CEDAR HILL
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN
Preschool- Kindergarten
Little Voices, Big Expression Preschool to Kindergarten Celebrates Poetry Day
Our youngest Cedar Hill learners stepped into the spotlight to celebrate Poetry Day with confidence, joy, and plenty of enthusiasm! Dressed in their festive crowns, preschoolers and kindergarteners took turns reciting poems aloud, embracing the art of spoken language in a warm and encouraging setting.
Magic Bob Brings the Wonder
Preschool through Kindergarten students were treated to an unforgettable afternoon of magic, laughter, and wide-eyed amazement as the beloved Magic Bob returned to Cedar Hill for his annual performance. From rope tricks to surprises that left little ones gasping and giggling, the room buzzed with the kind of pure, joyful energy that only a great show can bring.
Magic Bob’s visit is more than just entertainment — it sparks curiosity, imagination, and a sense of wonder that aligns beautifully with our IB philosophy of nurturing open-minded, enthusiastic young learners. We look forward to welcoming him back every year!
Through the simple yet powerful act of recitation, students practiced communication, built confidence as speakers, and developed an appreciation for the rhythm and beauty of language — all hallmarks of the IB learner profile. Watching these little ones find their voices is one of the true highlights of the school year.
PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS
Science Fair
Preschool - Kindergarten
Preschool - Kindergarten Science Fair
Our Preschool through Kindergarten Science Fair was an incredible success, and we couldn't be more proud of every single student who took the stage — or rather, the classroom — as a true young scientist. From exploring hibernation and the wonders of magnets, to building stunning season dioramas and diving into what makes materials solid or liquid, our littlest learners
showed up with big curiosity, big creativity, and even bigger confidence. Watching them present their projects, explain their findings, and light up when someone stopped to listen — that is exactly what learning at Cedar Hill Preparatory School looks like. These moments remind us why we do what we do. The pride on their faces said it all.
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They Named Them. They Watched Them Change. And Then They Let Them Go.
They checked on them every morning. They whispered “is it happening yet?” And then one day — it was.
Our Preschool and Pre-K scie ntists watched life transform right in front of them, stage by stage, until the moment came to open the habitat and say goodbye. Tiny hands, big wonder, and a science lesson nobody will ever forget.
PRESCHOOL - KINDERGARTEN NEWS
Made With Love: Celebrating Mom
After exploring books about the special bond between mothers and their children, our students shared heartfelt thoughts about what makes their moms so wonderful. Then came the best part — creating cards filled with drawings, words, and an abundance of love. Every stroke of the crayon was a little reminder of just how deeply these children cherish the moms in their lives. Happy Mother’s Day!
Packing With Purpose: Our Weekender Bag Initiative
At Cedar Hill Prep, we believe in teaching children not just to learn, but to lead with compassion. Through our Weekender Bag initiative, our school community came together to support students at Pine Grove Manor, a Title 1 school, by providing nutritious meals for the days when school is not in session. Families generously contributed, and our own students had the hands-on experience of assembling each bag themselves — giving them a direct and meaningful role in making a difference. Giving back starts early here at CHP.
On a Roll: Exploring the World of Balls
For our final study of the year, we went back to basics — and had a blast doing it! Our Ball Study took young learners on an investigation into the science of spheres, exploring different types of balls, how they bounce and roll, what’s inside them, and how people use them every day. One highlight? Using yarn to measure the circumference of different-sized balls — an early introduction to math in the real world. And of course, the grand finale: dropping balls into a large container of water to discover which ones sink and which ones float. Curiosity, experimentation, and a whole lot of fun — the perfect way to close out the year!
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
Grades 1 through 4
Finding Their Voice: Grades 1–4 Celebrate Poetry Day
Cedar Hill Prep’s Grades 1–4 celebrated the joy of language and performance with a spirited Poetry Day on May 8, 2026. Each grade brought its own unique flavor to the event.
Grade 1 delighted audiences with a Potpourri of Poetry — a vibrant mix of verses that showcased the range and enthusiasm of our youngest performers. Grade 2 students
paid tribute to beloved children’s poet Shel Silverstein, reciting his wonderfully witty and imaginative works with infectious energy and humor. Grade 3 brought the playful poetry of Jack Prelutsky to life, delivering his spirited verses with impressive expression and confidence. It was a wonderful celebration of words, voice, and the love of literature across our lower school.
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Measuring Mass: Math in Action
Third grade mathematicians put their inquiry skills to work as they explored the concept of mass through hands-on investigation. Students began by using their own senses to make observations — hefting objects in their hands to determine which felt heavier or lighter. Through this process of forming and testing predictions, learners developed an early understanding of measurement as a tool for making sense of the world around them.
Taking their inquiry further, students transferred their observations to a balance scale, gathering evidence and refining their thinking as they compared objects with precision. This exploration reflects the IB learner profile in action — students thinking critically, communicating their reasoning, and connecting mathematical concepts to real-world contexts.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
SUPER STUDENTS
Lightning Bolt Learning: Kiyaan Singh is Third Grade’s Super Student!
Meet Kiyaan Singh, Third Grade’s Super Student in Mrs. Kotasthane’s class! Kiyaan describes himself as a Mighty Mathematician and an Awesome Athlete. Hailing from the galaxy Super K, his superpower is represented by a lightning bolt, and his theme song is “Sapphire.” When he’s feeling happy, he thinks of the color bright blue. Kiyaan’s hero is his dad, and he’d choose his mom as his trusty sidekick. In his spare time, he loves playing sports and video games and hanging out with friends to talk basketball, soccer, and jokes. His favorite books include Dog Man, Captain Underpants, and Wings of Fire.
Unstoppable: Lirthika Prabhakaran is Third Grade’s Super Student!
Meet Lirthika Prabhakaran, Third Grade’s Super Student in Mrs. Haynoski’s class! Lirthika describes herself as a WONder Writer, Awesome Athlete, Amazing Artist, and Harmonious Helper. She hails from the Milky Way Galaxy, and her theme song is “Unstoppable.” The color teal comes to mind when she’s happy. Her dad is her hero, and she’d choose her sister as her sidekick. Outside of school, Lirthika loves practicing Tae Kwon Do, cooking, and spending time with friends. Her favorite books include Not Enough, Smile, and Guts.
Dancing Through the Galaxy: Zareena Usman is Third Grade’s Super Student!
Meet Zareena Usman, Third Grade’s Super Student! Zareena describes herself as an Amazing Artist whose superpower is dancing. She hails from the Milky Way Galaxy, and her dad is her hero — with her friend Anam as her sidekick. Yellow is the color that brings her happiness. In her spare time, Zareena loves to read and share secrets with her best friends. Her favorite books include Judy Moody: Girl Detective and Nancy Drew: The Hidden Staircase.
Beautiful and Bold: Ayla Trottini is Third Grade’s Super Student!
Meet Ayla Trottini, Third Grade’s Super Student in Mrs. Haynoski’s class! Ayla describes herself as a Tremendous Team Player, Amazing Artist, Harmonious Helper, and Awesome Athlete. She hails from the Milky Way Galaxy, and her theme song is “Beautiful Girl.” When she’s happy, she thinks of the color indigo. Ayla’s heroes are her mom, dad, and sister, and she’d choose her sister Chloe as her sidekick. She loves swapping funny stories and jokes with friends, and in her spare time enjoys playing outside and board games. Her favorite books are Wayside School and The Babysitters Club.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
A Legendary Ending to Mystery Reader Season
Third graders welcomed the last mystery reader of the year — Sadia Ali, mom of Zareena — who brought the perfect closing act with The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Adam Rex. This hilarious children’s book reimagines the classic game as an epic tale of superhero-style warriors. Bored with their dominance, three powerful fighters — Rock, Paper, and Scissors — set off in search of worthy opponents, eventually crossing paths in a garage for the ultimate showdown. Rock defeats Scissors, Paper defeats Rock, and Scissors defeats Paper — resulting in a legendary three-way stalemate that echoes to this day every time children play the game. Sadia brought the story to life as an animated, captivating reader who held the entire third grade audience in suspense. Thank you, Sadia, for such a memorable read!
Curious Minds, Meet Your Match
Third graders welcomed Ninad Patel, dad of Anay, who shared Super Interesting Facts for Curious Kids — a book packed with everything you ever wanted to know and plenty you never thought to ask. From mind-blowing inventions and the mysteries of the universe to bizarre world records and strange historical events, this book had it all — guaranteed to make students think, wonder, and laugh. Mr. Patel’s enthusiasm for the material was contagious, and the students absolutely loved every moment of it. Thank you for inspiring our curious third graders with such a fascinating read!
Poetry Day Program
On May 8, Grade 4 families were invited to attend our annual Poetry Day program. Grade 4’s presentations highlighted poems that are reflective of the American landscape. The students researched their respective poets and wrote introductions for their poems. These narrations provided the audience with some insight as to why the students selected these poems, while others chose to provide insight into the lives and motivations of these poets. Each poetry recitation was highlighted by the students’ original artwork that reflected the messages within their poems. Congratulations, 4th graders, for your wonderful performances!
Magic in Motion Field Trip
On May 6, our Grade 4 students attended the exciting Magic in Motion show at RVCC. Presented by illusionist Bill Blagg, the interactive performance combined spectacular magic tricks with engaging science lessons. Throughout the show, students explored important physical science concepts such as gravity, force, motion, and kinetic energy while witnessing incredible illusions and demonstrations.
The performance encouraged curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for how science helps explain the world around us. Students were amazed by the magic and enjoyed discovering the scientific principles behind many of the show’s exciting effects. It was a memorable educational experience that brought science to life in a fun and entertaining way!
Made With Love: Grade 4’s Mother’s Day Surprise Made With Love
This month, our Grade 4 students enjoyed creating a special Mother’s Day surprise filled with love and creativity! Students crafted
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
beautiful wishing wells using small clay pots and clothespins. They carefully glued clothespins around the pots, constructed roofs from additional clothespins, and attached them using hot glue. Once their wishing wells were complete, they added soil and planted wildflower seeds to create a gift that will continue to grow and bloom.
Students also created personalized coupon books, offering special activities and thoughtful acts of kindness for their mothers to enjoy. To complete the surprise, each student decorated a paper gift bag and wrote a heartfelt note expressing their love and appreciation. All of their handmade treasures were placed inside the decorated bag, creating a memorable Mother’s Day gift that was made with care from the heart.
Hip Hip Hooray — Double Digits in Grade 4!
Grade 4 had a chance to celebrate three more double-digit birthdays this month! Happy Birthday to Miles, Ian, and Kiera!!!
Going the Distance: Grade 4 Competes at IAC National Finals
During the week leading up to Memorial Day weekend, two of our 4th graders participated in the National Finals of the International Academic Competitions. Congratulations to Grace for her participation in the National History Bee Finals, and to Reyansh for his participation in the finals of the National History Bee and National Science Bee!
Thank You from the Heart: Grade 4 Families Show Their Appreciation
Thank you to all of our Grade 4 families for helping to make Teacher Appreciation Week so very special!!!
Lawmakers
for a
Day: Grade 4 Visits the New Jersey State House
Grade 4’s annual trip to the New Jersey State House was quite a memorable one! After taking a tour of the State House, including having an opportunity to walk through Governor Sherrill’s office and sit in the General Assembly and Senate rooms, we participated in the “Make a Law” program. Within that program, Grade 4 students donned their legislators’ caps and debated the pros and cons of the recently passed law. A final vote revealed that Grade 4 students agreed with the newly passed legislative law that mandated the instruction of Cursive Handwriting in the public schools.
A Gallery of Greatness: Grade 4 Shines at the Art Exhibition
This year’s Art Exhibition treated us to an amazing display of our students’ varied talents! We have enjoyed viewing the displays in our hallway and gym. Thank you, Ms. Dempsey, for inspiring the artistic talent within each student!
Currently, we are busy preparing for our Graduation Ceremony. Congratulations, Grade 4, as you head towards Graduation and Middle School!
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
Cedar Hill Prep Makes History at the 2026 NAQT National Quiz Bowl Championship
Cedar Hill Preparatory School’s Quiz Bowl team made their national debut in a big way at the 2026 NAQT Championship in Chicago — and they did not disappoint. The eight-member team, affectionately known as the “Awesome Eight,” held their own among 192 teams and 958 students representing some of the most accomplished academic competitors in the country.
In a field where many programs bring decades of tradition and institutional support, CHP’s students showed up ready. By their fourth match, the team had climbed to 37th place in the overall standings. They finished the tournament with a 4–4 record and an impressive final ranking of 86th out of 192 teams nationwide.
Standout competitor Yajur Subramaniam earned individual recognition as well, finishing 64th among all participants. Quiz Bowl demands exceptional teamwork, strategic thinking, and broad academic knowledge — and the Awesome Eight rose to every challenge in their very first national appearance. Many of the competing schools they faced carry Quiz Bowl legacies spanning more than two decades, making CHP’s performance all the more remarkable. The experience also deepened the team’s connection to the national academic community, with many familiar faces from the International Academic Competitions (IACs) welcoming CHP warmly.
Heartfelt thanks go to coach Ms. Galiano and student assistant Arjun Agrawal for their dedication in preparing this team for such a milestone moment. This is just the beginning — Cedar Hill Prep is committed to building a Quiz Bowl program that will grow and thrive for years to come.
Cedar Hill Prep Green Team — Learning Beyond the Classroom
Cedar Hill Prep’s Green Team had an unforgettable hands-on experience when Davis Bush, an expert from the Pennington Watershed, visited campus to teach students how to analyze water quality. Using professional testing tools, students measured pH, oxygen, nitrates, and salinity — and then waded right into the stream on our very own campus to discover the living world beneath the surface. Crayfish, salamanders, insect casings, and snails called our CHP creek home, and every indicator pointed to a healthy, thriving stream.
Thank you to Davis Bush and the Pennington Watershed for bringing this incredible learning experience to our students. At Cedar Hill Prep, learning extends well beyond the classroom — and our electives are proof of that.
Garden State Debate League
Cedar Hill Preparatory School Debate Teams Close the Season in Second Place at Garden State Debate League Finals
The 2025–26 debate season came to a strong close on Saturday, May 2, 2026, as Cedar Hill Preparatory School’s debaters competed in the final tournament of the Garden State Debate League at The Hun School. With 167 students and 57 teams in the room, the competition was fierce — and our students rose to the occasion.
CHP fielded 13 teams of 5th through 8th grade debaters, finishing 2nd overall in total wins across the tournament. Students debated four topics over the course of a full day, including the merits of judicial plea bargaining, mandatory military service for U.S. citizens, social media platform accountability for misinformation, and — perhaps the most spirited debate of the day — whether a hot dog qualifies as a sandwich.
Team CHP DMN, comprised of Shivad Desai, Agasthya Mabbu, and Aiden Nguyen, earned 1st place team honors. Team CHP BCP — Pragnya Banigalapatti, Kasey Conner, and Aaliyah Patel — also distinguished themselves among the top teams at the tournament.
In the individual speaker rankings, CHP debaters continued to impress. Afzaal Mohamed finished 2nd overall, Lily Trotta placed 5th, and Aaliyah Parker ranked 8th among all speakers in the tournament.
The day also marked the final Garden State Debate League tournament for our 8th grade debaters. Their dedication, growth, and presence on the debate floor will be greatly missed. We are so proud of everything they have accomplished.
MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
Cedar Hill Prep Students Bring Home Top Honors at IAC National Championships
Cedar Hill Preparatory School is bursting with pride following outstanding performances by our students at the International Academic Competitions (IAC) National Championships in Orlando. Our young scholars competed against some of the brightest minds from across the country — and they delivered.
Vallabh Vijayaraj (Grade 6) had an extraordinary competition, excelling across multiple events and academic disciplines:
National Champion — U.S. Geography Bee (May 21)
Third Place — National Geography Bee (May 24)
Gold Medal — Asian Geography Exam
Bronze Medal — American Geography Exam
Sixth Place — U.S. Geography Championship Exam
Semi-Finalist — National Academic Bee
Distinguished Delegate — Intro to Model UN, representing South Africa for WHO Pandemic Prevention
Vallabh Vijayaraj and Aaryan Shah (Grade 6) also teamed up for the National Geography Bowl — an intense, 10+ hour competition — earning a Third Place, Bronze Medal finish.
Samarth Dakhera (Grade 7) represented CHP in the National Science Championships, achieving:
Top 5 — Earth Science Written Exam (7th Grade division)
Top 7 — Physical Science (Physics & Chemistry) Written Exam (7th Grade division)
Quarterfinalist — Science Bee Buzzer Rounds
Samarth's parents shared: "The competition was both challenging and inspiring, and it taught him the importance of staying calm and resilient under pressure. Thank you to the school and teachers for continuously encouraging curiosity and academic growth."
Nyle Thaver (Grade 5) earned recognition as a Science Finalist and also qualified for the International Science Championships — a remarkable achievement that speaks to his dedication and scientific curiosity.
We also recognize Reyansh Rajath (Grade 4), Grace Toulouse (Grade 4), and Nicholas Codreanu (Grade 5) for their participation in the IAC National Finals. Cedar Hill Prep could not be prouder of every student who stepped onto that national stage. This is what curiosity, dedication, and a love of learning looks like.
Grades
5 - 8
CCedar Hill Prep Middle School Science Fair Where Curiosity Meets Real Research
edar Hill Preparatory School’s Middle School Science Fair brought out the best in our student scientists, with projects spanning engineering, life sciences, public health, and environmental systems. From an affordable portable baby incubator to a health bar nutrition study, tsunami warning systems, and a DNA identification tool, our students arrived with original ideas, months of research, and the confidence to defend every detail.
What made this year’s fair especially meaningful was the caliber of community experts who came to evaluate the work. James Reynolds, a retired technician specialist, noted that students “weren’t just reciting facts — they were doing real research,” adding that this kind of handson learning is “what builds careers.” Ninny Jacob, a retired Radiation Safety Officer with a background in Health Physics, was struck by the depth of student research, calling the level of thinking on display “remarkably advanced for their age.” And Doreen Trotta, Assistant Teaching Professor of Genetics at Rutgers University — who has judged poster sessions at the college and high school level — observed that our students “walk you through their data with confidence and give genuinely thoughtful answers to probing questions,” concluding that “the skills these students are building — organization, analysis, and scientific
communication — are exactly what will carry them forward.”
At Cedar Hill Prep, science is never just a subject. It is an invitation to ask bold questions, follow the evidence, and discover what it truly means to think like a scientist.
Experiences such as Living History and the Science Fair have encouraged him to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, and challenge himself academically. We especially appreciated seeing how he was able to build upon what he learned from his 6th grade Science Fair experience and apply those lessons to create an even stronger project in 7th grade.
Joy Ragland and Family (Parent of Frederick (Tre) Ragland III)
Cedar Hill Preparatory School’s First Lego League team, Wildcats@CHP, brought home double honors at the Menlo Park Mashup Tournament on May 16, competing alongside more than 30 teams from across New Jersey. The team earned 4th Place recognition in both the Innovation Project Award and the Motivate Award — a testament to the creativity, collaboration, and determination they brought to every stage of the competition.
Their Innovation Project, Archeo Lens, was entirely student-driven from start to finish. Students identified a real-world problem, developed a prototype solution, and presented their findings with confidence before a panel of industry expert judges — all connected to this season’s UNEARTHED™ theme.
Competing across all four FLL categories — Robot Design, Robot Game, Innovation
Project, and Core Values — the team built and programmed their robot through rounds of iterative testing, walking into every judging room ready to defend every decision they made. “What stood out about this team was that every stage of this process was completely student-driven,” said coach Madhulika Verma, Technology Teacher. “They didn’t just build a robot — they identified a real-world problem, designed a solution, and walked into that tournament ready to defend every decision they made.”
Congratulations to competitors Nyle Thaver, Snehal Nadella, Akhil Kota, Ian Lee, and Ishaan Rajiv, and to teammates Shivad Desai, Afzaal Mohamed, Yajur Subramaniam, Aiden Betancourt, James Nguyen, Dylan Lee, and Jonathan Li — and to coaches Madhulika Verma and Hemlata Iyengar for guiding this team every step of the way.
Cedar Hill Prep Student Spotlighted in Scripps National Spelling Bee Feature
Cedar Hill Preparatory School is proud to celebrate seventh grader Yajur Subramaniam, who recently competed in the 98th Scripps National Spelling Bee at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. Yajur earned his place among hundreds of the nation’s most accomplished young spellers and finished in 79th place — a remarkable achievement on one of the most prestigious academic stages in the country.
His journey to nationals reflects the dedication, discipline, and love of learning he brings to Cedar Hill Prep every day. We are incredibly proud of Yajur and grateful for the entire CHP community’s support along the way. Congratulations, Yajur — you made us all proud.
Where Young Scientists Become Global Thinkers
CHP’s annual Middle School Science Fair was a resounding success this year. From November through May, students dedicated months of rigorous work to the scientific process — researching with credible sources, forming hypotheses, identifying variables, conducting experiments, and analyzing results with precision and purpose.
Each student presented their project to a panel of professional scientists spanning multiple fields, bringing both confidence and expertise to the room. The event concluded with a trophy ceremony honoring the strongest projects and presentations.
Grades 5 and 6 tackled topics ranging from water
systems and chromatography to tsunami alert systems and energy-efficient roofing materials. Grades 7 and 8 pushed into advanced territory, exploring malaria drug resistance, nutritional health bars, and baby incubator technology. These are not just school projects — they are solutionsoriented investigations that reflect science on a global scale.
Cedar Hill Preparatory School is proud to congratulate this year’s winners: Chase Bigos, Mythili Polamraju, Kiaan Pingle, Anandita Gurjar, Indigo James, Arnave Cherukuri, Jonathan Li, Shivad Desai, Samarth Dakhera, Yajur Subramaniam, Zinnia Shirley, Isha Gupta, Nico Garofalo, Samira Doschi, Aaliyah Patel, Sahasra Genupur, and Jonathan Jian.
SPECIALS
Troupe 10702 Earns Perfect Score at NJ Junior Thespian Festival
The stage was set for an extraordinary day of artistry and achievement on May 9th, when our Theatre Honor Society Students competed in the NJ Junior Thespian Festival Competition for the second time in CHP History. Students worked diligently to prepare pieces for adjudication, including solo musical theatre pieces and monologues from contemporary plays and musicals. They captivated audiences and judges alike with their technical precision and commanding stage presence.
A special shoutout to graduating student Samaira Doshi, who earned a Superior rating for her moving performance of Grace’s monologue from Radium Girls by D.W Gregory! It is with profound pride that we humbly announce that our large group musical submission, “Shakin’ at the High School Hop,” earned not only a Superior rating, but a perfect score! This exceptionally rare distinction represents the highest level of achievement possible in adjudicated performance and reflects this ensemble’s remarkable precision in their artistry and their heart for the craft. It was a standing ovation-worthy day for our young Thespians who have made the world their stage - Long live Troupe 10702!
CJeunes Amis du Français Hosts Bake Sale for Rutgers Cancer Institute
edar Hill Preparatory School’s French Honor Society, Jeunes Amis du Français, recently demonstrated the true meaning of compassion and community by organizing a bake sale in support of a cause close to many hearts. Students channeled their time, creativity, and dedication into filling tables with an impressive spread of homemade cookies, cupcakes, and beautifully decorated desserts. The effort behind every item was a reflection of the character and commitment that defines our CHP community. All proceeds from the event will be donated directly to the Fund for Rutgers Cancer Institute to support cancer research, patient care, and community programs — a cause our students chose to champion with purpose and pride.
This is the IB learner profile in action. These young people did not simply learn about compassion and service in the classroom — they chose to live it out. Their initiative, teamwork, and generosity are a source of immense pride for our entire school community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every student who baked, volunteered, and participated, and to our families and community members whose generous support made this initiative a true success. Together, we made a difference.
SPECIALS
Lower School Celebrates Cinco de Mayo with Dance, Culture, and Tacos!
Our Lower School Spanish classes dove into the history and traditions of Cinco de Mayo — and the excitement was contagious! Students learned a festive dance and performed it proudly in front of the whole school. The in-class celebration featured a special surprise: a guest visit with a live tacomaking demonstration! Students enjoyed a taco with beans, tomato, avocado, lettuce, and cheese, along with tortilla chips and fresh tomato-onion salsa.
And the fun didn’t stop there! A very special mom from our 2nd grade class joined the celebration and brought a traditional Mexican Lotería game for the students to play — and it was an absolute hit! What a beautiful way to share culture, community, and joy with our youngest learners.
A big thank you to Señora Susana for bringing such a rich and joyful cultural experience to life — and to our wonderful guest mom for making the day even more unforgettable. This is the CHP community at its very best.
Cedar Hill Preparatory School’s Middle Schoolers Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Culture, Creativity, and Color
Cedar Hill Preparatory School’s Middle School students marked Cinco de Mayo with an engaging and festive celebration that brought Mexican culture and history to life. Students took center stage as they delivered thoughtful presentations on the significance of the holiday, exploring its historical roots, cultural traditions, and its meaning for Mexican and MexicanAmerican communities.
Adding to the spirit of the day, students dressed in vibrant traditional Mexican attire, filling the classroom with color and cultural pride. The
celebration also featured a standout creative activity — a colorful sombrero decorating contest that had students showcasing their artistic flair. After much deliberation, both sixth grade classes took home the top honors for the most creative and festive design.
The event reflected CHP’s commitment to global awareness and cultural appreciation — hallmarks of an International Baccalaureate education — reminding students that learning goes far beyond the textbook.
A heartfelt thank you to Señora Maria Soto, our Middle School Spanish teacher, for creating such a meaningful and joyful cultural experience for our students. Your passion for culture and learning is felt in everything you do.
An Evening of Music and Joy: CHP Spring Concert
Our Spring Concert was nothing short of magical! The students took the stage with confidence and grace, filling the room with beautiful harmonies and heartfelt melodies. Their voices rang clear and strong, a true reflection of their hard work and passion for music.
Parents, families, and friends came together to celebrate this special evening, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere that made the event even more memorable. The joy and pride in the room were undeniable!
A special shoutout to Mr. Altman, whose dedication, guidance, and love for music continue to inspire our young performers. Thank you for making this concert a night to remember! Bravo to all our talented singers – you made us proud!
Art Exhibit
The Art Show Is Always One of Those Nights
There are school events you attend, and there are school events you remember. The annual Cedar Hill Prep Art Show is the second kind.
This year’s show filled the gymnasium and hallways with hundreds of original works — selfportraits, perspective drawings, mixed-media pieces, and a joyful second-grade series of feline paintings that drew smiles from every corner of the room. Every piece was labeled with a student’s name and grade, and every student seemed to know exactly where theirs was hanging.
Kindergarteners created luminous self-portraits in bold black line against watercolor-washed backgrounds. Sixth graders demonstrated mastery of architectural perspective, with Isra Arif’s fully realized interior room design standing out for its depth and detail. And across the board, the work reflected something that can’t be faked — students who have been genuinely engaged in making art all year long.
The evening belonged to them. They were the ones explaining their choices, pointing out what worked and what they’d do differently, and guiding the people they love through a gallery that was, for one night, entirely theirs.
WILDCATS SPORTS
Cedar Hill Prep Volleyball — Finishing the Season Strong
Our final volleyball game of the season — played against Metuchen Christian — was also our best. The team brought incredible energy to the court, communicating with confidence — calling the ball, lifting each other up, and staying locked in from start to finish. When challenges came, they met them with resilience and kept pushing, showing just how far they’ve come since day one. The growth, the teamwork, and the heart they poured into this game made every moment on that court worth celebrating. Win or lose, this team proved that giving your all is always worth it.
Court Ready: Cedar Hill Prep Boys Tennis Wraps a Winning Season
In his own words, Coach Sanjay shares what made this tennis season one to remember.
“It has been a pleasure coaching the Cedar Hill Prep Boys Tennis team this season. Our roster brought together four 8th graders, two 7th graders, and three 6th graders. Afzaal Mohamed, Mason Parker, Tanish Patel, and Reyaan Aman provided valuable experience, while Janav, Jonathan, and Dylan Lee made welcome additions to the team this year. Throughout the season, I prioritized conditioning and fitness, and focused on doubles drills that helped the players compete more effectively in matches.
We finished with a winning 3-2 record — something every member of this team should be proud of. Afzaal went undefeated and was the stalwart of the team. Tanish, Mason, and Reyaan each had winning seasons as well. Jonathan
was a strong addition and performed well in both singles and doubles — I have no doubt he will be leading this team to even greater success next year. Jahnav Sagireddy, Viraj Shukla, and Dylan, with another season of experience under their belts, are poised to make a significant contribution in the seasons ahead. I encourage each of them to stay on the court this summer — continued play will only sharpen their game and prepare them for what’s next.
A special thank you to our graduating 8th graders — Afzaal Mohamed, Mason Parker, Tanish Patel, and Reyaan Aman — for everything they gave to this team. We wish them all the best as they move forward and know they will make their mark wherever they go. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Ms. Menon, Mr. Seeley, and Coach Tierney for the opportunity to coach and for their continued support throughout the season.”
Track & Field: A Season of Firsts and Personal Bests
May was a month to remember for CHP’s track and field team. Zinnia Shirley led the way with top-3 finishes across all of her races, posting her best 400m time of 65 seconds. Viraj Shukla and Christian Byrd competed in long jump, shot put, and discus — with Christian stepping into all three events for the very first time and recording a personal best of 10 feet, 9¾ inches. Viraj brought her best to the discus as well, throwing a personal record of 32 feet.
What made this season truly special was the growth across the entire roster. With the exception of Zinnia and Viraj, most athletes came in with no prior track experience — and every single one of them walked away faster and stronger than when they started. At the final relay meet, the girls learned baton technique the day of the race, took it in stride, and had a blast doing it.
First seasons, personal records, and a whole lot of heart. That’s Cedar Hill Prep track and field.
SPORTS BANQUET
Celebrating Our Student-Athletes
Whata night! Our Cedar Hill Prep community came together this week for our Annual Athletic Banquet, and the energy in the gymnasium said it all — this was a celebration to remember.
We gathered to honor our student-athletes and coaches and to reflect on a season full of heart, growth and genuine team spirit. From soccer and track to volleyball and tennis, our students gave their all this year — and reminded us that athletics is about so much more than what shows up on the scoreboard. Throughout the season, our studentathletes lived out the IB Learner Profile in real time: showing up as principled competitors, supportive teammates, and risk-takers willing to give their best even when it was hard. Watching them grow — in skill, in confidence, and in character — has been one of the true joys of this year. We were also delighted to celebrate our incredible
Grade 7 Beach Cleanup at Union Beach
coaches, who were each honored with flowers and heartfelt recognition. Their dedication shapes not only stronger athletes, but more confident, resilient young people.
“What makes me proudest isn’t just the wins — it’s watching our students show up for each other, push through challenges, and grow into confident, resilient young people,” shared Courtney Tierney, Physical Education and Health Teacher. “Athletics teaches lessons that last far beyond the field, and this group embodied that all year long.”
A heartfelt thank you to every family, coach and staff member who joined us and who supports our athletes all year long. We couldn’t build this community without you.
Led by Coach Dawn Francavilla, our Grade 7 Wildcats traded the classroom for the coastline this week for a hands-on beach cleanup at Union Beach. Students arrived with gloves, grabbers, and a sense of purpose — and left with full bags and a few unforgettable discoveries along the way (including a horseshoe crab, courtesy of Ayaan Patel and Shivad Desai). Environmental stewardship isn’t a lesson at CHP. It’s a practice.
JUNIOR OLYMPICS
The 22nd Annual Junior Olympics: A Day to Remember
From the opening National Anthem to the final sprint, the 22nd Annual Junior Olympics brought the Cedar Hill Prep community together in the most joyful way. Students competed with heart across races and team challenges, parents and staff jumped in for a spirited tug of war, and the day wrapped with the most beloved tradition of all — drenching Principal Seeley.
This is Cedar Hill Prep at its best — where competition, community, and fun all show up on the same field.
AROUND THE SCHOOL
Celebrating Our Principal and School Nurse
Wednesday, May 6th marked National Principals Day and National School Nurses Day — an opportunity to recognize two individuals who are absolutely integral to the Cedar Hill Prep community.
Principal Seeley leads our school with vision, dedication, and a genuine commitment to every student, family, and staff member who walks through our doors. His leadership sets the tone for everything we do, and his opendoor policy is a reflection of the warmth and accessibility he brings to his role each and every day. Nurse Loretta is the cornerstone of our health office — a trusted presence who ensures the wellbeing of our students with professionalism, care, and boundless energy. Beyond her role in the health office, she also leads an afterschool cooking club, bringing yet another dimension of creativity and nourishment to our school community.
We are deeply grateful for the contributions of both Principal Seeley and Nurse Loretta. Their unwavering dedication and love for this community do not go unnoticed. Thank you for all that you do.
Meet. Explore. Belong
On May 27, Cedar Hill Prep opened its doors for a special Classroom Showcase, giving incoming and moving-up students the chance to explore their new learning spaces, meet their teachers, and ask questions. It was a warm and welcoming afternoon that set the tone for the exciting year ahead.
Great Pizza. Even Better Conversation
What is better than pizza? Pizza with Mr. Seeley! A lucky group of Cedar Hill Prep students recently sat down with Principal Seeley for a special lunch celebration filled with great food and even better conversation. Between slices, students chatted about their excitement for the Junior Olympics, shared their summer plans, and enjoyed some quality time with Mr. Seeley in a fun, relaxed setting away from the classroom. It was the perfect reward for hard work, great attitudes, and positive contributions to the CHP community. Congratulations to all the students who earned this special recognition — you deserved every slice!
Grades 1-2
Grades 3 - 4
Preschool - Kindergarten
Grades 5 - 8
SP TLIGHT
Playful Breathing for Little Minds Heartfulness & SEL in the PYP
Our youngest learners, from ages 3 through 4th grade, learn breath awareness exercises tailored just for their growing minds. Preschoolers, Pre-K, and Kindergarten students love using puffer fish breathing, expanding their bellies like big, round fish to physically feel the sensation of taking a deep, calming breath.
As students grow into the upper elementary grades, they practice box breathing — inhaling, holding, exhaling, and resting for equal counts — to sharpen their focus and stay present. These creative techniques serve as the foundation for our Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum, giving children concrete, self-soothing tools to regulate big emotions independently. By grounding themselves through breath, our young learners cultivate the balanced, reflective mindset central to the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).
Try This at Home!
Students have also learned eye rotations to keep their eyes healthy and help them focus as the day goes on. Various breathing techniques and body stretches help them calm their nervous systems and stay present through presentations and other activities. These practices also teach them to be kind and empathetic when faced with challenges.
Bring our daily school mindfulness rituals into your living room with these two simple, kid-friendly breathing exercises. They are perfect for winding down before bed or managing big feelings after a long day.
For Ages 3 to 6: Puffer Fish Breathing
Step 1: Have your child sit comfortably and place one hand on their heart and one on their belly.
Step 2: Instruct them to take a deep breath in through their nose, puffing their belly and cheeks out like a giant puffer fish.
Step 3: Hold the air for just one second.
Step 4: Exhale slowly through the mouth, making a soft “whoosh” sound as their belly shrinks back down.
Repeat: Do this 3 to 5 times to instantly calm the nervous system.
For Grades 1 to 4: The 4-Count Box Breath
Step 1: Have your child trace a square in the air with their finger as they breathe.
Step 2: Breathe in through the nose for a count of 4 (up the left side of the box).
Step 3: Hold the breath for a count of 4 (across the top of the box).
Step 4: Breathe out through the mouth for a count of 4 (down the right side of the box).
Step 5: Pause and rest for a count of 4 (across the bottom of the box).
Repeat: Complete the loop 4 times to reset focus and emotional balance.
PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION
A Week to Remember: Thank You, CHP PTO & Parent Volunteers
From Monday through Friday, May 4–8, our teachers were treated to an unforgettable Teacher Appreciation Week — and it was all made possible by the incredible efforts of our CHP Parent Teacher Organization and a dedicated group of parent volunteers.
The week kicked off Monday morning with a warm “Saved by the Coffee” breakfast spread, setting the tone for what was to come. Tuesday brought a proper lunch break — complete with a Taco Truck and the energy of “Living La Vida Taco” — giving our teachers a well-deserved midday pause. Wednesday’s Mocktail Station kept the good vibes flowing, Thursday’s all-day dessert bar was pure joy, and Friday wrapped the week with a heartfelt gift send-off that said it all: as if we could ever thank you enough.
None of this would have been possible without the time, energy, and genuine love that our parent volunteers poured into every detail. A special thank you to Scott Richards, Divya Enika, and all of the parents who showed up behind the scenes to make this week truly special for our staff.
To our PTO — thank you for going above and beyond, every single time. Our teachers feel seen, valued, and deeply appreciated.
8th Grade Sends Off the Year in Style!
To celebrate the end of an incredible year, our 8th graders headed to Camelback for a welldeserved overnight adventure! From the thrilling mountain coaster to the indoor waterpark, arcade, and laser tag showdowns, the fun never stopped. It was the perfect way to make lasting memories together before graduation.
Looking Ahead to Upcoming Special Events
Kindergarten: 9:00am Grade 4: 11:00am
Grades 1-3 (3:30pm-5:30pm) Grades 5-8 (6:00pm-8:00pm)
Family Fun Baseball Night!
Mr. Seeley threw out the first pitch Saturday night as over 90 Cedar Hill Prep students, parents and staff members looked on at our annual Somerset Patriots Family Fun Baseball Night! The Patriots won an exciting game 4-3, and the fireworks show afterwards was amazing. Thank you to everyone who joined us and enjoyed a fantastic night.
Luke Altman
Julie Haynoski
