The halls of Manchester Township School District were filled with familiar faces and renewed energy on Tuesday as staff returned for the first day of the 2026-27 school year.
The day began with the entire staff coming together at Manchester Township High School over breakfast and an opening ceremony celebrating the dedication, commitment, and spirit that make the Manchester Township School District such a special place to work. Staff enjoyed a photo montage highlighting many of the memorable moments and accomplishments from the 2025-26 school year before coming together to look ahead to the year ahead.
Superintendent of Schools Diane Pedroza welcomed staff back and introduced this year’s theme, The Power of Us.
“One person can make a difference, but together, we can make an extraordinary impact. That is the Power of Us,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of working together, supporting one another, and keeping students at the center of all we do.
The morning also highlighted the district’s continued commitment to safe, supportive schools and strong community partnerships. Antonio Ellis, Manchester Township Chief of Police, welcomed staff and reaffirmed the Manchester Township Police Department’s ongoing partnership with the district and its dedication to the safety and security of our students and staff.
Alex George, Director of Student and Administrative Services and a 31-year member of the district, continued the conversation around school safety, positive school climate, and the district’s commitment to preventing harassment, intimidation, and bullying. He recognized the important work of the district’s School Safety and School Climate teams in helping create positive learning and working environments for all.
Staff also celebrated Jill Moore, Director of Special Services, who recently announced her retirement from the Manchester Township School District. Her years of service and dedication to students, families, and colleagues were met with a well-deserved standing ovation.
Closing the program, Tracey Raimondo, Director of Curriculum and Instruction and a 30-year member of the district, reflected on what makes Manchester such a special place to work. She reminded staff that people stay because they care deeply about one another, our schools, our community, and most importantly, our students. She also reviewed the district’s goals and strategic plan, emphasizing that reaching those goals will require all of us to work together and move in the same direction.
With The Power of Us as this year’s guiding theme, the message was clear. When we work together, support one another, and put students at the center of everything we do, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.
Following the opening program, staff began two days of professional development and preparation, working together in teams, setting up classrooms, and completing the many tasks that come with preparing for a new school year.
We are excited to welcome our students back on Thursday, September 3, and look forward to another great year of Excellence by Example.
