New Jersey Alliance for Social, Emotional, and Character Development

2019 Schools of Character Recognition Ceremony

Friday, May 31, 2019 Rider University The Fine Arts Building Yvonne Theater Lawrenceville, NJ Table of Contents

Recognition Ceremony Agenda ...... 2 State and National Schools of Character Program Description . . . . . 3 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Support ...... 4 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Recipients ...... 5 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries . . . . . 6-18 2019 National Schools of Character ...... 19 2019 Promising Practices ...... 20 Previous New Jersey School of Character Recipients ...... 21-22 NJ Alliance for Social, Emotional and Character Development . . . . 23 Acknowledgments ...... Back Cover 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Recognition Ceremony Agenda

Welcome ...... Laurie Coletti NJ Schools of Character Coordinator Remarks ...... Marie Blistan President, New Jersey Education Association

Recognition of Emerging Schools...... Steve Beatty Secretary/Treasurer, New Jersey Education Association

Remarks ...... Dr . Kelly Williams NJ Department of Education Recognition of Honorable Mention Schools. . . . . Dr . Kelly Williams and Kelly Allen NJ Department of Education Recognition of 2019 Schools of Character. . . Eileen Dachnowicz, Laurie Coletti, . Mary Reinhold and Cindy Dacey, NJ Schools of Character Committee

Remarks ...... Doug Karr President and CEO, Character .org

Recognition of 2019 National Schools of Character ...... Eileen Dachnowicz NJ Schools of Character Coordinator

Closing Remarks ...... Dr . William Trusheim NJASECD President

Page 2 State and National Schools of Character Program Description

The School of Character Program was initiated by the Character Education Partnership (now Character .org) to recognize schools across the country demonstrating an exemplary level of implementation of the Eleven Principles of Effective Character Education . Original- ly, this program was competitive with only ten schools being chosen each year as National Schools of Character . Teams of reviewers knowledgeable in the field of character educa- tion and familiar with the Eleven Principles evaluated applications from schools applying to be Schools of Character .

Through a grant from the John Templeton Foundation, the School of Character Program was expanded to include State Schools of Character (SSOC) . New Jersey was the first state to conduct state-level evaluations and the first four State Schools of Character were named by New Jersey in 2006 . The purpose of this tiered approach is to allow more schools and districts to be recognized and to provide exemplary sites within states to serve as models for other educators . The State School of Character program has grown so that now eigh- teen states are participating in the program and sending their state schools to Character . org to be considered for the national program .

The New Jersey School of Character Program was initially sponsored by CEP, the Center for Social and Character Development at Rutgers University (CSCD) and the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) . The Rutgers Center coordinated the program from 2006 to 2010 . The responsibility for the NJSOC program was transferred to the New Jersey Alliance for Social, Emotional and Character Development (NJASECD), a volunteer pro- fessional organization envisioned by CSCD in 2011 . The New Jersey Schools of Character program recognizes schools and districts that excel in exemplifying the Eleven Principles of Effective Character Education and demonstrate an outstanding character education initia- tive that yields positive results in student behavior, school climate, and academic perfor- mance .

Beginning in 2011, the goal of the National Schools of Character Program became to recognize all schools and districts that demonstrate an exemplary level of implementation of the Eleven Principles of Effective Character Education . National Schools of Character are recognized for their exemplary work at the annual National Forum on Character Education .

The applications of schools designated as New Jersey Schools of Character are forwarded to Character .org to be evaluated at the national level . The National Schools of Character are named in early May . State Schools of Character who are not designated as national models receive feedback to help them develop an action plan for attaining the national designation . They are encouraged to reapply during the five years that they hold the New Jersey School of Character designation .

National Schools of Character serve as models and ambassadors of effective character education . They hold staff development trainings at their sites and are available for consul- tation and mentoring . The National Schools of Character become members of a communi- cation network where they share best practices . Becoming a National School of Character status is an achievable goal for all schools and districts . Schools and districts should apply to be a National School of Character when they feel they have achieved a standard of excel- lence and are ready to be a leader among their peers .

Page 3 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Support

2019 BLUE RIBBON PANEL Eileen Dachnowicz (Chair) NJSOC State Coordinator, Character .org Trainer Thomas Santo Zane North Elementary School William Trusheim NJASECD President Nina Kemps NJASECD Trustee Kathy Hoeker and Maryann Villegas Old Bridge Township Public Schools Laurie Coletti and Phyllis Bloom James A . McDivitt Elementary Elizabeth McLaughlin and Cassandra Pedrosa Juan Pablo Duarte - Jose Julian Marti School No . 28

2019 NATIONAL EVALUATORS Andreia Milano and Nicole Webb Terence Reilly, School No . 7, Elizabeth Brendan Petersen PA State School of Character Coordinator Brett Thorp Pemberton Public Schools Carlos Gramata and Lisa Bowe Hillside Elementary School Cindy Dacey and Ann Wilmot Hamilton Township School District Courtney Lowery Raymond E . Voorhees Elementary School Ed Porowski Campbell Elementary School Eileen Dachnowicz NJASECD Trustee Elizabeth McLaughlin and Cassie Pedrosa Juan Pablo Duarte - Jose Julian Marti School No . 28 Jocelyn Rodriguez, Carla Kokoszka, and Juliette Smith Donald Stewart, School 51 Kathy Hoeker and Maryanne Villegas Old Bridge Public Schools Laurie Coletti and Phyllis Bloom James A . McDivitt Elementary School Mary Reinhold and Melissa Cavagnino Macopin Middle School Michelle dos Santos and Marilyn Quinones West End School Nina Kemps NJASECD Trustee Phil Brown NJASECD Founder and Past President Rene Rovtar and Dominic Esposito Montville TownshipPublic Schools Jennifer Miller Paradise Knoll School Bill Kane West Milford Public Schools

2019 REVIEWERS Jennifer Braverman Yardville Elementary School Ashley LaRose Morgan Elementary School Lisa Bowe and Carlos Gramata Hillside Elementary School Joan Barbagiovanni and Michelle Delaney Burlington Alternative High School Jocelyn Rodriguez, Juliette Smith, and Carla Kokoszko Donald Stewart, School No . 51 Jennifer Frederico and Leslie Smith Pauline J . Petway Elementary School Caitlin Helder and Jennifer Miller Paradise Knoll Elementary School Leslie Finke and Brianna Krietzer Macopin Middle School Krista Provost and Joseph Andriulli Macopin Middle School Elizabeth McLaughlin and Cassie Pedrosa Juan Pablo Duarte-Jose Julian Marti School No . 28 Tom Gaglione and Chris Kelly Hanover Park Regional HS District Laura Gertel and Wendy McDermott Cherry Hill Public Schools Melissa Cavagnino and Mary Reinhold Retired Macopin Middle School Caroline Grossi, Lillian Halden, and Jennifer Ariston Rosa International Middle School Dominic Esposito, Doug Stech, and René Rovtar Monville Township Public Schools Stephanie Primavera and Dana Swarts West Milford Public Schools Cindy Dacey and Ann Wilmot Hamilton Township School District Nina Kemps Trustee, NJASECD Andreia Milano and Nicole Webb Terence Reilly, School No . 7 Thomas Santo Zane North Elementary School Maryann Villegas and Kathleen Hoeker Old Bridge Township Public Schools Laurie Coletti and Phyllis Bloom James A . McDivitt School Michelle Dos Santos and Marilyn Quinones West End School William Trusheim President, NJASECD Kathy Jensen Lawrenceville Elementary School Mona Noyes NJASECD Trustee Brooke Kirschner and Ed Porowski Campbell Elementary School Anthony Tumolo and Ann DeRosa Whitehouse School

Page 4 2019 School of Character Honorees 2019 NEW JERSEY SCHOOLS OF CHARACTER Arthur L. Johnson High School Clark, New Jersey Barclay Early Childhood Center Cherry Hill, New Jersey Cheesequake Elementary School* Matawan, New Jersey Dr. Albert Einstein Academy School No. 29 Elizabeth, New Jersey Frances C. Smith ECC School No. 50 Elizabeth, New Jersey Greenwood Elementary School Hamilton, New Jersey Henry C. Beck Middle School* Cherry Hill, New Jersey Isaiah Haines Elementary School Browns Mills, New Jersey James A. McDivitt Elementary School* Old Bridge, New Jersey James F. Cooper Elementary School Cherry Hill. New Jersey James H. Johnson Elementary School Cherry Hill, New Jersey Jerome Dunn Academy of Mathematics, Technology and the Arts School No. 9 Elizabeth, New Jersey Kingston Elementary School Cherry Hill, New Jersey Lakeview School Denville, New Jersey Langtree Elementary School Hamilton, New Jersey Marshall Hill School West Milford, New Jersey Pauline J. Petway Elementary* Vineland, New Jersey Perth Amboy High School Perth Amboy, New Jersey Pinelands Regional Junior High School Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey Raymond E. Voorhees Elementary School* Old Bridge, New Jersey Signal Hill Elementary School Voorhees, New Jersey Stony Brook School (North Plainfield) North Plainfield, New Jersey Stony Brook School (Rockaway) Rockaway, New Jersey Valley Middle School Oakland, New Jersey William Mason Elementary School Montville, New Jersey Woodcrest Elementary School Cherry Hill, New Jersey * Recertified Schools 2019 NJ HONORABLE MENTION SCHOOLS OF CHARACTER Aaron Decker School Butler. New Jersey Caroline L. Reutter School Franklinville, New Jersey Dennis B. O’Brien Elementary School Dover, New Jersey Glenview Avenue School Haddon Heights, New Jersey Hilldale Elementary School Pine Brook, New Jersey John E Dwyer Technology Academy Elizabeth, New Jersey John F. Kennedy Elementary School West Berlin, New Jersey Kindergarten Success Academy Roselle, New Jersey Little Falls Public Schools Little Falls, New Jersey Marcus W. Newcomb Middle School Pemberton, New Jersey Memorial Middle School (Spotswood) Spotswood, New Jersey Pemberton Township High School Pemberton, New Jersey Saint Leo the Great School Lincroft, New Jersey Valley View School Montville, New Jersey

2019 NEW JERSEY EMERGING SCHOOLS OF CHARACTER Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy Elizabeth, New Jersey Bingham Elementary School Runnemede, New Jersey Edgar Middle School Metuchen, New Jersey Gibbsboro School Gibbsboro, New Jersey Grace Downing Elementary School Runnemede, New Jersey Hillside High School Hillside, New Jersey Keyport Central School Keyport, New Jersey Lakewood Middle School Lakewood, New Jersey Memorial Junior School Whippany, New Jersey West Deptford Middle School West Deptford, New Jersey William F. Halloran School No. 22 Elizabeth, New Jersey Page 5 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Arthur L. Johnson High School Grades: 9-12 School District: Clark Public School District Contact Person: Jennifer Feeley Title: Principal Email: jfeeley@clarkschools .org Address: 365 Westfield Avenue City/State/Zip: Clark, New Jersey, 07066 Telephone: (732) 381-0910 Website: alj .clarkschools org/.

At Arthur L. Johnson High School, the focus is on F .O .C .U .S ., a spirited char- acter education approach that emphasizes the Future, Opportunity, Character, Unity, and Success . Administrators and staff strive for students to work toward a brighter future for all, to take advantage of opportunities offered to them, to treat each other with respect and compassion, and to collaborate in building a stronger community . Initiatives such as the Character Academy, peer mentor- ing, lunch buddies, and Random Acts of Kindness help to produce well-rounded young adults when they graduate from ALJ .

Barclay Early Childhood Center Grades: Pre-K School District: Cherry Hill Public Schools Contact Person: Karen Rockhill Title: Principal Email: krockhill@chclc org. Street Address: 1220 Winston Way City/State/Zip Code: Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 Telephone: (856) 429-7283 Website: http://barclay .chclc .org

The Barclay Early Childhood Center, the preschool for the Cherry Hill School District, a National District of Character, emphasizes Respect, Responsibility and Citizenship, It has implemented many school-wide initiatives so the little ones can practice these pillars . The school has integrated Equity and Cultural Profi- ciency practices, and has worked diligently to assure all students have a voice and a chance to develop leadership skills . Social-emotional learning is a priority here as the staff lays a strong foundation for the children so they are prepared when they enter any of the 12 elementary schools in the district .

N indicates a 2019 National School of Character

Page 6 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Cheesequake Elementary School N Grades: K-5 School District: Old Bridge Township Public Schools Contact Person: Dr . Thomas Ferry Title: Cheesequake Principal Email: tferry@obps .org Street Address: 111 Route 34 City/State/Zip Code: Matawan / NJ / 07747 Telephone: (732) 360-4552 Website: www .oldbridgeadmin .org/cheesequake

Cheesequake is a highly diverse elementary school: 18 different languages are spoken in the homes of its students, 50% of its students, are minorities, and 35% are on free and reduced lunch . Honored as a National Title I Distinguished School and a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, it has shown de- mographic-defying outcomes on state assessments for multiple years . Its robust character education program, with initiatives such as The Eagle Has Landed, that celebrates diversity, and the K Kids Club that develops student leadership, shapes students who are primed for learning and for life .

Dr. Albert Einstein Academy School 29 N Grades: PreK-8 School District: Elizabeth Public Schools Contact Person: Maria Labrador Title: Principal Email: labradorma@epsnj .org Street Address: 919 North Broad Street City/State/Zip Code: Elizabeth, NJ 07208 Telephone: (908) 436-6900 Website: https://www .epsnj .org/Domain/42

In the beginning of 2018/2019 school year, Dr. Albert Einstein Academy School 29 kicked off a new initia- tive that intrinsically motivated students to display excellent character . The theme is Believe in your # SELFIE . The acronym stands for: S-Self -Discipline E- Empathy L- Leadership F- Fairness I- Integrity and lastly E= Excellence . With the help of an enthusiastic student body and creative staff, the SELFIE theme is now embedded into school culture . Activities such as the SELFIE Club, Future Einstein Program, and WE initiatives have become highly popular practices .

Page 7 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Frances C. Smith ECC School 50 N Grades: Pre-K School District: Elizabeth Public Schools Contact Person: Kathy DiProfio Title: Principal Email: diprofka@epsnj .org Address: 1000 South Elmora Ave . City/State/Zip: Elizabeth, NJ 07202 Telephone: (908) 436-6362 Website: https://www .epsnj .org/domain/3078

Teachers at Frances C. Smith School 50, a dual language pre-school center in Elizabeth, NJ, realize they are planting the foundation for life . Its 150 three-year- olds, 150 four-year-olds, and one self-contained special education class enjoy the High Scope curriculum that emphasizes active learning with students having direct, hands-on experiences with people, objects, events, and ideas . School 50’s motto, “Kind friends help and care ”. has added zest to its program, and the little ones develop intrinsic motivation and self-control though creative practices such as Calming Corners, Solution Box, and Peaceful Places .

Greenwood Elementary School N

Grades: K-5 School District: Hamilton Township School District Contact Person: Robyn Ivanisik Title: Climate/Culture Specialist Email: [email protected] Street Address: 2069 Greenwood Ave . City/State/Zip Code: Hamilton, NJ 08609 Telephone: (609) 631-4151 Website: https://www.hamilton.k12.nj.us/Domain/122

Greenwood’s character education program implements a Growth Mindset and social-emotional learning to help students understand how they positively impact themselves and the community . The core values of Respect, Responsibil- ity, Perseverance, Empathy, Integrity and Trustworthiness have given students the opportunities to create a caring community at school . The values also align with the school’s mission statement, school pledge, unified set of expectations and positive behavior strategies . The whole school comes together regularly at its BE EPIC Rallies to celebrate and to remember that at Greenwood, “Success starts with Me ”.

Page 8 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Henry C. Beck Middle School N Grades: 6-8 School District: Cherry Hill Public Schools Contact Person: Bernie O’Connor Title: Principal Email: boconnor@chclc org. Address: 950 Cropwell Rd . City/State/Zip: Cherry Hill . NJ 08003 Telephone: (856) 424-4505 Website: https://beck .chclc .org/

Henry C. Beck Middle School, recognized as a National School of Character in 2014, nurtures a culture in which students develop into responsible, respectful citizens of the school, the community, and the world . The school emphasizes character development through the curriculum and during its “Real Advice with a Purpose” (RAP) Advisory . With the core values of Perseverance, Integrity, Re- spect, Responsibility, and Compassion in mind, Beck sees all activities, academic, co-curricular and extra-curricular, to be opportunities to teach and reinforce the core values . These combined efforts are intertwined throughout the day and build a foundation for student success .

Isaiah Haines Lower Elementary School N

Grades: K-2 School District: Pemberton Township School District Contact Person: Norman M . Adams Title: Principal Email: nadams@pemb .org Street Address: 125 Trenton Road, Bldg 2 City/State/Zip Code: Browns Mills, NJ 08015 Telephone: (609) 893-8141, Ext 1200 Website: https://www .pemberton .k12 .nj .us/site/Default .aspx?PageID=19

Isaiah Haines Elementary School, located in Pemberton, serves scholars in Grades K-2 . Character education is an integral part of the scholars’ daily learning experience as they focus on the five core values—Service, Perseverance, Integ- rity, Respect and Responsibility . A school-wide character chant begins each day, and the importance of good character is reinforced through activities such as “I am . . I can” statements, and “bucket fillers ”. Parents are true partners in their child’s learning, and they facilitate numerous activities which encourage parental involvement, such as “Flashdads” and “Minute Moms ”.

Page 9 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

James A. McDivitt Elementary School N

Grades: K-5 School District: Old Bridge Township Public Schools Contact Person: Laurie Anne Coletti Title: Principal Email: lcoletti@obps .org Address: 1 Manny Martin Way City/State/Zip: Old Bridge, New Jersey, 08857 Telephone: (732) 360-4512 Website: https://www .oldbridgeadmin .org/site/default .aspx?DomainID=338

Designated a National School of Character in 2014, McDivitt School continues to strive vigorously to make certain that the Six Pillars of Character are woven into the fabric of school life . Its Character Education Team, which includes the principal, staff and parents, obtains the input of all stakeholders in addressing the needs of the school community . Character education is very evident here: it is the framework for discussions, writings, posters, open houses, conferences and numerous service-learning opportunities . Displays throughout the building and the daily message broadcast serve as constant reminders that character counts at McDivitt!

James F. Cooper Elementary School N Grades: K-5 School District: Cherry Hill Public Schools Contact Person: Jennifer Tomasetti Title: Guidance Counselor Email: jtomasetti@chclc org. Street Address:1960 Greentree Road City/State/Zip Code: Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Telephone: (856) 424-4554 Website: https://cooper .chclc .org

Each day at Cooper Elementary School begins with a pledge to uphold the core values . After reciting the Kindness Code, students ROAR with Pride by show- ing Respect, Ownership, Acts of Kindness and Responsibility . The school’s work with Quaglia Institute on Student Voice and Aspirations has provided a deeper understanding of using survey data and feedback to inspire students to take ac- tion . Working to become a “No Place for Hate School,” Cooper, who started its character journey 17 years ago, is never content with the status quo and works ceaselessly on developing a caring, inclusive community

Page 10 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

James H. Johnson Elementary School N Grades: K-5 School District: Cherry Hill Public Schools Contact Person: Jared Peltzman Title: Principal Email: jpeltzman@chclc org. Street Address: 500 Kresson Road City/State/Zip Code: Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 Telephone: (856) 428-8848 Website: https://johnson .chclc .org

At James Johnson Elementary, school pride and a sense of family permeate the building . Colorful house banners and displays throughout the school celebrate its rich diversity . Character education, implemented to strengthen community among all stakeholders, improve student achievement, and enhance morale, is always on the front burner . Some of its creative initiatives are the House program, Family Day, Good News Call of the Day, and the NJ State Bar Foundation lessons . The 2018 theme, #BeBraveBeBold- BeYou, makes the school’s mission “to inspire and empower students to make a difference in their world” come to life .

Jerome Dunn Academy of Mathematics, Technology and the Arts School 9

Grades: K-8 School District: Elizabeth Public Schools Contact Person: Sandra M . Evaristo Title: Vice Principal Email: evarissa@epsnj .org Street Address: 125 Third Street City/State/Zip Code: Elizabeth, NJ 07206 Telephone: (908) 436-5583 Website: https://www .epsnj .org/dunnacademy

Jerome Dunn Academy of Mathematics, Technology and the Arts School 9 serves 874 students in grades K-8 . Since the school’s inception in 2014, character education has shaped its curriculum, daily actions and staff/student commit- ment to personal best . The integration of daily, social-emotional lessons in the classrooms has led to sensible decision making and improved school climate . “The JDA Way” has become an intrinsic pathway to be “life-ready” by exhibit- ing excellent character . The school’s creed, to show love, kindness, compassion and respect to other people and ourselves, is infused into peer mentorships, the student leadership programs, and “The Heart of Healthy Living” program .

Page 11 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Kingston Elementary School N

Grades: K-5 School District: Cherry Hill Public Schools Contact Person: William Marble Title: Principal Email: wmarble@chclc org. Street Address: 320 Kingston Rd . City/State/Zip Code: Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 Telephone: (856) 667-0986 Website: https://kingston .chclc .org

Upon entering Kingston School, a visitor feels a sense of celebration and com- mitment to good character . A bulletin board of Barking Good Students and Colleagues, beautiful murals with photos of students showing character in action, and the “Hall of Heroes” posters of Kingston staff are visual clues that character is important here . Student voice is encouraged, exemplified by the fifth-grade Peer Leaders who teach mini-lessons on the value of Respect, Responsibility and Good Citizenship . School-wide service learning projects are a staple at this neighborhood school that places great emphasis on welcoming and supporting all members of a community,

Lakeview Elementary School N Grades: Pre-K - 5 School District: Denville Township Schools Contact Person: Elizabeth C . Baisley Title: Principal Email: bbaisley@denville .org Street Address: 44 Cooper Road City/State/Zip Code: Denville, NJ 07834 Telephone: (973) 983-6540 Website: www .denville .org

Lakeview Elementary School provides many opportunities for students to grow socially and emotionally . The core values of Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Di- versity, and Excellence (P .R .I .D .E .) are found in every aspect of school culture . A creative staff has designed many popular practices, such as the Den and Morning Meetings led by fifth graders, and a #GotLakeviewPride program that invites all to nominate someone they see “Roaring with PRIDE ”. A decided hit is the PAW program, which aims to build a stronger community one PAW and one conversa- tion at a time by encouraging students to start a conversation about core values .

Page 12 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Langtree Elementary School N

Grades: PreK- 5 School District: Hamilton Township School District Contact Person: Joyce Gallo Title: Principal Email: jgallo@hamilton .k12 .nj .us Street Address: 2080 Whatley Road City/State/Zip Code: Hamilton, NJ 08620 Telephone: (609) 631-4157 Website: https://www .hamilton .k12 .nj .us/Domain/344

Langtree Elementary School prides itself on being a highly ethical learning community; the staff is devoted to serving as character education instructors . The school promotes its core values in a “Bulldog Best” kid-friendly mission statement . Langtree’s “BEST” values are: Behavior, Effort, Self-Awareness, and Teamwork . The Character Education Committee created the “Bulldog” tickets for good character . Community outreach and compassion are accented in this caring school that provides many opportunities to participate in service-learning projects that contribute to the larger community .

Marshall Hill School N Grades: K-6 School District: West Milford Township Schools Contact Person: Janet Cash Title: Principal Email: janet cash@wmtps. .org Street Address: 210 Marshall Hill Road, City/State/Zip Code: West Milford, NJ 07480 Telephone: (973) 728-3430 Website: https://www .wmtps .org/schools/marshall_hill_elementary

Marshall Hill School is a K-6 school that focuses on the core values of “Be Here, Be Safe, Be Honest, Be Respectful, Set Goals, Let Go and Move On ”. Dynamic programs centered on children developing a “Growth Mindset” approach to daily learning infuses these values into the life of the school . To enhance these skills and to bolster the core values, students meet four times a year in “Teams ”. to experience personal or community growth . In addition, Character Ambassadors, students in fourth through sixth grade, develop and deliver homeroom lessons based on character traits .

Page 13 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Pauline J. Petway Elementary School N Grades: K-5 School District: Vineland Public Schools Contact Person: Jennifer Frederico Title: Principal Email: jfrederico@vineland .org Street Address: 1115 S . Lincoln Avenue City/State/Zip Code: Vineland, NJ 08361 Telephone: (856) 362-8855 Website: http://www .vineland .org/petway

An innovative character education program is fundamental to all aspects of Petway School, honored as a National School of Character in 2014 . This pro- gram, known as the “Pathway to Patriot Pride,” focuses on 10 character traits to improve students’ social, emotional and academic competencies . The Pathway is a way of thinking and acting that allows individuals to feel accepted, valued and safe . Petway’s philosophy is to help students learn how to be their best selves and do their best work while making school a place where they feel comfortable and able to succeed . Pathway activities vary from school-wide Pride Days and men- toring programs to service learning activities and community outreach . Perth Amboy High School N Grades: K-5 School District: Perth Amboy Public Schools Contact Person: Althea Rogers-Baker Title: Vice Principal Email: althrogers@paps net. Address: 300 Eagle Ave . City/State/Zip: Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 Telephone: (732) 376-6030 Ext . 23405 Website: https://www .paps .net/perth-amboy- high-school .aspx

In the early 90s, Perth Amboy High School started PRIDE, which not only represented the pride for the town but also the P .R .I .D .E values (Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Determination, Excellence) that students should practice . The high school’s reinvigorated character initiative is directly tied to the district’s focus on social and emotional learning (SEL) . The students actively participate in a host of service activities and clubs, and students often initiate new ones . To spur students to take pride in themselves, their school and their community, the staff worked to challenge students while nurturing them . “When they fall, we pick them up” - a true restorative practice that has transformed school culture and students’ lives .

Page 14 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Pinelands Regional Junior High School Grades: 7-9 School District: Pinelands Regional School District Contact Person: Melissa Thompson Title: Character Ed . Coordinator Email: mthompson@prsdni .org Address: 590 Nugentown Rd . City/State/Zip: Little Egg Harbor, NJ 0807 Telephone: (609) 296-3106 Ext . 4468 Website: www .pinelandsregional .org

The character journey ofPinelands Regional Junior High School began 13 years ago when some staff attended a Character Counts! training . From the outset, the school began to make the pillars of character part of the daily vocabulary of staff and students . Most importantly, a group of student leaders rose to spread the message among their peers . This group, called Wildcats in Action (WIA), is the heart of the program today . Character is now infused into the school com- munity in character lessons, student groups, service-minded activities, staff trainings, school events, staff/student behavior, alternative discipline, media communications, building goals, and its mission statement . Moreover, the energetic students keep the spirit of character education alive and fresh . Raymond E. Voorhees Elementary N Grades: K-5 School District: Old Bridge Township Public Schools Contact Person: Faye Bodenstein Title: School Counselor Email: fbodenstein@obps .org Street Address: 11 Liberty Street City/State/Zip Code: Old Bridge, NJ 08857 Telephone: (732) 360-4544 Website: https://www .oldbridgeadmin .org/voorhees

As part of the Old Bridge School District, a National District of Character, Raymond E. Voorhees Elementary School has focused on character for several years . Voorhees staff consists of people who truly care for children and participate in initiatives planned by our multi-disciplinary Character Education Team . Its thriving PTA actively enhances the school . Its Core Values are visible throughout the building and the focus of many activities . Voorhees is an accepting and tolerant community, where every student, regard- less of background, disability, or time in the school, is accepted and integrated into all aspects of school life . Honored as a National School of Character in 2014, Voorhees is always looking to grow!

Page 15 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Signal Hill Elementary School Grades: Pre K-5 School District: Voorhees Public Schools Contact Person: Melissa Rupp Title: Teacher Email: rupp@voorhees k12. .nj .us Address: 33 Signal Hill Drive City/State/Zip: Voorhees, NJ 08043 Telephone: (856) 767-6749 Website: https://www .voorhees .k12 .nj .us/Domain/1144

A small group of parents and school staff ofSignal Hill Elementary School ap- proached one another with a similar goal - to institute a school-wide character program . Parents and staff collaborated throughout the summer, identifying five pillars of characters on which to focus: Patience, Respect, Inclusion, Determina- tion, and Excellence . Husky PRIDE was adopted . The original goal—to improve school climate and ensure a safe, supportive learning environment—has come to fruition because of high student and staff engagement . Visitors to the school notice posters and artwork created by the children, but their highest praise is reserved for the students, who are truly “PRIDE” ambassadors .

Stony Brook School (North Plainfield)N Grades: Pre-K - 4 School District: North Plainfield Public Schools Contact Person: Catherine Kobylarz Title: Principal Email: cathy_kobylarz@nplainfield .org Street Address: 269 Grove Street City/State/Zip Code: North Plainfield, NJ 07060 Telephone: (908) 769-6063 Website: https://npsbe .nplainfield .org/

Stony Brook School promotes the district’s core values of Caring, Apprecia- tion, Respect and Determination (C .A .R .D .) . The school’s character approach, which utilizes Responsive Classroom practices, focuses on empowering students to ensure maximum student potential . The core values guide every aspect of school life, and staff and students practice interactive modeling, role playing, and behavior strategies . The school’s mission is “to live, learn and grow together ap- preciating and respecting our culturally rich backgrounds and understanding the importance of serving our community ”. The core values C .A .R .D . help it become a reality .

Page 16 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

Stony Brook School (Rockaway) N Grades: K-5 School District: Rockaway Township Schools Contact Person: Steve Wisniewski Title: Principal Email: swisniewski@rocktwp .net Street Address: 44 Stony Brook Road City/State/Zip Code: Rockaway, NJ 07866 Telephone: (973) 627-2411 Website: www .rocktwp .net

Stony Brook School has a strong focus on character education demonstrated through its four core values; Be Kind, Be Fair, Be Respectful, Be Your Best, and its mission statement, “It’s not about being the best, it’s about being your best self ”. Students and staff practice the values through events and activities such as the Annual Character Kickoff, Peer Role Model program, Gratitude Journals, and Friendship Bracelet Challenge . Moreover, “Think Sheets” enable students to reflect on these core values . Other aspects of the school’s rich program are the theme, “Follow the Golden Reef,” which is promoted by student-led Dolphin Teams and Dolphin Buddy programs .

Valley Middle School N Grades: 6-8 School District: Oakland School District Contact Person: Gregg Desiderio Title: Principal Email: desiderio@oaklandschoolsnj .org Address: 71 Oak Street City/State/Zip: Oakland, NJ 07436 Telephone: (201) 337-8185 Website: www .oaklandschools .org

The cornerstone ofValley Middle School’s character education program is fos- tering common experiences: The goal is for VMS students “to go to high school and beyond believing there is more that binds us than divides us ”. Therefore, the school abounds in classes, activities, and a special Frost Valley training that accents teamwork and appreciating differences . With an accent on hands-on and project learning, each grade has thematic days such as Native American Day, promoting respect, Day of Understanding focusing on the Holocaust, and Im- migration Day, reenacting the trials, experiences and strengths of generations of immigrants into the country .

Page 17 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Program Summaries

William Mason Elementary School N Grades: K-5 School District: Montville Township Public Schools Contact Person: David Melucci Title: Principal Email: david .melucci@montville .net Street Address: 5 Shawnee Trail City/State/Zip Code: Montville, NJ 07045 Telephone: (973) 331-7100 Website: www .montville .net

William Mason Elementary School sees children as individuals and provides each student with the best opportunity to thrive in his/her social, emotional and academic pursuits . With the six pillars of character as the school’s core values, staff members work consciously to lead by example and help their students understand and practice them through classroom lessons that connect learning with character elements . Staff work with students throughout various service projects to learn the importance of kindness and putting the needs of others before themselves . Cross-curricular and all-school initiatives such as spirit days and weeks add zest to the school’s lively approach .

Woodcrest Elementary School N Grades: K-5 School District: Cherry Hill Public Schools Contact Person: Jon Cohen Title: Principal Email: joncohen@chclc org. Street Address: 400 Cranford Road City/State/Zip Code: Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Telephone: (856) 429-2058 Website: https://woodcrest .chclc .org/

Woodcrest Elementary School has long enjoyed a reputation as having a healthy school climate with a rich history in character education . Yet, when the counselor and principal first assumed their roles three years ago, it was difficult to identify any coherent symbols, ceremonies or history that had been intentionally built over the course of the prior 5-10 years . The staff saw revitalization of the school’s character education program as a top priority . Collectively, the students and staff engaged in a foundational process, selecting three top values—Integrity, Kind- ness, and Accountability--to complement the district’s core values . These six values were memorialized as classroom banners and embedded into a new daily school pledge . Woodcrest was off and running in a new, exciting direction!

Page 18

2019 NATIONAL SCHOOLS OF CHARACTER!

Cheesequake Elementary School * Dr. Albert Einstein Academy School No. 29 Frances C. Smith ECC School No. 50 Green-Fields Elementary School Greenwood Elementary School Harker Wylie Elementary School Helen A. Fort Middle School Henry C. Beck Middle School * Isaiah Haines Elementary School James A. McDivitt Elementary School* James F. Cooper Elementary School James H. Johnson Elementary School Kingston Elementary School Lakeview Elementary School Langtree Elementary School Marshall Hill School Nicholas S. LaCorte Peterstown School No. 3 Pauline J. Petway Elementary * Perth Amboy High School Raymond E. Voorhees Elementary School * Riverview Elementary School Stony Brook School, North Plainfield Stony Brook School, Rockaway Township Valley Middle School West Milford Township High School William Mason Elementary School Woodcrest Elementary School

* indicates schools that have been recertified as National Schools of Character

Page 19 2019 Promising Practices from New Jersey Schools

A. Russell Knight Elementary School ARK Energy Bus Agreements Cherry Hill, NJ A.C. Redshaw Elementary School DEASEL Days New Brunswick, NJ Anthony Rossi Intermediate School Make A Change Vineland, NJ Apshawa Elementary School (2) Caretakers & Phillip the Fill-Up West Milford, NJ Ben Franklin Elementary Calming Corners Lawrence Township, NJ Berlin Community School Life Lines Berlin, NJ Birchwood School Kindness Ninjas Dover, NJ Camden County Technical Schools (2) Gloucester Township Campus GTC Restorative Justice Sicklerville, NJ Pennsauken Campus Helping Others Through Practice Pennsauken, NJ Campbell Elementary School Campbell’s Food Bankpacks Metuchen, NJ

Carusi Middle School The Mustang Way Cherry Hill, NJ Carl Sandburg Middle School “Out of Office” Day Old Bridge, NJ Cherry Hill High School East (2) FOP Club & Unity Day Cherry Hill, NJ Catherine A. Dwyer Elementary School (2) “Seeds of Service” & R.O.B.O.T Wharton, NJ Cinnaminson Middle School Soup-er Supper for Seniors Cinnaminson, NJ CinnaminsonClara Barton Elementary High School Interact’sLunch & Recess Annual Captains “Casino Night” Cinnaminson,Cherry Hill, NJ Copeland Middle School Celebrity Day - Substance Abuse Prevention Rockaway, NJ Dogwood Hill Elementary School Popping with Good Character Oakland, NJ Donald Stewart ECC No.51 Super Hero Powers Rally Elizabeth, NJ Duarte - Marti School No. 28 Parrot Pride Buddy Program Elizabeth, NJ East Greenwich Township Schools Kindness Buddies Mickleton, NJ Frank R. Conwell MS 4 Creating a Culture of Kindness Jersey City, NJ Greenwood Elementary School Math Buddy Mondays Hamilton, NJ Hanover Park High School Arcade for Autism East Hanover, NJ Heights School Joining Old and Young (JOY) Oakland, NJ Jerome Dunn Academy First Ladies Elizabeth, NJ John E Dwyer Technology Academy JEDTA Unity Day Elizabeth, NJ

Joseph H. Brensinger Elementary PS #17 (2) Parents as Partners & TedEd Club Jersey City, NJ JonasKatharine Salk D.Middle Malone School Elementary School “Let’sKDM Snack Talk” duringCart Family Night OldRockaway, Bridge, NJ Lawrence Middle School (2) Interview Day & LMS Energy Bus Lawrenceville, NJ Leroy Gordon Cooper Elementary School Positive Postcards Cliffwood Beach, NJ Liberty Corner School Character Education Through Sports Liberty Corner, NJ Little Falls Board of Education Compassion Through Art Program Little Falls, NJ Manito Elementary School Social Issue Book Clubs Oakland, NJ Memorial Elementary School Husky’s Healthy Pedalers Laurence Harbor, NJ Montville Township Public Schools A Roadmap for Respect, Kindness, Montville, NJ Gratitude, Grit, Courage and Resilience Newcomb Middle School (2) Why you are Awesome & Circle of Friends Pemberton, NJ Character Education Club Old Bridge High School Walk a Mile in Our Shoes Matawan, NJ Old Bridge Public Schools Miller Kids Konnect Old Bridge, NJ Oxford Central School All In! Oxford, NJ Petway Elementary School (2) Cunningham Helping and Mentoring Vineland, NJ Petway Patriots Program (CHAMPP) & Petway’s Parent Partnership Raymond E. Voorhees Elementary School (2) Family Literacy Night & Voorhees Read Patrol Old Bridge, NJ Riverview Elementary School Digital Citizenship Family Night Denville, NJ Rosa International Middle School (2) BookMates & Stars Over Africa Cherry Hill, NJ Samuel T. Busansky Upper Elementary School Culture, Caffeine & Conversation Pemberton, NJ

Terence C. Reilly School No. 7 Christmas At Grams Elizabeth, NJ SlocumUpper Greenwood Skewes School Lake School WhyUGL KindNot You, Kids Why Not Me, Why Not Us? Ridgefield,Hewitt, NJ Valley Middle School Step-Up Club Oakland, NJ Virgil I. Grissom Elementary School GATOR Binder Old Bridge, NJ Walter M. Schirra Elementary School (2) Kindness Ambassadors & Tiger’s Den Old Bridge, NJ West Deptford Middle School Empathy & Compassion West Deptford, NJ Through Service Learning West Essex Middle School WE RISE North Caldwell, NJ West Milford Field Hockey Program Administrators, Survivors, and Athletes West Milford, NJ Team Competition Day West Milford High School (3) Full STEAM Ahead, Green Team, & West Milford, NJ West Milford HS Athletic Hall of Fame West Milford Township Public Schools (2) Highlander Helpers & Highlander Academy West Milford, NJ Mentor Program Westbrook Elementary School (2) Cultural Connect Club & Westbrook West Milford, NJ Service Project Whippany Park High School Celebrate the Children Collaboration Whippany, NJ Woodmont Elementary School Footprints Girls Mentoring Program Pine Brook, NJ Page 20 Previous Recipients New Jersey Schools of Character

A . Russell Knight Elementary School (’17, NSOC ’17) Cherry Hill, NJ Alan B . Shepard Elementary School (’10, ’11, ’16, NSOC ’11 & ’16) Old Bridge, NJ Alexander Denbo Elementary School (’17) Pemberton, NJ Apshawa Elementary School (’18, NSOC’18) West Milford, NJ Bedwell Elementary School (’10) Bernardsville, NJ Bell Oaks Upper Elementary School (’18, NSOC’18) Bellmawr, NJ Ben Franklin Elementary School (’12) Princeton Pike, NJ Berlin Community School (’13, NSOC ’13) Berlin, NJ Bret Harte Elementary School (’17) Cherry Hill, NJ Brigantine Elementary School (’08, ’09, ’10 & ’11, NSOC ’11) Brigantine, NJ Broad Street School (’17) Bridgeton, NJ Burlington County Alternative School (’17, NSOC ’17) Mount Laurel, NJ Campbell Elementary School (’17, NSOC ’17) Metuchen, NJ Carl Sandberg Middle School (’16, NSOC ’16) Old Bridge, NJ Carl W . Goetz Middle School (’07) Jackson, NJ Caroline L Reutter School (’14) Franklinville, NJ Cedar Hill Elementary School (’15, NSOC ’16) Towaco, NJ Cheesequake Elelmentary School (’14, NSOC ’14) Old Bridge,NJ Cherry Hill Alternative High School (’13, NSOC ’14) Cherry Hill, NJ Cherry Hill High School West (’13) Cherry Hill, NJ Cherry Hill Public Schools (’17, NSOC ’18) Cherry Hill, NJ Cinnaminson Middle School (’17, NSOC ’17) Cinnaminson, NJ Clara Barton Elementary School (’16, NSOC ’16) Cherry Hill, NJ Colonia High School (’08) Colonia, NJ Cranford High School (NSOC ’04) Cranford, NJ Donald Stewart Center for Early Childhood Education School No . 51(’16, NSOC ’16) Elizabeth, NJ E .A . Bogert School (’16, NSOC ’16) Upper Saddle River, NJ East Hanover Middle School (’14) East Hanover, NJ Eastern Christian School Association (’14, NSOC ’15) North Haledon, NJ Eldridge Park Elementary School (’10 & ’11, NSOC ’11, ’17) Lawrenceville, NJ Essex County North 13th Street Tech High School (’17) Newark, NJ Fort Dix Elementary (’18, NSOC’18) Ft . Dix, NJ Frank J . Smith School (’17) East Hanover, NJ Gloucester Campus, Camden County Tech School (’15, NSOC ’15) Sicklerville, NJ Gibbsboro School (’13, NSOC ’14) Gibbsboro, NJ Green- Fields Elementary (’18) West Deptford, NJ Hamilton Township School District (’07, ’08 & ’09) Hamilton, NJ Hanover Park Regional High School District (’13, NSOC ’13, ’18) East Hanover, NJ Harker-Wylie Elementary School (’18) Browns Mills, NJ Harrison Elementary School (’17, NSOC ’17) Roselle, NJ Helen A . Fort/Newcomb Middle School (’17) Pemberton, NJ Henry C . Beck Middle School (’11, NSOC ’13 ) Cherry Hill, NJ Hillside Elementary School (’16, NSOC ’16) Livingston, NJ Hilltop School (’18, NSOC’18) Mendham, NJ Horace Mann Elementary School (’08) Cherry Hill, NJ Howard L . Emmons Elementary School (’17) Pemberton, NJ James A . McDivitt Elementary School (’13, NSOC ’14 & ’18) Old Bridge, NJ James H . Johnson Elementary School (’10) Cherry Hill, NJ John A . Carusi Middle School (’10 & ’11, NSOC ’11 & ’16) Cherry Hill, NJ Jonas Salk Middle School (’17, NSOC ’17) Old Bridge, NJ Joseph J . Catena Elementary School (’10 & ’11, NSOC ’11) Freehold, NJ Joseph D . Sharp Elementary School (’18, NSOC’18) Cherry Hill, NJ Joseph S . Stackhouse Elementary School (’18, NSOC’18) Browns Mills, NJ Juan Pablo Duarte – Jose Julian Marti, School No . 28 (’15, NSOC ’15) Elizabeth, NJ Lake Riviera Middle School (’09, ’10 & ’11, NSOC ’11) Brick, NJ Lawrence High School (’14) Lawrenceville, NJ Lawrence Intermediate School (’09, ’10 & ’11, NSOC ’11) Lawrenceville, NJ Lawrenceville Elementary School (’08, ’09, ’10, ’12, NSOC ’12) Lawrenceville, NJ Lawrence Middle School (’13) Lawrenceville, NJ Lawrence Township Public Schools (’14, NSOC ’14) Lawrenceville, NJ Leroy Gordon Cooper Elementary School (’13, NSOC ’16) Cliffwood Beach, NJ

Page 21 Previous Recipients New Jersey Schools of Character

Liberty Corner School (’07, ’09, ’11, NSOC ’11, ’15, NSOC ’15) Liberty Corner, NJ Livingston Park School (’08) North Brunswick, NJ Lore Elementary School (’08, ’09 & ’10, NSOC ’10) Ewing, NJ M . Scott Carpenter Elementary School (’15, NSOC ’15) Old Bridge, NJ Macopin Middle School (’15, NSOC ’15) West Milford, NJ Madison Park Elementary School (’13, NSOC ’13) Parlin, NJ Mahala F . Atchison School (’17) Tinton Falls, NJ Mantua Township School District (’18, NSOC’18) Mantua, NJ Maple Road Elementary School (’16, NSOC ’17) West Milford, NJ Mary E . Volz Elementary & Middle School Runnemede, NJ McGalliard Elementary School (’16, NSOC ’16) Hamilton, NJ Memorial Elementary School (’14, NSOC ’15) Old Bridge, NJ Memorial Middle School (’06 & ’07, NSOC ’07) Fair Lawn, NJ Merriam Avenue School (’17, NSOC ’17) Newton, NJ Montclair Kimberley Academy (NSOC ’03) Montclair, NJ Montville Township Public Schools (’18, NSOC’18) Montville, NJ Morgan Elementary School (’17, NSOC ’17) Hamilton, NJ Moss School (’18, NSOC’18) Metuchen, NJ New Brunswick Middle School (’17, NSOC ’17) New Brunswick, NJ New Providence School District (’17, NSOC ’17) New Providence, NJ Nicholas S . LaCorte/Peterstown, School No . 3 (NJSOC ‘16) Elizabeth, NJ North Boulevard School (’12, NSOC ’12) Pompton Plains, NJ North Plainfield High School (’16, NSOC ’16) North Plainfield, NJ Northfield Middle School (’09) Northfield, NJ Old Bridge High School (’15, NSOC ’15) Matawan . NJ Old Bridge Township Public Schools (’15, NSOC ’15) Matawan, NJ Oxford Central School (’14, NSOC ’14) Oxford, NJ Paradise Knoll School (’17, NSOC ’17) Oak Ridge, NJ Pauline J . Petway Elementary School (’12, NSOC ’14) Vineland, NJ Pemberton Early Childhood Education Center (’18, NSOC’18) Pemberton, NJ Pennsauken Campus, Camden County Tech School (’13, NSOC ’15) Pennsauken, NJ Pequannock Valley Middle School (’06) Pompton Plains, NJ Radix Elementary School (’06 & ’07, NSOC ’07) Williamstown, NJ Raymond E . Voorhees Elementary School (’14, NSOC ’14) Old Bridge, NJ Richard Stockton Elementary School (’12, NSOC ’12, ’17) Cherry Hill, NJ Riverview Elementary School (’18) Denville, NJ Robert R . Lazar Middle School (’07, ’18, NSOC’18) Montville, NJ Rosa International Middle School (’07 & ’08, NSOC ’08, ’17) Cherry Hill, NJ Salt Brook Elementary School (’11, NSOC ’11) New Providence, NJ Samuel T . Busansky Upper Elementary School (’18, NSOC’18) Pemberton, NJ Slackwood Elementary School (’12) Lawrenceville, NJ Somerset Intermediate School (’17, NSOC ’17) North Plainfield, NJ South Brunswick High School (’11, NSOC ’11, ’17) Monmouth Junction, NJ Southwood Elementary School (’14, NSOC ’15) Old Bridge, NJ Terence C . Reilly, School No . 7 (’18, NSOC’18) Elizabeth, NJ Theunis Dey Elementary School (’13) Wayne, NJ Thomas Paine Elementary School (’11, 15,’ NSOC ’15) Cherry Hill, NJ Tinton Falls Middle School (’17, NSOC ’17) Tinton Falls Unity Charter School (’18, NSOC’18) Morristown, NJ Upper Greenwood Lake Elementary School (’15, NSOC ’17 ) Hewitt, NJ Veterans Memorial Elementary School (’08) Brick, NJ Vineland Public Schools (’18) Vineland, NJ Virgil Grissom Elementary School (’15, NSOC ’16) Old Bridge, NJ Walter M . Schirra Elementary School (’15, NSOC ’15) Old Bridge, NJ Washington Elementary School (’15, NSOC ’17) Roselle, NJ West End Elementary School (’18, NSOC’18) North Plainfield, NJ West Milford Township High School West Milford, NJ Whitehouse Elementary School (’17, NSOC ’17) Whitehouse Station, NJ William A . Miller Elementary School (’15, NSOC ’15) Old Bridge, NJ Woodmont Elementary School (’16, NSOC ’16) Montville, NJ Yardville Elementary School (’17, NSOC ’17) Hamilton, NJ Zane North School (’06, NSOC ’06, ’17) Collingswood, NJ Page 22 New Jersey Alliance for Social, Emotional and Character Development (NJASECD) njasecd@gmail .com http://njasecd .org/

The New Jersey Alliance for Social Emotional and Character Development is a not-for-profit 501c3 organization, composed of volunteers who work throughout the New Jersey to support that work that schools do to improve school culture and climate by focusing on character education and social-emo- tional learning .

One of the important missions of NJASECD is to provide useful resources for all the educators, schools and individuals interested in promoting the social, emotional and character development of the stu- dents in our public and private schools in New Jersey . The mission of NJASECD follows:

“It is the mission of the New Jersey Alliance for Social, Emotional and Character Development (NJAS- ECD) to develop life-long learners who are responsible citizens prepared to enter the global society . The Alliance assists educators and all other stakeholders in their efforts to foster ethical, responsible and caring people as they model and teach the social-emotional skills and core ethical values that lead to good character ”.

NJASECD Officers President Dr . William H . Trusheim Vice President Laurie Coletti Secretary Mary Reinhold Treasurer Ted Frynkewicz Past President Dr . Philip M . Brown

NJASECD Members at Large Pat Carr Mona Noyes Cindy Dacey James Sarto Eileen Dachnowicz Cindy Westhead Nina Kemps

NJASECD Committee Chairs Advocacy/Fund Raising Mona Noyes Conference Committee Peter Clark, Leigh Cline, Carol Lawrence, William Trusheim Communications Leigh Cline and Jim Sarto Schools of Character Eileen Dachnowicz, Mary Reinhold, Laurie Coletti Regional Centers Cindy Westhead, Chris Kelly, Mona Noyes, and Joseph Marinzoli Membership Peter Clark

NJ DOE Liaisons: Kirsten Weigert, Luiz Periera

SPONSORING ORGANIZATIONS New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association (NJPSA)

Page 23 2019 New Jersey Schools of Character Acknowledgments

The New Jersey School of Character Program is affiliated with the National Schools of Character which is a program of

1634 I Street NW, Suite 550 Washington, DC 20006 202-296-7743

NJASECD wishes to recognize the New Jersey Education Association for their generous support of the New Jersey Schools of Character Program

New Jersey Education Association 180 West State Street Trenton, NJ 08607-1211 www .njea .org Phone: 609-599-4561 Fax: 609-599-1201

NJASECD wishes to recognize the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association and the Foundation for Educational Administration for their administrative support of NJASECD and the New Jersey Schools of Character Program

12 Centre Drive Monroe, NJ 08831 (609) 860-1200

This program is independently operated by NJASECD. NJASECD is not affiliated with Rider University.