One Linden Welcome: New Non-Certificated Staff Get a Roaring Start

Linden Public Schools held a New Staff Orientation on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 1 p.m. at School No. 4. Paraprofessionals, part time aides, custodians, student teachers and interns, hall monitors, and school lunch monitors arrived to a spirited clap in before an afternoon orientation designed to introduce them to the district and their roles in supporting students.

Mayor Derek Armstead, Board of Education Vice President Dr. Marlene Berghammer, Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins, Assistant Superintendent Annabell Louis, and Human Resources Director Dr. Kayla Lott joined the new staff members and officials highlighted the rich diversity of the community.

Linden Public Schools is preparing to welcome approximately 6,272 students, with families representing more than 30 countries and nearly 40 languages across the district. Mayor Armstead told the group, "Our greatest strength is our diversity."

The district's non certificated staff provides essential support to teaching and learning. From paraprofessionals assisting in classrooms to custodians maintaining facilities to lunch monitors nurturing community during meal times, these roles enable schools to function. The August 27 orientation prepared new team members to contribute to that mission as schools reopen on September 2, 2026.

Union County Life covers Linden schools and community news. Find more Linden events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: Linden Public Schools

FAQ

Q: When did Linden Public Schools hold its new staff orientation?
A: Linden Public Schools held its New Staff Orientation on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 1 p.m. at School No. 4.

Q: What types of staff were welcomed?
A: Paraprofessionals, part time aides, custodians, student teachers and interns, hall monitors, and school lunch monitors were welcomed.

Q: How were new staff members greeted?
A: New staff members were welcomed with a spirited clap in before an afternoon orientation designed to introduce them to the district and their roles.

Q: Who attended the orientation?
A: Mayor Derek Armstead, Board of Education Vice President Dr. Marlene Berghammer, Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins, Assistant Superintendent Annabell Louis, and Human Resources Director Dr. Kayla Lott attended to welcome new staff.

Q: When does Linden Public Schools open?
A: Linden Public Schools opens on September 2, 2026.

Q: How many students will the district welcome?
A: Linden Public Schools is preparing to welcome approximately 6,272 students.

Q: What is the diversity profile of the district?
A: The district has families representing more than 30 countries and nearly 40 languages.

Q: What did Mayor Armstead say about the district?
A: Mayor Armstead told the group, "Our greatest strength is our diversity."

Q: What do non certificated staff do?
A: Non certificated staff provide essential support to teaching and learning. Roles include paraprofessionals assisting in classrooms, custodians maintaining facilities, and lunch monitors nurturing community during meal times.

Q: Where can I find more information about Linden schools?
A: Contact Linden Public Schools or visit the district website. Union County Life covers Linden schools and community news.