Montgomery News - Hometown Newspaper for Rocky Hill and Montgomery Township

Fun at Kindercapers

By Michelle Cerone Apr 14, 2010

One sunny April afternoon, the sound of about a dozen excited children echoed throughout the preschool Kindercapers; the students were decorating bunny-and-flower-shaped sugar cookies, which they also had helped teachers bake minutes before. In past cooking sessions, students crafted ice cream waffle sandwiches out of homemade waffles and school buses out of graham crackers, said Francine De Lizer, who has been a teacher at the school for about three years.
"With everything we do, we try to be as interactive as possible," she said.

Teachers at Kindercapers - Belle Mead's premier nonsectarian preschool - pride themselves on not only preparing their students for success in school, but also on instilling a love of learning. To achieve this, Kindercapers relies on a hands-on, investigative approach, as the more experiences the child is exposed to, the more they understand the concepts behind them. They encourage students to explore with a variety of hands-on activities through an enrichment program that meets once a week. The program digs into a myriad of subjects, which includes not only cooking sessions, but also Spanish, art and science sessions.

In addition to activity-based learning Kindercapers, located on 253 Belle Mead Griggstown Road, provides a caring atmosphere, small class sizes, low student-to-teacher ratio and individualized attention. The family friendly atmosphere is also one of the things that draws mother Allison Richmond to the school, who sent three children to Kindercapers.

"It's a very warm school. We're encouraged to come into class," Ms. Richmond said.
"We always encourage everyone to experience that because it goes by so fast," added Director Susan Schatzman. "Our goal is to provide a positive nurturing learning environment."

The schools' curriculum is literacy based, Ms. Schatzman said, which means students are exposed to a wide variety of books and other material that sharpen their listening, reading and comprehension skills. But there is also plenty of time at Kindercapers for kids to just be kids; the school also offers an outdoor playground and an indoor playroom.

During the school year, which follows the Montgomery school district calendar, Kindercapers offers a full range of services to meet the needs of parents and children from 2 1/2-6 years old. Half-day preschool is offered from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Full-day preschool is from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. two to five days a week. Kindercapers also offers full day kindergarten from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a half day kindergarten enrichment programs 2-5 days a week.

Currently the staff at Kindercapers is getting ready for its summer program, the Kindercapers' Preschool Enrichment Camp for preschool students ages 2 1/2 - 6. The program will focus on literacy and math enrichment and will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. three days a week.

While the Kindercapers is owned by and located in the Congregation Kehilat Shalom, it has been non-sectarian since opening its doors 14 years ago, Ms. Schatzman said.

For more information about the upcoming summer camp or any other the other programs at Kindercapers, parents and guardians can call 908-359-0160, e-mail Ms. Schatzman at Kindercapers@embarqmail.com or visit the school on the web at www.kindercapers.com.

Summer Fun and Academic Enrichment Camps at New Horizons Montessori

Apr 14, 2010

New Horizons Montessori in the Skillman area of Montgomery is conducting a Summer Camp as in the past years in July and August. The activities inside and outside the classrooms are conducted by their regular school teachers.

Their Summer Fun Camp caters to children between the ages of 18 months and 6 years and the Academic Enrichment Camp serve children from the ages of 4 to 7 years. Parents have the option to combine the Fun Camp and Academic enrichment sessions.

Children will experience a wide variety of activities which include weekly themes, water play, mini sports and games. The camp organizes onsite visits from the Travelling Zoo which provides an opportunity for pony rides, magic shows and other such fun-filled activities which cater to the interest of the young child.

Enrichment classes in Math and Language are offered for children between the ages of 4 and 7 years, needing academic enhancement at three levels of skills, after their level has been evaluated, before the start of this program - Beginner, Medium and Advanced levels. Classes are conducted by their experienced Montessori school faculty. Parents can contact the office for more details at 609-252-9696.

Ariana Asani, Christine Lewis, and Emma Pliskin picked for Girls’ Career Institute

Apr 14, 2010

The Montgomery Woman’s Club has chosen Ariana Asani, Christine Lewis, and Emma Pliskin as this year’s delegates to Girls’ Career Institute.

Girls Career Institute (GCI) is a program offered by the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs. GCI, held on the Douglass campus, offers a “mini college experience” with a sample of college life: living in a dorm, eating in the college cafeteria, attending lectures and workshops, and meeting girls from around the state. This year GCI will be held June 14 through June 17.

GCI activities include organized sports, swimming, orchestra, and crafts as well as attendance at the lectures and workshops on career choices.

To be eligible, delegates must be finishing their junior year of high school. Delegates are selected on the basis of ability, community service, and participation in school activities.

No MHS Post Prom This Year

By Cliff Moore Apr 14, 2010

The MHS Post prom, which had offered a safe haven for partying students who didn’t want that magic night to end, isn’t on this year.

A spokesperson from the MHS Guidance Office said it was, “lack of interest.”
She explained that a survey went out from the PTA for parents and students to help organize and run it for this year, and there were too few takers to get it off the ground.

The result: this year’s Post prom went the way of the Rec Dept. Spring Egg.

Artist–In–Residence John Murdoch Visits Upper Middle School

By Cliff Moore Apr 14, 2010

Bucks County resident John Murdoch, a figurative painter and art teacher, brought his talents to the Upper Middle School during April. Originally brought to the school bu art teacher Aurelle Sprout, this is the third year Mr. Murdoch worked with the students as an artist-in-residence.
Paid for funding from the school, Mr. Murdock worked with 2 seventh, and two 8th grade elective classes.

“It’s amazing what they can learn at their age. Their so much faster than adults,” said Ms. Sprout.

Mr. Murdoch led his classes through a process of learning to draw from life, using another fellow student as a model.

Photos on our Facebook Page!

MTSD to offer Chinese Language and Culture Summer Program

Apr 15, 2010

SKILLMAN, New Jersey - The Montgomery Township School District will offer the Chinese Language and Culture Summer Program, STARTALK, from July 6 - 30, 2010. This culturally rich, 4-week program for students in grades 5 - 9, is offered at no cost to all students interested in learning Mandarin Chinese.

STARTALK is a federally funded program offering a 3-hour, half-day schedule with two sessions of Chinese language and one session of Chinese culture daily The 4-week program will culminate in a final presentation on July 30th that will be open to the public.

The STARTALK program, originally undertaken by the National Foreign Language Center (NFLC) at the University of Maryland, is a direct result of President Bush's National Foreign Language Initiative with the specific goal of expanding the number of Americans mastering critical-need languages and to have children exposed to these languages at a younger age. "We need a stronger capacity to understand and work with cultures and peoples of other nations," says David Chu, Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. "The central part of that capacity is linguistic facility," Mr. Chu goes on to say.

The program here in Montgomery is being spearheaded by Ms. Jenny Lu, teacher of Chinese at Montgomery High School. Up to three classes may be offered with only 20 spots available in each class. Please contact Ms. Lu at jlu@mtsd.us as soon as possible with questions or visit the district website at www.mtsd.k12.nj.us. For more information on the STARTALK program, please visit http://startalk.umd.edu.

Skillman PDS Student Helps Develop iPhone Math App

By Lea Florentine Apr 16, 2010

When seventh graders Brandon Frank of Princeton and Joseph Haggerty of Skillman wanted to help their Princeton Day School (PDS) classmates learn Algebra, they decided to go high tech. The pair developed an iPhone mathematics application, called Math 101, that challenges students with problems from PDS’s Algebra I Part I curriculum. The app, available online from Apple’s App Store, costs 99 cents. The boys are donating one third of the profits to their school.
John_howe@pds.org

It all started when Brandon, who has always been interested in technology, attended an iD Tech computer programming camp at Rutgers University last August. There he learned the object oriented scripting language JavaScript. He used it to write his first app, ultimate blackjack. “At first” Brandon recounts, his parents “weren’t sure it would work.” Later, they said “How in the world did you do this?”He then started writing a second app, ultimate slots, in the object oriented programming language C++. With the start of school in September time was limited, so he recruited Joseph to help. Brandon taught Joseph C++ and the two decided to make a math app “since we both like math.” According to Joseph “at first it was hard but once I got the hang of it, it was very easy.”

Math 101 required 136 pages of C++ code. This is no small feat as this reporter, who was a programmer for ten years, can attest. Considering that the creators are two seventh graders, it is remarkable. Their classmates approve. “Some people come up to me and say ‘Way to go on the app!’” says Joseph. The boys did take the “easy way out” by offering multiple choice problems since they were easier to program.

According to PDS algebra teacher John Howe “They developed the app on their own. They came to me for a little guidance on the math part; otherwise they did it on their own. They were pretty experienced in how to create an app by the time they came to me. They wanted to get this up and running so their classmates could use it this spring.”

“Math 101 was designed to help other kids with tests. Anyone can use it.” says Joseph. It also features a “Problem of the Month” and a “Teacher’s Pick” brain teaser, which the boys solicit from their classmates. Brandon and Joseph are reformatting Math 101 so it can be run on an iPad. “We’ve been working around the clock to get this app done.”

The boys also felt a need to give back to their community. They priced the app at 99 cents because “you make somewhat of a profit and can donate to the community but it’s not too expensive for kids to buy.”

When asked about their future aspirations, Brandon says “I really like programming.” Joseph thinks he will continue programming “as a hobby” and notes “you can do really cool stuff with it.” For anyone interested in programming their own iPhone or iPad app, Joseph recommends checking out www.developer.apple.com. “You can download tutorials. It’s kid-friendly.”

State Cuts Aid to Board of Education 63.8% - Taxes Will Increase - Activity Fee Remains

By Lea Florentine Apr 16, 2010

The Montgomery Township Board of Education anticipated a 15% - or $1.9M - cut in aid from the State of New Jersey, as well as that same amount of aid “impounded” by the State for the current school year. The Board prepared a $78M budget with a .9% increase in spending. But on March 17 the State informed the Board that $3.9M - or 63.8% - of expected State aid would be cut. The Board held a five hour long public meeting, attended by some 200 people, on March 23 to discuss how to reconcile this difference. It announced 22 staff layoffs and the elimination of the Upper Middle School (UMS) athletic program.

At its April 1 public meeting – six hours long - the Board announced a 5% cut to administrative and supervisory salaries in response to budget concerns voiced by those attending. That night, the Board adopted a $78M budget with a .66% increase in spending. The average homeowner in Montgomery will pay an additional $546 (6%) in school taxes next year, while Rocky Hill residents will see a $200 (4%) increase.

To shave $1.5Mfrom its budget, the Board proposed staff reductions including two elementary World Language teachers ($196.5K; this eliminates the program at the elementary level); two teachers each in kindergarten, third grade, the Lower Middle School, and Orchard Hill Elementary School (OHES) academic support, all due to lower enrollment ($524K); three nurses reduced to part-time ($106K); two technology aides ($68.6K); twelve education support assistants reduced from full to part-time ($282K); one clerk at each school ($234K) ; and a Montgomery High School (MHS) social worker ($72K). OHES and MHS will have two fulltime nurses; the remaining schools will have one fulltime and one part-time nurse. There is currently one tech aide in each school; next school year the elementary and middle schools will share one.

At the administrative level, roughly $.5M in cuts include two Directors ($179K - one part-time); one Supervisor ($103K); four Directors who will be reassigned to the middle schools with part-time teaching duties ($116K); four Teacher Leaders at the elementary schools who will become Supervisors who teach part-time ($60K); and a clerk at the Board office ($46K).

Additional cuts to the budget include reducing the supply and textbook accounts by 10% ($282K); cutting OHES and Village Elementary Team Leader stipends ($97.5K); reducing professional development ($43K); and not adding a proposed part-time gym teacher at UMS ($33K). Cutting the UMS athletic program would save $64K. The parking fee for MHS students will be increased from $30 to $200 to generate an additional $59K.

The Board also proposed cutting MHS’s Supervisor of Guidance on March 23. Nearly 20 people spoke on behalf of Tina Renga, who currently holds this position, citing her dedication to the students during their college admissions process. After debating the issue until 1am, the Board decided to keep the position by reinstating the activity fee for UMS and MHS students who participate in co-curricular sports or activities. During each of the last two years this fee has generated around $100K. It is not known whether Renga will fill the position in September.

The Board’s original budget, prepared before the State announced its cut in aid, would have increase taxes for the average Montgomery homeowner by $423. The drop in State aid would have hiked this number to $850 if the cuts listed above were not enacted. Superintendent of Schools Earl Kim said “We believe the budget that we’re putting forward degrades what we have here in Montgomery.”

Kim noted that out of the 600+ school districts in New Jersey, Montgomery was one of only 14 districts that met the State’s criteria for providing a ‘thorough and efficient education’ yet saw their State aid cut over 10%. The State also considers these 14 districts to have a ‘high’ local tax burden because they pay more than their ‘fair share’. “This gives you a sense of how lean Montgomery is relative to our comparative districts notwithstanding the high taxes our residents pay” said Kim. In a press release, he stated “This [cut] isn’t about fairness, efficiency, or educational effectiveness. It is wrong on a number of levels.” At the April 1 meeting he explained that the State had arbitrarily cut State aid to each New Jersey school district by 5% of its operating budget. Board Member Charles Jacey commented “We didn’t plan to get hit on the head with a meat cleaver.”

An agreement with the Communications Workers of America – the union which represents the Township’s bus drivers - approved on April 13 will freeze their salaries for next year and lower the budget by $112K. Meanwhile, salaries for the Montgomery Township Education Association (MTEA), who represent 80% of the District’s workforce including teachers, will increase 2.35% on average. At both meetings, several residents voiced their concern over this raise in light of cuts to staff and asked the teachers’ union to renegotiate their contract. One resident said “Have the bargaining units ask ‘Who wants to lose their job so the rest of you can have a raise?’.” Another resident commented that “If the teachers would share in the sacrifice their working conditions would be better.” The Board reopened negotiations with MTEA regarding their contracts in April; talks are ongoing.

Triple tier bussing, where bus drivers run three instead of two consecutive routes was suggested by Michel Parise. She said this change, requiring one hour between starting and ending times for the elementary, middle, and high schools, could save over $600K. Board Secretary Thomas Venanzi replied that because of the extensive discussion and planning it would entail, it could not be implemented in September, but could be discussed further later in the year.

State aid will cover 2.7% of the District’s expenses for next year ($2.2M), while local taxes will cover 92.4% ($65.7M). Kim said the Governor has proposed cutting the cap on New Jersey School Districts’ spending from 4% to 2.5%. Debt service on funds for the referendum will amount to $378K for the coming school year.

Montgomery is 19% below the state average for total per pupil cost, administrative cost per pupil, and classroom instruction cost per pupil. It is 33% above the State average for extracurricular costs. According to Venanzi, “this was how the student activity fee came about.” The District has been studying these costs to find money-saving efficiencies.

Although some County and State legislators were invited to the March 23 meeting, none attended. However, some Township Committee Members were present at the meetings.

Kim and Pettit met with New Jersey State Education Commissioner Bret Schundler and State Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman in early April. According to Kim, the legislators “acknowledged that Montgomery was a model district in its efficiency and effectiveness. If the State's revenue picture continues to improve in the fourth quarter, there is a possibility that Montgomery may get some restoration of the recently impounded $1.9M from the 2009-2010 school year. There is a chance that budget negotiations within the State Legislature may result in additional State Aid monies for the District that will be earmarked specifically for tax relief.”

MTSD Responds To MTEA

Apr 16, 2010

Proposal to Reinstate Activity Fee and Increase Parking Fee Eliminated

The Governor challenged school districts around the State to secure a wage freeze from all employees. For MTSD, a wage freeze would achieve a $1.6M savings for taxpayers. The MTSD Board of Education met and surpassed the Governor's challenge by reducing personnel salaries and benefits by $2.4M for FY11. The $2.4M saved in salaries and benefits comes from a combination of administrative salary reductions, reductions in force, healthcare contributions, and the like. Residents will, however, still face a tax increase due to the magnitude of the State's cut in aid ($3.9M) to MTSD.

Superintendent of Schools, Earl Kim, complimented all employees for stepping up under the circumstances. He noted that every staff member made a contribution in order to mitigate the effects of the disproportionate cut in State Aid. Teachers and secretaries gave back 25% of their salary increase for the 2010-2011 school year, administrators gave back between 42% and 100% depending on their position, and bus drivers gave back close to 100%. "While the average Montgomery and Rocky Hill home will face a tax increase of $494/year and $173/year respectively, due to the increase in the general fund levy ($546 and $200 for the respective average home adding the debt service from the previously-approved referenda), Montgomery teachers will share that burden by giving up between $500 and $900 each. The burden of the State cuts is being shared, and this reflects our faculty and staff's commitment to their school-community and keeping our educational system whole," said Mr. Kim.

Kim notes that data collected from comparative school districts during negotiations revealed that MTSD teachers were paid significantly less than other teachers of equal experience, so the concession by the teachers was especially appreciated. "One of our Board's goals is to be able to recruit and retain the best teachers. While MTSD offers a terrific work environment for teachers, economics are also important. We need to pay our teachers fairly in a district that expects a great deal from its staff."

Superintendent Kim also reported that due to public input at recent Board of Education meetings, the Board has decided to eliminate the proposed reinstatement of the Co-curricular Participation Fee and to maintain the Senior Parking Fee at the current $30 level. In taking this action, the Board of Education hopes to avoid potential significant budget reductions that may be imposed by the local governing bodies should the budget be defeated and which would impact the quality and integrity of the educational system.

"We hope that our residents recognize the extraordinary commitment of our Board of Education and the entire school-community and will affirm the dedication and excellent service our staff provides by coming out to VOTE on April 20th," said Kim.

PDS Junior Selected For LEAD Business Program

Apr 21, 2010

PDS Junior Selected for LEAD Business Program Princeton Day School junior Sydney Jenkins of Belle Mead has been selected to participate in the prestigious LEAD (Leadership Education and
Development) Program in Business held this summer at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business.

Sydney was selected based on academic excellence, writing ability and leadership qualities. She will be attending a three-week session at the highly selective LEAD Summer Business Institute in July.
The LEAD program, launched in 1980, encourages outstanding high school juniors from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in business. LEAD offers summer institutes at nine universities across the country for about 270 students selected from more than 1,000 applications.

“This is a great honor for Sydney and for PDS,” said Head of Upper School Carlton Tucker. “Sydney shines in many areas of school life, on the athletic field as well as in the classroom. I’m sure she will make the most of this wonderful opportunity.”

MTSD Welcome New and Returning Board of Education Members

Apr 29, 2010

SKILLMAN, NJ – The Montgomery Township School District is thrilled to welcome two new members and one returning member to seats on the Board of Education. New members, Shalini Bhargava and Lei Yu, and returning member, Andrea Bradley, will occupy three seats for a three-year term ending in 2013.

Ms. Bhargava, a scientist by profession, has lived in Montgomery for six years and has two children in the district schools. “We moved to Montgomery because of the great schools and the strong sense of community,” says Ms. Bhargava. “I feel passionately about putting my time and energy into our children and our schools – our greatest resource,” she goes on to say.

Dr. Yu is a professor of genetics at Rutgers University and moved to Belle Mead in 2005. He has been an educator for over twenty years and has served on a number of national and university-level committees and advisory bodies, including a 4-year term on the National Advisory Council on Drug Abuse, appointed by the US Secretary of Health and Human Services. “Having been an educator my entire professional career, I am keenly aware of the impact of education on one’s career and life,” says Mr. Yu. “Good schools need good community support. I have watched my children thrive in the Montgomery schools and look forward to contributing my experience and support to the school system,” he states.

Ms. Bradley has served on the Board of Education for 6 years. She has lived in the community for 13 years and has three children in the district schools. A retired lawyer, Ms. Bradley is active in her synagogue, Temple Beth El and the American Repertory Ballet’s Princeton Ballet School. “I believe strongly that we all have an obligation to serve our community, in whatever capacity that may take – schools, sports, religion,” Ms. Bradley says. “I believe my passion for children and education and my skills as a lawyer in analyzing and addressing issues have allowed me to contribute positively to our community and to the school district,” she goes on to say.” Ms. Bradley says she is looking forward to her third term and “keeping the focus on educating our children and providing them with the opportunities a top quality education provides.”

Local Magazine Holds Youth Writer and Publishing Camp Summer 2010

Apr 5, 2010

Local children’s magazine, City Kidz World, is holding an 8-week writing and publishing summer camp for children ages 10 to 18 in Skillman, N.J., during summer 2010. Classes will be divided by age.

Young writers and publishers may attend two days a week between May 24 through July 9 or June 28 through August 16. Sessions will be an hour and a half and students will work on nonfiction journalistic writing, fiction, desktop publishing programs, digital photography, or book building. The tuition is only $220 for what will be 16 sessions in-person, with 24-hour access to the camp instructor through an online classroom.

Camp director, Melissa Edwards, who is also part of the editorial and management team of the quarterly magazine City Kidz World, which focuses on multiculturalism and education, said, “At City Kidz World we have an unique team of journalists and teachers. We launched our educational project with our Web site and quarterly magazine two years ago. The magazine always includes feature stories and contests for young. For more information, writingcourses@citykidzworld.com.

Middle Schools Earn the ENERGY STAR for Superior Energy Efficiency

Dec 4, 2009

Both campuses of Montgomery Township’s Middle School have earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) prestigious ENERGY STAR, the national symbol for superior energy efficiency and environmental protection. Commercial buildings and industrial plants that rate in the top 25 percent of facilities in the nation for energy efficiency may qualify for the ENERGY STAR.

“Montgomery Township School District is pleased to accept EPA’s ENERGY STAR in recognition of our energy efficiency efforts,” said Mr. Earl Kim, District Superintendent. “Through this achievement, we have demonstrated our commitment to environmental stewardship while also lowering our energy costs.”

Commercial buildings that earn the ENERGY STAR use an average of 40 percent less energy than typical building and also release 35 percent less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. MTSD improved our energy performance by managing energy strategically across our entire organization and by making cost-effective improvements to our buildings. MTSD has saved over $2.2 million in annual energy bills and prevented greenhouse gas emissions equal to the electricity use from over 1,400 passenger cars per year*.

“Whether you are running a grocery store, a school, or an office building, getting the most out of your energy dollars – while reducing your carbon footprint – just makes sense,” said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson,

To earn the ENERGY STAR, MTSD took the following actions:
· Coordinate usage of facilities and monitor operational efficiency of equipment vs. design.
· Audit buildings during unoccupied times.
· Monitor building usage during occupied times
· Track & analyze consumption for building efficiency
· Use diagnostic loggers to track waste and troubleshoot problem areas
· Maintain energy policy and guidelines
· Minimize consumption and demand charges
· Evaluate usage trends for abnormalities
· Increased employee awareness through education

EPA’s national energy performance rating system provides a 1 – 100 scale that helps organizations assess how efficiently their buildings use energy relative to similar buildings nationwide. A building that scores a rating of 75 or higher is eligible for ENERGY STAR. Commercial Buildings that can earn the ENERGY STAR includes offices, bank branches, financial centers, retailers, courthouses, hospitals, hotels, K-12 schools, medical offices, supermarkets, dormitories, and warehouses.

ENERGY STAR was introduced by EPA in 1992 as a voluntary, market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency. Today, the ENERGY START label can be found on more that 50 different kinds of products, new homes and commercial and industrial buildings. Products and buildings that have earned the ENERGY STAR designation prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy-efficiency specifications set by the government. In 2006, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved about $16 billion on their energy bills while reducing the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of 37 million vehicles.

For more information about ENERGY STAR visit www.energystar.gov.

* To calculate greenhouse gas emissions, please visit http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html

RVCC TO OFFER YOUTH FINE ART CLASSES

Feb 1, 2010

The Corporate & Continuing Education division at Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) will be offering a variety of fine art programs this spring for children ages 6-12. All programs will be held at the College’s Branchburg Campus.

Cartooning: Students ages 6-12 learn the skills necessary to create their own cartoon character. Cartooning techniques using pencil, markers, acrylic and watercolor paints, inks and clay are explored. The class will be held Fridays, February 19 to March 26, from 4-5:30 p.m. The fee is $97.

Basic Drawing: Students ages 6-12 learn to create drawings showing a sense of space on a two-dimensional surface. Participants learn to create designs using one-point perspective, two-point perspective, elliptical perspective and more. The class will be held Thursdays, February 18 to March 25, from 4-5:30 p.m. The fee is $97.

Introduction to Art History: Students ages 6-12 are introduced to the basic structures of art that help people understand an artist’s vision from early times to the present. The class will be held Wednesdays, February 17 to March 24, from 4-5:30 p.m. The fee is $97.

For more information, call 908-526-1200, ext. 8404, or e-mail cce@raritanval.edu. Youth program brochures also can be picked up at the CCE office, located in the lower level of RVCC’s College Center, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

New Horizons Montessori School Organizes Fund Drive For Haiti

Feb 11, 2010

New Horizons Montessori School in Montgomery organized a funds drive to help the victims of the recent devastation in Haiti's earthquake. Children had seen this tragedy unfold on their TV screens but when they brought these checks for the American Red Cross to school, it provided an opportunity for them to talk about it in the classroom. They expressed great sense of participation by helping people in need.

MTSD Support Property Tax Relief in S945, But Caution State to Consider Long-term Implications

Feb 12, 2010

The Montgomery Township Schools support State efforts to address its revenue shortfall in the current year and recognizes that bill S 945 may, in the short term, offer some limited tax relief to NJ residents. Montgomery Township is prepared to work with the State to make additional sacrifices in the near term, however, cautions the State to consider the long-term implications of this bill and sister legislation.

The long-term goal must be for the State to fulfill it funding obligations to NJ schools and to create a sustainable New Jersey. The fact remains that bill S 945, and its sister initiatives, if enacted, will continue to drive up the local property tax levy and will serve to shift the State's obligation for school funding to the local property tax MORE THAN offsetting the short-term savings. The local property tax can no longer be used to fund the State’s budget gap. Long-term local property tax relief needs to be a priority.

In Montgomery Township, we have worked very hard over the years to be one of the most cost-efficient school systems in the state while still delivering an excellent educational experience for our students. While the full impact of S945 on our school district is yet to be determined, Montgomery Township is already so fiscally conservative that some of the bill’s proposed limits to carry-over sick and vacation day compensation will result in no savings to us.

We urge our legislators to recognize the rising cost of healthcare as the critical issue it is. Adjusting teachers' benefits should not be sole "fix" to the system. Price-controls on the demand side are not enough. Those who set insurance prices and supply medical services also need to be part of the solution. The Montgomery Board of Education believes in the collective bargaining process and encourages the administration to work with all constituents to craft a sustainable and agreeable solution for all of New Jersey.

We remind the State that XS Surplus is not “extra cash" lying around, but managed savings in anticipation of future revenue shortfalls. Tapping XS surplus to fill a current-year State Aid reduction creates a local revenue shortfall in the next budget year that can only be managed through program cuts or increases in local levies. If done on a permanent basis, a decrease in fund balance will likely affect our bond rating and thus our borrowing costs. This is not acceptable to our residents. We urge the State to acknowledge these facts and to make local taxpayers whole again by refunding State Aid cuts in subsequent years.

Going forward, the one sure way to restore financial stability and reduce local tax levies is for the State to meet its statutory obligation under the school funding formula. As revenues start to rise, as they already have since bottoming out earlier this fiscal year, the Montgomery Schools expect that the State will make good on its annual $10-15 million dollar promissory note to the district. This kind of statutory compliance would result in local tax levy REDUCTIONS even with increasing enrollments.

Montgomery Township School District stands ready to work with the State in any capacity necessary to achieve both a balanced budget and balanced funding to each school district.

Township Schools Get Good Report Card from State

By Lea Florentine Feb 15, 2010

The New Jersey Department of Education (DOE) released its “report card” on schools in the state based on 2006-2007 information. The report cards provide academic, attendance, and financial data on schools and districts in comparison with state averages. Montgomery High School (MHS) scores for academic success were high.

In language arts, 2.7% of MHS students were partially proficient (compared to 14.7% of New Jersey students); 51.2% were proficient (66%); and 46.1% were advanced proficient (19.4%). In mathematics, 6.1% of students were partially proficient (26.6%); 39.8% were proficient (50.2%); and 54.1% were advanced proficient (23.2%). Science scores were 4.9% partially proficient (27.3%); 66.7% proficient (61.9%); and 28.4% advanced proficient (10.8%). All students (100%) passed the High School Proficiency Assessments, compared with 89.3% of students throughout the State.

MHS students took the SAT at least once, totaling 102%, versus 77% throughout the State. The average MHS math score was 596 (the state average was 509); verbal average was 579 (491); and essay average was 580 (489). 43.6% of MHS students took an Advanced Placement test versus the state average of 16.2%. 86.9% of seniors reported plans to attend a four year college; 7.8% planned on a two year college; 2.2% had other college plans; and 3% had other or undecided plans (there were no state comparisons for these).

Class size at MHS averaged 22.5 students compared with the state average of 19.1. There was an average of 2.4 students for each computer in the school versus the state average of 3.4 students per computer. 9.1% of students were classified as disabled since they had an Individualized Education Program. The percent of students who dropped out during the school year was .1% (all white males with disabilities) versus the state average of 2%. 1% of students were suspended versus 13.5% throughout the state, while none were expelled (versus76 in the state).

There were 202.6 MHS students for each administrator versus the state average of 181.3. The ratio of students to faculty was 12.1 to1 versus the state average of 11.3 to 1. 44.3% of faculty possessed a Bachelor’s degree; 53.6% possessed a Master’s degree; and 2.1% possessed a doctoral degree (no state comparisons were listed for these).

The median annual salary for MHS administrators was $110,215 (versus a state average of $108,431); for faculty the median was $50,915 ($55,550). Regarding pupil expenditures, the total cost per pupil was $11,667 versus the state average of $13,701. Montgomery Township receives 88% of its revenue from local school taxes; 7% from the State; 1% from the federal government; and 4% from other sources. The average district in the State receives 52% of its revenue from local taxes; 39% from the State; 3% from the federal government; and 6% from other sources.
To see the DOE School Report Cards, go to http://education.state.nj.us/rc/rc07/index.html.

Montgomery Students with Disabilities Meet Nearly All State Requirements

By Lea Florentine Feb 15, 2010

According to the State of New Jersey Department of Education (DOE)’s “No Child Left Behind”/Title I report using 2008-2009 data, students with learning disabilities in Montgomery Township’s Upper and Lower Middle Schools (UMS and LMS) did not make “adequate yearly progress” (AYP). These groups passed 40 out of 41 indicators for mathematics or language arts (LA) proficiency on the NJ Assessment of Skills and Knowledge. Village Elementary School (VES) met the State’s “safe harbor” criteria based on improvement from the previous year. As a result, it was deemed to have made AYP despite failing to meet one of the 41 LA requirements.

Montgomery High School juniors met all 41 indicators measured on the High School Proficiency Assessment. Regarding the middle school students, Superintendent of Schools Earl Kim says “We take it seriously if any of our students do not meet standards. While the number is very small, we are concerned.”

A total of thirteen Montgomery students with disabilities did not meet LA requirements while one student at LMS did not meet mathematics requirements. Special needs sixth graders at LMS met 40 out of 41 indicators, and so did not qualify for AYP in LA. UMS students met 40 out of 41 indicators, failing to make AYP in mathematics. The DOE does not follow special education achievement in lower elementary schools such as Orchard Hill Elementary.

Montgomery Superintendent of Schools Earl Kim states “We need to do better for these students. We know we have more work to do.” To address the situation, “We look at individual students, their learning environment, and what programs they are instructed with. We are calling comparative districts that were successful and asking them what they are doing. Administrators as well as instructors are involved in analyzing the problem and crafting solutions.”

Kim notes that “Our larger schools make us more likely to be flagged,” since schools with less than 30 special needs students for each group of grades are not tracked. “Also smaller schools make it easier to provide individual attention and be directly involved with more families. Only four of our 23 comparative districts met AYP; all those that did not were flagged for performance of special needs students. And more of our special needs students are required by the district to take the exams rather than be exempted. Our reasons for this practice are well founded despite the adverse impact they have on the ‘statistics’.” Still, Kim states “We want to explain the variance. These are children with the greatest learning needs, and they deserve every advantage we can provide.”

To view the DOE’s Title I 2008-2009 reports, go to www.nj.gov/education/title1/accountability/ayp/0910/.

MHS Interact

By Elizabeth Andreassen Feb 15, 2010

The MHS Interact Club is a school based branch of the Montgomery Rocky Hill Rotary Club which helps to raise money and supplies for organizations and charities throughout the area. Club advisor Christine D’Amore explained, “Our motto is ‘service above self’ and our goal is to create leaders and to make students aware of the importance of service. We are lucky to have the strong support of the Rotary Club and our school administration. In addition to the club at MHS, there are Interact clubs in the lower schools, which are also extremely active.” So far this year, the MHS Interact Club has been very successful in achieving its goals of serving the community.

Smear-a-Senior was one of their most popular events so far; over $300 was raised for Shelter Box providing supplies and shelter for displaced or homeless disaster victims. This event consisted of smearing a senior with a whipped cream pie, which was fun to participate in and funny to watch. The Interact Club recently made a $500 donation to Shelter Box which helped victims of the earthquake in Haiti.

The club members also put together over 100 bagged dinners for LEAP Academy Charter School in Camden. The meals included over a dozen homemade apple pies from the MHS Food and Nutrition class. Additionally, they raised over $400 by selling over 85 “Hoodies for Hope” to MHS students. The money raised through the sweatshirt sales went to Homes for Hope, an organization that builds homes for the impoverished in Ecuador.

The Interact Club is currently preparing for their most anticipated event, Man of the Year. Male students at MHS will compete in a male beauty pageant, and the money raised will go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which helps grant wishes to children with critical medical conditions. This year will be even more exciting because teachers will be allowed to participate in the competition as well. The men compete in talent, swimsuit, and formal wear competitions, as well as many other entertaining events. Man of the Year will take place on April 22 at Montgomery High School, and it will be a fun way to contribute to a wonderful charity. The Interact Club hopes to see you there!

Calling all Students for the Trash-to-Art Contest

Feb 17, 2010

On March 17, the Montgomery Students for Environmental Action will be holding the annual Trash-to-Art contest. Students of all ages from the Montgomery Township School District are invited to submit their recycled art masterpieces for prizes and awards. In addition, there will be booths set up with kid-friendly activities to promote environmental awareness. Trash-to-Art is not only an opportunity for students to show their artistic talents, but is an event that promotes recycling and sustainability in our community.

Montgomery Students for Environmental Action (MSEA) is a student club at Montgomery High School. This year, it is led by Michelle Liu as president, Aileen Jiang and John Cho as vice presidents, and Mr. Christopher Resch as the teacher advisor. Each year, MSEA continues to advance its goals in promoting environmental advocacy and youth activism in the community. Through programs such as the Trash-to-Art event, beach clean up events, hikes in the Sourland Mountains, and participation in the New Jersey Envirothon competition, MSEA has striven to fulfill its mission of environmental awareness.

The Trash-to-Art event will be held at Montgomery High School on March 17 where students from Kindergarten through 12th grade will submit projects composed of a minimum of 75% recyclable and waste materials. The event will last from 5 to 7 pm with art submissions accepted from 5- 5:30 pm, and awards announcements starting at 6:30 pm. The judging panel will consist of respected adults in the Montgomery community who will pick the winners in each age category. Prizes will include gift-cards and eco-friendly products. MSEA invites everyone to come to the annual Trash-to-Art event! If there are any questions, please feel free to contact us at mseaboard@gmail.cmseaboard@gmail.comom.

MHS Raises $2500 for Haiti

By Alyse Greenberg Feb 18, 2010

In the wake of the January 12, 2010 earthquake near Port-au-Prince, Haiti, people all over the country are thinking about the Haitian people and looking for ways to help. Montgomery students and teachers included. Linda Gesek, the Supervisor of Social Studies at Montgomery High School, is one of those teachers.

Ms. Gesek shared the “60 Minutes” segment “Haiti Relief Aid Unfurls” with her senior honors class and her tenth grade advisory period class, so they could learn more about the challenges facing Haiti and the various relief efforts. She then challenged her students to do something to help. She committed to match any donations raised by the honors class, up to $150. She and Karen Beetham, who co-teaches the advisory class, offered to match the advisory class donations as well, up to $50 each.

The students took this challenge to heart, and raised $1,251, including the match from the teachers. The next step was to decide how the funds could best help the Haitian people. The teachers found out that the Montgomery/Rocky Hill Rotary Club was involved in ShelterBox. ShelterBox, an international disaster relief organization founded by a Rotarian in 2000, responds to emergencies by providing boxes of supplies to those in need. Each box contains a ten-person tent, blankets and other linens, a tool kit, dishes and a stove, and even craft supplies for kids. Other supplies, which may include water purification systems, are tailored to the location and nature of the disaster.

Ms. Gesek contacted the local Rotary Club, and they offered to match the school’s donation. The now $2,500 covered the cost of two full ShelterBoxes, with the additional funds going towards a third. The boxes each have numbers that can be tracked online through ShelterBox.org. Ms. Gesek is very proud of her students. “They are beginning to think globally and to understand that it is important to reach out to others in time of need.”

School Board Presents Preliminary Budget; Activity Fee Eliminated

By Lea Florentine Feb 19, 2010

The Montgomery Township School Board made a preliminary 2010-2011budget presentation to the public on February 9 following its initial presentation on January 25. Superintendent of Schools Earl Kim announced that the $9.5 M in matching aid for capital projects has been received from the State of New Jersey. As a result, $122,250 in capital spending has been taken out of the budget. A new development that will be welcome to many parents is the Board’s plan to discontinue the mandatory $75 co-curricular activity fee for middle and high school students.
The Board noted the importance of providing social and emotional character development and the least restrictive environment to enable special education students to remain in-district and succeed. In addition, the importance of attracting, retaining, and developing world-class faculty was reiterated. To accommodate the decrease in elementary enrollment and the enrollment ‘bubble’ at the Middle and High Schools, one kindergarten, one third grade, and two fifth grade teachers will be eliminated while one High School science and one Upper Middle School physical education teacher will be added. Overall, this results in a $139,000 decrease in salary and benefits.

Requests for carpet replacement at Orchard Hill Elementary School and the Lower Middle School were denied.

General education salaries for the year are projected to be $31.8M, while special education salaries and programs are projected at $11.8M; a roughly 3% increase for both. Kim notes that the District’s spending is above the mean for 24 comparative districts in four out of 15 areas: co-curricular programs; benefits; operations and maintenance; and classroom purchased services (ranging from therapists for autistic students to lease purchases for equipment). Benefits expenditures are expected to be $13.1M - a 9% increase - since medical insurance premiums may rise up to 20%. Operations and maintenance and debt service are both estimated to be around $7M. The Board has been focusing on reduction of the operations and maintenance budget. A 50% decrease in custodial overtime and initiatives such as energy efficiency and the High School’s solar panels have netted $200,000 in savings. Debt service is rising with the approval of December’s referendum.

The District hopes to receive the full $10M in aid due from the State. Firm numbers on State aid are expected on or about March 18 - a month later than usual. This compresses the Board’s timetable. The Board must submit a budget to the State on March 22; a public hearing on the budget is scheduled for March 30 (this may change due to Spring Break); and Montgomery Township and Rocky Hill residents will vote on it on April 20. Kim notes that both the outgoing and incoming governors have proposed usurping New Jersey school districts’ excess surplus (above 2%) to fund the State’s budget shortfall.

Meanwhile, Montgomery Township residents’ school taxes may increase 3.7%; this could mean an increase of $332 on average. This is due to a decrease in assessments coupled with the first payment toward funds approved by the referendum. Rocky Hill residents - who will be paying school taxes to Montgomery for the first time - have seen an increase in home values, and would only see a $3 increase on average. Board Secretary Thomas Venanzi notes that Montgomery school taxes are calculated based on the school year whereas Rocky Hill uses the calendar year. If Rocky Hill based its taxes on the school year, the average increase would be $112.

The Board is facing several budget unknowns: State aid could be the same or decrease by 10%; the State may reduce the tax levy cap from 4% to 2.5%; the State could take 10% of excess surplus – or $500,000 - away; and benefits expenditures are expected to increase from 10 to 20%. All of these factors may require the Board to reduce the proposed budget by as much as $3.8M; Venanzi says his “best guess” is that the reduction will be around $1.5M.

Kim explains “We’re presenting contingency plans if State aid comes in lower. Our benefits number is unknown until March 1, as we are presently getting a new insurance broker.” The Board is considering reductions in staff, increases in class size, elimination of non-mandated programs, cuts to co-curricular offerings, or applying more surplus money to offset costs. Kim notes that the District is “efficient and under-funded. In the absence of State aid, we need to make difficult choices.” Board Members Charles Jacey and Yiping Wang both noted that with all of the uncertainties, this year's budget development situation is the most difficult one they have encountered in their years on the Board.

Public budget discussions will be held at the Board's February 23 and March 9 meetings at 7:30 at UMS.

Information on the 2010-2011 School Budget can be found at www.mtsd.k12.nj.us/montgomerytsd/site/default.asp.

MTSD Credit Rating Upgraded to AA+

Feb 24, 2010

Standard and Poor's, the nation's leading watchdog of financial stability, has upgraded Montgomery Township Board of Education's credit rating on its general obligation debt to "AA+" from "AA" . S & P lists the district's "strong economic and financial profile" as well as "sound financial performance and position that has been maintained over the past several years" as reasons for this upgrade.

As a result of the upgrade to AA+, the school district was able to secure a more favorable interest rate at their recent bond sale, resulting in a $100K/year savings over the next 15 years on the costs associated with the referendum projects.

"The results of the school district's bond sale were extraordinary," says Dave Thompson of Phoenix Advisors, the district's financial advisor. "The Board's conservative budgeting and financial operations served well in the analysis of the School District's credit condition", he goes on to say.

Superintendent Earl T. Kim is thrilled that the "...upgraded credit rating will bring the district well over $1 million in savings over the next 15 years." The Montgomery Township Board of Education is also thrilled with this upgrade to AA+ and commends School Business Administrator, Thomas Venanzi, for his unparalleled dedication to the district's fiscal stability.

The Junior League of Greater Princeton Seeks Volunteerism Scholarship Applicants

Feb 24, 2010

The Junior League of Greater Princeton is now taking applications for its 2010
Volunteerism Scholarship Award. Since 1999, the Junior League of Greater
Princeton has been awarding scholarships to female high school seniors who
demonstrate a strong commitment to community service and voluntarism. The two
scholarships that the applicants may apply for include a $1,000 award for
Excellence and Leadership in ongoing volunteer activities and a $1,000 award for
Demonstrated Leadership in a single community service volunteer project.
Applicants must reside in the Junior League of Greater Princeton service area
(Mercer County, New Jersey, and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, as well as
neighboring portions of Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Somerset Counties
in New Jersey). The awards are to be used for study at a four or two-year college,
university or vocational school.

For further instructions on how to apply and to download an application, please
visit the Junior League of Greater Princeton website at www.jlgp.org or contact
them at grantsandscholarships2010@gmail.com or 609-771-0525. Please note
that all applications must be received by March 15, 2010. Scholarship recipients
will be notified no later than April 2010.

The Junior League of Greater Princeton is an organization of women committed to
promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving
communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The
Junior League of Greater Princeton is a recognized leader in the community for
developing projects and partnerships that increase the literacy skills of young
children and their parents. This has been the focus area for all of their community
service activities in the Greater Princeton area since 2004. The Junior League of
Greater Princeton is able to support training programs, community projects and a
Community Grants Program as well as its Scholarship Program through its fundraising
efforts. Women over the age of 21, committed to voluntarism, regardless of
race, religion or national origin are welcome as members. The Junior League of
Greater Princeton is part of the Association of Junior Leagues International, which
includes 293 Junior Leagues in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Great
Britain. For more information please visit www.jlgp.org.

Waldorf School of Princeton announces New Nursery Program

Feb 4, 2010

Program will be Open to Younger Children and Will Include a New Class

For the first time in its 26 - year history, the Waldorf School of Princeton will open its nursery program to children who are three years old by December 31. Previously, the nursery program was only open to children who were three by June 1. The Waldorf School of Princeton is located at 1062 Cherry Hill Road in Montgomery Township.

"For years, we have had parents requesting that we lower the entrance age for children in our nursery program. For the 2010-2011 school year, we are pleased to finally be able to open up this program to accommodate more children.

With more families needing two-incomes, the reality is that parents must find an appropriate place for their young child to be during the day. Our nursery program is unique because it combines a nurturing home-like atmosphere with the structure and resources of an established school curriculum. We look forward to welcoming new families into this program," said Diane Barlow, Director of Admissions and Development at the Waldorf School of Princeton.

Beginning in September, the Waldorf School will also be adding a nursery class, so that there will be two nursery classes-- a three-day program and a four/five-day program. As with all of the School's early childhood classes (with exception of parent-child), there will be a half-day and a full-day option. For more information about the Waldorf School early childhood program, please contact Diane Barlow at 609-466-1970 x115, admissions@princetonwaldorf.org

MONTGOMERY ENRICHMENT PROGRAM - Summer Plans

Feb 8, 2010

SUMMER PLANS, JUST A CLICK AWAY FOR MONTGOMERY ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
SKILLMAN, NJ, JANUARY 25, 2010:

While the weather may be chilly outside, the Montgomery Township Summer Enrichment Program (“MTSE”) is warming up plans for its fifth summer of exciting educational programs. On-line registration for MTSE is open, and it’s just a click away! Simply go to www.mtsd.k12.nj.us/se to see all the exciting course offerings and register for classes. Once registered, students entering grades 1-12 will have the opportunity to design, write, create, cook, sing, dance, and learn through a variety of course offerings.

Montgomery Township teachers have designed interactive and fun programs intended to delight the students, all the while teaching a variety of topics. “Secret Agent Lab”, for example, allows a student to take a fascinating journey into the world of spies, detection and classified information. “Kids in the Kitchen” has students whipping up tasty treats and “Rocket Design Blast Off” tests the limits of student imagination and design. Looking to prepare for the SAT? There are courses prepared to help your child ace both the Verbal and Math sections.

“Amazing courses are being offered this summer. Each year the teachers provide innovative courses that the students find educational and fun”, says Meredith Quick, the Summer Enrichment Program Coordinator.

The Summer Enrichment Program is offered at Montgomery Lower Middle School, but it should be noted that the program is not exclusively for Montgomery students. Any student from the local area can take a Summer Enrichment Course. Registration is available online for the Summer Enrichment right now. Space is limited, so sign up early and join in the fun!

Early Drop off Program for those affected by new school bus timings

Jun 14, 2010

New Horizons Montessori in the Skillman area of Montgomery is offering an Early Morning Before School Care program starting in the fall.

New Horizons Montessori is also introducing new After School Programs that include “Home Work Help” and Dynamic Fit Kids Program.

Both, the Before School and After School Programs are open to all children between the ages of 5 and 10, who may not be attending their regular school programs.

Parents can contact New Horizons Montessori for more details at (609) 252-9696

Montessori Early Drop off Program For those affected by new school bus timings

Jun 14, 2010

New Horizons Montessori in the Skillman area of Montgomery is offering an Early Morning Before School Care program starting in the fall.

This will allow parents who may be affected by the new proposed busing schedule for Montgomery school district transportation. Parents will be able to drop off their children at New Horizons Montessori, from where the school bus will take the children to their respective schools.

New Horizons Montessori is also introducing new After School Programs that include "Home Work Help" and Dynamic Fit Kids Program.

Both, the Before School and After School Programs are open to all children between the ages of 5 and 10, who may not be attending their regular school programs.

Princeton Junior School Celebrates Graduation

Jun 14, 2010

On Wednesday, June 9, students, faculty, family and friends gathered at Princeton Junior School to celebrate the all school graduation.

The ceremony included an all school procession lead by bagpiper, Don Mee, welcoming remarks and citations for all Grade V graduates by Headmaster, Peter Rapelye as well as musical performances by the PJS Choir and the Grade V graduates.
Grade V students received acceptances from a number of schools, including Chapin School, The Hun School, Newtown Friends School, The Pennington School, Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart, Princeton Day School, Princeton Montessori School, and Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart.

The Princeton Junior School is an independent school offering the highest standard of education for children in Pre-school through Grade V. The School is situated on six acres near the intersection of the Route 206 and Fackler Road in Lawrenceville. The site, near a branch of the Shipetauken Creek, includes meadows, woods and wetlands.

For additional information on the School, please contact Deborah M. Agnew, Director of Admissions 609-924-8126.

List of Local 2010 High School Grads & Where They Are Going

Jun 18, 2010

Montgomery High School

Gilbert Acevedo, Raritan Valley Community C.; Sonali Ahuja, Rutgers U.; Krista Alessandri, Widener U.; Selen Altiok, Rutgers U.; Sandeep Ambrose, Rutgers U.; Connor Andres, Ursinus C.; Julia K Arnold, College of NJ; Dylan Ayrey, Rochester Inst. of Tech.; Kevin Azimi, Rowan U.; Allison Bacon, U. of Virginia; Danielle Baginsky, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Mohamed El Hedi Bahri, Rutgers U.; Shreshth Bajaj, Northeastern U.; Paulina Bak, Rutgers U.; Kelsey Ballinger, Bucknell U.; Stephen Baptiste, Rutgers U.; Joshua Barmak, Ithaca C.; Jennifer Barron, New York U.; Christian Philippe Benz, George Washington U.; Catherine Best, Rutgers U.; Nikita Bhargava, Smith C.; Erik Biago, Raritan Valley Community C.; Kelly Birmingham, Lafayette C.; Tyler Blakemore, Bucknell U.; Kirstin Hailey Blatterfein, Rutgers U.; Zane Adam Bohrer, Wentworth Inst. of Tech.; Mihaela Bojneag, Rutgers U.; Brian Bona, U. of Miami; Robert Booth, Trinity International U.; Jonathan Bozzick, Valley Forge Military C.; Paige Brach, Alvernia U.; Katelyn Brady, Towson U.; Kirsten Brendel, Savannah College of Art and Design; Michael Brown, Rowan U.; Miranda Bull, Syracuse U.; Bridget Burns, American U.; Daniel Cafiero, Franklin and Marshall C.; Robert Cai, Harvard U.; Anna Calabro, Fairleigh Dickinson U.; Adam Caldwell, U. of Arizona; Christopher Caliguire, Wake Forest U.; Elizabeth Camuti, Cornell U.; Corina Cappabianca, New York U.; Matthew Carco, Raritan Valley Community C.; Margaret Carr, Vassar C.; Hope Carter, Ithaca C.; Matthias Cassar, Raritan Valley Community C.; Justina Chan, Drexel U.; Gayathri Chenimineni, Rutgers U.; Melanie Chervin, Quinnipiac U.; Brandon Cheslock, George Washington U.; Matthew Chinn, Wake Forest U.; Rome Chopra, Rutgers U.; Lawrence Chow, Johns Hopkins U.; Taylor Colaiacovo, La Salle U.; Michael Colangelo, Raritan Valley Community C.; Veronica Colon-Lopez, Felician C.; Karlee Comollo, U. of Vermont; Ellen Connacher, Syracuse U.; John Connolly, Lehigh U.; Morgan Conroy, Rutgers U.; Joseph Cooper, Middlesex Community C.; Nicole Corazza, Colgate U.; John Couch, Rutgers U.; Jennifer Cranmer, Ohio U.; Gregory Cui, Rutgers U.; Alicja Cygan, Rutgers U.; Courtney Cytryn, Hobart and William Smith C.; Akash Dalsania, Rutgers U.; Julia Daniels, Grinnell C.; Terence Darcy, Northeastern U.; Abhinav Das, New York U.; Emily Davis, Rutgers U.; Adrian Gabriel Dela Cruz, Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science & Art; Lauren DeLucia, Duke U.; Marisa Desa, U. of Connecticut; Teresa DeSario, U. of Delaware; Dane DiMartino, Rutgers U.; Dylan Dineen, Moravian C.; Trevor Dineen, Lycoming C.; Melanie Dionne, Montclair State U.; Claire Disdier, Cabrini C.; Anthony Donadio, Ohio State U.; Ryan Donovan, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Brian Dougherty, Drexel U.; Ian Douglas, Trinity C.; Jamie Eckhardt, Western Ontario U.; Kristina Elkington, Monmouth U.; Richard William Epp, Concordia U.; Jideobi Ezeonu, Edinboro U. of PA; John Fagard, Pepperdine U.; Dylan Faille, PA College of Tech.; Christina Fakes, Rice U.; Ryan Fallon, Rutgers U.; Vincent Favetta, Fordham U.; Alana Marie Fazio, Cabrini C.; Benjamin Feigenbaum, Stony Brook U.; Ashley Ferentchak, Johnson & Wales U.; Danielle Ferullo, Rutgers U.; David Fields, Boston U.; Gabrielle Fiorillo, Bryn Mawr C.; Alec Fishbone, College of NJ; Christopher Fisher, Northeastern U.; John Richard Foley, Syracuse U.; Matthew Fox, Neumann U.; Michael Friel, U. of Connecticut; Ashley Fullwood-Custis, U. of Redlands; Tyler Gabrielski, Boston U.; Alexander E Gaillard, College of NJ; Matthew Gallitz, Raritan Valley Community C.; Alyssa Gartenberg, McGill U.; Gabrielle Gatti, Monmouth U.; Lauren Geary, Quinnipiac U.; Troy Gebhart, Widener U.; Christina Ann Germak, Rutgers U.; Dhairyasheel Ghosalkar, Cornell U.; Alexandra Giannini, U. of Delaware; Errol Gingis, Undecided; Daniel Giordano, Rutgers U.; Nithya Gnanarajah, Rutgers U.; Kelsey Godfrey, Lafayette C.; Christine Godinez, U. of Richmond; Michael Goldman, Miami U., Oxford; Daniel Gonzalez, Raritan Valley Community C.; Ashley Gottfried, James Madison U.; Alexandra Gray, School of Visual Arts ; Arismita Guha Ray, Drexel U.; George Gurzo, Mercer County Community C.; Julian Haag, U.S. Marine Corps Recruiter; Thomas Burks Hackett, Bucknell U.; Katherine Sarah Hadinger, Marist C.; John Hakanson, U. of Miami; J. Stewart Hallman, Rutgers U.; Elizabeth Halpin, American U.; Kyle Hamilton, Raritan Valley Community C.; Sang Han, Mercer County Community C.; Nisma Haq, Rutgers U.; Amory Hare, Union C.; Asia Haren, Raritan Valley Community C.; Megan Harless, Northeastern U.; Christina Hartnack, Stonehill C.; Ali Hasan, Rutgers U. at Newark; Connor Hayes, Long Island U., C.W. Post Campus; Joseph Heebner, Case Western Reserve U.; Scott Heil, Loyola U. Maryland; Ross Hemmel, Carnegie Mellon U.; Kristofor Hendrickson, College of NJ; Carly Jayne Hering, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Anne M Herman, Rhodes C.; Rachel Hoff, College of the Holy Cross; Nicholas Holdreith, George Washington U.; Emily Homan, Delaware Valley C.; Shirlyn Hong, Northeastern U.; Kristopher Hopkins, Rochester Inst. of Tech.; Scott Hrudowsky, U. of Scranton; Alexander Hsia, Cornell U.; Ke Huang, Columbia U.; Patrick Hurley, Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State U.; Marisa Iati, U. of Notre Dame; Elvin Ip, Rider U.; Jonathan Irish, Raritan Valley Community C.; William Irving, U.S. Marine Corps Recruiter; Amanda Isidro, Liberty U.; Kelsey Jacobson, U. of Maryland, College Park; Min Angie Jang, Parsons School of Design, New School U.; Kelly Jenkins, Drexel U.; Matthew Jerzewski, Syracuse U.; Carissa Johnson, Drew U.; Dale Johnson, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Tapan Kar, U. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Nicole Kaufman, Drexel U.; John Kazan, St. Mary's C. of Maryland; Skylar Kelly, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Alicia Keri, Drexel U.; Carl J Keri, DeSales U.; Michael Kichura, Rutgers U.; Rebecca Kilkenny, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Sun-Jong B Kim, Syracuse U.; Lacey King, Centenary C.; Patrick King, Rutgers U.; Kayla Kirschner, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Frederic Klostermyer, Catholic U. of America; Katie Kochis, Rider U.; Rachel Kolb, College of NJ; Daniel Kozaryn, Mercer County Community C.; Vaishali Krishnamoorthy, Vydehi Inst. of Medical Sciences; Kristin Krukowski, Navy; Priscilla Kuo, College of NJ; Veronica Kyrk, Boston U.; Sarah Ladyman, New York U.; David Lafaman, U. of Scranton; Michael Lan, Northeastern U.; Jacob Paul Land, Loyola Marymount U.; Olivia Lang, West Virginia U.; Allison Larcombe, U. of Maryland, College Park; Jared Lawrence, Rutgers U.; Michael Leddy, Johns Hopkins U.; Nicole Lee, New York U.; Rachel Lee, U. of Notre Dame; Xue Ling Lee, Mercer County Community C.; Matthew Lekh, Miami U., Oxford; Roshan Lellahi, Suffolk U.; Alexander Lepera, Towson U.; Cameron Levis, U. of Colorado at Boulder; Frank L Li, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Kevin Li, U. of Texas, Austin; Valerie Li, College of NJ; Alanna Liao, Rutgers U.; Kevin Lisanti, Pennsylvania State, University Park; James Loupos, U.S. Naval Academy; Ana Lucien, Rasmussen C.; Rebecca Lui, Carnegie Mellon U.; Lan Luo, New York U.; Kendra Lyons, Rhodes C.; Ryan MacMorris, College of NJ; Ian MacPherson, U.S. Military Academy at Westpoint; Ravi Mahadevan, Duke U.; Adam Mainwood, Raritan Valley Community C.; Katherine Manfredi, West Virginia U.; Joseph Dominic Mankowski, La Salle U.; Julie L Manock, Rutgers U.; Lauren Mariana, Rutgers U.; Sean Marinelli, U. of Michigan; Rachel Martin, Lafayette C.; Elena Martinez, Rider U.; Michael Massone, Wesleyan U.; Brian Matejek, Princeton U.; Kate Matheson, Industry; Ryan A Maurer, Central Michigan U.; Jeffrey Mayer, Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State U.; Christina Mazzeo, U. of Scranton; Anna McCall, Roberts Wesleyan C.; Alison McFadden, U.of Vermont; Elijah McMillian, United Tech. Inst.; Kyle Mechini, Oklahoma City U.; Kevin Meier, Boston U.; Melvin Mendoza, Rutgers U.; John Menon, Rider U.; Jeffrey Mertz, Ithaca C.; Paige Miele, Mercer County Community C.; Christine Mihalik, Coastal Carolina U.; Marisa Mikrut, George Washington U.; Lindsey Milich, Quinnipiac U.; Ivana Miljanic, Rutgers U.; Lilian E Min, U. of So. California; James Minnis, Bucknell U.; Adwiteeya Misra, Dartmouth C.; Rebecca Moeller, U. of Delaware; Jina Moon, Boston C.; Joshua Moore, Mercer County Community C.; Rebecca Morack, Parsons School of Design, New School U.; Amanda Moreno, Temple U.; William Morgan, Raritan Valley Community C.; Jennifer Morgenstern, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Caryn Moyer, Ramapo College of NJ; Taylor Mulligan, U. of Miami; Pooja Murali, U. of Texas, Austin; Thiviya Nadesakumaran, Rutgers U.; Creasen Naicker, Raritan Valley Community C.; Kyle Naidu, Rutgers U.; Petra Shipman Nanney, Loyola U. Maryland; Cameron Napoliello, Salisbury U.; Amuthan Narthana, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Emily Nemeth, Ithaca C.; Taylor Neveling, Drexel U.; Laura Ng, Rutgers U.; Christopher Nieves, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical U.; Casey Niper, Marist C.; Danielle Nozza, Centenary C.; Conor O'Brien, Towson U.; Emma O'Sullivan, Drexel U.; Carter Oakley, Syracuse U.; Arseniy Okrainets, William Paterson U. of NJ; Teresa Ilona Olah, King's C.; Chioma Onyiuke, Saint Peter's C.; Andrew Orlowicz, Rutgers U.; Shane Ottey, Raritan Valley Community C.; Aashish Panvelkar, Berkeley C.; Francesca Parayno, Raritan Valley Community C.; Pooja Parikh, Rutgers U. at Newark; Kalyan Paruchuri, U. of Massachusetts, Amherst; Cassandra Passarella, Loyola U. Maryland; David Peister, Rowan U.; Abigail Pereira, New York U.; Ana Peterhans, Tulane U.; Deanna Petrelis, Loyola U. Maryland; Michael Piazza, Rutgers U.; Kara Pizzolato, Coastal Carolina U.; Ankith Polavarapu, Rutgers U.; Paul Popescu, Princeton U.; Kellen Porter, Rutgers U.; Jillian Prentice, U. of Richmond ; Joshua Prevost, Seton Hall U.; Lisa Qian, Rutgers U.; Vennessa Ama Quansah, Rutgers U.; Anjali Ramaswamy, Johns Hopkins U.; Talia Ramo, Muhlenberg C.; Kirsten Rarich, U. of Washington; Shannon Reagan, U. of Colorado at Boulder; Steven K Reiman, Northeastern U.; Laura Resnick, U. of Pennsylvania; Christopher Restaino, U. of New Haven; Amanda Ribeiro, Loyola U. Maryland; Sean Ridder, McGill U.; Robert Robinson, Monmouth U.; Raymond Romano, Syracuse U.; Alexander Rook, College of NJ; Danielle Rosenberg, Pennsylvania State; Carlee Rosenthal, U. of Michigan; Lindsey Rosenthal, Syracuse U.; Jennifer Rossi, Raritan Valley Community C.; Samuel Rothman, Rutgers U.; Jamin Rozenblat, Central Piedmont Community C.; Jacob Rubin, Drexel U.; Chelsea Ryan, Loyola U. Maryland; Shehab Saad, NJ Institute of Tech.; Divya Saboo, U. of Mumbai; Salina Salas, Rider U.; Ranjit Sankar, Rutgers U.; Rebecca E. Sasiela, Johnson & Wales U.; William J Sasiela, U. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Paul Schafer, George Mason U.; Sydney Scharer, U. of Arizona; Garrett Schwarte, Pennsylvania State, University Park; Danielle Sciotto, Shippensburg U.; Adriana Scott, U. of Maryland, College Park; Deepika Seethamraju, Rutgers U.; Nathan Seto, Rutgers U.; Daniel Sgammato, Loyola U. Maryland; Lara Shegoski, U.S. Air Force Academy; Sarah Sheldon, Muhlenberg C.; David Shen, Rutgers U.; James Shen, Brandeis U.; Olga Shvirst, Union County C.; Jared Simmons, Raritan Valley Community C.; Ambika D Singh, Princeton U.; Suraj Sinha, Northeastern U.; Andrew Sklansky, Ithaca C.; Aaron Skoultchi, Rowan U.; Brittany Smith, U.S. Army Recruiter; Julianne Smith, Loyola U. Maryland; Kelly Jean Smith, Drexel U.; Christopher Smyth, William Paterson U. of NJ; Young Sun Song, Pratt Institute; Katherine Specht, Rice U.; Hillary Spohn, George Washington U.; Julie Sprotzer, Northeastern U.; Katherine Jenny Stansfield, U. of Vermont; Cassie Stevens, Towson U.; Samuel Eshaan Stevens, Rutgers U.; JeanMarie Stewart, Roger Williams U.; Sydney Christine Stewart, Northeastern U.; Morgan Stokes, Unknown; Kevin Sun, Harvard U.; Vineet Surapaneni, U. of Texas, Austin; Lela Swartz, Lafayette C.; Amber G Sweeton, Nyack C.; Cristina Taggart, Arizona State; Sowmya Takkellapati, U. of Massachusetts, Dartmouth ; Dylan Talarick, Mercer County Community C.; Peter Taraschi, Alfred U.; Julian Tartacoff, Rutgers U.; Camille Tastenhoye, McGill U.; Sayla Tenenbaum, Temple U.; Brian Testa, Saint Joseph's U.; Aravind Thelekatt, Purdue U.; Jeffrey Thomsen, Coastal Carolina U.; Kathy Tieu, Otis College of Art and Design; Dennis Tom, Rutgers U.; Katherine Marie Tonkin, Messiah C.; Andrew Treble, Culinary Inst. of America ; Mark Treichler, Providence C.; Amanda Triplett, McGill U.; Theodore J VanLiew, Castleton State C.; Sarah VanPeenen, James Madison U.; Rebecca Varghese, American U.; Harrison Venema, Middlesex Community C.; Adam Verducci, Pennsylvania State; Michael Viggiano, Quinnipiac U.; Lauren Villaverde, Lehigh U.; Charles Wade, Raritan Valley Community C.; Emily Wang, New York U.; Jane Wang, Princeton U.; Jeffrey Wang, Rutgers U.; Nicholas Warner, Ithaca C.; Ryan Warrier, Lafayette C.; Carolyn Weinschenk, U. of Notre Dame; Peyton Wells, Drexel U.; Kyle D Wernicki, Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State U.; Jessica White, Richard Stockton C.; Sean Wiegmann, Monmouth U.; Charles Williams, Raritan Valley Community C.; Shannon Williams, Raritan Valley Community C.; Kathryn (Katie) Winge, U. of Texas, Austin; Michael Woitach, U. of Richmond; Kelsey Wojtowicz, Loyola U. Maryland; Rosemary Wright, U. of British Columbia; Andrew Wu, New York U.; Yan Wu, Princeton U.; Eric Wyluda, U.of Vermont; Mengqi (Merry) Xiao, Northwestern U.; Peter Xiao, Carnegie Mellon U.; Roy Xiao, Princeton U.; Fei (James) Xue, Rutgers U.; Conway Yao, Tufts U.; Chung-Yang (Yang) Yeh, Rutgers U.; Mark Yetter, U. of Delaware; Chelsea Zahn, Pratt Institute; Taylor Zahn, Bucknell U.; Christopher Bo Zhang, Rutgers U.; Nan (Justin) Zhao, Rensselaer Polytechnic Inst.; Diane Zhou, U. of California at Berkeley ; Cooper Zhu, New York U.; Jodi Zimmerman, Syracuse U.;

Princeton Day School
Theodore Casey, Hobart and William Smith C.; Adrienne Esposito, Texas Christian U.; Ethan Geltzer, Emerson C.; Savannah Hecker, Washington U. in St. Louis; Neil Karandikar, U. of Chicago; Nishant Nair, U. of Pennsylvania

The Hun School
Michael Ford, Alexandra Liaskos, Alexandra Passano, Nicole Reynolds
The Pennington School
Nikita S. Schulman

Immaculata
Stephen Simon

Karl Held Named President at The American Boychoir School

Jun 2, 2010

(Princeton, NJ) - Chester W. Douglass, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of The American Boychoir School announced the appointment of a new president of The American Boychoir School, Mr. Karl Held effective May 15, 2010. In his announcement, Dr. Douglass said, “We are fortunate to have Karl Held serve as the President of The American Boychoir. He brings a wealth of academic, business, and performance experience that complement the distinctive and unique music education mission of The American Boychoir School”.

No stranger to Princeton or The American Boychoir, Mr. Held was educated at Westminster Choir College, and in the 1980s served as the executive producer of numerous Boychoir recordings under conductor and Music Director, James Litton. Other recording projects include the latest in the series of American Boychoir recordings, Fernando Malvar-Ruiz, Litton-Lodal Music Director, and a recent SONY MASTERWORKS release of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods with previously unreleased material in honor of the composer’s 80th Birthday. Held is in production of a 13-part orchestral radio series for WQXR, formerly the classical radio station of The New York Times.

Acting upon his belief in the importance of Arts in Education, Karl Held has served on several national councils for The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, including the 25th Anniversary Celebrations in 1996, and he serves as an adviser to numerous arts organizations in New York City. From 1998-2009, he served as the Senior Advisor to the president of Gettysburg College. During this tenure, he developed several programs including The Ambassadors Series, an international concert and lecture series incorporating cultural classroom exchanges on a global level. Mr. Held was also instrumental in moving the Leonard Bernstein Center for Artful learning from the GRAMMY Foundation in Los Angeles to Gettysburg College where it was hosted from 2005-2009. The mission of the center was to strengthen education on a national level by preparing teachers, schools and communities to use the arts and the artistic process to learn across all academic subjects. He is a founding member and former Chairman of the Adams County Arts Council, founding board member and secretary to the National Trust for Historic Gettysburg, and was recently named a member of the board of Help is on the Way Today-Cabaret Cares, an organization dedicated to assisting children living with HIV and AIDS. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the presentation of the Key to his native Gettysburg, PA by Mayor William Troxell for “the promotion and appreciation of the arts for all Americans”. Mr. Held is a 2010 Tony and Drama Desk nominated Producer for the recent Broadway revival of RAGTIME, and a 2010 MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets & Clubs) Award for his Production of HYSTERICAL BLONDNESS.

RVCC TO OFFER SUMMER YOUTH ARTS PROGRAMS

Jun 2, 2010

The Corporate & Continuing Education (CCE) division at Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) will offer a variety of visual and performing art programs this summer for children ages 6-17. The following classes will be offered at the College’s Branchburg Campus:

Fine & Performing Arts Camp—Students ages 9-16 create sculptures, paintings, computer art and ceramic works, and stage a performance. The class will be held weekdays, July 7-16, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and repeated July 19-30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee for the July 7 session is $575. The fee for the July 19 session is $719.

Through the Lens & Curtain—Students ages 8-16 experience film and theatre by connecting the two art forms and developing an artistic focus on how plays become film and films become plays. The class will be held Monday through Friday, June 28-July2, from 9 a.m. to noon (for children ages 8-12) or 1-4 p.m. (for children ages 13-16). The class also will be offered the week of July 19-23 (same times for the same age groups). The fee per week is $175.

Multi-Media Painting—Students ages 6-12 create mixed-media works of art as they paint with acrylics, tempera and watercolor. The class will be held Monday through Friday, July 26-30, from 9 a.m. to noon, and repeated the week of August 9-13 (same times). The fee per week is $175.

Fun Making Sculptures—Students ages 6-12 explore construction, form, function and process as they create works of art, choosing a type of work, subject matter and materials. The class will be held Monday through Friday, July 26-30, from 1-4 p.m., and repeated the week of August 9-13 (same times). The fee per week is $175.

Film & TV—Students ages 11-16 are introduced to acting, directing and operating the camera. Script writing, storyboarding and improvisation also will be introduced. The class will be held Wednesday through Friday, July 7-9, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and repeated the week of July 26-30 (same times). The fee for the July 7 week is $150 and $344 for the week of July 26.

TV Hosting/News Anchoring—Students ages 8-15 develop their own stories by researching current events in the news and entertainment world. Teams are formed and kids work as hosts, reporters, camera operators and directors—delivering under “deadlines,” just like the pros. The class will be held Wednesday through Friday, July 7-9, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and repeated the week of August 9-13 (same times). The fee for the July 7 week is $150 and $344 for the week of July 26.

Acting for Camera—Students ages 8-15 are taught how to act on camera in commercials and film scenes by reading scripts and learning the art of improvisation. Students learn how to personalize the script and deliver lines on cue. Proper audition techniques also are covered. The class will be held Monday through Friday, August 16-20, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee is $344.

Making A Rock Band—Students ages 13-17 form a rock band that will perform one or two simple rock songs. Prerequisites: Guitar players must be able to play basic chords; bass players must be able to play simple bass lines in time; drummers need to be able to keep steady time; keyboard players need to know basic chords; and saxophone players need to be able to improvise musically. All students must be willing to try singing. The class will be held Monday through Friday, July 12-16, from 9 a.m. to noon, and repeated August 16-20 (same times). The fee per week is $175. For specific information about appropriate musical equipment, call 908-526-1200, ext. 8404.

So You Want To Be a Model—Students ages 10-17 spend a week learning what it takes to get started in the modeling industry. The class will be held Monday through Friday, June 28-July 2, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee is $344.

Before- and after-care are available for youngsters. For more information, call 908-526-1200, ext. 8404, or e-mail cce@raritanval.edu.

RVCC, located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ, and serving Somerset and Hunterdon County residents for over 40 years, offers more than 90 associate degrees and certificates. In addition, customized training programs and non-credit courses are available for those seeking personal and professional development.

The College is committed to offering a quality and affordable education through effective teaching, liaisons with the community’s businesses and state-of-the-art technology. For further information, visit www.raritanval.edu.

MHS teacher and student to join Earthwatch Expeditions

Jun 4, 2010

Montgomery High School is pleased to announce that English teacher, Christine D’Amore and rising senior, Aileen Jiang have been selected to receive Earthwatch Institute fellowships this summer.
Funded by grants, the Earthwatch Institute is an environmental organization that promotes awareness of environment issues across the world. Earthwatch fellows work with scientists from all over the world to conduct research in the field.

This summer, Aileen will be traveling to Arizona to participate in the “Southwestern Earth and Skies Through Time” expedition. Her grant was awarded through the generosity of Earthwatch’s Student Challenge Awards Program (SCAP). Ms. D’Amore will travel to Wyoming on a “Songbirds of the Rocky Mountains” expedition thanks to a grant by the Gerladine Dodge Poetry Foundation.
Aileen and Ms. D’Amore are not strangers to volunteerism. Ms. D’Amore has been the advisor of the Interact Club at MHS for the past six years and Aileen will serve as president for the 2010-2011 school year.

For more information about the Earthwatch Institute, visit www. earthwatch. org.

MHS AP Economics Teacher to Participate in AP Program Reading

Jun 7, 2010

Mr. Robert Zywicki, teacher of AP Economics and World Studies at Montgomery High School, was selected to participate in the annual Reading and Scoring of the College Board's Advanced Placement Examinations this June in AP Macro Economics.

Each year, the AP Program, which is sponsored by the College Board, gives more than 1.5 million capable high school students an opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses and examinations. Based on their exam performance, successful students can receive credit and/or advanced placement when they enter college.

More than 2.9 million examinations from more than 30 AP Courses were evaluated by over 10,000 AP Readers from universities and high schools. Representing many of the finest academic institutions in the world, these educators come from the United States, Canada and abroad.

The AP Reading is a unique form in which academic dialogue between high school and college educators is fostered and strongly encouraged.

"The Reading draws upon the talents of some of the finest teachers and professors that the world has to offer," said Trevor Packer, Vice President of the Advanced Placement Program at the College Board. "It fosters professionalism, allows for exchange of ideas and strengthens the commitment to students and to teaching. We are grateful for the contributions of talented educators, like Montgomery's Robert Zywicki."

It's Time To Buy Some "Spring"

Mar 11, 2010

Montgomery Middle School PTA'S annual Plant Sale is being held just in time for Mother's Day. Once again we will have a wonderful selection of annuals, hanging baskets, flowering shrubs and evergreens, and a variety of decorative containers with lush flowers at great prices. This is a PTA fundraiser, so thank you ahead of time for your generous support. The Plant Sale will be held on Wednesday May 5th between 12:00 - 7:00 pm, Thursday May 6th and Friday May 7th between 9:00 am - 6:00 pm at the Lower Middle School Campus. Please stop buy on those days for a big selection of nursery quality plants and flowers at prices that can't be beat grown by some of N.J. local growers.

It's a great way to show all those moms, grandmothers, aunts, etc. how much you love and appreciate them. A beautiful plant says it all.

LANCE TO HOST CONGRESSIONAL ARTS COMPETITION FOR 7th DISTRICT HS STUDENTS

Mar 12, 2010

Winning Artwork To Hang in the U.S. Capitol for One Year

WASHINGTON – Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) today announced that he will be hosting a congressional art contest for high school students within the Seventh Congressional District, which includes towns in Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset, and Union counties.

Lance said the winning artwork will hang in a corridor in the United States Capitol Building for one year along with art from similar art contests held in congressional districts across the country.

“It is my privilege to host this special Congressional District Arts Competition,” said Lance. “It’s my hope that artistically talented Seventh District high school students will consider participating in this unique art contest.”

The National Congressional Arts competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since that time more than 650,000 high school students have been involved in the competition.

Lance’s art contest is free and open all high school students’ grades 9 thru 12, who reside in the Seventh Congressional District of New Jersey. All artwork must be original in concept, design, and execution.

All entries must be submitted to Lance’s Flemington or Westfield district offices no later than May 5, 2010. Students, who would like to participate, should contact Brad Myhre in Lance’s Flemington office for further details at 908-788-6900.

Lance noted that last year’s art contest winner was Marta Buda from Watchung.

RAMBLING PINES DAY CAMP OPEN HOUSE

Mar 15, 2010

Rambling Pines Day Camp will be hosting OPEN HOUSES on Sunday, April 11, 2010 and April 25, 2010 from 1 - 3 PM. Parents and children are invited to attend the open house, tour the facility and meet some of the staff members. Applications are being accepted for the 2010 summer season. Parents are encouraged to register as soon as possible to assure availability.

Rambling Pines is a family owned and operated day camp now celebrating its 35th season. Located on Route 518 in Hopewell, NJ, Rambling Pines offers an extensive camp program for children ages 3 to 15 and an exciting teen program for young adults, 8th through 10th grades. Transportation and lunch are included in the camp tuition.

For additional information or a brochure, call the camp office at (609) 466-1212 or log onto our website at www.ramblingpines.com.

Montgomery Teams Compete in Science Olympiads

Mar 18, 2010

The high school Science Olympiad team competed on Tuesday, at Middlesex County Community College, against 25 other teams from schools all over the state. Overall we finished 4th.

Our team consisted of 20 students, grades 10-12, competing in 26 different events. The events were supervised and adjudicated by professionals from various NJ businesses and academic institutions.

Results for the top six finishers in each event were announced at the competition. Other places ought to be appearing shortly on the NJ SO web site, but are not there as of this morning.

Our students begin work in September, spending a lot of time after school to learn as much as they can about the various events, which deepens their understanding of various scientific fields and gives them experience tackling mini-engineering design challenges.

Here are our top results:

Ecology--1st--Aditi Misra, Sowmya Takkellapati--Students must demonstrate their knowledge of various climatic conditions and factors that shape the natural environment.

Egg-O-Naut--2nd--Richard Zhang, Taisu Kumar (This is a bottle rocket event. Students had to design and build a device from a 2-L soda bottle that could be launched in the air and return an egg safely. Winners kept the egg aloft for the most time).

Elevated Bridge--4th--Alex Hsia, David Zhao, Comway Yao, James Sha (build a bridge out of balsa wood capable of supporting weight most efficiently)

EpiChallenge--6th--Conway Yao, Aditi Misra, Jane Wang, David Zhao (conduct original research into a public health question and report on the findings. Our students investigated the impact of athletic team membership on student sleep quality and habits)

Experimental Design--2nd--Rich Zhang, Rishi Kaneriya, Nikhil Kaushal (given a situation, design and execute an experiment to answer a question about the system)

Forensics--3rd--Rishi Kaneriya, Aileen Jiang-- analyze evidence from a crime scene.

Helicopter--2nd--Rich Zhang, James Sha, Alex Hsia-- design and build a rubber-band powered helicopter and keep it aloft for a maximum amount of time

It's About Time--3rd--Rich Zhang, Taisu Kumar-- Build a clock capable of determining time in an accurate way. Our students used a pendulum design.

Mission Possible--1st--Alex Hsia, Andrew Chen, James Sha, David Zhao, Tapan Kar-- design and build a Rube Goldberg machine that employs 10 mechanical steps to raise a flag, as close as possible to a time specifed by the judges. Our team put a ton of time into this and were spot-on at competition.

Mousetrap Vehicle--1st--James Sha, Alex Hsia-- design and build a car powered solely by mousetraps that can propel itself along a track, stop, reverse itself, and stop again at a designated line. The judges called our entry "Spectacular."

Physical Science Lab--6th--Taisu Kumar--Design blades that could be mounted on a kind of wind turbine to obtain an electric current, and demonstrate knowledge about alternative energy supplies.

Picture This-- 3rd--James Sha, Alex Hsia, David Zhao--Basically a kind of science vocabulary Pictionary competiton.

Remote Sensing--3rd-- Ashish Krishna, Andrew Chen-- Interpret satellite images and draw conclusions about topography and ecology.

Trajectory--3rd--Taisu Kumar, Richard Zhang-- Build a catapult capable of launching tennis balls precise distances.

Write It-Do It-4th-- Jennifer Li, Conway Yao-- One student must describe in writing a Lego contraption that the judges make. The other student has to build an identical contraption using only his partner's directions.

Other team members: Sakshi Gandhi, Tapan Kar, Kelly Shen, Jerry Zhang

Stuart's TartanTones Lend their "Voices for Haiti"

Mar 2, 2010

The TartanTones are again lending their voices to raise funds for a worthy cause.
Fresh off the success of A Princeton Christmas, which raised funds for the United Nation's World Food Program, the vocal ensemble from Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart, will be singing at the Philadelphia Academy of Music on March 8th. Entitled, "Voices for Haiti," the benefit concert will raise money for earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

The benefit concert will feature the voices from several other Philadelphia-area choirs including, the Country Day School of the Sacred Heart (a sister Sacred Heart school in Bryn Mawr), the Brandywine Singers, the New Hope Revival Choir, the Bala Cynwyd Methodist Church Choir and the Washington Memorial Pipe Band.

The event will be hosted by CBS-3 (KYW-TV) personality Bob Kelly. The concert will begin at 8:00 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online at www.kimmelcenter.org. Proceeds from the concert will benefit victims of the Haiti earthquake through the American Red Cross.

"Stuart is pleased to participate in this event," said Dr. Nancy Graham, Stuart's Upper School music teacher and director of the TartanTones. "The students at Stuart are committed to making a difference in the world. This vision is central to our unique mission and community service is a large part of how our girls can contribute to the betterment of our global society."

About Stuart: Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart is an independent Roman Catholic school for girls in kindergarten through grade 12, as well as a coed preschool and junior kindergarten. Now celebrating its 46th year, Stuart is a member of the National and International Network of Sacred Heart Schools. Stuart offers an education deeply rooted in the goals and criteria of the Sacred Heart that enriches, inspires and empowers its students. While academic rigor is emphasized at Stuart, values are also placed on physical

Campus News - April 2010

Mar 22, 2010

University of Delaware
The following students were named to the University of Delaware’s Dean’s List for the fall 2009 semester:
Christian Aurup, a Freshman Quantitative Biology major in the College of Arts and Sciences, from Belle Mead.
Emily Berrue, a Sophomore Health Behavior Science major in the College of Health Sciences, from Belle Mead.
Lindsay Jacob, a Freshman History major in the College of Arts and Sciences, from Belle Mead.
David Mohns, a Junior Criminal Justice major in the College of Arts and Sciences, from Belle Mead.
Gregory Parks, a Sophomore Civil Engineering major in the College of Engineering, from Belle Mead.
Allison Pedinoff, a Freshman Elementary Teacher Education major in the College of Education and Public Policy, from Belle Mead.
Maria Pizano, a Senior Human Services major in the College of Education and Public Policy, from Belle Mead.
Scott Slotkin, a Junior Communication major in the College of Arts and Sciences, from Belle Mead.
Christopher Sparno, a Freshman Finance major in the College of Business and Economics, from Belle Mead.
Arielle Starkman, a Sophomore Elementary Teacher Education major in the College of Education and Public Policy, from Belle Mead.
Camille Vazquez-Reyes, a Sophomore Communication Interest major in the College of Arts and Sciences, from Belle Mead.
Katherine Wiseman, a Senior Chemical Engineering major in the College of Engineering, from Belle Mead.

Susquehanna University
Dariella Rocca of Belle Mead was named to Susquehanna University’s Deans List for the fall 2009 semester.
Dariella a junior majoring in writing is a 2007 graduate of Montgomery High School and the daughter of Thomas and Karen Rocca.

University of Delaware
The following University of Delaware student completed his degree requirements in December 2009. The University of Delaware held its Winter Commencement exercises January 9 in Newark, DE. The Commencement speaker was educator and UD alumna Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden.
Thomas Cender of Belle Mead earned Bachelor of Mechanical Enginee in Mathematics, Mechanical Enginee in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Enginee in Materials Science & Engineering and Mechanical Enginee in Chemistry.

University of Dayton
University of Dayton has named Lisa A. Finley of Belle Mead to the Dean's List for the fall semester of the 2009-2010 academic year.

Rowan University
A former student and baseball player at Montgomery High School is off to a great start for Rowan University. The junior right-hander is currently 2-0 with a 2.57 era, in two appearances. Ryan is a Business Management Major, and a Deans List award achiever.

Drexel University
Cameron Birch, a junior biomedical engineer concentrating in neuroengineering, was elected as the new editor in chief of The Triangle for the winter term.
Following his graduation as a biomedical engineer, Birch wants to become a medical scientist through an M.D./Ph.D. program. He commented that he has been influenced by the CNN correspondent Sanjay Gupta, a neuroscientist and journalist who was recently considered for the surgeon general spot.
Cameron is 2007 MHS graduate.

Kean University
The following students were named to Kean University’s Deans List for the fall 2009 semester:
Stephanie McLaughlin of Belle Mead.
Alexander Mathew and
Jennifer Song, both of Skillman

Aftercare Now Available for Montgomery Township Summer Enrichment Program

Mar 30, 2010

Looking for a diversified educational summer program with child care until 6pm? Montgomery Township Summer Enrichment and the Montgomery Township Recreation Department are working together to provide exciting summer activities for students.

Consider enrolling your child into one of the many Summer Enrichment courses from cooking to robotics and as long he/she is enrolled in Montgomery Township Recreation Department’s Rec n’ Crew and post camp, they will be able to stay at LMS until 6pm for the weeks they are attending Summer Enrichment courses.

Infuse your child’s summer with exhilarating educational programs such as French cooking, Baseball, Computers and Math- Perfect Together, Military History in Miniature, or Reader’s Theatre. Courses such as SAT Prep in Math and Verbal are also offered along with Organic Chemistry and 3-D Computer Programming. Numerous Science programs are also provided through Mad Science of NJ and the electrifying staff of the Montgomery Township School District such as Rocket Design Blast Off and Science by Consensus. Many more amazing educational programs are also available on the Summer Enrichment Brochure located online at www.mtsd.k12.nj.us/se .

The Montgomery Township Recreation Department will begin enrollment for the Rec n’ Crew Program May 1st at the Otto Kaufman Recreation Center starting at 9am. Registration for the Montgomery Township Summer Enrichment Program is available online, www.mtsd.k12.nj.us/se . While the Montgomery Township Recreation Rec n’ Crew Program’s registration is ongoing the Summer Enrichment Program’s registration will close online as of June 15th. Courses are filling fast! Registration for Summer Enrichment will be available in person the morning the course will begin if any openings remain.

Summer Plans Just A Click Away For Montgomery Enrichment Program

Mar 8, 2010

While the weather may be chilly outside, the Montgomery Township Summer Enrichment Program ("MTSE") is warming up plans for its fifth summer of exciting educational programs. On-line registration for MTSE is open, and it's just a click away! Simply go to www.mtsd.k12.nj.us/se to see all the exciting course offerings and register for classes. Once registered, students entering grades 1-12 will have the opportunity to design, write, create, cook, sing, dance, and learn through a variety of course offerings.

Montgomery Township teachers have designed interactive and fun programs intended to delight the students, all the while teaching a variety of topics. "Secret Agent Lab", for example, allows a student to take a fascinating journey into the world of spies, detection and classified information. "Kids in the Kitchen" has students whipping up tasty treats and "Rocket Design Blast Off" tests the limits of student imagination and design. Looking to prepare for the SAT? There are courses prepared to help your child ace both the Verbal and Math sections.

"Amazing courses are being offered this summer. Each year the teachers provide innovative courses that the students find educational and fun", says Meredith Quick, the Summer Enrichment Program Coordinator.

Registration is available online for the Summer Enrichment courses right now. Space is limited, so sign up early and join in the fun!

PJS CELEBRATES YOUTH ART MONTH

Mar 8, 2010

PRINCETON, NEW JERSEY: March is YOUTH ART MONTH, a national observance of K-12 Art Education. Sponsored in New Jersey by AENJ (Art Educators of New Jersey), a professional organization, and run county by county, YAM showcases the artistic talents of children. The event aims to emphasize the benefits of arts education in all NJ schools.

PJS Art Teacher, Eileen Marin, has entered the art work of our Grade 5 students into the MERCER COUNTY EXHIBIT. The student submissions, “Vase of Flowers” coordinate with the Grade V flower study in science class. The project reinforces environmental practices at PJS by using, or re-using, old wallpaper and fabric sample books. It included an exploration of Principles of Design, such as balance and unity and the relationship between figure and ground. Students cut out flowers and vases from the wallpaper and fabric samples to create a beautiful composition. The vases and some flowers were then stuffed to create a 3-D effect. The artwork can be seen at the ARTS COUNCIL OF PRINCETON from Monday March 8 to Friday March 12 during regular hours. A CLOSING CEREMONY will be held on FRIDAY, MARCH 12 at the Arts Council from 6-7pm. All are invited.

Congratulations 5th Graders on the acceptance of your artwork into the county show, and good luck on making it to the State exhibit.

For additional information on the School, please contact Deborah Agnew, Director of Admissions,(609) 924-8126.

DOE Recognizes Montgomery Middle School

May 11, 2010

Education Commissioner Bret Schundler today announced that two middle grades schools have been selected as the 2009-10 New Jersey Schools to Watch® in recognition of their high quality academic programs and active support of student development.

This year’s Schools to Watch are Black River Middle School in Chester Township (Morris County) and Montgomery Lower Middle School in Montgomery Township (Somerset County).

The program identifies schools with grades 6, 7, and 8 that do an exemplary job of addressing student achievement and the unique needs of early adolescents. The schools are showcased statewide and nationally to promote their instructional practices, programs to enhance personalization and leadership structures.

“The developmental stage of early adolescence is an important time for students as they experience significant mental, physical, social and emotional growth,” said Commissioner Schundler. “It is during this period, when values and attitudes are developed and goals for the future are set. It is important that we recognize schools that are academically excellent and developmentally responsive to the needs of young adolescents, so they can serve as role models and mentors for others.”

The schools will be recognized at an awards ceremony at Kean University on May 17, at the June 16 State Board of Education meeting, and at the national Schools to Watch conference June 24 to 26 in Washington, D.C.

“Challenging all students to use their minds well during these formative years is critical to continued success in high school, college and beyond,” Commissioner Schundler said. “The schools announced today will become part of a state and national network of high-quality, innovative schools to assist others in their improvement efforts.”

New Jersey is one of 18 states that participate in Schools to Watch, which is sponsored by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform. The state joined the program in 2007.

New Jersey Schools to Watch is a partnership between the Department of Education (DOE); the Garden State Partnership for Teacher Quality, which includes Kean, Rowan and William Paterson Universities; the New Jersey Middle School Association; the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association/Foundation for Education Administration; and the New Jersey Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Schools must apply for the New Jersey Schools to Watch program. Participating schools use national criteria to engage in self-assessment and reflection with an emphasis on high quality instruction, adult advocacy, equal access to programs and services, and sustained support for school improvement. Schools undergo a rigorous review and full-day site visit by a team of educators representing the program partners.

Schools to Watch are designated for three years and must continue to show improvement and a commitment to the needs of middle level students. Each school must agree to host visitations and share best practices at state conferences and workshops.

The DOE and its partners will provide additional technical assistance to the schools not selected as Schools to Watch.
All schools that applied for the designation will become part of a professional development program which will provide technical assistance, and other professional learning opportunities to assist schools to address areas that do not yet meet the Schools to Watch criteria. Schools are encouraged to remain in the network and continue their improvement efforts using the Schools to Watch framework.

With the designation of the two schools today, New Jersey has a total of nine Schools To Watch. The schools originally selected in 2007-08 must reapply for designation in 2010-11 to continue their designation and participation in the program.

Applications for the 2010-11 Schools to Watch program will be available on DOE’s Web site beginning in May and will be due in October. For more information on the Schools to Watch program, please go to: http://www.nj.gov/education/dsis/stw/.

KIDS’ MUSICROUND OFFERS FREE SAMPLE CLASS June 7 & 14

May 13, 2010

Montgomery, NJ (Summer, 2010) Kids’ MusicRound, the award-winning music and movement experience for families with young children, is offering free preview classes of its summer programs at The Dance Factory, 10 Vreeland Drive, Suite 107, in Skillman.

The free, 45-minute, sample classes are scheduled for Monday, June 7 and 14 (10:00 am) and Tuesday, June 1 and 8 (9:30 am). These free sessions encourage adults and children to explore the joy of music play and movement. Led by trained faculty, families with infants and children through age five will have opportunities to sing, clap, dance and play rhythm instruments while learning about early childhood music development.

The Kids’ MusicRound series begins its summer session on July 8 in Montgomery. The 6-week, 45-minute sessions are available on Wednesday mornings, and the program includes two CDs of traditional, original and world music that can be enjoyed at home and in the car.

To reserve a space in a free sample class, request a brochure or for more information, please call (609) 333-0100. Or, for a full schedule with information on Kids’ MusicRound philosophy, teachers and videos, visit the website at www.KidsMusicRound.com.

MHS Teacher Designs New Math Twist on Classic Card Game

May 13, 2010

Dan Fishman knows mathematics and he knows how to make mathematics fun. A teacher of Algebra II and AP Calculus at Montgomery High School since 2005, Dr. Fishman knows that games can be a valuable tool for a mathematics teacher as they allow all levels of students to feel successful and develop skills through play that can often be frustrating during a typical mathematics lesson.

"DocFish is a relatively simple game that can be addictive and fun," says Dr. Fishman. "It evolved over a period of two years as I played prototype versions with my students and with indulgent family members," he says. "All you need is two players and two decks of cards," he goes on to say.

DocFish - a variation on the classic game of Go Fish - helps students memorize multiplication facts, but also become familiar with procedures used to simplify radicals. It also helps them understand factoring and other arithmetic concepts.

"We are proud that others have a chance to share in the passion and creative energy Dan brings to mathematics that we have come to cherish" says District Director of Mathematics, Dr. Christine Burton.

Dr. Fishman's article on his game of DocFish was just published as the cover story in the May issue of "Mathematics teacher," the journal of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). For more information on Dr. Fishman's game of DocFish or to access the article or other journals from the NCTM, please visit www.nctm.org .

MHS Students To Pay $500 Per Item Participation Fee Under New Budget

By Cliff Moore May 18, 2010

David Pettit, chairman of the Montgomery Township Board of Education, came to Rocky Hill Borough Council on May 18, to make a case for amending the new, revised 2010-2011 school budget, which, as it was, wouild have been $1.952 million less expensive than the one voters rejected. “It was a significant hit for us because we are a much more efficiently run district than some others,” he said. They were hoping Rocky Hill would restore some of the funding.

How would the Township subcommittee have done cut $1.9 million? In the words of one person at the Borough Council meeting who wished to remain anonymous, “By making parents choose between losing your baby’s toes or his fingers.”

The biggest bombshell may have been the activity fee, still pegged at $75. That’s just for starters: students participating in sports such as baseball, soccer, football, and basketball, will be expected to pay as much as $500 for each sport, in addition to the activity fee. A typical graduating senior, participating in two sports, will cost $1000 per year. Mr. Pettit said that some sports actually cost the district more than $1,000 per child.

The original budget had no activity fees.

The second big bite is bussing. The three-tiered bussing schedule, which parents objected to several years ago when the new high school opened, will change.But, this will mean that OHES kids would be brought home in winter will at twilight. Not only that, but the drop-off locations will be spaced further apart, which means longer walks. In the dark. This, Borough Council was told, will result in a $700,000 savings for the school district.

Afterwards, both Councilpersons Linda Goldman and James Banks, both Rocky Hill representatives on the special committee which met numerous times over three weeks to go over the numbers, said that they had been asking for those figures from day one This presentation, they said, was the first time they learned what the actual costs were. They stunned to find that the MTSD, which documents every expense in every category, seemed to have been hiding these numbers from them.

Nevertheless, Borough Council approved the budget, which went to Montgomery Township Committee tonight, May 18 for approval. Both municipalities had to approve the same, exact document, which then would have gone to the Board of Ed. The Board could have used the same numbers, but changed priorities instead, restoring it to bussing, say, but taking it from someplace else.

Mayor Zimmerman, who recused himself from the vote, said the new budget will result in a 56$ increase in the school portion of Rocky Hill taxes. Because the county taxes will be cut somewhat, and because the municipal portion of Rocky Hill’s taxes will show no increase, the total tax bill for Borough residents should remain flat.

For Township taxpayers, it will mean an increase of considerably less than the forecast increase of $422. Under the original budget, Borough residents would have seen an increase, says Mr. Pettit, in the mid-$200 range.

Heart Screenings Offered to MHS Athletes

By Lea Florentine May 18, 2010

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) can strike a seemingly healthy teenager during a school sporting event. While it is very rare, the tragedies that can occur make prevention critical. However, the causes of SCD may not be detected in routine physicals.

Although there are tests which can find these conditions, “The main impediment to implementation of a screening strategy for all athletes has been cost” explain Montgomery High School (MHS) Athletic Director Tony Maselli and School Nurse Pam Gizzi. The pair’s perseverance will result in the administration of affordable screenings at MHS in June to detect athletes at risk of SCD, helping to ensure it doesn’t claim one of their students.

In an April letter to MHS parents, Gizzi and Maselli explained “The leading causes of SCD among young athletes are congenital cardiac diseases, particularly hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).” There are 200 gene mutations that can cause HCM, which affects in 1 out of 500 people.

An Electrocardiogram (EKG), which measures the heart's electrical activity, can detect "electrical" disorders such as Long QT wave and Wolf-Parkinson-White syndromes, but does not catch all cases of HCM. An Echocardiogram (ECHO), which looks at the heart via ultrasound, usually detects HCM. When performed together, the two tests are most successful in detecting causes of SCD. But an ECHO alone can cost $500, and neither test is covered by insurance.

Six years ago, Gizzi had spoken to the school's doctor about her wish to administer the tests to her students. Maselli had been reading more and more about HCM, which has claimed professional athletes, in the last few years. He told Gizzi, "We really should be doing this." In 2004, an eighth grade student in Montgomery died suddenly. Last year, Kittim Sherrod of Edison and Brandon James of South Brunswick - both 17 years old - died of SCD while participating in sports. Maselli, whose son is an athlete at Spotswood High School, notes "That really got me going again."

Gizzi and Maselli's letter informed parents that "The MHS Athletic Department has been able to secure the services of a Board Certified cardiologist who is prepared to administer the above screening at a cost of $60 for both tests. The EKG is the same as one would get at a hospital, while the ECHO exam focuses on detecting HCM only." The screenings, lasting less than ten minutes, will be offered to graduating seniors and students who plan to participate in athletics or marching band at MHS during the 2010-2011 school year (students currently in grades 8 through 12). They will be held at MHS on June 11 from 3pm and on June 12 and 13 starting at 8am (registration is required by May 24 - see below). "It's the best $60 a parent can spend - less than a pair of sneakers" says Gizzi.

According to Gizzi, "The tests only need to be done once in an athlete's high school career. In the event that the screening picks up any abnormality, the athlete will not be medically cleared to participate in a sport until the high school nurse receives a note from a cardiologist clearing the student to play." She says that if the tests do find something amiss, the student will receive a copy of the test. Maselli adds, "Hopefully we don't find anything. But if we do, the kids are going to have it taken care of."

A bill drafted by New Jersey State Assemblyman Patrick Diegnan would raise awareness of HCM in schools and introduce measures to prevent other students from dying. Diegnan hopes Montgomery's screenings will serve as a model for other school districts in the state. Gizzi notes "If you could save a few kids lives, why not? I've been wanting to do this for years."

To register a graduating or 2010-2011 MHS student for the heart screenings, obtain a consent form from www.mtsd.k12.nj by selecting school 'MHS' and then 'Athletics' from the top bar. Submit the completed form to the MHS nurse's office by May 24 to make an appointment. A check for $60, made out to 'Cranbury H&L Associates, PA' must be brought to the screening. This fee will be waived for students who are eligible for free or reduced lunch.

Youth Writing Studio Opens in the Skillman Area

May 18, 2010

The City Kidz World Writing Studio, located in Skillman, will provide young people, ages 10 through 18, with the opportunity to be part of a youth writing community, develop the writing habit and receive professional feedback on their writing. The City Kidz World Writing Studio is holding an open house for the City Kidz World Writing Studio summer program on June 3 between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. at 416 Route 518 in Skillman. The grand opening of the program is June 7. The Writing Studio will coach young writers in short story development, poetry writing, novel development, journalism and even academic writing.

The founder of the City Kidz World Writing Studio, Melissa Edwards, an English and journalism professor at Middlesex County College, said, “This program is an extension of City Kidz World magazine – a magazine that is distributed locally. The magazine also has a website, www.citykidzworld.com. The magazine and the website attract both local and international readers and they both call for all types of writing in the form of academic contests and challenges.”

“Since City Kidz World magazine launched more than 2 years ago, it has received numerous submissions from young people in Princeton, West Windsor and Plainsboro, Hamilton, Skillman, Montgomery, Rocky Hill, Lawrenceville, Pennington, Hillsborough and the Hopewell area,” she said. “It is time to offer young people in these areas more of an outlet for their creativity; one magazine is not enough.”

Edwards said the City Kidz World Writing Studio will serve young people by offering them an opportunity to regularly express themselves through writing and creativity with the added benefit of one-on-one attention and coaching in small groups. Individualized coaching is also available.
“Young people need to have a space for creative writing and projects in their lives,” she said. “The studio is located in a beautiful building surrounded by a peaceful neighborhood that is just perfect for quiet contemplation and writing,” Edwards said.

“An added benefit to the program is that the City Kidz World Writing Studio will take advantage of online classroom technology in order to provide additional feedback to young writers,” Edwards said.

“During the regular academic year some students may find it difficult to make it out to the studio and may need to rely on the online classroom quite a bit. We are trying to make sure that we are there to mentor and support writing in any way possible,” Edwards said.

“I believe that it is important for young people to have the chance to practice what they love. Many times in school there is a great deal of emphasis placed on academic writing, which is extremely important. Sometimes there is not enough time to really give all students a chance to exercise their creativity through writing,” she said.

“All young people have stories inside. Most schools cannot spend a great deal of time helping bring that out in all of the students. Sometimes the opportunity to express the creative spark is only offered to young people in special programs – gifted children,” she said.

Edwards said, “All children need to have an outlet for their creativity. Most children will go to college and when a young person has the opportunity experience creativity and independence as a thinker and a writer it can really help prepare them for the top college environment.”

“The City Kidz World Writing Studio actually has a publishing component and will help young people develop and publish their poetry collections, their short story collections and their small scale newsletter and newspaper projects,” she said. “Some students will actually be able to submit work to our widely distributed City Kidz World magazine,” Edwards said.

For the summer program students can sign up for 2 or 3 sessions a week on Monday through Friday. Classes are scheduled for 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., but other classes may be scheduled for later times and during weekends if there is enough demand, Edwards said.

“We are happy that we are able to offer sessions that include 16 classes for an extremely low price,” Edwards said.

“Our local readers have been asking for this for more than a year and we are quite happy to finally be able to bring this writing studio to the community,” she said.
For more information about the program please go to www.citykidzworld.com/writingcoach.php . Call 732-514--7373.

Township School Budget Vote Fails

May 19, 2010

A resolution which would have reduced the Montgomery Township School District 2009-2010 Tax Levy of $70,200,000 by $1,943,000 which was passed Monday night by the Rocky Hill Borough Council, was deadlocked 2 to 2 at the Montgomery Township Committee level and did not pass after much public comment at its Tuesday, May 18th meeting. Deputy Mayor Kacey Dyer, of the 5 member Montgomery Township Committee, who is related to a district teacher, recused herself.

The budget is now forwarded to the Somerset County Superintendent of Schools, Ms. Trudy Doyle, for her consideration and determination of final tax levy.

Montgomery Schools Budget Goes to County Superintendent for Approval

May 19, 2010

Due to a deadlocked vote on the Montgomery Township Committee resolution to reduce the schools’ budget by $1.9M, or 2.8% of the general fund budget, the school’s budget now goes to the Somerset County Executive Superintendent for review. The proposed reductions included a 1.8% reduction in general fund spending over the current year, but a paradoxical increase in the general fund tax levy that is attributable to a $3.9M reduction in State Aid for FY11. No timeline for review by the County Superintendent has been published, but the District has requested expeditious review due to personnel notification and business management deadlines.

On Tuesday evening, May 18, the Montgomery Township Council deadlocked in a vote on reductions to the school budget. Committeewoman Kacey Dyer recused herself from the vote because her mother teaches in the district, leaving four Committee members available to vote on the resolution.

Committeewoman Louise Wilson and Committeeman Brad Fay voted against the resolution to reduce the schools’ budget by $1.9M. The committee members cited concerns about the disproportionate size of the reduction when compared with other like districts and the fact that the schools’ proposed budget was below the State’s adequacy threshold to begin with. They also noted concerns about the impact that triple-tier busing, eliminating the Guidance Supervisor and tripling the rates for the activity/parking fees would have on students and families. Committeeman Thom Carter and Mayor Caliguire voted in favor of the reduction. The mayor believes the resolution achieved the goals of the budget review subcommittee: to be responsive to taxpayer concerns and to sustain an excellent school system.

Superintendent of Schools Earl Kim commented that as one of the few “below adequacy-funded” districts in Somerset County, he was pleased that the Committee as a whole recognized the “leanness” of the district’s budget and that further reductions would only come at a significant price to Township and Borough families. “We shared with the Budget Review Committee that the right level of cuts for an underadequacy- funded district was zero—that any cuts or revenue enhancements would be choosing from among bad choices—but we understood that they had to be responsive to voters as well as the needs of students,” Kim said. “The role of the Board in this budget review processes is advisory. We provide pros and cons to each proposed reduction, and the governing bodies make the call. There are no easy choices.”

“We appreciate the Borough Council’s and the Township Committee’s continuing efforts to restore the level of State Aid to which we are entitled according to the state’s own funding formula,” Mr. Kim goes on to say. “Public Education was never meant to be funded entirely through property taxes, and state aid based on income taxes is a critical part of the picture. Providing the state aid that is due Montgomery will help to moderate property taxes down for all Montgomery residents and especially for those on fixed and limited incomes”.

Sixth Graders Turn School Into Museum June 2 & 3

By Brenda Wong May 20, 2010

CME, otherwise known as Cultural Museum Experience, is being held for the twelfth time with the work of sixth-graders and the help of teachers. Ancient Rome, Egypt, Greece, India, Mesopotamia, and Prehistory will be exhibited through the students' artistic abilities.

Over the course of this year, students have learned several things about ancient civilizations. Now, Lower Middle School is ready to show what we've learned on June 2 and 3 from 6 to 8 pm. They will show you what They’ve learned this year through exhibits, plays, PowerPoint's with our very own guided tours.

"CME will be the most wonderful experience for everyone, and it's free!" said Zach Epstein from Ms. Erickson's Social Studies class. Everyone is so excited to show off what they've learned. Every single sixth grader has been down to the art room with Ms. Milgram and created an artifact from the civilization they were assigned. Pooja Rao the creator of an ancient Egyptian sistrum said," It was hard work, but making an artifact and then personalizing it was fun!"

Every single sixth grader has worked their hardest to make the 12th annual Cultural Museum Experience possible. Their hope is to educationalize everyone with the correct facts from the ancient civilizations. They have tours, plays, PowerPoint's, and even some food! "CME is fun for everyone of all ages" agree Marissa Kowalski and Rishab Jain.

RVCC To Offer Summer Jazz Ensemble Workshop

May 20, 2010

Raritan Valley Community College’s (RVCC) Visual and Performing Arts Department is offering a Jazz Ensemble workshop during the College’s Summer I Session. The workshop will run Tuesday and Thursday evenings, May 25-July 1, from 6:15-10 p.m., in the Arts Building at the College’s Branchburg Campus.

Led by Jazz Ensemble Director John Loehrke, the workshop is open to interested high school students, adult amateur jazz players and college students. It will offer a combination jam session/learning workshop focusing on developing jazz-specific skills, particularly improvisation and swing. The low-pressure program is geared for musicians of all levels.

During the regular academic year, Loehrke leads the RVCC Jazz Ensemble and teaches Introduction to Music courses at the College. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan. Since moving to New York City in the ‘70s, he has been a busy freelance bassist, performing and recording with many well-known jazz and cabaret artists and studying privately with bass legends Richard Davis and Dave Holland. His recent recordings include Noches Flamencas, by Mark Holen’s Zambomba, on Harriton Carved Wax Records.

For more information, contact the Visual and Performing Arts office, 908-218-8876, or Ann Tsubota, chair of the Visual and Performing Arts Department, 908-526-1200 ext. 8373.
RVCC, located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ, and serving Somerset and Hunterdon County residents for over 40 years, offers more than 90 associate degrees and certificates. In addition, customized training programs and non-credit courses are available for those seeking personal and professional development.

Drugs and Alcohol in MHS Exposed

By Olivia Austin ‘11 May 21, 2010

By Olivia Austin ‘11

Horrible mistakes. Ruined friendships. Destroyed reputations.
Was that last drink really worth it?

Yes, it’s true. Montgomery High School students drink and Montgomery High School students abuse drugs. But it definitely isn’t everyone. But whenever you’re in the hallways or eating lunch, you hear rumors about the past weekend’s crazy party and all the wasted people that were there. We hear the positives about drinking from our friends, but rarely the negatives, and we almost never think about the negatives until we experience them ourselves.

Teens go to parties to have fun, and when they drink, it is usually in order to be more comfortable in their skin, to fit in, or to escape from reality. One freshman at college that graduated from Montgomery High School last year experienced a girl’s worst nightmare. Roofies. The real name for them is Rohypnol. Although this girl always covered her cups with her hand, a pill was slipped through her fingers and into her drink. Immediately she felt the effects. “I was lucky though- I was with close, trustworthy people” she explained. Once she felt the results of the roofies, her friends quickly brought her to her dorm where she fell unconscious. But what if her friends weren’t there? While this did happen in college, it is impossible to tell what could happen in high school.

Last school year, 1294 Montgomery High School students took a “Social Norms” survey about drug and alcohol use in school. Of these 1294 students, 778 said they never drank. The ethnicities of the survey participants were as follows: 829 were White, 28 were Black-American, 32 were Latino, 307 were Asian-American, 10 were Native American/Alaska Native, 59 were multiracial, and 34 chose not to answer.

The survey was taken in November 2008, shortly after Halloween, which claims the title of being the holiday with the most profound alcohol use. 494 of the survey participants said they drank only once or twice during the previous month. This past Halloween, at a party, one girl was so intoxicated that she passed out. The smartest action, as decided by the other, equally impaired, partygoers was to put the girl in a shopping cart and leave her in a nearby field by herself, completely passed out.

Our school’s administration fears that students are starting to hit the bottle (or keg) earlier in their high school careers. Earlier this school year, several freshmen were caught drinking alcohol in the girl’s bathroom room at the school during a football game. At some parties, however, freshmen are given non-alcoholic beer by the upperclassmen just to watch them go wild and blame it on the alcohol.

Out of the 1294 students who took the 2008 Social Norms survey, 15.7% admitted to smoking marijuana, while 8.7% had used prescription drugs without a prescription and 22.5% smoked cigarettes. Last year, several girls were caught smoking cigarettes in the bathroom at school, which resulted in expulsion. It was also discovered that a senior boy was addicted to heroin, and he subsequently went to rehab.

Stunningly, an increasing number of students have started getting high on cough syrup. The active ingredient in cough syrups such as Robitussin is dextromethorphan, or “DXM,” and it is similar in nature to highly dangerous opiates such as PCP and Ketamine. DXM is a “downer” hallucinogen- the opposite of LSD “acid”- and produces euphoria and dreamlike trances. Recreational use of DXM is known as “Robotripping,” and several boys from our school are no longer allowed in Shop Rite after they were caught stealing cough syrup one too many times.

The front part of your brain is responsible for decision-making. As a teenager, though, this part is not fully developed, resulting in some poor decisions. Some students are also scared to talk to someone about drug- or alcohol-related topics for fear that they will be judged or punished. However, in our school, Ms. DeGennaro is willing to talk to anyone and everyone about a drinking or drug problem. If you ever need to speak with someone in confidence, never fear that you are alone or that you can’t talk without risk, punishment, or rumors.

School Tax Levy Reduction of $1.9M Subject to County Superintendent Approval

By Lea Florentine May 21, 2010

A School Budget Review Subcommittee comprised of Montgomery Township and Rocky Hill Borough officials and residents, assembled after the budget’s defeat on April 20, advised that the $65.4M Montgomery Township School District tax levy for the 2010-2011 year be reduced by $1.9M. This reduction would cut residents’ tax increases, which were $494 for Montgomery and $173 for Rocky Hill on average, in half. To accomplish this, the subcommittee suggested measures such as triple tier bussing and preserving and raising the co-curricular activity fee. When the Montgomery Township Committee failed to reach a consensus regarding the levy amendment, even after Somerset County Executive Superintendent Trudy Doyle attempted mediation, the final decision became Doyle’s responsibility.

Of the changes the subcommittee outlined, triple tier bussing would yield the largest of the recommended savings - $700K – since it would eliminate the need to hire private bus drivers. High, middle, and elementary school start and end times would need to be at least one hour apart, allowing Township bus drivers to drive three consecutive routes both before and after school. Recommended staff cuts included elimination of the Montgomery High School guidance supervisor ($100K); administrative positions ($130K); custodians ($100K); and salary freezes for non-union administrative staff ($78K). Utilizing Township Public Works employees to mow school lawns would save $100K. Reductions to curriculum and development ($200K); tuition reimbursement ($139K); staff training services ($100K); and purchased services ($70K) would net further savings. The New Jersey Education Association, which represents teachers throughout the state, agreed to provide the funds eliminated for staff training services.

$200,000 in revenue would come from a higher and more extensive activity fee and a $200 parking fee (currently $30) for seniors. The current activity fee - $75 for each upper middle and high school student per school year regardless of the number of activities - nets $100K. To raise an additional $100K, it was proposed that a fee be charged for each sport ($200) and club ($100 - $200), and applied to younger students in afterschool music groups. At the May 17 meeting in which the Rocky Hill Borough Council discussed and ultimately passed the levy amendment, Board of Education President David Pettit expressed concern for the new fee, envisioning a scenario where a senior who drove to school and participated in two sports and two clubs could pay nearly $1000 in fees.

Building rental fees would provide another $35,000 in revenues. Originally the subcommittee recommended reducing the School District’s $2.36M in excess surplus by $200,000, but at the Board’s request, the reduction was taken from curriculum and development instead.

Regarding its review of the budget, the subcommittee informed residents via email: “We are quite mindful of the overwhelming vote and will work to reduce the tax burden contained in the proposed budget. Recommended reductions were selected which would have a minimal impact upon the classroom and the quality of educational instruction.” It also noted “The Montgomery Township School District must work within the tax levy but is not bound by the particulars of recommended expenditure cuts.”

Montgomery was represented on the subcommittee by Mayor Mark Caliguire; Township Committeeman Brad Fay; residents and former School Board members Mark Conforti and Bill Hyncik; residents Tom Wilson and Lisa Youngberg; Township Administrator Donato Nieman; and Township Chief Financial Officer Walter Sheppard. Rocky Hill Borough Council President Linda Goldman and Member James Banks represented Rocky Hill. Superintendent Earl Kim, Board Vice President Charles Jacey, Member Andrea Bradley, and Secretary Thomas Venanzi attended the meetings as advisors.

The $78M budget originally proposed by the Board was voted down by 60% of Montgomery residents and approved by 40%. In Rocky Hill, half of the voters approved the budget and half rejected it. Regarding the levy amendment, Caliguire commented “It is important to note that the tax increase will be reduced to 2.5% from the previous 6% in the proposed budget. And this reduction was achieved without any freeze or decrease in the contracted salary increases to the teachers’ union.”

While the Rocky Hill Borough Council approved the tax levy amendment, the Montgomery Township Committee vote on May 18 ended in a deadlock. Mayor Mark Caliguire and Thom Carter voted to approve it; Brad Fay and Louise Wilson voted to deny it. Kacey Dyer abstained from voting since her mother is a teacher in Montgomery.

Wilson and Fay cited their concerns regarding the bussing and activity fee changes and elimination of MHS’ guidance supervisor, but Caliguire was disappointed that a majority could not be reached. “It’s unfortunate and frustrating. The cuts were not draconian; Superintendent Kim said the District would still be providing a thorough and efficient education. Board of Education Members recommended triple tier bussing and extension of the activity fee.”

According to County Superintendent Doyle, Montgomery was the only district in New Jersey that did not approve its tax levy amendment. She met with Banks, Caliguire, Fay, and Goldman for three hours on May 20 but was unsuccessful in resolving the dispute. Doyle must recommend a levy amendment to New Jersey State Education Commissioner Bret Schundler by June 1. The Board anticipates reviewing her proposal, and either accepting it or appealing to Schundler.
Regarding the sequence of events, Doyle says “I’ve never had to do this before.” Doyle noted that her office staff was so inundated with calls from Montgomery parents and community members that they were not able to respond to all of them.

UNITE and the Arrive Alive Tour ’10 Come to MHS – To Save Lives

May 24, 2010

On May 28, 2010, Montgomery High School will host UNITE and the Arrive Alive Tour ’10 on the high school campus from 8:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The Arrive Alive Event will happen as a part of the MHS annual Senior Transition Day. The event will be funded by a Drivers Safety Grant Montgomery High School received from Allstate Insurance Company. This is the #1 Ranked Drunk Driving Prevention Program in America. The Program utilizes their high tech simulators, impact video, and a number of other resources to educate the students about the dangers of alcohol, drugs, drunk and distracted driving.

“Montgomery High School is proud to partner with UNITE to bring this high impact, life saving program to our students,” says MHS Vice Principal, Cory Delgado. “We recognize that car collisions are the #1 killer of teens and with the help of Allstate, we continue to strive to be on the forefront of driver safety education.”

UNITE is the #1 Health and Wellness Organization in the Nation. They visit campuses across the nation, on all levels – from Elementary all of the way to Colleges and BEYOND.

MHSAP Economics Teacher Selected to Participate in ADVANCED PLACEMENT Program Reading

May 24, 2010

Skillman, NJ – Mr. Robert Zywicki, teacher of AP Economics and World Studies at Montgomery High School, was selected to participate in the annual Reading and Scoring of the College Board’s Advanced Placement Examinations this June in AP Macro Economics.

The AP Reading is a unique form in which academic dialogue between high school and college educators is fostered and strongly encouraged.

“The Reading draws upon the talents of some of the finest teachers and professors that the world has to offer,” said Trevor Packer, Vice President of the Advanced Placement Program at the College Board. “It fosters professionalism, allows for exchange of ideas and strengthens the commitment to students and to teaching. We are grateful for the contributions of talented educators, like Montgomery’s Robert Zywicki.”

DANCE WORKSHOP SLATED THIS SUMMER AT RVCC

May 5, 2010

The Visual and Performing Arts Department at Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) in Branchburg will host a Summer Dance Workshop for dancers ages 15 and older. The workshop is a weeklong series of dance classes and repertory taught by Freespace Dance that culminates in a performance open to the public. The workshop will be held July 12-16, with a performance on Friday, July 16, at 1 p.m., in RVCC’s Welpe Theatre.

The workshop includes daily morning technique class (Modern or Jazz) from 10-11:30 a.m., a lunch break, and a Repertory class from 12-2 p.m. All classes are taught by Freespace Dance Company members. The fee for the week is $200. Dancers also can take just the morning or afternoon sessions for $100.

Freespace Dance is renowned for mesmerizing audiences worldwide with its captivating choreography that connects to human emotion and experience. Combining its athletic nature and humanistic connection, the work is accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Donna Scro Gentile, artistic director of Freespace Dance, received a 2008 Fellowship from New Jersey State Council on the Arts for excellence in choreography. Freespace has performed at some of the most internationally prestigious venues, including The Paris Opera House; Theatre de la Ville; the American Dance Festival (Korea and North Carolina); Spoleto Festival; Jacob’s Pillow; and The Egg; and in New York City at the Joyce Theater, The New Victory Theater, Central Park SummerStage, Symphony Space, Dance Theater Workshop, Danspace Project and Lincoln Center Out of Doors.

RVCC offers an Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Dance. The AFA program focuses on the skills and concepts of dance necessary for a career in the contemporary dance world and prepares students for transfer into a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree program at a four-year college or university.

For additional information, contact Professor Loretta Fois, RVCC director of Dance, 908-526-1200, ext. 8494; lfois@raritanval.edu.

RVCC TO OFFER MAY INFORMATION SESSIONS

May 6, 2010

Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) in Branchburg will be offering a series of information sessions for prospective students at various locations throughout the community in May.

The sessions will provide information about the wide variety of degree and certificate programs RVCC offers that can prepare students for a new career or to transfer to a four-year college or university. Participants also will learn about the College’s affordable tuition and flexible scheduling options, including online and weekend courses and accelerated programs.

Information will be available about RVCC’s College for Working Adults, which enables adults to work full-time and earn an associate degree in just 2½ years. Information also will be available about English as a Second Language courses.

Those who attend will have the opportunity to meet with an admissions specialist who will explain the enrollment process, financial aid opportunities and help interested students chart a career path. The following sessions will be offered:

Tuesday, May 25, 5-7 p.m., Hillsborough Township Library, 379 South Branch Road, Hillsborough

Wednesday, May 26, 5-7 p.m., Flemington Free Public Library, 118 Main Street, Flemington

Thursday, May 27, 5-7 p.m., Bound Brook Public Library, 402 East High Street, Bound Brook

For further information, call 908-253-6688 or e-mail admissions@raritanval.edu.

RVCC, located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ, and serving Somerset and Hunterdon County residents for over 40 years, offers more than 90 associate degrees and certificates. The College is committed to offering a quality and affordable education through effective teaching, liaisons with the community’s businesses and state-of-the-art technology. For further information, visit www.raritanval.edu.

Municipal Alliance Hosts Community Leaders’ Conference to Help Youth Succeed in Life

By Lea Florentine Nov 19, 2009

On November 17 The Montgomery/Rocky Hill Municipal Alliance and Youth Services Commission sponsored a conference for leaders in the community to discuss how to make the towns’ youth more likely to thrive and avoid high-risk behaviors. The Community Leaders Working Together conference, held at the Elks Lodge, brought together 80 local businesspeople, school representatives, health care workers, religious leaders, police officers, government leaders and parents to work toward this common goal. Jim Conway from the Search Institute, the keynote speaker, discussed the developmental assets that teens need to succeed in life, and how communities can provide them.

Jennifer Haftel of the Municipal Alliance opened the conference by stating that building connections in the community provides a network which can strengthen the community and its youth. Tina Renga and Ann DeGennaro of the Montgomery Township High School (MHS) Guidance Department then spoke of initiatives they have introduced to MHS to help the students thrive. Renga described the presentation on social and emotional character development that Dr. Maurice Elias of Rutgers University gave to MHS and Montgomery Upper Middle School (MUMS) teachers in October and the climate survey that was recently given students and teachers at MHS and MUMS (see article in the November issue). She noted that Montgomery schools have the support systems students need in place, but that with a coordinated framework, greater success could be achieved via synergy between schools, families, and the community.

Ann DeGennaro spoke about the social norms survey developed by Rowan University that MHS students took last year and again this November. The results of the survey show that actual drug and alcohol use is much less than what is perceived. For example, students believed that nearly 90% of their peers used alcohol on a regular basis, but the reality is that 60% never do and 35% do only once or twice a year. The belief was that 94% of students use marijuana but the fact is that 94% never have. Students thought 65% of their peers smoked, but in truth 77% never do. When the truth is communicated to students with positive messages such as “3 out of 4 of us have never used marijuana”, healthy behavior is reinforced and consumption of these substances can be reduced.
Vasanthi Rao of the Municipal Alliance then presented the results of an informal community survey on the community which attendees had taken. Attendees thought that schools, community groups, and houses of worship were doing enough to prevent at-risk behavior. Half thought the lack of a consistent message concerning risky behaviors and not enough strength in families and neighborhoods were obstacles to protecting the community while half thought these were not obstacles. Shortfalls for the community were that too many parents look the other way; the first use of alcohol and drugs is very early; there are not enough constructive ways to spend time or safe places to go; and that there is too much pressure and stress.

Jim Conway of the Minneapolis, Minnesota based Search Institute then explained that the Institute strives to provide leadership, knowledge, and resources needed promote healthy youth and communities. By evaluating 1,250 studies on youth the Institute has identified 40 developmental assets possessed by teens who thrive and choose not to engage in risky behavior. These assets are positive experiences, relationships, opportunities and personal qualities. Half of the assets are external – they need to be provided by the child’s environment. These provide support, empowerment, boundaries and expectations, or constructive use of time. The other half - internal – are skills or beliefs the child has which foster commitment to learning, positive values, social competencies, and positive identity.
Conway stressed the importance of relationships for children’s development, noting that one of the most important developmental assets a child can possess is support from at least three adults other than parents who have known the child for at least two years. Only 43% of youths possess this. Reading for pleasure and participation in a house of worship (with its intergenerational setting) are two of the assets, and demonstrate their variety. The fortieth and last asset points out that kids (72%) are optimistic and hopeful. As Conway notes, we can help them find their way.

The more developmental assets a child possesses, the more likely they will be to avoid at-risk behavior and thrive. Conversely, the fewer assets they own, the more likely they will be to make poor choices and not succeed in life. Conway showed that these principles apply regardless of ethnic group or whether the child grows up in an urban, suburban, or rural area. The average number of assets possessed by kids was 19.4 – half of the assets - across all the above demographics. Only 8% of kids possess three-quarters or more of the assets; while 17% possess 10 or less of them.

The assets also affect academic success. When a student acquires more assets, grade point average rises regardless of the student’s prior performance.

Conway gave examples of the power of one, or individuals who reached out to youth. One police officer handed out “positive” tickets to kids who did good deeds, redeemable for “treats” like a swim at a pool. The kids chose not to redeem the tickets, but to keep them posted on their walls. One pizzeria printed positive messages - similar to the one described by Ann DeGennaro - on its pizza boxes, knowing that teens would have plenty of time to see and discuss them. Conway noted that a simple act such as praising a parent when they support their child is a positive message.

Conway also explained the power of many. As individuals, organizations, and networks are stimulated, supported and strengthened, the capacity to build assets increases. He noted that it is important to see kids’ strengths as well as their problems and to view them as resources, especially when pursuing asset-building initiatives. Ann DeGennaro illustrated this when she shared a story from an MHS Peer Educator meeting. Students were questioning their effectiveness in helping their peers change unhealthy behaviors when one of them said “If we can change one person’s life, then we’ve succeeded.”

Those who attended found it upliftting to see many different groups collaborating with so much positive energy for the community’s young people. A majority of the attendees signed on to continue building a coalition that will seek to increase the developmental assets of youths. A follow-up to the conference is scheduled for January 7, 2010 from 8am to 9:30am at a location to be decided.

The Municipal Alliance is committed to preventing violence and alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse while the Youth Services Commission serves at-risk youth in the community. The Alliance is funded by Somerset County and the State of New Jersey and with cash matches from the Montgomery Township Board of Education and the Montgomery Township Committee. The Alliance wishes to thank the Elks Lodge for making it financially feasible to hold the conference in their newly renovated meeting room.
For more information about the Search Institute see their website www.search-institute.org or call 800-888-7828.

Kyleigh’s Law & New Pedestrian Law For NJ Drivers

Students Lend A Helping Hand For PJS Auction

Fun at Kindercapers

Summer Fun and Academic Enrichment Camps at New Horizons Montessori

Ariana Asani, Christine Lewis, and Emma Pliskin picked for Girls’ Career Institute

No MHS Post Prom This Year

Artist–In–Residence John Murdoch Visits Upper Middle School

MTSD to offer Chinese Language and Culture Summer Program

Skillman PDS Student Helps Develop iPhone Math App

State Cuts Aid to Board of Education 63.8% - Taxes Will Increase - Activity Fee Remains

MTSD Responds To MTEA

PDS Junior Selected For LEAD Business Program

MTSD Welcome New and Returning Board of Education Members

Local Magazine Holds Youth Writer and Publishing Camp Summer 2010

Middle Schools Earn the ENERGY STAR for Superior Energy Efficiency

RVCC TO OFFER YOUTH FINE ART CLASSES

New Horizons Montessori School Organizes Fund Drive For Haiti

MTSD Support Property Tax Relief in S945, But Caution State to Consider Long-term Implications

Township Schools Get Good Report Card from State

Montgomery Students with Disabilities Meet Nearly All State Requirements

MHS Interact

Calling all Students for the Trash-to-Art Contest

MHS Raises $2500 for Haiti

School Board Presents Preliminary Budget; Activity Fee Eliminated

MTSD Credit Rating Upgraded to AA+

The Junior League of Greater Princeton Seeks Volunteerism Scholarship Applicants

Waldorf School of Princeton announces New Nursery Program

MONTGOMERY ENRICHMENT PROGRAM - Summer Plans

Early Drop off Program for those affected by new school bus timings

Montessori Early Drop off Program For those affected by new school bus timings

Princeton Junior School Celebrates Graduation

List of Local 2010 High School Grads & Where They Are Going

Karl Held Named President at The American Boychoir School

RVCC TO OFFER SUMMER YOUTH ARTS PROGRAMS

MHS teacher and student to join Earthwatch Expeditions

MHS AP Economics Teacher to Participate in AP Program Reading

It's Time To Buy Some "Spring"

LANCE TO HOST CONGRESSIONAL ARTS COMPETITION FOR 7th DISTRICT HS STUDENTS

RAMBLING PINES DAY CAMP OPEN HOUSE

Montgomery Teams Compete in Science Olympiads

Stuart's TartanTones Lend their "Voices for Haiti"

Campus News - April 2010

Aftercare Now Available for Montgomery Township Summer Enrichment Program

Summer Plans Just A Click Away For Montgomery Enrichment Program

PJS CELEBRATES YOUTH ART MONTH

DOE Recognizes Montgomery Middle School

KIDS’ MUSICROUND OFFERS FREE SAMPLE CLASS June 7 & 14

MHS Teacher Designs New Math Twist on Classic Card Game

MHS Students To Pay $500 Per Item Participation Fee Under New Budget

Heart Screenings Offered to MHS Athletes

Youth Writing Studio Opens in the Skillman Area

Township School Budget Vote Fails

Montgomery Schools Budget Goes to County Superintendent for Approval

Sixth Graders Turn School Into Museum June 2 & 3

RVCC To Offer Summer Jazz Ensemble Workshop

Drugs and Alcohol in MHS Exposed

School Tax Levy Reduction of $1.9M Subject to County Superintendent Approval

UNITE and the Arrive Alive Tour ’10 Come to MHS – To Save Lives

MHSAP Economics Teacher Selected to Participate in ADVANCED PLACEMENT Program Reading

DANCE WORKSHOP SLATED THIS SUMMER AT RVCC

RVCC TO OFFER MAY INFORMATION SESSIONS

Municipal Alliance Hosts Community Leaders’ Conference to Help Youth Succeed in Life

MTSD to Receive $20K Grant from Allstate New Jersey