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#57520
The Peck School | Private K–8 School in Morristown, NJ
Source:
http://www.peckschool.org
Archived:
2026-04-23 16:48
The Peck School | Private K–8 School in Morristown, NJ
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The Peck School offers
a learning environment of joyful curiosity and authentic connection
, where our students grow into their full potential—without growing up too soon. As experts in elementary and middle school education, we honor each phase of a child's early development. At Peck, we value progress over perfection, learn resilience and responsibility from challenge, develop timely leadership skills, and foster timeless character strengths.
Peck holds a careful balance between our foundations and the future
, through our proven curriculum and modern methods. And our cherished school traditions help every generation of students feel connected to Peck's history while also uniquely preparing them to step bravely beyond us, into an ever-changing world.
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At Peck, we provide children with role models worth following, and progressively equip them to
become
those future leaders.
By the time a Peck student reaches eigth grade, they have grown into a buddy, a leader, a helper, and an advocate for themselves and others-whether they're welcoming Kindergarten students to our own campus every morning or developing a capstone project that addresses a need in our wider community.
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2025051314_PeckSchool_266_CC.jpg
Our K-8 model creates extraordinary community connections
among schoolmates, between students and educators, and across our full spectrum of families. Peck provides an environment where everyone is welcomed and all perspectives are respected—right from the start.
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The Peck School offers
a challenging and engaging academic environment
, where critical thinking, creativity, and preparation intersect powerfully in the learning experience. At Peck, students feel nurtured as thinkers and known as learners, sparking confidence, courage, resilience, and an enduring sense of purpose.
Downy-Redhead Field Day
community
connected
From our Downy-Redhead Field Day and our designated family nights to cross-grade level experiences and our family-style dining program,
our traditions lie at the heart
of everything we do at Peck.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
Morning Greeting
community
connected
From our Downy-Redhead Field Day and our designated family nights to cross-grade level experiences and our family-style dining program,
our traditions lie at the heart
of everything we do at Peck.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
Cross Grade Level Experiences
community
connected
From our Downy-Redhead Field Day and our designated family nights to cross-grade level experiences and our family-style dining program,
our traditions lie at the heart
of everything we do at Peck.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
Family Style Dining
community
connected
From our Downy-Redhead Field Day and our designated family nights to cross-grade level experiences and our family-style dining program,
our traditions lie at the heart
of everything we do at Peck.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
Family Nights
community
connected
From our Downy-Redhead Field Day and our designated family nights to cross-grade level experiences and our family-style dining program,
our traditions lie at the heart
of everything we do at Peck.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
Peck students not only build traditional academic strengths, but also become more agile, confident, and iterative thinkers through
hands-on learning and real-world experience
. Across all ages, our students dive deeply into questions, design (and redesign) solutions, and conduct direct experiments.
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Learn More
Are you ready to explore why Peck may be the right school for your family right now?
Reach out to our admissions team to learn more or schedule a tour.
Are You Ready?
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Fear a Little Less: Darryl Bellamy Jr. Brings FearLESS Inside to Peck
1
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14
/
2026
Students in grades 5-8 at The Peck School recently welcomed keynote speaker Darryl Bellamy Jr. of FearLESS Inside, whose message centered on a simple, but powerful, shift: not becoming fearless, but learning to fear a little less.
Bellamy is a high-energy, nationally recognized speaker who motivates students, educators, and leaders to redefine their relationship with fear—encouraging them to see it as something to embrace rather than avoid, and to recognize that many of our hidden fears actually connect us, rather than isolate us. He has spent over a decade researching fear, and travels across the U.S. to deliver high-energy keynotes and workshops that help young people and adults understand and manage fear with confidence and self-awareness.
“At Peck, we often talk about the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and belonging,” says Director of Community Connections and Belonging Cymone Williamson. “This experience gave students practical tools and a shared language for understanding fear—not as a barrier, but as an opportunity to connect, reflect, and move forward together.”
Early in the keynote, Bellamy helped students distinguish between unsafe fear, which protects us from real danger, and uncomfortable fear—the kind that shows up in social situations, academic pressure, self-doubt, or moments of growth. It is this second kind of fear, he explained, that often holds students back, even though it signals opportunity rather than risk.
Throughout the keynote, Bellamy emphasized that naming fear—and sharing it—can be a turning point. “The more you share those things, the more you find out how connected we truly are,” he noted.
Students took part in a reflective activity, writing a fear or worry that can hold them back and placing it into “fire pits” at the front of the room. Bellamy then shared anonymous fears from students nationwide as well as from Peck students, with classmates offering support through snaps of recognition—an immediate reminder that no one is alone in what they carry.
He guided students through his Fear Intelligence Framework, introducing practical strategies students can use in real time: Trace (name what you’re feeling), Embrace (understand and manage your response), Pace (take a courageous step forward), and Grace (bounce back and be kinder to yourself).
He also taught box breathing as a tool for calming the body under pressure, sharing that even as a frequent speaker, he still gets nervous—once seeing his heart rate hit 155 beats per minute before an event!
Eighth-grade students had the opportunity to learn more through the fear intelligence quick check. The self-assessment was designed to provide awareness and discover the ability to navigate worry and concern in a manageable way. They also worked through an action journal, using a real-life area of concern and practicing the steps they can take to hard challenging situations.
Bellamy’s visit connects naturally to Peck’s character education work and core values: building self-awareness, resilience, and empathy, as well as emphasizing connection and belonging. As Bellamy reminded students, “At the end of the day, the goal is not perfection, it’s progress”—and Peck students left with both practical tools and a shared sense of support for the journey ahead.
Imaginations Unleashed: Peck’s Annual MiniMester Tradition
4
/
18
/
2026
While mornings on campus last week were defined by the quiet focus of ERB Standardized Testing, afternoons told a much louder, more colorful story. Across every corner of the Upper School, the silence of pens on paper gave way to the joyful noise of creativity as students dove into their MiniMester projects.
Peck’s campus became a living workshop as fifth-through-seventh-grade students spread across classrooms, hallways—and even the outdoors—to bring their projects to life. MiniMester is a project-based learning assignment in the Upper School that allows students to exercise their imaginations as they work in groups to build themed projects across grade levels.
Fifth graders reimagined the arcade, engineering wooden pinball machines inspired by themes from Peck’s curriculum. After testing their designs, the machines are carefully stored away until their debut at a fifth grade fair for parents this spring.
“I was inspired by the triangle bouncers and cup tunnels in the pinball machines at the game vault,” says fifth grader Alexander P. (To gather inspiration, fifth graders visit Morristown’s local Game Vault to explore its retro pinball machines)
Sixth graders worked in small groups in a test of structural integrity and speed, crafting wood-and-cardboard chariots designed for the high-stakes heat of race day. With themes ranging from pizza to flamingoes, Ferrari to Cookie Monster and more, the students also showed off their creativity and artistic flair. Their hard work culminated in a lively chariot race, held in the Manzo Gym at the end of the week.
“The students worked together wonderfully to build sturdy chariots,” says Upper School Math Teacher and Grade 6 Advisor Stewart Wilkinson. “Their teamwork showed as this was the first year that none of the chariots fell apart. They should all be very proud of themselves.”
Seventh graders were hard at work constructing functional carnival games of all kinds—much to the delight of Lower School students, who lined up to play at the carnival’s debut at the end of the week. From DIY whack-a-mole to skee-ball to a duck pond, students racked up tickets at every turn, eagerly trading them in for prizes. Even teachers got in on the fun, testing their skills at the seventh graders’ creations.
Eighth graders, meanwhile, stepped beyond campus—traveling to Costa Rica for an inaugural service-learning experience that extended MiniMester’s spirit of hands-on, purpose-driven learning into the global community.
It was a high-energy, all-hands-on-deck week, and the results are a testament to our Upper School students' determination and imagination
Yo Soy: Fourth Graders Tell Their Stories in Spanish
4
/
10
/
2026
As both a celebration and culminating project of their journey through Peck’s Lower School Spanish curriculum, fourth-graders read aloud in Spanish about a subject they know all too well: themselves!
World Languages Department Chair and Lower School Spanish Teacher Señora Adriana Sykora assigned her classes a “graphic novel” project, inspired by Yo Soy Carlos by Camilla Given, a book that students read as a part of their Spanish curriculum.
Students wrote and illustrated facts about themselves using the Spanish vocabulary they have learned throughout their years in Lower School—often writing content that described more than just physical features, such as their personalities, loved ones, and favorite activities.
Sykora said, “It is so nice to see our students present their work in front of the people they love. This is a great opportunity for them to showcase all that they have learned over their years as Lower School Spanish students, and give them a chance to put their abilities to the test.”
The fourth grade will soon depart the Lower School Spanish curriculum, as they graduate to the Upper School (fifth grade) next year. The Upper School World Language program offers not only Spanish but also French and Latin—and as fifth graders, students will experience all three languages before deciding on which they will focus for the remainder of their time at Peck.
Upper School Talent Show Shines with Music, Dance, and Unforgettable Moments
4
/
10
/
2026
The stage came alive at last week’s Upper School Talent Show, where students showcased an incredible range of talent, creativity, and confidence. From vocal performances to impressive piano pieces, the show highlighted the artistic spirit that thrives within our school community.
Several eighth graders took on the role of emcee, introducing each act and keeping the energy high with kind (and often hilarious) commentary. The audience’s enthusiasm was unmistakable, with cheers and applause filling the room after every act.
Events like the Upper School Talent Show give students the opportunity to step outside the classroom, build confidence, and share their passions with peers, teachers, and families. It’s a celebration not only of talent, but of the courage it takes to perform and the joy of supporting one another.
Bravo to all of our performers for an unforgettable show of music, dance, and school spirit—we can’t wait to see what next year’s show will bring!
Small Moments, Strong Connections: A Piñata in Peck’s Kindergarten
4
/
2
/
2026
A recent addition to Peck’s Lower School came not from a classroom, but from a family’s travels. After a trip to Guatemala, a kindergarten parent returned with a Peck-themed piñata to share with students—bringing a piece of cultural celebration directly into the school day.
Kindergarteners learned about the cultural significance of breaking open a piñata for celebrations and how they bring people together.
Moments like these reflect the role families play in shaping life at Peck. Beginning in kindergarten, parents and students share cultural and holiday traditions through classroom visits and programs like World Cultures Assembly, creating opportunities for students to learn from one another’s experiences.
In second grade—where students explore the essential question, How does learning about myself and others help us connect?—the Family Share program invites families into the classroom to share traditions, languages, and personal stories from around the world, part of a broader culture of parent partnership across the school.
Across divisions, parents contribute in other meaningful ways as well, from supporting classroom projects and cultural celebrations to volunteering their time and expertise. Together, these experiences help create a community where students feel connected, valued, and at home—grounded in a sense of belonging that extends well beyond the classroom.
Launching Into Learning: Eighth Graders Put Newton’s Second Law to the Test
4
/
2
/
2026
In Dr. Denise Glenn’s eighth grade science classroom, Newton’s Second Law isn’t just something students memorize, it’s something they put in motion—by building and testing handmade catapults.
As part of a hands-on physics challenge, students designed and constructed their own catapults using simple materials like popsicle sticks and rubber bands. From there, the classroom quickly transformed into a lab of experimentation, where students tested projectiles of varying masses, adjusted launch angles, and measured how force impacts acceleration.
“Force times mass equals acceleration!” Evan H. ’26 called out when prompted—a clear sign that the concept is sticking.
By manipulating variables like angle, force, and mass, students are seeing Newton’s Second Law in action. Whether aiming to knock down stacked cup towers or land a projectile inside a target, each trial requires careful observation, data collection, and adjustment. Students record their findings as part of a lab activity, reinforcing the connection between theory and real-world results.
The challenge doesn’t stop at accuracy—it also builds problem-solving skills. Dr. Glenn encourages a “figure it out” mindset, where students iterate on their designs, collaborate with peers, and learn from failed attempts. The experience is intentionally open-ended, giving students ownership over both the process and the outcome. And yes—it’s as fun as it sounds.
“It’s really fun trying different angles and seeing what works best,” said Nolan B. ’26. “And honestly, knocking things over never gets old.”
With future challenges like bridge building on the horizon—and even larger outdoor launches planned—Dr. Glenn’s classroom continues to be a place where curiosity, creativity, and physics collide.
Reach Across: Stacking Cards & Building Connections
3
/
27
/
2026
Peck’s latest Reach Across event proved once again that some of the best connections are built through simple, shared moments. Bringing together Upper and Lower School students, Reach Across activities (held three times per year) focus on teamwork, creativity, and—of course—a little friendly competition.
This time, as students resumed their cross-grade buddy groups (pairing younger and older students), they were challenged to build towers using nothing but playing cards. What started as a delicate balancing act quickly turned into a morning filled with laughter, problem-solving, and collaboration.
The results? A mix of impressive structures, a few collapses (followed by lots of laughs), and plenty of new friendships formed along the way.
Reach Across continues to do what it does best—creating opportunities for students to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another, one card tower at a time.
Fifth Graders Bring Earth’s Systems to Life in Hands-On Science Project
3
/
27
/
2026
In Juliana Vitiello’s fifth-grade science class, students are exploring the dynamic relationship between Earth’s four major systems: the biosphere (all living things), hydrosphere (all water), geosphere (land and rocks), and atmosphere (air). Through their studies, students are discovering how these systems are deeply interconnected, constantly influencing and changing one another—especially through processes like the water cycle.
Inspired by their studies, students proposed an idea of their own: to create a project that would visually represent these connections. Ms. Vitiello embraced their enthusiasm and collaborated with the class to design a detailed rubric for a hands-on assignment.
As they worked in teams, students used recycled materials to build 3D models centered around the theme of protecting Earth’s systems. Each group selected a specific biome—rainforest, ocean, or tundra—and conducted research to understand how all four systems interact within that environment.
To accompany their models, students wrote four index cards explaining how each system was represented and how they impacted one another. The project culminated in class presentations, where students shared their creative designs and demonstrated a deeper understanding of Earth’s interconnected systems.
“By combining student voices, creativity, collaboration, and scientific thinking, this project transformed learning into an engaging and meaningful project,” said Vitiello.
Upper School Winter Sports Season Recap
2
/
27
/
2026
As our winter season comes to a close, we celebrate the hard work, growth, and competitive spirit shown by all of our student-athletes. From buzzer-beaters to championship runs, this winter was filled with progress, perseverance, and pride.
🏀
Boys Basketball
The Boys Basketball team showed tremendous growth from start to finish! The progress made over the course of the season was undeniable, as the players continued to develop their skills and compete with intensity.
The team earned a spot in the first round of the MSAC Tournament, taking on Newark Academy.
It was a great final season for eighth graders
Alex. B.
,
Douglas B.
,
David E.
,
Christian G.
,
Joseph H.
,
Evan H.
,
Hardy L.
,
Thijs M.
,
Antonio O.
,
Cole P.
, and
Aarav S.
Photo Gallery Here
🏀
Girls Basketball
The Girls Basketball team finished undefeated in regular play and earned the #2 seed in the MSAC Tournament, starting off the tournament with two bye weeks.
They ultimately fell to Pingry in the semifinals, but not before playing one of their strongest and most competitive games of the season. Their growth, resilience, and teamwork were on full display when it mattered most.
Special shoutout to
Norah C.
,
Maggie D.
, and
Reese L.
, for leading the team through an excellent season.
Photo Gallery Here
🏒
Ice Hockey
The Ice Hockey team battled all season long, competing with heart and determination as they entered the tournament as the 4th seed.
They made an impressive run to the MSAC appearance, taking down #1 seed Pingry, and advancing to the Finals, where they faced Far Hills — a tremendous achievement.
Leadership and steady play from eighth grade captains
Nolan B.
,
Lorenzo C.
,
Maddie F.
,
Zander P.
,
Alex S.
,
Logan S.
,
Grove S.
,
Kamryn W.
, and
Eva Z.
, helped guide the team throughout the winter.
Photo Gallery Here
🏐
Volleyball
Volleyball continued its tradition of excellence, hosting the MSAC Tournament at home once again, and earned the #5 seed. The team advanced to the semifinals, where they fell to the #1 seed Newark Academy, showcasing some of the best volleyball we’ve seen at Peck in years.
This year’s group may have been the most well-rounded in decades — everyone could set, hit, and pass. Eighth graders
Julietta A.
,
Sofia K.
,
Emma C.
,
Layla S.
,
Gianna S.
, and
Gray S.
showed confidence and readiness to take on bigger roles.
Photo Gallery Here
🤼
Wrestling
Wrestling had a standout season with one of the largest and youngest teams in recent memory. The program welcomed the most girls it's ever had participated — an exciting sign of growth for the future!
The team finished the season strong, and earned 13 out of 27 medals in the MSAC Tournament hosted by Newark Academy.
Shoutout to the eighth graders on their final wrestling season:
Adam S.
and
Gunnar S.
Photo Gallery Here
🌟 Looking Ahead
This winter season was defined by development, leadership, and resilience. Spring sports will kick off Mon. March 2.
Third Grade Fashion Frenzy: Celebrating the 100th Day with Project Runway!
2
/
27
/
2026
The Peck School held its annual Third-Grade Project Runway assembly on Wednesday. Lower School students, their teachers, and parents of third graders met in The Peck Commons to watch the fashion show—and it was a spectacle of color and creativity!
The challenge was simple but creative: to mark the 100th day of school, each third grader had to design and create an outfit using 100 of their favorite items. From collectible cards and sweet treats, students used their imaginations to create unique and eye-catching designs.
Project Runway is not only a fun and creative outlet for our third grade, but also teaches them important skills like problem-solving and perseverance. (And who knows, we may even see some of these young designers on the real Project Runway someday!)
As the show began, pairs of third graders danced down from the stage and past rows of their Lower School peers—showing off their handmade outfits with confidence and style. The designs were as unique as the students, including outfits featuring 100 pompoms, 100 photos of pets, and even 100 legos!
But the 100th Day of School celebrations didn’t stop there! Lower School students of all grades took on Mrs. Brady’s 100th Day of School Mathletics Challenge, kindergarteners dressed like 100-year-olds too!
May
9
All-School Noon Dismissal
all day
May
22
Grandparents & Friends Day Spring Sing, Downy-Redhead Field Day, All School BBQ, Noon Dismissal
all day
May
23
Head of School Holiday (School Closed)
all day
May
26
Memorial Day (School Closed)
all day
Jun
2
All-School 3 p.m. Dismissal
3
:
00
PM
-
4
:
00
PM
Jun
3
All-School 3 p.m. Dismissal
3
:
00
PM
-
4
:
00
PM
Jun
4
All-School 3 p.m. Dismissal
3
:
00
PM
-
4
:
00
PM
Jun
5
Last Day of School
all day
Jun
5
Gr. 8 Noon Dismissal
12
:
00
PM
-
1
:
00
PM
Jun
5
All-School 3 p.m. Dismissal
3
:
00
PM
-
4
:
00
PM
Jun
6
Commencement (No Classes)
11
:
00
AM
-
12
:
00
PM
Jun
9
Gr. K-7 3 p.m. Dismissal
3
:
00
PM
-
4
:
00
PM
Jun
10
Gr. K-7 3 p.m. Dismissal
3
:
00
PM
-
4
:
00
PM
Jun
11
Last Day of School Gr. K-7, noon dismissal. Second Semester ends, K dissmissed after spring play.
all day
Aug
20
-
Aug
21
New Faculty/Staff Training
all day
Aug
21
New Faculty/Staff Training
all day
Aug
25
-
Aug
28
All Faculty/Staff Meetings
all day
Aug
26
-
Aug
28
All Faculty/Staff Meetings
all day
Aug
27
-
Aug
28
All Faculty/Staff Meetings
all day
Aug
28
All Faculty/Staff Meetings
all day
Aug
29
Labor Day Weekend (School Closed)
all day
Sep
1
Labor Day (School Closed)
all day
Sep
2
Orientation for New Students and Parents for Grades 1-8
8
:
30
AM
-
9
:
30
AM
Sep
2
Orientation for Returning First Graders (students only)
9
:
15
AM
-
10
:
15
AM
Sep
2
Orientation for Returning Fifth Graders (students only)
9
:
15
AM
-
10
:
15
AM
Sep
2
Orientation for Kindergartners and Parents
11
:
00
AM
-
12
:
00
PM
Sep
3
First Day of School
all day
Sep
5
Welcome Back Dinner for Parents, Faculty, and Staff
6
:
00
PM
-
7
:
00
PM
Sep
18
Upper School Back-to-School Night (parents only)
6
:
15
PM
-
7
:
15
PM
Sep
23
Rosh Hashanah (School Closed)
all day
Sep
25
Lower School Back-to-School Night (parents only)
6
:
00
PM
-
7
:
00
PM
Sep
30
Lower School Picture Day
all day
Oct
1
Upper School Picture Day
all day
Oct
2
Yom Kippur (School Closed)
all day
Oct
4
The Biggest Pumpkin Ever! (Little Makers Design Challenge)
10
:
00
AM
-
11
:
00
AM
247 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
Oct
13
Faculty In-Service (No Classes)
all day
Oct
18
Fall Fest
all day
Oct
19
Open House
1
:
00
PM
-
3
:
00
PM
247 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
Nov
5
Parent-Teacher Conferences (No Classes)
all day
Nov
15
Matisse: Bold & Beautiful (Mini-Makers Art Class)
10
:
00
AM
-
11
:
00
AM
247 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
Nov
24
-
Nov
28
Thanksgiving Break (School Closed)
all day
Nov
25
-
Nov
28
Thanksgiving Break (School Closed)
all day
Nov
26
-
Nov
28
Thanksgiving Break (School Closed)
all day
Nov
27
-
Nov
28
Thanksgiving Break (School Closed)
all day
Nov
28
Thanksgiving Break (School Closed)
all day
Dec
1
Classes Resume
all day
Dec
6
A Gingerbread Man is on the Loose!
10
:
00
AM
-
11
:
00
AM
247 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
Dec
18
Grandparents Holiday Luncheon
11
:
30
AM
-
12
:
30
PM
Dec
18
Holiday Concert (Grades K-8)
1
:
15
PM
-
2
:
15
PM
Dec
19
Kindergarten Winter Play
8
:
30
AM
-
9
:
30
AM