Last Friday, June 26, North Bergen marked a historic milestone by sealing a time capsule at the Nicholas J. Sacco Junior High School, preserving a snapshot of the school’s inaugural year for future generations. The capsule, which will remain sealed until June 26, 2051, captures the memories, achievements, traditions, and defining moments of the 2025-2026 school year while commemorating the opening of the district’s newest school.
“The students, teachers, administrators, families, and community members who helped launch this school are writing the first chapter of what will become a long and proud tradition,” said Mayor Sacco. “Fifty years from now, I hope those who open this capsule will not only see how much the world has changed, but also recognize the values, dedication, and sense of community that have always defined North Bergen.”
Created through the efforts of a dedicated committee of administrators, teachers, and staff, the time capsule contains more than 30 carefully selected items representing school life and the broader community. Among the contents are the original key to the school building, a blueprint of the facility, the inaugural yearbook, student and staff rosters, graduation memorabilia, photographs, newspaper front pages commemorating the New York Knicks’ 2026 NBA Championship, a USB drive filled with digital memories, a pair of AirPods, and even a penny from the final year it remained in circulation.
“Every school has a story, and this time capsule preserves the very first chapter of Nicholas J. Sacco Junior High School,” added Superintendent Dr. George Solter. “The items chosen reflect not only the accomplishments of our students and staff, but also the excitement, optimism, and pride that surrounded the opening of this remarkable building. When it is opened in 2051, it will serve as a powerful reminder of where we started and how this school community came together to build something truly special.”
The time capsule also includes speeches from the dedication ceremony, ribbon-cutting invitations and photographs, a letter to future students and staff, school memorabilia, and artifacts documenting everyday life during the 2025-2026 school year. Together, the collection offers future generations a unique glimpse into the beginning of what is expected to become one of the district’s lasting educational institutions.