Dear Glen Ridge School Community:
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved colleague, Jennifer Gonzaga. Linden Avenue School and the entire Glen Ridge community have suffered a tremendous loss.
Our staff is absolutely heartbroken. Many of us spent decades working beside Jennifer, celebrating life’s joys and navigating challenges together as a district family. In these past few days, I have witnessed our entire staff leaning on one another, supporting one another, and grieving together with the assistance of grief counselors and support personnel who have been present throughout the district.
While we ourselves are mourning deeply, our students remain at the forefront of our minds. Our focus continues to be on helping students feel safe, supported, and cared for as they process this difficult loss in their own ways. We encourage families to talk openly with their children and to reach out if additional support is needed.
Jennifer dedicated her life to children and education, and her impact on generations of Linden Avenue students will continue far beyond the walls of our school. She will be remembered for the love she shared, the joy she brought to others, and the countless lives she touched throughout her years of service.
As a community, I encourage all of us to honor Jennifer’s memory by showing kindness to one another, checking in on those around us, and holding close to the people we love most.
We extend our deepest condolences to Jennifer’s family, friends, students, and all who knew and loved her. Please keep them in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
Sincerely,
Winnie Kievit