MFEE

Summer days have been anything but slow at MFEE! In addition to gearing up for the 2026-27 school year, we're busy creating summer enrichment opportunities for more than 100 students. The programs reflect MFEE’s mission to remove barriers to learning and create equitable access for Montclair Public Schools students.

“Summer is a chance to help students grow in ways that aren’t always possible during the school year,” said Masiel Rodriquez-Vars, MFEE’s executive director. “Whether kids are building confidence in math, boosting language skills, or making new friends at camp, these experiences give more children an opportunity to thrive.”

Read more on our blog: https://www.mfee.org/post/mfee-expands-access-to-summer-learning-and-fun

This is the latest in our series spotlighting the 2026 winners of the Judy Weston Awards for Inspired Teaching. Follow along each week to learn more about the impact these educators are making in the Montclair Public Schools.

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The Weston Award selection committee was moved by all the authentic student voices in nomination letters for Buzz Aldrin Middle School teacher Luke Fess. One student went so far as to write: “Mr. Luke Fess is, by far, one of the greatest teachers to step foot in the district.”

But Mr. Fess’ stellar reputation extends to grown-ups, too. One parent who nominated him for this award said he has a unique ability to connect with every student by taking the time to understand their individual interests, strengths, and challenges, making each child feel seen and supported. "He leads with humor, humility, and genuine empathy, creating a classroom where students feel comfortable learning, asking questions, and growing…. We feel incredibly fortunate that both of our boys had the opportunity to learn from him.”

Read more: https://www.mfee.org/post/weston-awards-luke-fess

Kinda chic to be . ❤ Ⓜ️ Support our work at MFEE.org/donate.

Snapshots of what makes MPS Summer Enrichment Camps so special! From arts & crafts and outdoor play to pool days, books, games, and hands-on learning, these camps give hundreds of K–8 students a summer full of learning, friendship, and fun. MFEE is proud to have funded 60 camp scholarships this year, helping ensure more students can enjoy an enriching summer experience.

Thank you to the amazing teachers who make summer learning come alive. If you'd like to help more students access these opportunities, please donate to MFEE to support summer scholarships.

Read more: https://www.mfee.org/post/learning-laughter-and-opportunity-all-summer-long

This is the latest in our series spotlighting the 2026 winners of the Judy Weston Awards for Inspired Teaching. Follow along each week to learn more about the impact these educators are making in the Montclair Public Schools.

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Positive. Happy. Bubbly. Authentic.

These are words shared in Weston Award nomination letters for Glenfield Middle School teacher Elizabeth Cario. And they’re traits that set an excellent example for middle school kids who are experiencing a tremendous amount of change during this time in their lives. According to those who nominated her for this award, Ms. Cairo exemplifies the Glenfield spirit day in and day out.

“One parent wrote: “[Ms. Cairo] is kind, accessible, and has an effortlessly 'hip' energy that allows her to meet these kids exactly where they are. By building authentic, high-trust relationships, she creates a space where students feel seen and valued for their unique traits. She is tough when she needs to be, maintaining high standards and providing clear, actionable feedback. But she also makes learning genuinely fun, which is why my son comes home eager to share with me what he learned in class.”

Read more: https://www.mfee.org/post/weston-awards-elizabeth-cario

“When will I ever use this in real life?” It’s a question many students may be thinking when learning algebra.

Making foundational math skills feel relevant is one of the goals of “Algebra Kickstarter,” a new MFEE summer math program for 20 rising ninth graders. The three-week intensive is designed to give students a head start and help them succeed in Algebra 1 at Montclair High School. Students were recommended to the program by their eighth grade math teachers.

The no-cost program, running July 20 through Aug. 7, pairs core math concepts with real-world projects that make math personally meaningful. Taught by retired MPS math educator Dr. Twana Davisson, it aims to spark engagement and encourage success in the Algebra 1 class.

Read more: https://www.mfee.org/post/real-life-real-math-mfee-s-algebra-kickstarter-builds-skills-confidence

This is the latest in our series spotlighting the 2026 winners of the Judy Weston Awards for Inspired Teaching. Follow along each week to learn more about the impact these educators are making in the Montclair Public Schools.

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In the halls of Buzz Aldrin Middle School, Michele Campbell Kinnas is affectionately known as “Ms. Kindness." It’s a well-earned nickname. Parents, students, and colleagues alike praised her compassionate approach and positive attitude. She was recognized for her focus on gratitude, collaborative spirit, and role in cultivating a positive school culture. Even students who had her for English Language Arts years ago remember kindness as the overriding theme of their time in her class.

Those who nominated her for a Weston award described her like this:

“She is considerate to all her students. She stays calm and doesn't raise her voice.”

“She has helped me so much in class and truly cares about her students. She always takes the time to explain things when I don’t understand and never makes anyone feel bad for asking questions.”

Read more: https://www.mfee.org/post/weston-awards-michele-campbell-kinnas

Montclair Public Schools - NJ