Student Achievements - Middlesex County Vocational and Technical

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Mission Statement
To be College and Career Ready
To prepare students for employment in the competitive labor force
and for lifelong learning by providing a program
that stresses the expectation that all students achieve
the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards (NJCCCS)
at all grade levels; the work ethic; technology;
industry driven occupational skills competency;
broadly transferable academic thinking, problem-solving,
and communication skills; diversity and equity behaviors,
and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
Educational Philosophy
The Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools
have been providing high school students and adults
with the opportunity to receive a quality vocational
and academic education for 99 years. The passing rate
on nationally certified occupational competency tests,
the job placement rate for our graduates, and the passing rate
on the New Jersey High School Proficiency Assessment
demonstrates our commitment to help students achieve
high educational standards through career training
and academic competency. The schools include the
Academy for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Technologies
on the campus of Middlesex County College in Edison,
the Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences in Woodbridge
and three traditional career technical education campuses
located in East Brunswick, Perth Amboy and Piscataway.
The district offers career training programs with courses at the secondary
and post-secondary levels, adult evening school, as well as apprenticeship training.
There are also many programs which serve special education students.
High school students must meet the academic requirements
for graduation which are mandated by the New Jersey Department of Education.
Message to the Community
The 2012-2013 school year will be remembered for its tremendous challenges,
unsurpassed accomplishments and increased opportunities. It marked the 99th year of
our ongoing commitment to provide the highest standard of career and technical education to Middlesex County residents. We continue to offer exemplary programs and
services to both high school and adult populations.
As we review the year’s events, we are confident that this year’s Annual Report will
document the outstanding accomplishments and achievements that exemplify the reputation of our nationally recognized school district.
The Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools have been in the forefront
of career and technical education (CTE) since their inception in 1914. Career and
technical education promotes college and career readiness through high expectations, rigorous curriculum and a constant focus on the connections between academic
subjects and their application in a specific career pathway. CTE prepares students for
the modern workplace. Since many of today’s careers require a post-secondary or industry-based credential, we are incorporating rigorous academic standards and nationally recognized certificates in our CTE programs. Our district maintains a constant
focus on increasing articulation agreements with colleges and post-secondary institutions. We are providing more than 50 stateapproved career and technical education programs at our five campuses.
The Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School District provides schools of choice for secondary students seeking
hands-on, career focused learning opportunities not generally available in high schools. More than 2,000 high school students
availed themselves of our programs last year. Our CTE programs include critical workplace skills, such as problem solving,
project-based learning, communication and teamwork, in an effort to better prepare our students for the next step in their career
development, whether it be employment, post-secondary education, apprenticeship or college.
Middlesex County Vocational and Technical High School graduates are well prepared. Our graduates are valuable, contributing
members of our community. Each year more and more of our graduates are attending college or post-secondary institutions. For
the class of 2013, 67 percent of graduates are pursuing college or post-secondary opportunities. Approximately, 30 percent of
the graduating class entered the competitive workforce or the military.
On October 29, 2012, one of the fiercest hurricanes ever recorded struck the Atlantic coast with awesome fury, creating the
largest natural disaster in the history of New Jersey. Many members of our school community were significantly impacted by
Hurricane Sandy, whether their homes were destroyed or severely damaged, or they lost personal belongings, or were displaced
from their living situations.
Our school community mobilized to assist those victimized by Sandy. Our culinary instructors, students, and other volunteers
prepared meals at our Perth Amboy Campus for distribution to storm victims and aid workers. A number of our career major
classes from the East Brunswick Campus participated in clean-up efforts in hard-hit coastal communities. A Thanksgiving dinner for affected members of the school community was held in East Brunswick, needed household supplies were collected, and
other charitable initiatives were undertaken to support Sandy victims.
The 2012-13 school year also was marked by many tremendous accomplishments. The most noteworthy was the designation of
our Perth Amboy Campus as a “National Blue Ribbon School” by the United Sates Department of Education.
This Annual Report includes information that we hope you will find interesting as well as informative. It remains our pleasure
to provide service to the citizens of Middlesex County.
Brian
J. Loughlin
Superintendent
BOARD OF
EDUCATION
Karl Knehr
Board Secretary
John F. Bicsko, Jr.
President
Eugene J. Mullen III
Vice President
Frank James
Board Member
Todd Flora
Middlesex County Executive
Superintendent
Gail Engel
Board Member
BOARD OF
CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS
Ronald G. Rios
Freeholder Director
Carol Barrett Bellante
Freeholder Deputy Director
Charles E. Tomaro
Freeholder
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H. James Polos
Freeholder
Middlesex County Vocational & Technical Schools
Charles Kenny
Freeholder
Blanquita B. Valenti
Freeholder
Kenneth Armwood
Freeholder
Liaison to Middlesex County
Vocational & Technical Schools
Principal Robert Fuller raises the flag designating Perth Amboy Tech as a National Blue Ribbon School during a ceremony in April.
Perth Amboy Vo-Tech Named National Blue
Ribbon School
The 2012-2013 MCVTS school year started spectacularly when U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced early in
September that Perth Amboy Vo-Tech had been designated a National Blue Ribbon School based on its progress in improving
student achievement.
It was one of 269 recognized nationally, one of 17 in New Jersey, and the only one in Middlesex County.
MCVTS Board of Education President John F. Bicsko credited Principal Robert Fuller, the faculty and staff, students and parents.
He said the honor recognized a decade-long commitment to improve every aspect of the school program and environment.
“We raised the expectations and the kids met them,” Fuller said. “Our biggest thing is the personal touch. We get involved in the
lives of these kids.”
Seventy-five percent of the student body is considered economically disadvantaged and 86 percent come from minority groups.
Many students enter “partially proficient” in math and language arts but progress to fully meet state standards while at Perth Amboy
Vo-Tech.
The core curriculum ensures graduates are ready both for college and career, with 69 percent of graduates continuing their educations in college or post-secondary vocational training.
Fuller, who was in his sixth year as principal, said the changes instituted in the school included lowering the student-teacher ratio,
adding guidance counselors, new professional development programs for teachers, before-school tutoring, engaging parents and
closely monitoring student progress.
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“It was a collaborative effort,” he said. “It’s a credit to everyone who works at the school.”
“This award is testimony to the dedicated efforts of the entire school community,” said MCVTS Superintendent of Schools Brian
J. Loughlin. “The Perth Amboy campus is a perfect example of a successful community-based career and technical education program. The key components are high expectations, community involvement, parental involvement, and a commitment over time to
a sustained effort to implement best practices.”
“My Freeholder colleagues and I are incredibly proud of the administration, faculty, staff, and of course, the students of all of our
Vocational Technical Schools,” said Freeholder Charles E. Tomaro, chair of the County’s Business Development and Education
Committee. “But it is a special honor for the Middlesex County Vocational School, Perth Amboy campus to have been recognized
by The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program.”
In April, Fuller raised a flag in front of Perth Amboy Tech to cap a celebration of the school’s designation. Fuller welcomed guests
to “a very special day” in the history of his school. He said the recognition was the result of “increased expectations” by administrators, faculty, staff, parents and students.
“We know that great schools have great principals, great teachers and great staff, and we also know that this school has great students,” Loughlin said, listing some of the achievements that led to the nomination of Perth Amboy Tech by the state Department
of Education.
He said Perth Amboy Tech’s enrollment had increased from 197 students in 2003, when the new school building was completed, to
299 – one below capacity – for the 2012-2013 school year. At the same time, the mobility rate – which tracks the number of students
coming and going before graduation – had declined 89.4 percent.
Perth Amboy Tech’s class of 2012 saw 72 percent of students continue their educations after graduation, double the 2003 rate.
Graduates received $450,000 in scholarship offers, Loughlin said.
Student performance on the state high school proficiency test increased 56 percent in language arts and 167 percent in math over the
nine years, Loughlin said, despite the fact that 41 percent of entering ninth-graders were considered “at-risk” for failure in language
arts and 57 percent were at-risk in math. Perth Amboy Tech is a Title I school, meaning a large percentage of its students come
from economically disadvantaged families.
Bicsko presented a copy of the Blue Ribbon School plaque received from the U.S. Department of Education to Freeholder Director
Ronald G. Rios, who cited the freeholders’ longstanding support for vocational education. “The benefits of this support are evident
today,” Rios said.
Assemblymen Patrick Diegnan Jr. and Craig J. Coughlin presented an Assembly resolution honoring Perth Amboy Tech.
I’m not surprised at this event today,” said Diegnan, chairman of the Assembly Education Committee. “Vocational schools are a
shining example of the excellence of New Jersey education.”
Brittany Guben of East Brunswick, a theater arts student at East Brunswick Tech, sang the national anthem, while Perth Amboy
Tech senior Jose Bonilla of Carteret led the Pledge of Allegiance to begin the ceremony. Fuller announced that Jose, who aspires
to be an aerospace engineer, had been accepted to the University of Maryland.
Fuller and guidance counselor Guy Johnson had attended the National Blue Ribbon Schools Award Ceremony in Washington,
D.C., on Nov. 12-13, where they received an engraved plaque and flag signifying the school’s status as a National Blue Ribbon
School of Excellence. There were various sessions on school leadership and what makes schools successful. The ceremony featured a speech by United States Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and was carried live via the internet on Nov. 13.
Edison Academy among elite U.S. public high schools in national ranking
Middlesex County Academy for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Technologies in Edison was recognized by U.S. News & World Report
with gold-medal status as one of the Top 500 public high schools in the United States, ranking sixth among New Jersey public high schools.
A second school in the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School District, Middlesex County Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences in Woodbridge, was awarded bronze-medal status for the first time.
The U.S. News rankings are based on a survey of 21,000 public high schools in 49 states and the District of Columbia. Just 2 percent of the
schools surveyed received gold medals, while just 13 percent were awarded bronze medals.
The Edison Academy had received a bronze medal in four previous surveys. Its ranking in 2013 placed it 146th in the nation. Woodbridge Academy, in its fifth year of existence, will graduate its second class in June. U.S. News awards the bronze medal on the basis of student performance
on state proficiency exams.
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Curriculum and Instruction
The career major and academic programs offered by the district are guided by state-mandated courses and graduation requirements,
the labor market, articulation with sending school districts, and recommendations by advisory committee members, employers, and
other members of the community. Programs are reviewed and revised on a five-year cycle. During the 2012-2013 school year, 11
courses of study were approved by the board.
Career Major Programs
Career and technical education programs continued to be revised according to the format proposed by the New Jersey Department
of Education and the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (2006). Each grade level is divided into a sequence of
courses that prepare students for college and career readiness. According to the five-year plan the following career clusters were
revised and submitted for program approval or re-approval: Architecture and Construction, and Human Services.
Academic Programs
During the 2012-13 school year, supervisors worked with teachers to ensure the Common Core State Standards in Math and
English Language Arts (ELA) were properly implemented. Literacy in Social Studies and Science Standards were distributed
to teachers, and plans for increasing reading and more rigorous projects in these classes were developed. Throughout the school
year, teachers received information and planned lessons that would prepare students for new assessments that will be required for
graduation. The PARCC Assessments will begin in the 2014-2015 school year and will be taken via computers. We continue to
integrate new technology into the classroom and look for ways to improve online access for students. Integrating technology into
instruction is beneficial to improving student engagement and differentiating instruction.
This year, we placed an emphasis on using formative assessments during lessons to inform instruction. Teachers developed common
formative assessments for each unit in ELA and Math. All teachers received training in how to use formative assessment evidence
to adapt teaching and learning strategies to meet the learning needs of their students on a daily basis. The district administers
NWEA Math and Reading Tests in the fall and spring of each year; teachers use data from these tests to determine student learning
growth and to group students for maximized learning potential during classroom instruction. Data from both the NWEA and HSPA
tests will be used to better adapt instructional techniques and strategies to student abilities. In 2012, the New Jersey Department of
Education transitioned to a new accountability system. In 2012-13, we met the statewide participation rate of 95 percent and the
statewide performance goal of 90 percent for all of our subgroups in both Language Arts Literacy and Math for all schools within
our district.
Title I Program
The Title I program is designed for those students who have been identified as needing additional academic help in the areas of
Mathematics and English Language arts (ELA). It has been designed specifically to assist these students to function properly in
their chosen vocational areas and to meet the state of New Jersey requirements for graduation from high school.
During 2012-13, the Title I program provided at-risk students with extra support in math. Participants are identified through multiple measures. Entrance criteria include final grade averages in previous courses, NJASK and HSPA scores, and NWEA test scores
in reading and math. Exit criteria include achieving or surpassing typical growth on the NWEA tests, final grades of C or better in
current math or English courses, passing HSPA, and a lexile score of 1,000 or better in reading. Math coaches worked closely with
math instructors; modeling and/or co-teaching provided support for the teachers as they learned new strategies and content-based
activities to increase student achievement. Reflection and articulation between the teacher and the coach following a lesson were
an integral part of the process.
The Title I program provided three specialized supplemental courses of math instruction to Title I students during the 2012-13
school year. Teachers used research-based instructional approaches to assist eligible students in meeting the state standards and
requirements for graduation. These courses supplement and support the regular education program of the school. Examples of this
supplemental assistance include extended learning time, accelerated high quality curriculum; upgrading the instructional practice
of teachers and helping students make transitions.
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Cooperative Education Program
The Cooperative Education Program continues to offer students an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge of their career-major
training toward employment. Eighty-three seniors participated in the program this year at businesses in and around Middlesex County.
Approximately 90 percent of these students secured full-time positions at their Cooperative Education sites. Three Cooperative
Education coordinators provided classroom and workplace-readiness instruction, as well as day-to-day job-site contacts necessary to
monitor student progress and on-the-job performance.
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Students employed by 67 businesses earned more than $350,000 during the school year.
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Many of our employers are past graduates of Middlesex County Vocational and Technical High Schools.
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Employers have continued to choose our students for employment through the Cooperative Education Program for as
long as 20 years.
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Students have passed entrance tests for acceptance into apprentice training programs.
Career Development Program
Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools provide a full array of program options to approximately 600 students with
disabilities in more than 20 career and technical programs. Special Needs programs are offered at three of our campuses, which
are conveniently located throughout the county. Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools offer an array of academic
services from general education to a replacement resource-room program.
The Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School District has provided a variety of program options for students with
disabilities since 1977. Entitlement and competitive grants, in conjunction with local funding, have enabled the school district to
enhance educational and support services for students and their families throughout the years.
Any student who has been classified by the Department of Special Services of his/her local school district is eligible for participation
in our Special Needs programs. Program placements are provided consistent with each student’s educational needs as defined by
his/her Individual Educational Program (IEP).
Career Choices
The Career Choices program is located at the Woodbridge Campus and provides three trade rotations for eighth-grade students with
disabilities. While enrolled in this shared-time program, students have the opportunity to explore three major career and technical
education clusters. The clusters are: Construction Technology, Food and Health Technology, and Digital Media Technology. Through
shop practice and related theory, students have an opportunity to demonstrate potential for eventual placement in a full-time or sharedtime career and technical school program.
The Career Choices program continues to function as a vital part of the Special Education Department, as the majority of the eighthgrade students who attend return to our school district as ninth-graders in September.
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C a r l D. P e r k i n s F u n d s
Software was purchased to help raise student levels of academic achievement and technical skill attainment. ALLDATA® and
Mitchell1 are two web-based information systems that provide resources to the students to diagnose and repair vehicles. These
programs were implemented in the automotive programs district wide. In addition, software upgrades include:
*
The Automotive Technology, Auto Service, and Auto Repair programs were updated with OTC Genisys Evo Scan Tools, a
brake lathe, an Electrical Trainer, and a Cooling System Tester/Recycling Machine. The Welding Technology program increased
its capacity and mobility with the addition of a Lincoln Ranger Welder/Generator and Lincoln Power Wave S350. The Electrical
Technology program added an Amprobe DM-II-Plus Digital Recorder/Data Logger.
* The Baking program was updated with a 20-quart Stand Mixer, a 1,600-watt Touch Pad Microwave, and a Batch Ice Cream
Machine. The Carpentry and Building Trades programs enhanced their safety by installing SawStop Professional Table Saws
plus a Power Tool Cabinet and a Down Draft Sanding Station. The HVAC Technology program will expand the student’s
exposure to green technology with use of a photo-voltaic off-grid solar power system, 90 percent condensing boiler, and a
tankless water heater.
* The capacity of both Dry Cleaning programs was increased with installation of larger and more efficient commercial washers
and dryers. The Graphic Design program enhanced its computer technology equipment with T7600 Computers with dual screens
and Wacoom tablets. MacBooks increased the mobility of Digital Filmmaking students to expand their learning outside the four
walls of the classroom. A Canon EOS C300 Cinema Camcorder body was purchased for use in the Digital Filmmaking program,
along with an 18TB Network Storage Unit to enable the storage of large video files.
* A Life-size Human Anatomy Figure is being used to provide a visual representation of the human anatomy for the students
in the Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences Academy. Health Technology students will be working with the AED Rescue
trainers to earn their CPR certification.
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* One teacher from the Project Lead the Way (PTLW)-based Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences was funded
to provide professional development and to implement the fourth year of the PLTW curriculum. The teacher from the AgriScience Technology (CASE) program was funded to attend professional development during the summer to implement the
third year of the CASE Curriculum – Animal and Plant Bio-Technology.
*
Postsecondary funds were used to improve career technical education programs by upgrading instructional supplies and
equipment that are designed to improve skills and assist students in achieving successful passing rates on national standards
testing.
* The Assessment Technical Institute (ATI) Total Curriculum Support Package was purchased and put into practice to maintain
the high standard of program quality in the Practical Nursing program.
* Laptops were purchased to improve and expand all Adult Certificate and Apprenticeship programs. Additional supplemental
resources, including DVDs, were purchased for the Electrical Technology Adult Certificate and Apprenticeship programs.
*
The Adult Cosmetology program at the Piscataway campus was updated to reflect current industry standards with the
following supplies: Hydraulic Salon Chairs, Shampoo Chairs, Shampoo Sinks, Single Style Salon Stations with mirror, Nail
Stations, Reception Desks and Chair, Quad Styling Stations, Pedicure Unit and Dryer Chairs.
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Student Achievements
Woodbridge Academy seniors Brooke A. Dekolf, Esha M. Patel, Shivam M. Patel and Saba Udaipurwala were named Commended
Students in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Ishaan Jain, Ben Eisner and Kiana McNellis of Edison Academy were named semi-finalists in the 2013 National Merit Scholarship
Program. Sixteen seniors were named Commended Students: Francis Cap, Francis Carr, Ashna Chinnappa, Daniel Delmonaco,
Francesca Falzon, Artur Filipowicz, Patrick Gibson, Enya Guo, Sarika Gurnani, Tonya Liang, Saiamritha Musipatla, Vishesh
Padnani, Yash Parekh, Ronak Shah, Sanmeshkumar Udhayakumar and Maxwell Yekel.
East Brunswick sophomore Briana Schwartz was one of 11 girls chosen to participate in the Progressive Girls Voices training
program with the Women’s Media Center’s New York City office. She worked with Chris Jahnke, who has been a speech advisor
to Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama.
Piscataway LPN student Tishana Bailey was the recipient of the Mid-State Black Nurses Association Scholarship Award. She was
honored at the association’s annual dinner dance.
Students in Culinary Arts in Perth Amboy held their annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest. Miguel Guzman was able to
defend his title with his Tudor house design.
Members of the Woodbridge Academy Debate Club captured first and second places at the Stevens Institute of Technology High
School Ethics Bowl. The first-place team included Marcin Ciesla, Brooke Dekolf, Nicole Minogue, Rushil Oza and Yadvinder
Singh. In second place were David Haldar, Neel Muzurndar, Ruchit Patel, Ibraheem Shaikh and Randall Viera.
Peter Takacs of Woodbridge Academy was selected as one of the three grand-prize winners for The Middlesex County Bar
Foundation Project Law Essay Competition.
The Edison Academy Math Team took first place in the Central Jersey Math League Competition. Abhishek Lingineni was the
individual winner with a result of nine out of 10.
East Brunswick Campus senior Sean Andrews placed second in the basic construction competition and senior Jarrad Trudel placed
third in the carpentry division at the New Jersey Skills USA competition.
The Piscataway Culinary Arts Shop partnered with the Bakery Shop in a stromboli contest. Students prepared more than 40
strombolis filled with a wide variety of ingredients.
Perth Amboy Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration students Raul Tijerino, Nilsson Siguenza, Francisco
Rodgriguez, Diana Martinez, Alexis Reyes, Daniel Deschamps, Jason Nunez, Enrique Adames, and Anthony Arocho successfully
passed the Industry Ready Exam for Gas Heat.
Perth Amboy Campus seniors Ashley Pacheco and Karen Barillas placed sixth in cake decorating, junior Diego Alves placed
seventh in restaurant service and junior Nick Obrizan placed 13th in their first New Jersey Skills USA competition.
Woodbridge Academy juniors Crystal Joseph, Shruti Jadhav and Amanda Gardner were named semifinalists in the Conrad Foundation’s Spirit of Innovation Competition. The students submitted a prototype for their biodegradable burn dressing design, as
well as cost estimates and a business plan for implementation.
Woodbridge Academy hosted its first Biomedical Innovations Capstone Poster Presentation. The posters were judged by two
independent judges from the medical community, as well as allied health professionals from the school. The Capstone portion of the Biomedical Innovations course involves a yearlong process resulting in the production of an innovative healthcare
related product. It includes completion of an independent outside internship. The winning poster for session one was entitled the
“Effects of Art Therapy on Stress,” designed by Zakia Ahmed, Brooke Dekolf, and Erika Elechicon, and the winning poster for
session two was entitled “Cell Phone Bacteria,” designed by Katyana Deleon, Ashley McCaig, and Gabriel Zabre.
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Edison Academy junior Varun Gupta won an award for his participation at the 2012 Princeton Model United Nations Conference.
His work as a member of the South Sudanese Cabinet earned him special recognition by his special committee’s chairperson.
Edison Academy 10th grader Syed Mohideen and 9th graders Amulya Musipatla and Pavritha Pandurangan achieved gold placement in the National Spanish Exam.
East Brunswick senior Jean Carlos Jimenez and faculty advisor Leni Hughes attended the DECA International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, California.
Students from Woodbridge Academy participated in the Middlesex County “Don’t Drive Dangerously” Public Service Announcement Contest. Chelsea Rodriguez, Megan Patel, Nessreen Mestari and Alexandra Levinsky won second place in the
Audio Category.
East Brunswick School of Performing Arts theater and dance students teamed with performing arts professionals in March to present a cuttingedge interpretation of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” Student-produced videos and special effects were incorporated in the production.
Piscataway School of Career Development 12th grade ornamental and agriculture shop student Peter Dudek was selected as the
2012 Star State Chapter Placement Winner by the National FFA Organization. This highly prestigious award is only presented to
one student in New Jersey.
Piscataway School of Career Development ornamental and agriculture students competed in a floral design contest at Burlington
County Community College. Stephen Mehes and Samantha Soto won first-place ribbons.
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Woodbridge Academy Math Club students completed the New Jersey Math League tests, ranking 52nd out of 169 participating
schools in New Jersey. Juniors Arpun Shah, Dave Haldar, Crystal Joseph and Neel Muzumdar, along with senior Marcin Ciesla,
accumulated the highest scores.
Edison Academy students Erwin Feng and Abhishek Lingineni scored in the Top 20 in New Jersey and Top 1 % in the nation in
the American Mathematics Competition.
Edison Academy sophomore Abhishek Lingineni scored a perfect 100 on the Trig Star Exam sponsored by the National Society
of Professional Surveyors.
The East Brunswick Campus DECA team returned from the State Competition in Cherry Hill with a win in Supermarket Careers
by 12th-grader Juan Carlos Jimenez , whch qualified him to move on to the International Career Development Conference in
Anaheim, California.
Edison Academy junior Varun Gupta received honorable mention in the 2013 USA Biology Olympiad semi-final, co-sponsored by
the Center for Excellence in Education and Purdue University.
Piscataway Campus’ All Eyes on PVT placed second in the American Scholastic Press Association national contest.
Miguel Guzman and Travis Campbell of Perth Amboy Culinary Arts won Chef’s Choice at the annual ACF Jersey Shore Chefs
Associations’ Winterfest 2013. The students competed against East Brunswick Vo-Tech, Freehold Boro Culinary Academy and
Ocean County Vo-Tech on Sunday February 24th at Crystal Point Yacht Club in Point Pleasant.
Edison Academy junior Malya Sahu was selected as a New Jersey Governor’s School Scholar in the Sciences.
Kipsy Quevada of Edison Academy was selected to participate in the 2013 Summer Program in Theoretical Computer Science at
Princeton University.
East Brunswick Campus culinary students participated in the Jersey Shore Chefs Association’s Winterfest 2013. David Maratch,
Joseph Semilia and Miranda Dolman won the Bronze Medallion in the Hot Foods Competition for their shrimp appetizer. Anthony
Rabatin and Breeana Hernandez won the Bronze Medallion in the Cold Foods Competition for their sweet and savory dessert
sushi roll. Other East Brunswick School of Career Development students ran the seafood table. Dishes included: shrimp and grits,
roasted cod with exotic mushrooms and baby pearl onions, and shrimp and scallop sushi rolls.
Victoria Tang of Edison Academy won first place in the state in the 14, to 17 year-old category in the International Aviation Art
Contest.
Edison Academy junior Benjamin Chen was accepted to the Summer Academy for Applied Science and Technology at the University
of Pennsylvania.
Perth Amboy juniors Diego Alves and Bianca Mendez took first place in the Tech Expo. They demonstrated the latest in dessertpreparation technology with the “Anti-Griddle,” which uses cold instead of heat to cook. Juniors Kelvin Marte, Nick Obrizan, Nick
Dolan, and Jesse Nalepa took second place with a demonstration of energy efficient lighting and use of optimized light waves to enhance
indoor growth of various plants. Juniors Lukas Andersen and Harjinder Dosahnj took third place with their demonstration of 3-D printing
and its practical uses in various industries.
The Woodbridge Academy Biology Science League team placed in the Top Ten in the state for the third year in a row. Ruchit Patel was
awarded a plaque for placing individually among the top 10 percent of students.
Edison Academy sophomores Vivek Jain and Pranav Subramanian were accepted to participate in the summer NASA research internship
program.
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Perth Amboy culinary arts juniors Danielle Croteau, Kassandra Mejia, Miguel Guzman, Jose Lopez, Candace Szatmary, Jessica Martinez,
Stephanie Figueroa, Yadelin Vargas-Ramos, Diego Alves and Bianca Mendez passed the National Restaurant Association ServSafe
Managers Exam. The junior class had a 91 percent passing average on the exam compared with an industry average of 70 percent.
Perth Amboy HVAC/R students Gerardo Mestanza, Adrian Gonzalez and Jose Perez passed their Universal Certification Exam, which
certifies that they can work on residential and industrial air-conditioning units. Jodeni Diez, Delcris Moya and Alejandro Planell passed
the Residential Certification Exam. Jose Perez, Brianna Irizarry, Geraldo Mestanza, Delcris Moya, Harris Anjum, Alejandro Planell, Noel
Garay, Alex Tejeda and Adrian Gonzalez passed the R410A Certification Exam.
Edison Academy engineering instructor Enzo Paterno and several of his students were selected as Excite Award recipients and
finalists for the 2013-2014 InvenTeam Grant of the Lemelson-MIT Program. They are proposing to create a drone that will assist
farmers with fertilization.
Manny Pacheco and Richard Crawford took first place in the Tech Expo for the East Brunswick School of Career Development for
their display of a solar panel that they built in HVAC. The solar panel showcased how solar energy could be used to supply power
to many appliances in the home, saving thousands of dollars on electricity. Health Services students Robert Silagy, Jayson Low,
Michael, Metz and Amanda Williams took second place for their project on proton therapy. The third-place winners won for their
presentation on arm transplants.
The Edison Academy team – Arnold Wang, Roland Fong, Adithya Sairam, Saimritha Musipatla and Malya Sahu – was second in
its division at the New Jersey Teachers of Mathematics math contest. Arnold Wang was third, with an individual result of 12 out of
14. Roland Fong and Adithya Sairam scored 11 out of 14 and received honorable mention.
Piscataway 12th grade cosmetology student Briana Trotty won the Plinton Curry Award and $500 scholarship. As a peer mentor,
she conducted a seminar targeting underclassmen that addressed bullying.
Two teams from Edison Academy submitted successful project proposals for the Young Science Achievers Program and were
awarded grants of up to $500 to conduct their investigations. The team of Akshay Sampath and Meenal Kumar submitted a
proposal entitled “The Correlation Between Frequency and Shape in the Efficiency of Noise Barriers.” The team of Aakash Parekh,
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Malya Sahu and Faith Szeto submitted a proposal entitled “Capacitive and Inductive Proximity Sensing for Automatic Waste
Sorting and Disposal.”
Edison Academy had another excellent season of competition in the New Jersey Science League. The environmental science team
ranked number one; The biology team ranked number two; the chemistry team ranked number three, and the physics team ranked
number six. Student Roland Fong placed first in biology.
Karan Singh of the Piscataway Campus participated in the National Youth Leadership State Conference at the Hyatt Regency in
Princeton. Karan was selected based on his scholarship and leadership potential.
Perth Amboy Campus culinary arts students won the Gold Medal prize in Plate Presentation in the New Jersey Association of
Counties Culinary Competition in Atlantic City.
Perth Amboy seniors Hector Santana, Jonathan Sosa, and Angel Munoz finished in the top 3 percent of teams across New Jersey in
the Fall Stock Market Game. More than 1,200 teams competed in the event, in which students invest $100,000 in the stock market.
Woodbridge Academy U.S. History classes honored Black History Month with lessons about the black experience during the
creation of the new U.S. government from the Washington to the Jefferson administrations. The classes also did projects on “Slave
Narratives,” reading primary documents and first-person accounts of former slaves and creating multimedia presentations depicting
the lives and experiences of slaves while in bondage.
MCVTS students take first two places in Black History Month contest
Piscataway Vo-Tech students took first and second place in the annual Black History Month Trivia contest sponsored by the New
Jersey State Bar Association’s Minorities in the Profession Section.
First place went to sophomore Aziz Austin of Piscataway, while second place was awarded to his brother, freshman Ali Austin.
The students were among four finalists who qualified by winning a writing contest in which they were asked to pen a letter to the
U.S. Supreme Court to advise the justices whether race should continue to be a factor in the admission process of public colleges.
There were more than 280 entries in the competition, and the finalists had just three weeks to prepare for the trivia contest.
The contest was held Feb. 21 at the New Jersey Law Center in New Brunswick during the bar association’s annual Black History
Month reception. Aziz Austin received a $250 gift card, while Ali’s prize was a $150 gift card.
Steven G. Hockaday, president-elect of the Garden State Bar Association, hosted the contest. The sponsors included Brach Eichler,
LLC; Day Pitney, LLP; Duana Morris, LLP; Gibbons, PC; Hill Wallack, LLP; LeClairRyan; Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak &
Stewart, PC, and Scura Mealey Wigfield & Heyer, LLP.
16
MIDDLESEX COUNTY VO-TECH STUDENTS HELP WITH STORM RECOVERY
When Superstorm Sandy devastated large areas of New
Jersey in late October, MCVTS students were quick to
pitch in to aid in recovery efforts.
Forty students from the East Brunswick Campus
traveled to Union Beach to help with storm relief and
cleanup. The students, who were bused to a firehouse
in the devastated Monmouth County community,
were assigned to food preparation, cooking, sorting
of donations, demolition and refuse removal. They
joined volunteers from as far away as San Francisco.
“It was my best day ever, helping people who
need help,” said 10th-grader Edgar Lopez of New
Brunswick, who cut potatoes and picked up debris.
“It was great helping out,” added Amber Brimage, a
10th-grader from North Brunswick, who spent her time
sweeping.
“It felt good to help,” said Hailey Turiello, a ninthgrader from Sayreville. “I never really did anything
like this before.”
Kyra Robinson, a ninth-grader from Sayreville, said
she helped make 100 sandwiches for bag lunches.
Students from the East Brunswick Campus assisted in cleanup and recovery
efforts after Superstorm Sandy devastated the Monmouth County community of
Union Beach.
“We listened to people, talked with them,” she said.
“It made me feel really grateful for what I have. It could
have been me.”
The students, from both East Brunswick Vo-Tech and the
School of Career Development, were accompanied by teachers Rachel Bicsko, Pam Rodgers, Sarah Rubin, John Sagar and Zach
Levine.
Culinary students and staff at Perth Amboy Vo-Tech teamed with volunteer chefs to prepare more than 3,300 meals for displaced
Sandy victims.
Culinary arts teacher Stephen Moir and the Jersey Shore Chefs Association coordinated the effort, which provided hot meals
to shelters and nonprofit organizations in Atlantic Highlands, Union Beach and Red Bank in New Jersey and Far Rockaway in
New York.
“They were looking for facilities to cook and we were a natural fit,” said Moir, a former executive chef at a restaurant in Forked
River who has been teaching at Perth Amboy Tech for eight years. “We had the kids who can cook and the kitchens to do it.”
Students stayed as late as 8:30 p.m. during the week – “without one complaint,” according to Moir -- to prepare and cook
meals with donated food that came from as far away as Atlanta and Chicago. The donations, including meat and seafood, were
channeled through the Community FoodBank of New Jersey in Hillside.
Eight students gave up their Saturday to produce 600 meals for storm victims in Union Beach and Far Rockaway. They were
joined by some school staffers, family members and volunteer chefs.
The menu included roast chicken, potatoes, salad, mixed vegetables and cupcakes.
17
Community Service
Cutting potatoes were seniors Jacob Vargas and Shelby Haggerty, both of Woodbridge, who said they were three-year veterans
of such prep work in their classes.
“If anything happened to my home, I would hope people would come and help me,” Jacob said.
“I know a lot of people need the food right now,” Shelby added. “I feel bad that they don’t have food.”
Other storm-related community service included:
• The East Brunswick Campus hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for families in the school community affected by Hurricane
Sandy. Michael Roth, culinary arts instructor, and Linda Fitzgerald, baking instructor, prepared a feast for approximately 180
people. All of the culinary and baking students participated in preparing the food and most of them stayed to help serve. The
Tigers cheerleaders organized a schoolwide collection of paper goods, cleaning products, cotton products and toiletries for
distribution to storm victims.
• Students in the Consumer Services program at Woodbridge Academy sold cookies to raise money for the victims of
Hurricane Sandy, and English Honors classes collected more than 70 blankets on the first day of a schoolwide drive for Sandy
victims in Sayreville.
• The Edison Academy Chapter of the National Honor Society collaborated with the Student Council and the Academy
Alumni Association to collect necessary items requested by the victims of Hurricane Sandy, as well as monetary donations
to aid those who were hit hardest by the storm.
The Edison Academy Chapter of the National Honor Society hosted a Thanksgiving luncheon. Proceeds will allow children
in a small village in Pakistan to attend school.
The East Brunswick School of Career Development dry-cleaning class and the South River Board of Health teamed up to
run a winter coat drive. Instructor Thomas Grimaldi and his class cleaned the coats that were donated. EBTV came to East
Brunswick School of Career Development to showcase the dry-cleaning program and the work students were doing in the
coat drive, which was a huge success.
The Piscataway School of Career Development Apparel Services class cleaned coats for a coat drive sponsored by First
Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in New Brunswick.
Students from the Perth Amboy culinary arts shop helped the city cook turkeys and hams for Thanksgiving. This tradition
began several years ago and has continued with the support of Mayor Wilda Diaz.
The Perth Amboy Interact Club and the Student Council joined forces to sponsor a food drive for the local food bank to
remind students that we all must respect and support those in need.
Piscataway students in the Future Business Leaders of America Club made holiday cards for deployed and injured military
service members. The American Red Cross collected and distributed the cards as part of their “Help a Hero” campaign.
The Woodbridge Academy HOSA and Interact Clubs collected food for the St. James food pantry in Woodbridge, supplies
for Hurricane Sandy victims in Sayreville and Toys for Tots for the holiday season.
Woodbridge Academy Employment Orientation eighth-graders baked and wrapped cookies for the Robin Cone Breast Cancer
Foundation.
Members of the Edison Academy Screamin’ Eagles visited the Menlo Park Veterans Home to perform holiday songs for the
veterans.
The Perth Amboy Campus raised $475 for the Middlesex County Charitable Campaign sponsored by the Middlesex County
Freeholders.
18
Community Service
Piscataway Computer Applications for Business 11th-graders participated in “Operation Holiday Eagle” with Adopt-aPlatoon. They prepared 274 candy canes with cards for platoons stationed in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
The Piscataway Future Business Leaders of America sent Heifer International a donation for two flocks of baby chicks to be
sent to help families in Honduras. The money was raised by a packaged popcorn sale.
Piscataway School of Career Development teacher James Wiater’s carpentry class delivered toys to Bristol-Meyers Squibb
Children’s Hospital in New Brunswick. They created jewelry boxes, toy cars, rocking chairs, airplanes, doll cradles, rocking
horses and a variety of other toys. The project lasted three months.
Edison Academy collected more than 3,350 pounds of food in the annual MCFOODS drive.
Woodbridge Academy National Honor Society members read and distributed books to students at Flynn Elementary School
in Perth Amboy. The students collected $100 at fundraisers and donated more than 340 new and used books.
East Brunswick students visited Elijah’s Promise in New Brunswick to provide cosmetology services and baked goods for
needy guests. Cosmetology instructor Darlene Wolansky and more than 20 cosmetology and baking students washed and cut
hair, provided manicures and served baked goods.
Brenda Shaffer’s C.A.B. 10th- and 12th-grade students in Piscataway made snowflakes for students at Sandy Hook Elementary
in Connecticut. A donation also was made by the FBLA club.
The Piscataway Campus hosted its first Community Resource Fair, during which community organizations made the public
aware of programs, services and products that are available. The fair also offered free blood pressure screenings by Health
Technology students.
The Woodbridge Academy UNICEF Club raised over $1,000, which was donated to the United Nations organization.
The Woodbridge Academy Interact Club members raised money for and participated in the “Kids Walk for Kids with Cancer”
at Thompson Park in Lincroft.
Woodbridge Academy Safety Ambassadors made their second visit to first-grade classes at Ross Street School in Woodbridge
to teach safety lessons to keep the elementary school children safe in and around cars and on the playground.
Woodbridge Academy Interact students held a “Spring Fling” party at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home in Woodbridge. Students
donated money, movies, gifts, radios, and supplies.
Woodbridge Academy students in Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Junior Auxiliary Club have been working on fundraisers to
support the hospital’s efforts to install a security system in the pediatric department.
Lianna King, senior in the East Brunswick School of the Arts Dance Program, received the community service award from
the East Brunswick chapter of the AARP, recognizing her community service hours and willingness to assist others in need.
Jennifer Meagher-DiEllo and Debbie Buchma, East Brunswick National Technical Honor Society advisors, along with
principals Jeffrey Bicsko and Robert Feldman and National Technical Honor Society member Justin Salzar volunteered at
the Community of Hope Ministry Episcopal Church in Spotswood to help prepare a spaghetti dinner to people in need.
The Perth Amboy Running Club participated in the Valerie Fund 5K in support of children’s cancer research. The club raised
$600 in the name of freshman Modesty Miranda, a cancer survivor.
Perth Amboy culinary arts students provided hors d’oeuvres for a fundraiser for the Lymphoma Research Foundation.
Six adult students from Rosemarie Ricciardi’s Piscataway cosmetology class visited the Sisterhood of Temple Anshe Emeth
in Highland Park for the Purim holiday, donating their free time to provide make-up, nail and hair services before the evening
festivities.
19
Community Service
The Edison Academy Interact Club hosted a student talent show, with 24 acts showcasing the musical and dancing abilities
of students. More than $400 was raised and donated to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. Following the show, the
Academy Foundation hosted a buffet dinner for staff, students and parents.
Piscataway Computer Applications for Business 12th-grade students prepared printed programs for New Brunswick High
School’s Class of 1948 reunion.
Woodbridge Academy HOSA students successfully initiated a “Go Red” campaign for the American Heart Association.
Students educated others about heart disease and risks and encouraged students and staff to wear red every Friday during
February in support of the AHA. The students also raised money for a donation to the AHA’s campaign for women’s heart
health awareness.
Woodbridge Academy Allied Health students collected garments during a clothing drive for the Salvation Army.
Woodbridge Academy Interact students volunteered at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home and assisted with recreational activities.
The Interact Club students also assisted community members in Union Beach with cleanup after Hurricane Sandy.
Edison Academy’s Safety Ambassadors (Interact Club) delivered presentations to Lincoln Elementary School’s first and
second grade classes.
Eight East Brunswick Safety Ambassadors, along with faculty members Dana Gordon and Katherine Bowen, visited first
graders at Parkview Elementary School in Milltown to teach the younger students about safety and accident prevention. The
Safety Ambassador program is affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital; all the students received training
on how to become safety ambassadors.
For Career Tech Month, Ms. Shaffer and Ms. Morrison’s Future Business Leaders of America Club in Piscataway raised
money to donate to one of the many beaches in New Jersey in need of replacing their dunes due to Hurricane Sandy. Club
members voted to send the donation to Midway Beach Association in South Seaside Park. Approximately half of the dunes
in that community were lost due to the storm and need to be replenished to protect homes and businesses from future storms.
20 Middlesex County Vocational & Technical Schools
Honor Societies
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
Woodbridge Academy
Edison Academy
Crystal Joseph
Elizabeth Chang
Aditi Kamat
Maulik Doshi
Nicole Minogue
Inderdeep Grewal
Rachel Patel
Varun Gupta
Valeriya Timoshenko
Aakash Parekh
Yash Varma
Kipsy Quevada
Malya Sahu
Elena Maria Schiavone
Faith Szeto
LF Mathew Tan
Nicole Vaynshtok
Vaishnavi Warrier
21
Honor Societies
NATIONAL TECHNICAL
HONOR SOCIETY
East Brunswick
Alicia DeSimone
Dana Drinkard
Samantha Gavina
Pedro Hernandez
Jodie Janas
David Jensen
Perth Amboy
Diego Alves
Lukas Anderson
Danielle Croteau
Nicholas Dolan
Matthew Dumbrique
Jose Lopez
Maria Vasquez
LA SOCIEDAD HONORARIA
HISPÁNICA
Edison Academy
Katrina David
Ian Lawson
Syed Mohideen
Jarod Morin
Elena Maria Schiavone
Faith Szeto
Michael Marcinczyk
Piscataway
Steve Montehermoso
Carmen Acosta
Brendan O’Donnell
Joanna Basurto
Woodbridge Academy
Manny Pacheco
Giovanni DiBlasio
Tanvi Chaudhry
Jenna Ramos
Manish Lakhiana
Emina Drazanin
David Ruiz
Ricardo Leaty
Thomas Groshen
Hitanshu Soni
Avier Madden
Tiffany Ho
Amanda Williams
Kayla Martinez
Debanjan Haldar
Ashley Wolff
Robby Pierre
Dominika Kapolka
Inderpaul Pinghlia
Monique Klitbo
Preet Pinglia
Clayton Monis
Lizbeth Romo
Tushar Nichakawade
Navdeep Saini
Tanvi Patel
Eric Zimmer
Aarsh Shah
Nicole Vaynshtok
Varun Uchil
Amira Waryah
Rachel Zachary
Athletics
East Brunswick Campus
Soccer
Greater Middlesex Conference All-Gold Division:
Tyler Marsh
Baseball
GMC All-Gold Division: Luis Ramos
Softball
GMC All-Gold Division: Chelsea Cesare, Amanda
Williams
Boys’ Basketball
GMC Sportsmanship Award
GMC All-Gold Division: Kelvin Perez
Baseball
GMC All-Gold Division: Jacob Vargas
Softball
GMC All-Gold Division: June Weber, Yadelin Vargas
GMC Gold Division Coach of the Year: Jim Rand
NJSIAA Scholar-Athlete
Kristin Wanko
June Weber
GMC Scholar-Athlete
GMC Scholar-Athlete
David Maratch, Kristen Wanko
Jacob Vargas, June Weber
Tyler Marsh, Christa DeMaio
Angel Munoz, Shelby Haggerty
Edison Academy
Piscataway Campus
Soccer
Soccer
GMC Sportsmanship Award; GMC All-Gold
Division: Joanne Dallagnese, Dan Delmonoco,
Sanmesh Udhayakumar
GMC All-Gold Division: Michael Perez
1,000 Points: Turell McClendon
Matthew Persing
GMC All-Gold Division: Turell McClendon, Gordon
Lackey
GMC Scholar-Athlete
Matthew Persing
Steve Jurcsek, Emily Jurcsek
Perth Amboy Campus
Soccer
GMC All-Gold Division: Gonzalo Bazan, Milton
Rendon, Bryan Osorio, Alexis Reyes; Coach of the
Year: Steven Moir
Boys’ Basketball
Girls’ Basketball
Baseball
GMC All-Gold Division: Vincent Delemo
Turell McClendon
23
Athletics
GMC Scholar-Athlete
Turell McClendon, L’ Tanya Peacock
Vincent Delemo, L’Tanya Peacock
Woodbridge Academy
Soccer
GMC Sportsmanship Award;
GMC All-GoldDivision: Marcin Ciesla, Brittany
Gasser
Girls’ Basketball
1,000 Points: Grace Brennan
GMC All-Gold Division: Grace Brennan
A three-year varsity starter for the boys’ basketball team, Turell McClendon of the
Piscataway Campus scored 1,076 points.
Softball
GMC All-Gold Division: Richa Shah
Marcin Ciesla
GMC Scholar-Athlete
Macin Ciesla, Henna Akbarzai
Janelle Thomas, Ninoska Duran
Grace Brennan scored a total of 1,310 points in four years for Woodbridge Academy’s
girls’ basketball team, improving her point total each year. In her junior and senior
years, she produced 68 percent of the team’s offense.
24
Faculty Achievements
Lisa Ann Moschera, East Brunswick Agriscience Technology teacher, was selected to receive the National Future Farmers
of America Honorary American Degree at the National Convention in Indianapolis. The American FFA Degree is awarded
to FFA members who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to FFA and made significant accomplishments in
their supervised agricultural experiences. Less than half of 1 percent of all FFA members receive the degree, making it one
of the organization’s highest honors.
Marie Bowen, Woodbridge Academy Allied Health instructor, acted as moderator for Kean University’s inaugural nursing
research symposium to present and promote research for evidenced-based practice in health care.
Edison Academy mathematics teacher Amro Mosaad was awarded a grant for the use of MATLAB by MathWorks Corp.
for his Honors Linear Algebra Course. MATLAB is a fundamental computational tool used at educational institutions
around the world. Mosaad also presented a workshop entitled “Hello, my name is x+3” – Cooperative Group Activities for
Polynomial and Rational Functions -- at Rutgers University. Sixty participants attended his session.
25
Special Events
Welding instructor Joseph Gess is surrounded by present and former Piscataway Vo-Tech students at the dedication of the “Fierce Allegiance” sculpture at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park. At far left is Piscataway Tech Principal Joseph Armstead and
at far right is Brian Bilal, principal of the Piscataway School of Career Development.
EAGLE SCULPTURE MADE BY MCVTS STUDENTS DEDICATED AT
VETERANS HOME
An eagle flies in front of the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park, thanks to welding teacher Joseph Gess and his
students at the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School in Piscataway.
“Fierce Allegiance,” an 1,800-pound stainless steel sculpture with a 16-foot wingspan, was dedicated November 26 before state,
county and local officials, residents of the nursing home and Piscataway Vo-Tech students.
“I haven’t seen anything like this before,” said Joseph Brandspiegel, CEO of the 300-resident Veterans Memorial Home. “It represents the contributions of all the veterans who live here. The sculpture is a gift to America and a gift to all our veterans.”
Superintendent of Schools Brian J. Loughlin said the eagle was the brainchild of Gess, whose aim was to teach his students welding but also to instill a sense of patriotism in them.
“The project taught a group of students welding skills but not typical welding skills, highly precise, skilled work,” Loughlin said,
calling Gess “an outstanding example of what a great teacher can be.”
“He did this for one reason only – to inspire his students,” said Assemblyman Patrick J. Diegnan Jr.
Diegnan and Freeholder Deputy Director Ronald J. Rios were instrumental in finding a home for “Fierce Allegiance” at the Veterans Memorial Home. Gess termed the location “absolutely perfect.”
“This is a real work of art,” Rios said, adding that the sculpture captures the traits of the bald eagle that inspired the founding
fathers to adopt it as a national symbol: strength, long life and its majestic appearance.
“This is a day of great pride and joy for us as we celebrate our youths, who have honored the sacrifices of our veterans,” said
Freeholder Director Christopher D. Rafano.
Diegnan presented a joint resolution of the state Legislature honoring Gess and the 30 students who worked on the sculpture over
two years. State Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Raymond L. Zawacki presented certificates of appreciation to Gess
and his students. Zawacki marveled that the sculpture, which is mounted on a colorful 3,800-pound base, survived Superstorm
Sandy “with not a feather ruffled.”
Special Events
MCVTS STUDENTS TAKE 11 FIRSTS AT STATE HORTICULTURE EXPO
Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools students captured 11 first-place awards and 41 additional ribbons in
competitions in 30 categories at the annual New Jersey High School Horticulture Expo at Mercer County College. The
competition included more than 500 students from 28 high schools across the state. East Brunswick Vo-Tech students won
nine firsts, while students in the School of Career Development in Piscataway took two firsts. The competition was sponsored
by the New Jersey FFA Association and the state Department of Agriculture.
The East Brunswick winners were sophomore Hector Pena of Carteret; juniors Corey Blake of South Brunswick, Angela
Linke of Jamesburg, Sharnette Killings of New Brunswick, Rachel Smith of Old Bridge and Sabrina Wardrop of South River,
and seniors Christopher Borrelli of Monroe, Jackie Driskill of Matawan and Chelsea Jones of Metuchen.
The Piscataway winners were seniors Zak Botelho of Colonia and Samantha Soto of Perth Amboy.
27
Special Events
Students Participate in Fitness Challenge
Who are the fittest students in the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School District?
The honor was decided by a competition on the district’s campuses in East Brunswick, Piscataway, Perth Amboy and
Woodbridge. About 400 students were involved in the Joetta Clark Diggs Fitness Challenge, sponsored by Horizon NJ
Health, the Joetta Clark Diggs Sports Foundation and Empower Somerset, as part of that agency’s Coordinated School
Health Grant.
“This is my foundation’s fourth year of conducting the Joetta Clark Diggs Fitness Challenge, and we are excited Horizon NJ
Health is once again taking the lead on sponsoring this program to schools in Middlesex County, said Clark Diggs, a fourtime Olympian and a member of the U.S. Track and Field Hall of Fame.
“I know the importance of having a fit body and mind, and this program will focus on those areas,” she added. “It’s always
exciting to see the youth getting involved in fitness and academic achievement.”
“This is an exciting opportunity, and we are proud to be a part of a program that challenges young people to become more
active and involved,” said Karen L. Clark, president of Horizon NJ Health. “They have an excellent role model in Mrs. Clark
Diggs and will be involved in activities and competitions that can motivate, involve, teach and, hopefully, inspire them to
see that their lives can be improved with a healthier lifestyle.”
The students competed in push-ups/sit-ups, standing broad jump and rope-jumping, as well as a “mental challenge” during
March. In preparation, they received instruction from trainers from the Joetta Clark Diggs Sports Foundation, conducted
three training sessions at each school.
A gym class at the Middlesex County Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences in Woodbridge was presided over
by trainers Crystal Boyd, Olivia Roman and Reggie Lampley, as school nurse Barbara Meene and physical education teacher
Rocco Funari looked on.
“The kids are all so excited,” Meene said. “All of our kids are very competitive, academically and across the board.”
Reviewing a previous lesson, Lampley asked, “Food eaten minus what equals weight gain?” “Exercise,” the class responded.
As they warmed up to music with stretches and calisthenics, Lampley asked, “Are you guys the fittest high school?” “Yes,”
the students shouted. East Brunswick Vo-Tech students also received eight second-place ribbons, eight thirds, four fourths
and three fifths, while Piscataway School of Career Development students took seven seconds, five thirds, four fourths and
two fifths.
The East Brunswick agriscience technology students are taught by Lisa Ann Moschera, and the Piscataway agriculture and
ornamental horticulture students are taught by Cindy Von Thun.
Adult Education Department
Today’s global economy relies on a skilled workforce as the foundation of its success. Adult Education at Middlesex County
Adult Technical Schools is dedicated to its role in the county as the best provider of post-secondary career skills training and
lifelong learning. The department is also committed to community service. Adult Education achieved excellent outcomes
while providing training of the highest quality to residents of our communities through programs including: Adult Certificate,
Apprenticeship Training, Customized Training, Evening School, Health Occupations, and Specialized Training.
Cooperative Community Activities
In conjunction with Saint Peter’s University Hospital, Licensed Practical Nursing students participated in flu shot clinics and
health fairs at the adult communities in Jamesburg and Monroe in the fall and spring of the 2012-2013 school year.
The adult education administration conducts Apprenticeship and Training Seminars for various agencies and clients to inform
them of employment and training options available in Middlesex County.
Adult Certificate Programs
Certificate programs are designed for individuals interested in changing careers as well as those who are looking to change
classifications or to acquire new skills within a career area. Successful completers earned certificates, and in some cases credit
hours earned were applied to registered apprenticeship programs. Adult certificate programs offered include: Manicurist,
Skin Care Specialist, and a variety of construction-related trades.
Apprenticeship Training
Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools was proud to have Board of Education President John F. Bicsko award
Certificates of Completion of Related Technical Instruction to 32 students at Apprentice Graduation. Jahred Gallagher
was selected as the recipient of the 2013 Class Representative Award. National Technical Honor Society inductees were
graduates Jahred Gallagher, Carlos Gomez and Jerry Stanzione. Apprenticeship Instructor Richard Shine Jr. was inducted
as an honorary member. Carlos Gomez and Jerry Stanzione were presented the Edward J. Fofrich Memorial Award by the
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 456 president, Michael McLaughlin.
The 2013 recipient of the Albert Hudanish Leadership Award was Assemblyman Patrick J. Diegnan Jr. The award is presented
annually to recognize an outstanding leader from business and industry, labor, government or education who has made a
significant contribution to apprenticeship and public service at the local state, national or international level.
Graduating apprentices completed between 576 and 800 related technical instruction hours in school while simultaneously
clocking a minimum of 8,000 on-the-job learning (OJL) paid hours over a four-year period. IBEW graduates completed 900
or more related technical instruction hours in school and 10,000 OJL hours over a five-year period. Apprentice training is
recognized nationally as one of the most effective methods of preparing workers for careers in highly skilled technical and
craft occupations.
Customized Training
Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) partnered with Middlesex County Adult Technical Schools to train PSEG employees
in Machine Trades Technology. This program provided cross-training and credentials to enable employees to increase their
productivity and expand their work options within the firm.
The Inmate Education Program at the Middlesex County Adult Corrections Center provides a comprehensive program of
educational services, including Adult Basic Education, G.E.D. Prep, English as a Second Language, Independent Study and
Computer Applications training. The number of inmate registrations for these courses totaled more than 720 for the 2012
2013 year.
29
The Driver Improvement Program, an outstanding program run in conjunction with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle
Commission, has been a successful program for many years. The program provides classes for individuals who need to
improve their driving records. The number of registrations for this program totaled more than 495 for the 2012-2013 year.
Evening School
Now more than ever before post-secondary adult learners are eager to improve or acquire career technical education
skills. Adults registered for more than 90 skills training courses offered during the evening on the East Brunswick and
Piscataway campuses in the fall, winter and spring semesters. Adult learners took classes in areas of Agriculture, Food and
Natural Resources, Architecture and Construction, Arts, A/V Technology and Communications, Business, Management and
Administration, Health Science, Hospitality and Tourism, Human Services, Information Technology, Manufacturing, and
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics.
Licensed Practical Nursing
During the 2012 calendar year, over 86.05 percent of Middlesex County Adult Technical Schools Practical Nursing Program
graduates passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The National Council of State Boards of Nursing
(NCSBN) disseminates NCLEX results to schools of nursing. This report provides information on the number of graduates
who tested for the first time during a calendar year and the number and percentage of graduates who passed.
Three recognition ceremonies were held during the 2013 year, one in January and two in May. Having successfully completed
more than two-thirds of their academic and clinical work, the students received words of congratulation and encouragement
from Dawn M. Lystad, Director of Adult Education, and Joseph Armstead, Principal, Piscataway Campus. Each student was
called to the podium to receive a small replica of the Nightingale Lamp.
Nine graduating seniors were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society during those ceremonies Students were
selected for membership based on their academic achievements and leadership abilities. Each student was presented with
the official National Technical Honor Society certificate, pin, membership card and honor stole, which was to be worn at
graduation ceremonies.
Two graduation ceremonies were held during the 2013 calendar year. Thirty-six candidates received words of congratulations and
encouragement from Superintendent of Schools Brian J. Loughlin and Board of Education President John F. Bicsko, Jr. as they
were presented with diplomas in Practical Nursing.
Practical Nursing senior students Sarojben Adroja and Kris Paguio-Ronquillo were recipients of the Ann Stevens Nursing
Scholarship given by Murray Stevens in conjunction with the AARP of East Brunswick. Three awards were given in memory of
Stevens’ wife, Ann, who was registered nurse for many years.
Practical Nursing junior student Tishana Bailey was the recipient of the Mid-State Black Nurses’ Association Scholarship Award.
She was honored at the association’s annual dinner-Dance on November 16, with her father as her escort. In addition to scholarship
money, she received a plaque and a five-year membership in the Mid-State Black Nurses’ Association.
Practical Nursing is offered on the Piscataway campus. Students may apply to take the 15 month daytime or the two-year evening
program. The rigorous curriculum includes instruction in Anatomy and Physiology.
The Albert Hudanish Leadership Award was presented to Assemblyman Patrick J. Diegnan Jr., chairman of the Assembly Education Committee,
at the annual apprentice graduation, recognizing him for significant commitment and contributions to career and technical education and apprenticeship.
31
Program Advisory Committee
The Program Advisory Committee is an essential part of career technical education’s system of checks and balances. Advisory
Committee members represent business and industry throughout the county and greater Central New Jersey. These specialists
provide vital labor-market information and data to ensure our programs maintain leading-edge training consistent with the
skills demanded by employers. Periodic meetings assemble a cross-section of experts representing trade and industry to
discuss and explore curriculum development, recruitment, placement, program advancement, program evaluation, and current
achievements.
The purpose of the Program Advisory Committee is to:
• Provide guidance in instructional programs and curriculum improvement.
• Assist in the planning and development of new courses
and their approval.
• Promote recruitment and placement of students.
• Offer instructional and administrative staff technical assistance.
• Provide input into equipment
and occupational software.
• Advise on labor-market needs
and trends.
The Program Advisory Dinner was held on April 24, 2013, on the Piscataway Campus.
Special Projects
The Superintendent reports that the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical High
School District has been awarded the following grants for the school year 2012-2013:
Grant/Project Title
Amount of Award
Adolescent Alcoholic Services (LACADA)
Apprentice Coordinator Program
Carl D. Perkins, Entitlement Funds
Carl D. Perkins, Post-Secondary Funds
Coordinated School Health System Program
20,000
Excellent Educators for New Jersey Pilot Program
76,000
I.D.E.A. Part B
570,818
Inmate Education Funds
166,845
Mini Arts Grant
New Jersey School Boards Safety Grant
25,543
Race to the Top 3
29,795
Title I – Regular
401,145
Title IIA
U Got Brains Champion School Project
$ 40,000
20,000
458,435
117,083
2,100
51,636
1,000
Total $1,980,400
33
Board of Education President John F. Bicsko, Jr. and Superintendent of Schools Brian J. Loughlin
honored this year’s recipients of Governor’s Teacher Recognition Awards.
Administration Directory
Superintendent
Brian J. Loughlin
Student Service and
Program Development
Dianne Veilleux
Assistant Superintendent
Personnel and Administrative Services
Paul Munz
Assistant Superintendent
Principals
Academy for Science, Mathematics and
Engineering Technologies, Edison: Dr.
Linda Russo
Dr. Todd Bonsall
Director of CTE-Career Majors
Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical
Sciences, Woodbridge: Michael Fanelli
Tracey Maccia
Director of Special Education
East Brunswick: Jeffrey Bicsko
Business and Facilities
Karl Knehr
Business Administrator
Francine Thompson
Assistant Business Administrator
Instructional Services
Dr. Deborah Krause
Director of Instructional Services
Francis P. Cap
Director of Building and Grounds
Marlene Shakarian
Supervisor of Instruction
Michele Evans
Supervisor of Mathematics
Adult Education
Dawn Lystad
Director of Adult Education
Technology
Arismendy Almonte
Supervisor of Technology
34
East Brunswick School of Career Development: Robert Feldman
Perth Amboy: Robert Fuller
Piscataway: Joseph Armstead
Piscataway School of Career Development:
Brian Bilal
Annual Report Credits
Photographer: Jessie Crespo
Printing: East Brunswick VoTech
Cover: Dominick Ciampi
School Locations
Middlesex County Academy for Allied Health and
Biomedical Sciences
1 Convery Blvd.
Woodbridge, New Jersey 07095
732-634-5858
Middlesex County Academy for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Technologies
100 Technology Drive
Edison, New Jersey 08837
732-452-2600
Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School at
East Brunswick
112 Rues Lane
East Brunswick, New Jersey 08816
732-254-8700
Perth Amboy
457 High Street
Perth Amboy, New Jersey 08861
732-376-6300
Piscataway
21 Suttons Lane
Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
732-985-0717

Student Achievements - Middlesex County Vocational and Technical

Transcription

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