We look forward to welcoming students and staff back on Tuesday, February 17th.
Enjoy the long weekend! 🇺🇸
Students learned about entrepreneurship, leadership, teamwork, and the day-to-day responsibilities of running and supporting successful businesses. Northeast Precast, Eastlyn Golf Course with Business Owner Rob Buono, and General Manager Erik Wikiera from the WaWa Corporation represented local businesses.
Our first responders including Vineland EMS, Fire Department, and Police Department shared powerful insights about service, dedication, teamwork, and the importance of helping others in critical situations. Officer Rosa, Officer Rodriguez, and others from the Juvenile Department, Deputy Chief John Hendershott, EMS Kennedy Santiago, and Therapy Dog Wednesday were all in attendance.
Medical professionals discussed the many pathways within healthcare, emphasizing compassion, education, and the impact of patient-centered care. A representative from Inspira Health Network, Kelli Silvers, and Occupational Therapist Sydney Williams came out. In addition to the medical field, we had Lawyer Haleigh Purich discussing her education and experience in the South Jersey Legal Services.
Students explored how creativity and passion can lead to meaningful careers in the arts and learned about the discipline and perseverance required in creative industries through discussions with local Steven Calakos. Mr. Calakos shared his teaching experience and showed those skills in his career with Gulshore Playhouse in Naples, Florida. He is currently back in the Northeast working for Mainstage Center for the Arts in Blackwood, NJ.
Senior Airman SRA Montana Mobley from the United States Air Force dedicated her time to Pilla students who gained insight into military service, leadership development, educational opportunities, and the skills that service members bring back to their communities. She shared her tactical experiences with her deployments overseas.
We are incredibly grateful to our community partners who took the time to invest in our students. Their willingness to share their experiences helps bridge the gap between education and career readiness, reinforcing our commitment to preparing students for success in high school, college, careers, and beyond.
Tickets are on sale now! Purchase at https://vhs.booktix.com/
Ages 4 - 16
Registration time is here! If you live within the East Vineland territory or attend one of the schools listed below, you are eligible to play for East Vineland Little League. Registration will close February 22nd.
Eligible Schools:
• Vineland HS South (11/12)
• Vineland HS North (9/10)
• Sgt. Dominick Pilla Middle School
• Johnstone Middle School
• Rossi Elementary School
• Petway Elementary School
• Winslow Elementary School
• Vineland Charter School
Registration is available at www.eastvinelandllb.com
Click on the Registration tab at the top and you will be redirected to Sports Connect to complete your registration.
Any questions, please email Patrick McGrory (President) at pwmcgrory@gmail.com
Facebook: East Vineland Little League
Twitter: @EastVinelandLLB
Instagram: @EastVinelandLLB
Cadet Conrad began his training more than six and a half months ago through the Young Eagles Flight Program, which provided our cadets with a 20-minute introductory flight and free ground school training — a $6,000 value. He is now the second cadet in the VHS AFJROTC program to complete this training.
As a result of his hard work and dedication, Cadet Conrad has earned the opportunity to take his first flying lesson at no cost. This achievement marks an important first step toward earning a private pilot’s license should he choose to continue his aviation journey.
Pictured alongside Cadet Conrad are NJ-2009-1 Cadet Commander c/Col Gonzalez; Vice Principals of the VHS Tanner Building, Mr. Lapsley and Mr. Hall; and Lead AFJROTC Instructor MSgt Marcus Knowlton.
Way to go, Cadet Conrad — Aim High!
Congratulations to Abigail Burger, Vineland High School alum, on being crowned Miss Vineland 2026! Abigail embodies the scholarship, service, and leadership at the heart of this cherished community tradition.
The Miss Vineland Pageant isn’t just a competition—it’s a platform for personal growth, empowerment, and community engagement. Each contestant shines by showcasing talent, confidence, and a passion for making a difference in our city. We’re excited to see Abigail represent Vineland this year with grace, enthusiasm, and a dedication to inspiring others.
The full pageant can be viewed on the district's YouTube channel, VLDSchoolsTV - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ynQejKtvvY
⚾ South Vineland Little League Registration for the 2026 Season Is Open!
Who Can Register
• Players ages 4–7
• Players do not need to live in South Vineland to participate
• New players and coaches welcome
Registration Deadline
• Ends March 4th
How to Register
Visit southvinelandlittleleague.com
• Select “Login” for returning users
• Select “Register” for new users
Questions or Assistance
Email: southvinelandlittleleague@gmail.com
The cost is $25 per painter and includes step-by-step instruction on a 16x20 canvas, plus two pastelillos. This event is fun for all ages—no experience needed!
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Payment can be sent via Venmo @VHSArtClub, or you can reserve your spot by emailing acapitani@vineland.org
A wide variety of homemade chilis were on display, including classic meat chili, turkey chili, buffalo chicken, white chicken chili, a hearty meat lovers option, and even a fiery extra-spicy entry. Ballots were provided, giving everyone the chance to sample the chilis and vote for their
Awards were presented in the following categories:
● Best Overall Chili – presented by Mr. Paul Farinaccio, Director of Facilities
● People’s Choice Award – presented by Mr. Scott Musterel, Business Administrator
● Spiciest Chili – presented by Mrs. Dana Blakely, Supervisor of Pupil Services Transportation/Registration
The event showcased the staff’s impressive chili-making skills and provided an opportunity for friendly competition, great food, and shared school spirit.
Now Hiring: Superintendent of Schools – Vineland Public Schools
Vineland Public Schools is seeking a visionary and experienced educational leader to serve as Superintendent. Lead a diverse, student-centered district committed to excellence.
Apply online via the link or by scanning the QR code in this post:
https://hyasearch.com/job/superintendent-vineland-nj/
On February 5, Vineland Public Schools recognized two outstanding professionals during the district’s annual staff development workshop for school counselors.
Mr. Kenneth Smith of Sabater Elementary School received the Vineland Public Schools “Starfish” Award, presented annually to an exceptional counselor within the district. Mrs. Leigh Ann Upshaw of Vineland High School was also honored with the Child Study Team Case Manager Award of Excellence.
Superintendent Alfonso Llano welcomed attendees, and Mrs. Deana Ridolfo, Supervisor of School Counseling, provided an overview of the awards.
The Child Study Team Case Manager Award of Excellence recognizes a case manager who demonstrates outstanding leadership and advocacy. Mrs. Teri Godlewski, Executive Director of Student Services, highlighted Mrs. Upshaw’s impact on students and colleagues.
“What truly sets her apart is her ability to positively impact others in meaningful ways,” Mrs. Godlewski said. “She is dependable, efficient, detail-oriented, and throughout her years in the field, she has taken on some of the most challenging cases.”
Mrs. Sofia Heredia-Torres, Principal of Sabater Elementary School, spoke on behalf of Mr. Smith, emphasizing the kindness and positivity he brings to the Sabater school community.
“What truly sets Mr. Smith apart is his kindness,” Mrs. Heredia-Torres said. “From the moment he walks through the doors, he makes students and staff feel seen, valued, and welcomed. His calm and caring presence creates a safe space for students and families alike.”
The ceremony highlighted the vital role counselors and case managers play in supporting students and families across the district.
The Starfish Award refers to the allegory of a young man picking a starfish from among millions on the beach and returning it to the sea--thereby making a difference, at least to the one he saves.
Those nominated for the Starfish Award were expected to exemplify the following traits: a love of children, dedication to the profession of counseling, tireless work ethic on behalf of children, creativity, responsiveness to children’s needs above and beyond the call of duty, willingness to try new ideas and strategies, continuous interest in professional development, and a cooperative style of interaction.
The full ceremony can be viewed on the district’s YouTube channel, VLDSchoolsTV - https://youtu.be/KSp3A_Szxp8
Thaili is a Vineland High School senior, President of the Cap ‘N’ Dagger Theatre Club, and a dedicated student leader who exemplifies integrity, academic commitment, and community service. While she represents Cumberland County, her title and platform extend across all of Southern New Jersey, including Cumberland, Salem, Gloucester, Camden, Cape May, Atlantic, and Burlington Counties.
Through this achievement, Thaili serves as a positive role model for young people throughout the region, promoting confidence, leadership, civic responsibility, and pride in community. Her success reflects not only her own dedication, but also the strong support of her family, educators, school, and local community.
We are proud to celebrate Thaili’s accomplishments and to highlight the excellence and leadership demonstrated by our Vineland Public Schools students.
Ms. Schwan’s class has been hard at work learning about the internal structures of living things. This week’s experiment? Celery! Students kicked off their investigation today and will finish by dissecting the celery tomorrow. Our young scientists are curious, engaged, and loving hands-on learning!
Vineland Youth Football & Cheerleading is excited to announce registration for Girls Flag Football!
The Girls Flag Football program continues to grow and provides young athletes with an opportunity to build confidence, leadership, teamwork, and skills while having fun and staying active.
Season begins: April 2026
Who can play: Girls in grades K–8
Registration fees:
Early Bird Registration: $100 (now through February 13)
Late Registration: $150 (starting February 14)
Personalized jersey is included with registration.
Register online at vinelandyouthsports.org
For additional questions, please email contact@vinelandyouthsports.org
The morning began with breakfast provided by Sodexo, the district’s food service provider, followed by a warm welcome from Mr. Bermudez. Attendees then enjoyed two special presentations from Vineland Public Schools student groups. The Sgt. Dominick Pilla Middle School Peer Group Connection led an engaging leadership activity for all participants, while Vineland High School FFA members shared a history and overview of the agriculture program and FFA chapter.
Nichole Roller, Director of the Anchor School-Based Program, also provided an overview of Great Joy Counseling, which will be returning to Vineland High School to offer free counseling and support services to students at no cost.
The meeting concluded with appreciation for community collections supporting Code Blue in Vineland. The next CPAC meeting is scheduled for March 13.
Enter the 2026 Tuxedo Card Contest!
The Southwest Council invites 8th–12th grade students to showcase their creativity while helping promote safe, alcohol-free choices after prom. By designing a Tuxedo Card, students can play a role in encouraging positive decision-making and helping prevent underage drinking during prom season.
Participants have the opportunity to earn special prizes, with awards given to both 1st and 2nd place winners.
How to enter:
• Scan the QR code on the flyer to complete the survey and upload your design
• Email entries to mariau@southwestcouncil.org
(Cumberland & Salem Counties) or chris@southwestcouncil.org
(Gloucester County)
• Drop off entries at The Southwest Council, Inc., 1405 N. Delsea Dr., Vineland, NJ
The contest deadline is March 4, 2026.
Check out last year’s winning designs on the flyer for inspiration, and thank you for supporting The Southwest Council’s efforts to help keep students safe this prom season.
Shop at the Five Below store in Millville, NJ from February 7 through February 13 and be sure to mention AFJROTC when shopping. 10% of proceeds from your purchases will go directly to our program. We truly appreciate your support!
