06/11/2026
It’s official—New Paltz’s Grade 5 students are on their way to becoming Middle School students! 🎉
On June 5, buses filled with excited students from Lenape Elementary School arrived at New Paltz Middle School (NPMS) for a visit to their future stomping grounds
Waiting to welcome them was an enthusiastic group of current Middle School students, who served as hosts and tour guides for the day. The visit began with an informative presentation, featuring Middle School Principal Ross Hogan, Assistant Principal Llajaira Dessereau, and members of the support staff. Then the current students shared important information about life at NPMS. The future sixth graders learned about the Student Support Center, the daily schedule, and clubs and activities, as well as the importance of using a planner to stay organized. And of course they also learned the answer to the question everyone was asking, “How will I open my combination locker?”
The students then toured the building, visiting grade-level wings, the library, the cafeteria, and the Student Support Center while meeting staff members along the way. Current Middle School students eagerly answered questions and shared their experiences, helping to ease any nerves about the upcoming transition.
Staff reassured students that they will be supported every step of the way as they adjust to new routines such as following a bell schedule, moving between classes, managing assignments, and arriving on time. By the end of the visit, the “graduating” Lenape students had a better understanding of what to expect in September and plenty of reasons to feel excited about the year ahead.
We can't wait to welcome the Class of 2032 to New Paltz Middle School! 😁
