Rahway First Graders Conquer '100-Word Challenge'

Tiny scholars display big vocabulary skills on 100th day of school

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

In Rahway, New Jersey, Ms. DiCataldo's first-grade class at Grover Cleveland School celebrated the 100th day of school by successfully writing 100 'Fundations' words, showcasing their growing literacy skills through a rigorous vocabulary challenge.

Why it matters

The '100 Words for the 100th Day' activity went beyond just reaching a numerical milestone, as it highlighted the significant academic progress these young students have made since the start of the school year through their mastery of the phonics-based Fundations curriculum.

The details

The students meticulously crafted a list of 100 words, ranging from simple CVC (consonant-vowel-consonant) words to more complex blends and digraphs. The classroom was transformed into a 'word factory' where students practiced their newfound skills, culminating in a 'Word Parade' where they shared their favorite words from the list.

  • On Friday, February 13, 2026, the 100th day of school was celebrated.

The players

Ms. DiCataldo

The first-grade teacher at Grover Cleveland School in Rahway, New Jersey.

Grover Cleveland School

An elementary school in Rahway, New Jersey where the '100-Word Challenge' took place.

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The takeaway

The '100-Word Challenge' showcased the remarkable literacy progress of these first-grade students, demonstrating the power of a phonics-based curriculum and the dedication of their teacher in helping them achieve such an impressive academic milestone.