Dear Parents,

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we inform you of the passing of another parent of the Class of 2021.  Lena Padovano passed away this past Tuesday at home surrounded by her family, after a brave and courageous 13 year battle with cancer.  Our hearts, love, prayer and support go out to her family.

Lena was an incredible force in serving our community over the many years she has lived in Midland Park.  She has served on nearly every committee at the elementary and MS/HS level, served on the Library Board for countless years, served as a Girl Scout leader and Service Unit Manager overseeing all of the Girl Scout leaders and program in Midland Park for numerous years, was involved at Nativity Church and was ALWAYS there to lend a helping hand, share her beautiful smile, brainstorm incredible ideas, execute unbelievable events, cheer on every student and parent, and was the epitome of what Midland Park community spirit is all about. 

While the loss of Lena is so great to our community, many are asking how we can show love and support immediately to Steve, Samantha and Emily.  In this time of the pandemic, it is especially hard to walk through this season of loss alone.  A group of friends in town has orchestrated a way to show the Padovano family our community's love and support during this upcoming weekend.  We want to show our support by "lighting up their yard" just as Lena was a light in all of our lives. 

We are asking families to share a message to the family on an index card that can be dropped off at the Padovano's house at 98 Irving Street.  There will be a box on the lawn for the cards.  In addition, we are asking families to place a battery operated candle on the Padovano's porch or lawn to be lit up on Sunday night (one per family).  We want to light up the entire yard! 

IMPORTANT:  All cards and lights should be placed on SUNDAY (5/31) ONLY at the Padovano home - in the front only.  Please be quick and maintain social distancing when delivering your card and candle. Only one family at a time should be out of their cars when delivering.  

To participate, you can pick up an index card and battery operated tea light from one of the following houses starting this morning, Saturday, May 30th.

• Fonticoba  family - 81 Franklin Avenue
• Mahoney family - 46 Van Blarcom Avenue
• Martin family - 10 Donna Lane
• Schaefer family - 125 Maltbie Avenue
• Sonderfan family - 64 Hill Street
• Wallace family - 35 Hillside Avenue

Stay well and be safe!