes in different forms and is not built solely on individual talent. One of the most impressive aspects of the season was how every player stepped up when their number was called. With injuries limiting the usual rotation, players who normally had smaller roles embraced the opportunity to contribute in big moments. Whether it was hitting clutch shots, playing tough defense, or bringing energy off the bench, everyone played a part in keeping the team moving forward. This collective effort not only kept them in the fight but also strengthened the bond among teammates. No matter the obstacles, they played as one unit, proving that teamwork and perseverance can overcome even the toughest setbacks.
Empowering 8th Graders: Mastering CPR with Coach Frankie
Cedar Hill Prep’s Class of 2025 recently completed their American Red Cross Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED/First Aid certification with Coach Frankie. Having the ARC certification is a valuable life skill that can help save lives, build confidence, and allow a person to become an important asset in the community. It may also assist them in securing various jobs and becoming an advocate. Coach Frankie was proud of their accomplishments and encouraged them to keep their ARC certifications current beyond eighth grade. The Class of 2025 will join other CHP Alums and share this invaluable experience.
AROUND THE SCHOOL
Empowering Educators, Transforming Learning!
Our recent Teacher In-Service Day focused on core elements of the IB framework– inquiry-based learning and student agency, and the IB learner profile. We reflected on IB’s fundamental philosophy of developing internationally minded, lifelong learners and how this vision connects to the transdisciplinary themes of the PYP (Primary Years Program) and interdisciplinary concepts of the MYP (Middle Years Program) at CHP.
Additionally, teachers gained hands-on experience with the upcoming LMS set to launch this September, designed to support the IB framework. As we progress on our IB journey, we are proud of our faculty’s commitment to fostering critical thinking, global awareness, and lifelong learning—empowering our students every day.
Conversations & Connections
At Cedar Hill Prep, we believe in fostering strong connections between our students and school leadership. This month’s Pizza with the Principal was another fantastic gathering where students had the opportunity to share their thoughts, celebrate achievements, and engage in meaningful conversations with Mr. Seeley over a delicious slice of pizza! These sessions provide a welcoming space for students to express ideas, ask questions, and feel heard—all while enjoying a fun and relaxed atmosphere. We love seeing our students take pride in their school community! Stay tuned for our next session, and keep the great conversations coming!
Grades 1 - 2
Preschool - Kindergarten
Grades 3 - 4
Grades 5 - 8
Looking Ahead to Upcoming Special Events
