Celebrating 60 Years of Thomas Hughes School

The Thomas Hughes Elementary School in Berkeley Heights marks its 60th anniversary this school year.

Thomas Hughes School, originally named Berkeley School, opened on Dec. 7, 1953. The new school was built in Berkeley Heights to relieve the crowding issues at Columbia School, which was then the only school in the township, the Alternative Press reported.

The Berkeley School was renamed in 1983 to honor Thomas P. Hughes, who had been principal at the school for 26 years. 

“The staff and families at Hughes create a great environment to work and learn,” said Principal Jessica Nardi, who is entering her sixth year as principal at Hughes.  

"The teachers work well together, and it’s a real team.” 

The school originally taught kindergarten through third grade until an addition was built in 1955. After the addition, the school taught kindergarten through sixth grade. Currently, Thomas Hughes School teaches second through fifth grade.

"We are all excited to celebrate this important anniversary at the '60th Birthday Bash,' " said Tracey Wahlers, PTO fundraising and event chair.  

The "60th Birthday Bash" adult social will be held on Nov. 15 at Twin Brooks Country Club in Warren. Tickets are $55 per person including dinner, beer and wine. Basket raffle, 50/50 and a Super Bowl ticket package valued at $7,400 will be raffled; you do not need to be present to win.  

For information contact Wahlers at twahlers@gmail.com.