Linden Schools Welcome Sixth- and Ninth-Graders Before First Bell

Linden Public Schools held orientation programs for incoming sixth- and ninth-grade students in early August, weeks before the first school bell rings on September 2, 2026. The orientations provided students and families an opportunity to become familiar with their new schools and meet administrators, teachers, and support staff.

Union County Life covers Linden public schools and educational programming across all 21 Union County municipalities.

Orientation Schedule and Participation

Soehl Middle School hosted sixth-grade orientation on August 4, and McManus Middle School followed on August 6. Linden High School welcomed incoming ninth-graders on August 5. Principals, administrators, teachers, and support staff participated in the orientations alongside Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins.

Superintendent's Message on Attendance and Engagement

Superintendent Dr. Perkins emphasized the importance of early engagement and consistent attendance. "Sixth grade attendance is a predictor of how students will perform in ninth grade," she said. She encouraged families to establish consistent attendance and positive behavior from the very beginning and to stay connected through the district's Genesis parent portal.

District Support Systems

The orientations reflect the district's commitment to supporting students as they transition to new schools. By introducing students to their new environments and connecting families with district resources—including the Genesis parent portal—the district aims to set students up for success from day one.

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Photo Credit: Linden Public Schools

FAQ

Q: When is Linden's school year starting?
A: Linden Public Schools' school year begins September 2, 2026.

Q: Did Linden schools hold orientations?
A: Yes. Linden Public Schools held orientation programs for sixth and ninth graders in early August to help students transition to their new schools.

Q: When was the sixth-grade orientation?
A: Sixth-grade orientations were held at Soehl Middle School on August 4 and McManus Middle School on August 6.

Q: When was the ninth-grade orientation?
A: Ninth-grade orientation at Linden High School was held on August 5.

Q: Who participated in the orientations?
A: Principals, administrators, teachers, support staff, and Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins participated.

Q: What did the Superintendent emphasize?
A: Superintendent Dr. Perkins emphasized that sixth-grade attendance is a predictor of ninth-grade performance and encouraged families to establish consistent attendance and positive behavior from the start.

Q: How can families stay connected with the district?
A: Families can stay connected through the district's Genesis parent portal.