Welcome to the Julia A. Traphagen School Website

Julia A. Traphagen School is located in the suburban community of Waldwick and is comprised of 420 students in grades pre-kindergarten through fifth. During the 2009 school year Traphagen School was designated a Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education.  This national award is widely considered the single most prestigious honor a school can receive. A school awarded this honor serves as model of excellence to other schools throughout the nation. Approximately 271 public schools across the country were selected and we are honored to be the only school in Bergen County selected.

We at Traphagen School understand that the ability to read, write and compute is the foundation for success in our students' lives. Over the last six years our staff development has focused around the Reading and Writing Project of Columbia University. Teachers have worked with experts and one another to differentiate our reading and writing instruction using the workshop model. Our elementary mathematics program has combined the practice of traditional skills with problem solving and higher level thinking skills. Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge to real life situations.

Traphagen School students also enjoy a wide array of extra-curricular activities. These activities help to enhance their educational and social experience as well as foster responsibility and cooperation with others. Our school activities include Band, Chorus, Safety Patrol, Recycle Club, Office Aides, Student Advisory Board, Technology Club, Rainbow Club, Writing Club, Reading Incentive Programs, and Community Service Programs.

Family involvement in our programs and activities has become pivotal in the success we have found at Traphagen School . Turnout at our annual "School Kick-Off" and Back to School Night as well as all other events hosted by our PSO has been outstanding. The spirit of volunteerism is evidenced at each function, which provides the cooperation that leads to success.

Our goal is to have our children want to come to school, feel positive about learning and themselves, and collaborate with their peers and adults in a positive, productive way. Together administration, staff, parents and students work in concert to create a warm and nurturing environment that challenges all students to reach their full potential.

In conclusion, Traphagen School can be proud of the quality of education and the variety of experiences provided through the continued hard work and cooperative efforts of students, teachers, and parents. Our school continues its commitment based on the belief that the success of our children must be at the core of every activity that takes place in school.

Principal Robert T. Sileo