Paterson Public Schools Honors 45 Parents at Annual Family Breakfast Conference

Paterson, NJ (June 12, 2026) – Paterson Public Schools recognized 45 outstanding parents from schools across the district during its annual Title I End-of-Year Family Breakfast Conference on June 6 at Eastside High School, celebrating the critical role families play in student achievement and school success.

The event brought together parents, educators, administrators, Superintendent’s Cabinet members, Board of Education Commissioners, and community leaders for a morning dedicated to recognizing the exceptional contributions families make to the educational journey of Paterson students.

“Family engagement remains one of the strongest predictors of student success,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Laurie W. Newell. “This annual celebration gives us an opportunity to recognize the parents who partner with our schools every day to support learning, encourage achievement, and help shape the future of our students.”

The celebration culminated with the presentation of the 2025-2026 Parent of the Year awards, recognizing an exceptional parent from each district school for their leadership, advocacy, and commitment to supporting student success. The Districtwide Parent of the Year was presented to Elvia Gonzalez of Dr. Hani Awadallah School, following a districtwide vote by the school community.

“This celebration is a reminder that education is a shared responsibility,” said Assistant Superintendent of Special Education and Services Cheryl D. Coy. “We are proud to honor the families whose commitment and support have been essential to our schools.”

Beyond the celebration, families were provided valuable information on Title I federal funding and district initiatives designed to strengthen student achievement. A highlight of the morning was an inspirational keynote speech by community leader, motivational speaker, and author Tamika Riley-McReynolds, who delivered a powerful message urging parents to believe in themselves despite external challenges.

The conference was spearheaded by Ms. Coy, Executive Director of Family & Community Engagement William Kemper McDowell, and Districtwide Community Outreach & Special Projects Coordinator Bridget Arrick, whose leadership helped bring together families from across the district for a meaningful day of recognition and learning.

The annual conference reflects Paterson Public Schools’ ongoing commitment to strengthening family-school partnerships and creating meaningful opportunities for parents to engage in their children’s education.

The following individuals were recognized as Paterson Public Schools’ 2025-2026 Parents of the Year:

*2025-2026 Districtwide Parent of the Year