Rutherford Public Schools Give Back

Compiled by Jennifer Ersalesi

Information provided by Rutherford Public Schools

Rutherford students understand how important it is to spread kindness to others. Since the beginning of the school year, students throughout the district have been participating in acts of generosity and compassion.

The Multicultural Club at Rutherford High School assembled care packages to send to Marines from Camp Lejeune that are deployed in Puerto Rico for the holiday season. Rutherford High School students wanted to send them something to thank them for their service and to remind them we are thinking of them during the holiday season.

The RHS Amnesty Club took part in recognizing National Homeless Awareness Month (November) by making 100 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for homeless people in Paterson.

The RHS Future Healers Club partnered with the RHS National Honor Society to assist in the 2025 Box of Kindness collection. Club members generously donated items for the boxes. Club members stuffed and wrapped over 25 boxes for the collection. The boxes will be distributed to in-need, middle school students in Newark schools on Monday, December 22.

The Spanish Club at Rutherford High School collected 300 pairs of socks that were donated to Mercy House in Newark.

In October, Rutherford High School Interact Club students had a busy and rewarding weekend of community service. Over 20 students volunteered to help decorate the 55 Kip Center for the upcoming Halloween Bash, transforming the space with festive decorations. The next morning, the students returned to assist with the Halloween Senior Party, where they served lunch, cleaned tables, and even joined the seniors and DJ on the dance floor. Their enthusiasm and teamwork helped make both events a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved.

At the Kindergarten Center, students celebrated gratitude in patriotic colors during their school assembly while learning about the military and honoring veterans. They wrote messages that were displayed on the Wall of Honor, and contributed to a food drive for veterans.

Washington School celebrated it's 18th Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade. Throughout the week and during the parade, families contributed items for the Rutherford Community Food Pantry.

Silver Bells is a project that is currently underway at Pierrepont School. This community service project, sponsored by the Service Club and supported by the PTA, helps members of our school community who may need assistance during the holiday and winter season.