Thank you Piscataway!

2011 Report to the community As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest

Greetings Thank you… gracias… danke… merci… Thank you… The community’s aspiration for student achieve- ment drives every decision made by the Board No matter how you say it, “thank you” goes of Education, administrators and staff. As you will a long way in the Piscataway School District see in the following pages, Piscataway graduates Community. Thank you to our taxpayers, parents have gone on to excel in science, the arts, tech- and teachers. nology and sports. See how tomorrow’s gradu- From the moment a child enters a classroom, ates are following in the footsteps of those who wide-eyed with wonder and a touch of fear, to came before them. the ultimate prize of receiving a diploma from Finally, we are committed to providing high-qual- Piscataway High School, every student reaps the ity customer service, i.e., delivering non-instruc- benefits of community support and alumni who tional services such as transportation and food have walked the halls and paved the way for service with efficiency and courtesy. In a sense, those who follow. our students, our parents, and the public at large, This Annual Report is an opportunity to high- are the “customers” we all pledge to serve. light the success of our alumni who give back to This Annual Report recognizes the support of all Piscataway students through mentorships, finan- Piscataway residents and blends the best of the cial aid, and guest lecturing. The graduates and past with the hope for the future… Thanks to you, current students featured in this Annual Report the Piscataway community, for helping along the epitomize the ideals of our school district and journey. the three goals of our Strategic Plan – academic achievement, high quality customer service, and a community united strong in favor of public edu- cation. INSIDE THIS REPORT Our community makes a significant difference in Paula A. Y. Maas, public education every time residents volunteer DISTRICT SNAPSHOT...... 3 President, Board of Education in a classroom or on a Board of Education com- Alumni highlights...... 4 mittee, when they attend student performances and athletic events, and when civic organizations A Community that cares...... 13 lend their talents to our students. SUCCESS STORIES...... 14 Robert L. Copeland, Superintendent of Schools HOW ARE WE MEETING YOUR NEEDS?...... 18 2 appreciation is not to utter words, but

to live by them. —John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States

The mission of the Piscataway

Public Schools is to prepare 2011-2012 School Year District Snapshot students to become confident, Enrollment...... 7,343 Graduates – Class of 2011...... 521 Pre-K - 8th Grade...... 5,064 Piscataway High School...... 2,239 Future Plans productive members of a global Out of District Special Education...... 40 Colleges & Universities...... 89% Decrease of 42% in the past 3 years Technical Schools...... 2% society by developing each child’s Teachers...... 592 Employment...... 3% Includes all classroom teachers, special Undecided...... 5% unique abilities in a learning education, art, music, English as a Second Military...... 1% Language, technology, speech, librarians/ Percentage Continuing Education...... 91% environment that also includes media specialists, nurses and counselors. National Merit Scholarship Program Recognition the New Jersey Core Curriculum Class of 2011...... 17 Content Standards. Enrollment in Advanced Placement Courses

312 students were enrolled in at least one AP course with a total enrollment of 473 students in 19 courses.

3 A Strong Foundation Across the Generations Education in Piscataway has come full circle for to study every day, to achieve your potential… Chanelle Scott McCullum. A graduate of Piscat- It allowed you to excel and gave you what you away High School and longtime resident, she needed to be successful,” remarks Chanelle. holds a doctorate in Pharmacy from Shenandoah She notes that, these days, school counselors University, and currently serves in a managerial have increased their efforts to involve parents position at Merck, a global healthcare company and families early in their children’s education with offices in Piscataway, where she develops and to prepare everyone for the college experi- budgets for clinical trials. ence. Chanelle sees students, teachers and the Chanelle’s children, Alexis and Larry, are also home in a “triangle of support.” thriving as students at Piscataway High School She sees her own children benefitting from early and Conackamack Middle School. exposure to Spanish language instruction, in- “You can’t build a house on a foundation that’s creased accessibility to technology, and college weak… Piscataway provides you with a strong preparation programs such as Freshman Founda- foundation, and, if you have that, it allows you to tions and Sophomore Experience, both products stand a whole lot longer,” says Chanelle. of the High School Redesign project. Summer math programs reinforce knowledge gained dur- Growing up, Chanelle appreciated the caring en- ing the school year, and school-based overseas vironment of Piscataway schools, and, when she travel opportunities offer a global view of world continued her undergraduate education at How- cultures. ard University, she realized how her hard work Chanelle Scott McCullum, Piscataway High School Class of 1985 with her children Larry, grade 6 at Conackamack prepared her for college and beyond. In addi- According to Chanelle, one of the most impor- tion to a strong academic high school schedule, tant messages that Alexis and Larry have learned Middle School and Alexis, grade 11 at Piscataway High School. she participated in basketball and track, activities is to study every day to ensure that the knowl- which gave her a competitive advantage in to- edge gained in school is retained. day’s environment. Chanelle notes that, “the Piscataway School “Piscataway provided tools, such as the discipline District listens and adapts with the times.”

Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. —Melody Beattie, author

4 Reach for the stars… Cathy Bahm, an aerospace engineer for NASA and member of Piscataway High School Class of 1991, recalls how fortunate she was to have so many strong Piscataway female teachers who were “really good” in the areas of math and sci- ence and “pushed us to excel.” Today, Cathy coordinates a variety of high-level NASA projects, including the Orion Abort and Pad Abort Projects, which test launch escape systems for NASA’s next generation of vehicles taking humans into space. Last spring, Cathy returned to Piscataway to speak with students at Arbor and King Intermedi- ate Schools, and Piscataway High School, shar- ing insights and photos of her projects at NASA. She stressed the importance of setting goals and Cathy Bahm, Piscataway High School Class of 1991 at Arbor School with Anna Stalenyj Jennifer Amory, Piscataway High School Class of 2018, working hard to take advantage of the opportuni- and Masai Mouzon, Piscataway High School Class of 2019. reads about the solar system at the Quibbletown ties offered in Piscataway. like those in the recently released film “TopG un,” Middle School Library. As a second grade student at Piscataway’s New to her teacher, Carole Molchan. Cathy then con- Market School, which closed in 1981, Cathy and nected with Mrs. Molchan’s sister, an electrical One Small Step for Man, One her classmates were asked, “What do you want engineer working on F-14s, who suggested that to be when you grow up?” Cathy replied, “I want she consider aerospace engineering as a career Giant Leap for Women to be the first female astronaut!” and was not put option, and the path was paved for Cathy to fol- “Going to space must be AMAZING! Those astro- “Cathy started in Piscataway and here she is now, off when a boy in her class said that girls couldn’t low her dream of working at NASA. nauts must be so excited!” exclaims Jennifer Amory. working at NASA!” says Jennifer, adding “I also be astronauts. Her teacher at the time, Francine like strong women leaders like Eleanor Roosevelt Piscataway High School prepared Cathy for col- Inspired by Cathy Bahm’s (left) visit to King Inter- Goldberg, told her that she could be whatever because they changed history,” opening doors lege at Texas A & M University, where she en- mediate School last spring, Jennifer sat by her she wanted to be. for future generations of women like Cathy and rolled in every math class she could possibly take television last July, eagerly awaiting the launch of herself. Cathy participated in the Academically Talented as well as physics. spacecraft Atlantis, the final space shuttle to be Program in elementary school, a perfect educa- sent into orbit. She knew that she was watching Jennifer looks forward to the possibility of people Today, Cathy looks back and says, “I believe when tional opportunity for engineers in the making. history in the making. inhabiting the moon and taking “space tours” in you go through school, you not only learn how to She programmed Radio Shack computers, learned the next ten to twenty years. She reflects on the solve problems, you learn how to learn and how Now a student at Quibbletown Middle School, Jen- problem solving, and planned missions participat- science of communication, noting how easy it is to work hard. I learned those things from all of nifer was interested in astronomy before Cathy came ing in the Olympics of the Mind program. to exchange ideas with people around the world my teachers in Piscataway and it still serves me to visit Piscataway. Yet Cathy’s presentation inspired through constantly changing technological ad- During an Algebra class at Piscataway High well today.” a keen awareness for the importance of safety in the vances. School, Cathy mentioned her love of fighter jets, space program. Who knew that there were whole departments at NASA focused on saving astronauts Encouraged by her own teachers, Jennifer enjoys should something go wrong at liftoff? reading books that take her to a “fantasy world.” She is a prolific writer – her stories always include Jennifer admires the achievements that Cathy shared a character with “a little bit of myself” - and hopes with the students at King, and has a newfound ap- to someday become a children’s author. preciation for other strong women leaders.

5 The essence of all beautiful art, of great art,

is gratitude. —Friedrich Nietzsche, 19th Century German Philosopher

Setting the Stage for Success Troy Ogilvie has a commanding presence on Troy began dance lessons when she was a mere stage. The Piscataway High School Class of 2003 three years old, taking ballet, tap and jazz. At the graduate’s dance style exudes energy, crisp dy- age of nine, she joined the New Jersey Dance namic movements and profound interpretation Theatre Ensemble, which provided diverse op- of classic and contemporary music. These char- portunities in modern and contemporary dance acteristics define her work as a successful, profes- styles, and opened doors for Troy to study with sional New York City dancer, according to dance masters of modern dance. reviews and various choreographers, including Benoit-Swan Pouffer, director of Cedar Lake Con- Troy continued part-time ballet studies at the temporary Ballet. Last year, at the age of 25, Troy Princeton Ballet School, and, while in Piscataway was named by Dance Magazine as one of “25 to High School, attended two summer workshops at Watch.” the Juilliard School, a prestigious conservatory in New York City. It was at Juilliard that Troy discov- Balancing “en pointe” was not just about ballet ered a passion for contemporary dance, and she shoes for Troy. Throughout her years of dance ultimately enrolled at the esteemed performing training, she was supported by her teachers in arts school. Piscataway, as they encouraged her desire to be- come a professional dancer, and helped her to Studying violin from 3rd grade through her se- develop organizational skills that still serve her nior year at PHS, Troy developed her in-depth well today. understanding of musicality, a valuable asset to the choreographers she works with and the col- She studied philosophy and AP Physics as part laborative nature of dance. She also performed in of her high school course work, and notes that musicals at the high school, including The Music “dance is a manifestation of physics. The mind/ Man, Guys and Dolls, and Bye, Bye Birdie, which, body connection is invaluable in any part of life.” she says, gave her a “chance to expand my range of expression.”

Troy Ogilvie, center, Piscataway High School Class of 2003. Photographed by Hilary Johnson from “Wonderland” with choreography by Andrea Miller.

6 A Gem in the Center of Town The Performing Arts Center in the West Wing of Piscataway High School was dedicated in November 2010, with tours of the newly renovated auditorium, dance studio and dressing rooms. The renovation project was funded by grants and local support, and features state-of-the-art sound and lighting sys- tems, comfortable new seating and air conditioning. Students from each district school participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the PHS Drama Club presented “Murder Takes the Stage” at the grand opening.

The Performing Arts Center at Piscataway High School opened in November 2010 following extensive renovations.

The Piscataway High School Dance Team, seen in the new Performing Arts Center Dance Studio, reached the finals of Cablevision’s MSG Varsity High School Talent Competition last spring.

Keeping a Focus on the Future The gleam in the eyes of Joe Storch, Class of in the Broadcast Media Suite at Piscataway High where he honed his talents with the support of 2011, comes right through the lens of his video School, Joe is able to mentor his peers at the Art Broadcast Media instructors Susan Pascullo and camera. Joe has set his sights on creating impor- Institute, suggest new viewpoints, and offer cre- George Fairfield, who “prepared him for a career tant film projects, and can hardly contain his ex- ative solutions for ongoing projects. at the highest level, not just for college,” accord- citement over the vision of what is yet to come for ing to Joe. When Joe entered PHS in 2007, he discovered the future of videography. the state-of-the-art Broadcast Media Suite and the He had opportunities to film interviews for the As a student at the Art Institute of Philadelphia, wide range of activities for student-produced pro- MSG Varsity cable television show, and was the Joe is enrolled in an accelerated three-year track gramming in radio and television there. Facilities lone cameraman for the school’s Anti-Bullying in Videography and Filmmaking. He also has an include two TV studios, control rooms equipped “Lip Dub,” which set a record for the most stu- independent video production company, and is to broadcast live throughout the high school, a dents in a high school “lip dub” by the World currently working with media giant “Voices of professional-quality editing suite, a media lab Records Academy. Entertainment,” filming music videos and com- for digital video editing and podcasting, and the “There is so much to choose from in Piscataway. mercial contest entries. “voice of PHS,” radio station, WVPH 90.3 FM. Joseph Storch, Piscataway High School Class of 2011, The possibilities are endless…” he says. tapes an interview in the Piscataway High School As a result of the extensive experience garnered Joe got involved in the Radio and Video Clubs, Broadcast Media Studio. 7 Project HealthLinks Creates Opportunities for Future Generations Project HealthLinks, an initiative designed to The program was selected as a winner of the introduce Piscataway minority middle school 25th Annual School Leader Award, sponsored by students to careers in the field of medicine, was the New Jersey School Boards Association. The created almost 10 years ago, and, since then, has award recognizes unique and innovative district inspired many of its participants to pursue health programs, and the Piscataway entry was one of care professions. only two statewide winners. HealthLinks provides a multitude of activities and During the school year, Project HealthLinks en- educational excursions providing student access abled student “interns” to visit Liberty Science to professional role models. Center to watch a live stream of a neurosurgery procedure. They were invited to meet and inter- Field experiences are organized by the district view a heart transplant recipient, and spoke with in conjunction with a community group known biomedical engineers at New Jersey Institute of as Raritan Valley Links. Volunteers from the orga- Technology. nization, comprised primarily of retired minority health care professionals, work hand-in-hand with At the conclusion of the year-long program, stu- Piscataway students to foster an understanding dents hosted a district-wide youth conference for of educational requirements for careers in a vari- parents, schools officials, and adult Links volun- ety of health fields. Raritan ValleyL inks also offers teers, offering keynote speeches that highlight scholarship opportunities to HealthLinks partici- how the internship had a profound influence on pants. their consideration of future career choices.

Raritan Valley Links volunteers Yvonne Orrange, Joan Davis, Gayle Thigpen-Allen and Claire Davis meet to discuss HealthLinks events. Learn everything you can, anytime you can, from anyone you can — there will always come a time when

you will be grateful you did. —Sarah Caldwell, opera conductor

8 Siblings Follow Similar Paths Programs like HealthLinks are successful due to Before her HealthLinks experience, Ijeoma was Ijeoma and Oluchi were enrolled in Honors and HealthLinks opened doors for Ijeoma, Oluchi and partnerships between community groups and the not sure of what path to take. Field trips to the Advanced Placement courses at Piscataway High Chioma to attend other programs, including The school district. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Headquar- School, and noted that PHS teachers and classes Academy at Rutgers for Girls in Engineering and ters, Ortho Biotech, a neighborhood clinic in “get you prepared” for college. Technology. “HealthLinks is a beneficial program that will Plainfield, and the United Nations helped to so- teach you about things you’ve never heard about While Chioma, grade 11, still has several years to Their recommendation to younger HealthLinks lidify Ijeoma’s area of interest. in health fields and can send you in a different make a definitive career choice, she is following participants is to take plenty of science and direction in your life. You meet inspiring people Oluchi, class of 2011, knew that she wanted to the advice of Ijeoma and Oluchi, taking honors health classes, get experience in the field, volun- who motivate you to be successful.” Profound participate in HealthLinks after sharing Ijeoma’s courses and planning for the rigors of upcoming teer, and discuss options with school counselors. words from Chioma Egekeze, a Piscataway High experiences vicariously. She, too, was drawn to Advanced Placement classes to prepare for col- School sophomore and one of three sisters to the health care field, and initially had intentions lege. participate in the HealthLinks program. of becoming a surgeon. “HealthLinks prepares you to work harder, and Chioma, along with her siblings Oluchi and Ijeo- Watching a live kidney transplant changed her maintain focus on schoolwork,” says Chioma. “It ma, are all pursuing health care careers as a result mind, and this field experience was an example teaches important time management skills” as a of involvement in HealthLinks. of how HealthLinks defined what career would result of required activities beyond class work. not be a good fit. Ijeoma, PHS class of 2009, currently attends Chioma is most interested in the food and nutri- Georgetown University and is enrolled in a Pre- Oluchi combined her interests in the medical tion field following a HealthLinks field experience Med track, hoping to enter the field of women’s field with her strong engineering skills and is fol- to Solaris Whole Health Center in Martinsville. and children’s health. lowing a course of study in the area of Bio-Med- icine at Pennsylvania State University, where she “Pediatrics begins with taking care of the moth- was offered a full scholarship. She is one of five er,” says Ijeoma, who is impacted by the socio- freshmen selected for the Bunton-Waller Fellow- economic landscape of the Washington, DC ship for high-achieving minority students in the area. Her observations of underprivileged fami- engineering program. lies instilled a desire to follow a career path that makes a difference in the wellbeing of future gen- Oluchi hopes to develop innovations in artificial erations. or mechanical limbs, robotic surgery and other technological devices to be used in hospitals.

Chioma, Igeoma and Oluchi Egekeze, Piscataway High School Classes of 2014, 2009 and 2011, at a recent family gathering.

9 Motivation is the Right Medicine “Those who have the ability to There is a connection between the discipline that is inherent in athletes and their motivation to succeed. In the case of Parth Patel, PHS Class of 2009, the values that he acquired as a member of the Piscataway High School Cross Country Team had a dramatic impact on his choice of academic be grateful pursuits at New York University. With a full sched- ule of Advanced Placement classes, Parth com- bined his high school success with encourage- ment from Cross Country Coach Pete Buccino, and is now pursuing a career in medicine. Recently, Parth wrote to Coach Buccino, saying “I wanted to thank you for the work ethic you in- Born to Run stilled in me from the day I started running for you. The dedication and camaraderie that you Jolea Crearer, currently in the fourth grade at Ar- and other venues, and she looks forward to the bor Elementary School, spends a lot of time run- day when she, too, can race in the “big” Olym- instilled in me has helped me identify what I want Parth Patel, Piscataway High School Class of 2009, ning around. Not just to the playground or the pics, where other young runners will watch her to do in life, and has given me the inspiration to reviews field research documents. always strive for the better…” library… Jolea is a competitive runner, and has vie for success on television. achieved recognition for winning track events In the coming year, Jolea expects to again com- Today, Parth is a Resident Assistant at NYU, and school of his choice; this score is achieved by only across the country. She displays over 100 medals, pete at the Colgate Games, as well as the Na- has completed field research at Cornell Medical two percent of students in the United States. pins and trophies in her room. School in neurobiology and immuno-chemistry tional Junior Olympic in Houston, along with her Parth credits Coach Buccino with helping set to identify specific markers or areas of the brain Last year, Jolea competed at the Colgate Games siblings John, grade 6 at Schor School, and Ad- realistic goals and giving him the confidence to for changes in life cycles. He received a “35” on at Madison Square Garden, where she placed first eja, grade 11 at Piscataway High School. be the best he can be. Without this, he says, ”I his Medical College Admission Test which virtu- in the 200 meter race, and won a $1,000 college might not have driven myself to do everything ally guarantees him admission into the medical scholarship. She also won the 400 meter race at that I’m doing… I might have settled for less.” the National Junior Olympics in Virginia. Family and teachers consistently support Jolea, by giving her confidence and cheering her on at indoor and outdoor meets. Lauren Straube, her third grade teacher from Grandview School, ac- companied her to the Colgate Games event. Ms. Straube encouraged Jolea to eat healthy, keep trying and always be a good sport. Following Jolea’s win at the Colgate Games, Ms. Straube reiterated the importance of leadership skills and balancing school and athletics. Jolea admires professional runners Veronica Campbell-Brown and Usain Bolt, made famous Jolea Crearer, Piscataway High School Class of 2020, for their worldwide appearances in the Olympics demonstrates top racing form.

10 are the ones who have the ability to achieve greatness.” —Steve Maraboli, “Life, the Truth, and Being Free”

Lessons Learned On and Off the Field “Always a champion” is the charge that drives He has heartfelt respect and admiration for PHS Kyle Wilson. From his days on the Piscataway Football Coach Dan Higgins, who “treated us High School Chiefs football team, to his current like men,” provided opportunities to grow, and position as cornerback for the New York Jets, always put his players first. He greatly appreci- Kyle takes his inspiration from his roots in the Pis- ated the community support exhibited during cataway community. championship football seasons. Kyle says “Piscataway was my Super Bowl,” but Kyle tries to get back to Piscataway when his it’s not just about the turf on the football field. schedule allows, and can frequently be seen on Kyle Wilson’s success comes from a strong foun- the sidelines during Piscataway Chiefs football dation in academics as well as athletics at Piscat- games. During the NFL off-season, Kyle worked away High School, leading to a sense of personal with the Chiefs, motivating them to stay strong achievement. He is driven to succeed, and tells physically and mentally, and always be account- current PHS students that the hard work definitely able on and off the field. He has benefitted from pays off. the guidance and experience of other players in the National Football League, and understands A 2005 graduate of PHS, Kyle went on to stel- how important it is to “give back” to those that lar success as a cornerback at Boise State, where follow. he earned a degree in communications. While college athletes have the advantage of specially coordinated class scheduling, Kyle relied on time management skills learned as a Piscataway stu- dent and football player to find a balance that allowed him to complete his requirements on Kyle Wilson, Piscataway High School Class of 2005, makes a big play. time.

11 The measure of a man’s culture is the measure of his appreciation. We are ourselves what

we appreciate and no more. —Frank Lloyd Wright, architect

Success, Support and Making a Difference… James G. Cullen, a Piscataway High School dents with a “special spark” have thus far benefit- alumnus, has a message for Piscataway students: ted from scholarships in the amount of $10,000 Pursue your dream. Create options for yourself. each. Define your own success. Then, give back to your community. Jim was the recipient of a $500 scholarship when he graduated from PHS in 1960, and recalls, at From humble beginnings growing up in the Pos- that time, he mulled over possibilities for using sumtown section of Piscataway, Jim graduated the funds – should he use the money to pay for from Rutgers University and has enjoyed a suc- his books or perhaps a typewriter? Today, that cessful business career, having served as Presi- amount just might allow a college student to pur- dent, Chief Operating Officer and a member of chase three books. But it would get an iPad. the Board of Directors of Verizon. He now holds a variety of prestigious positions, including serving The impact of receiving a college scholarship is on the boards of Johnson and Johnson, Pruden- still as significant as it was 50 years ago, and it’s tial Financial and Agilent Technologies. not just about the monetary award. Jim takes time to mentor Cullen Family Scholarship recipi- While serving as Chair of the 2000 Rutgers Capi- ents, hosting a luncheon each year, where current tal Campaign, Jim observed students struggling and former students gather to gain insights from to make ends meet, and wanted to make a dif- guest speakers, and share information about ference so that others could follow a path simi- their individual educational experiences. Jim fol- lar to his. His memory of opportunities provided lows their progress, and has been instrumental in during his Piscataway education, combined with providing job opportunities as well. his successful financial position, led him to cre- In Jim’s eyes, some things are constant… en- James G. Cullen, Piscataway High School Class of 1960, provides scholarship opportunities to select PHS graduates ate the Cullen Family Scholarship, an endowment abling and encouraging students to learn and admitted to Rutgers University. in the amount of $500,000 for select Piscataway High School graduates to pursue an education explore leads to long-term outcomes. at Rutgers University. Approximately 35 PHS stu-

12 A Community That Cares • During the 2010-2011 school year, in a show conjunction with the annual lecture. Dr. Nes- of strength and solidarity, a citizen’s group tle, known for addressing controversial issues known as “Fair Funding for Piscataway” orga- including government regulation, oversight nized a bus rally to bring the issue of unequal and inspection, public policy and honesty in state school funding to the attention of local advertising spoke on the topic of “Personal legislators. vs. Social Responsibility for Food Choice and Justice.” According to New Jersey’s own school fund- ing formula, Piscataway is entitled to $38 • Randolphville School earned the distinction million in state aid. That translates to about as the top elementary school in the Middle- $5,400 per student; instead, the State gives sex County 2011 Spring Food Drive. Stu- Piscataway about $1,790 per student, about dents collected 6,750 pounds of food during one third of what should be received. the drive, which incorporated math activities and lessons on community service into a co- Hence, 50 members of the Fair Funding orga- operative competition between classes. The nization lobbied for an equitable distribution school was recognized with a proclamation at of existing state aid dollars. The group con- a meeting of the Middlesex County Board of tinues to work with district administrators and Chosen Freeholders. legislators to further the goal of obtaining fair funding for Piscataway taxpayers. • Piscataway schools reap the benefits of posi- tive relationships with the business commu- • Renowned author, scholar and food advo- nity. Arbor Elementary and Quibbletown cate, Marion Nestle was the guest speaker at Middle Schools were the recipients of checks the annual Peggy Friedman Memorial Lecture in the amount of $711 each during the Grand Series on Social Justice in September 2010 at Opening of the new 7-Eleven franchise on Piscataway High School. Curricular activities Washington Avenue. for students and teachers at PHS were held in

13 Success Stories 2010-2011 • In just its second year of competition, the • In only its first year competing, Piscataway Piscataway High School Academic Decathlon High School’s Academic Team placed 2nd Team made it to the state finals and garnered out of 20 teams competing in the 2011 High two Gold Medals, a Bronze and two Honor- School Ethics Bowl, hosted by the Stevens In- able Mention Awards. An official of theU S Ac- stitute of Technology. Fatima Ahmed, Roma ademic Decathlon commended the students’ N. Patel, Kristen Perrello and Sharon Spear strong showing despite being a young team. were tasked with formulating ethical solutions Top awards were received by Eeshan Bhatt, to today’s scientific problems in debate- for Josephine Paredes and Kurtis Himmler. mat. • District music students from elementary • Piscataway High School set a world record for through high school were chosen to perform the largest number of people in a high school in prestigious regional music ensembles. “lip dub” as the school kicked off an Anti- Eleven students from Arbor School and nine Bullying initiative in a big way last May. Using students from King School performed with Aretha Franklin’s classic recordings of “Think” the Central Jersey Music Educators Associa- and “Respect” as themes for the project, over tion Elementary Honors Band. Last year, as a 1,900 students and staff members recorded 7th grade student at Conackamack School, a “lip dub,” a popular trend in online video Tiger Li was chosen to perform on violin sites, to drive home the anti-bullying message with the CJMEA Region II Intermediate Or- and heighten school spirit. The video was re- chestra, while Rebekah Butler, former 8th corded by the PWAY-TV studio and submitted grade student at Quibbletown, now at PHS, to the World Records Academy for certifica- was selected to play tuba with the Region II tion. The video can be viewed on the PHS Leslie Russell, fifth grade teacher at King School, pictured with Stephanie Enyiorji and Alison Kuderka, Piscataway Intermediate Band. Piscataway High School web page under Site Shortcuts. High School Class of 2018 , was named the 2011 NJ State History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute percussionist Christian Lopez was selected for of American History. The designation, recognizing outstanding teachers of American history across the country, • An essay entitled “Electricity from the Ocean,” the CJMEA Region II Concert Band. The per- came with a $1,000 award plus an archive of books and other resources for King School. written by Arbor student Amatya Pathak, was formers were chosen after auditioning against selected as one of the “Best of the Best” by students from schools throughout Hunterdon, Celebrate New Jersey, an organization made Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Somerset and Highlights of the SAIL program were includ- • Musicians of the King School Concert and up of 25 New Jersey community groups “to Union Counties. ed as a Best Practice in Community Based Jazz Bands participated in the Dorney Park promote the best of New Jersey for genera- Instruction by the Elizabeth M. Boggs Cen- Band Competition in Allentown, PA last • Six students at Piscataway High School were tions to come.” Amatya wrote about offshore ter on Developmental Disabilities at Robert spring, earning “Superior” ratings for their presented with outstanding awards in art wave power technology as a source of renew- Wood Johnson Medical School, University of performances. competitions last year. Lindsay Brown and able energy. Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Dan Andrew Ward, Class of 2011, won $1,000 • The Schor Jazz Band and Chamber Choir par- • Susan Saltzman, coordinator of the district’s Baker, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Pediat- scholarships from the Art Educators of New ticipated in an outdoor concert on the plaza SAIL Program (Students Achieving Indepen- rics, noted that the SAIL program “is an excel- Jersey High School Scholarship Awards/Gov- of Lincoln Center as part of the Young Music dent Life Skills) was recognized as New Jer- lent example of why schools often do better ernor’s Award in Art Education. Andrew also Makers program. sey’s “Transition Educator of the Year” by the than contracted services in terms of finding won a 1st place award in the duCret School Association for Persons in Supported Employ- community placements for their students.” of Art high school art show. Other award re- ment. The designation comes as a result of cipients of the duCret show were Stephanie Susan’s successful efforts in helping students Wademan, Nichole Chesek, and Bryanne with disabilities prepare for the workplace. Brock, all graduates, and Scarlet Hernandez, currently a senior at PHS.

14 Achievements and progress New Jersey ranks at the top of the charts nationally in high school graduation rates, Advanced Place- ment scores, and National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), known as “the nation’s report card.” Piscataway exceeds state achievement scores in these and many other areas: • Piscataway exceeds New Jersey’s graduation • Enrollment in Advanced Placement classes at rate with 95% of our students graduating. Piscataway High School increased 28% from The percentage of students graduating high 2009-10 to 2010-11. In the past five years, the school in New Jersey is 82.1%. number of students taking Advanced Place- ment exams rose a total of 55%, and those • Students at Piscataway High School taking the with scores of 3 or higher, considered a pass- High School Proficiency Assessment in spring ing score on exams, increased 48%. of 2011 exceeded state scores in Language Arts by 3.4%, and Mathematics by 8.8%. • The combined Writing, Mathematics and Critical Reading SAT scores for Piscataway • In 2011, Piscataway students consistently High School students increased 10 points in exceeded state NJASK Advanced Proficient the past five years, while the New Jersey av- and Proficient scores for Mathematics and erage increased 4 points. The national aver- Language Arts: age dropped 11 points during the same time GRADE Mathematics frame. Grade 3 Exceeded state scores by 8% Grade 4 Exceeded state scores by 3.7% Grade 5 Exceeded state scores by 7.7% Language Arts Staff members from Children’s Corner PreSchool celebrated Piscataway Reads, which was attended by more than Grade 3 Exceeded state scores by 5.2% 500 children and adults last spring. Grade 4 Exceeded state scores by 5.8% Grade 5 Exceeded state scores by 5.8%

The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings. —Eric Hoffer, “Reflections On The Human Condition”

15 Achieving Success with Support The Piscataway School District offers several • The “Academic Academy” program in math unique, comprehensive initiatives that contribute is an opportunity for students to complete a to increased academic achievement and prepara- year-long Algebra I course in 6 weeks over the tion for college and life. summer. Students who successfully complet- ed the required elements of the class began One example is “Summer Academy,” a district high school in one of two accelerated math program that offers academic enrichment in lit- courses – Honors Algebra 2 or Geometry eracy and math. As a result of community support 9. Other students attended the “Academic for the budget in April, the program was expand- Geometry Academy,” and took Algebra 2 ed last summer, and provided academic support or Honors Algebra 2 in September. Students to 785 students over the course of five weeks. participating in the Academic Academy pro- Arbor School student Michael Espino reaped the gram in Spanish were able to begin Spanish benefits of participation in Summer Academy. 3 at the start of the school year, while others He is your typical 4th grader who likes reading who completed language graduation require- books from the R. L. Stine “Goosebumps” series. ments during the summer could enroll in an- He likes math. He feels good when he helps his other language such as Mandarin Chinese, or family and friends. other electives. Michael began school in Piscataway, but his • “Academic Bridges,” a workshop to assist stu- family relocated to Florida while he was in third dents in grades 5 – 7 in planning for middle grade. While in Florida, the level of instruction and high school in the district, was held last that he received in school was less rigorous than February. Sessions were scheduled for stu- Michael Espino, Piscataway High School Class of 2020, reads a favorite book from the “Goosebumps” series. in Piscataway, and, when Michael’s family moved dents and parents to meet principals, coun- back here this past summer, they took advantage selors and subject area staff who provided of the opportunity to enroll him in Summer Acad- guidance for future academic planning. The Haven emy, where he received enrichment instruction to • The second phase of the Piscataway High The Haven combines the strengths of school, catch up to fourth grade. School Redesign was implemented in 2010- community and family to help students be more Several other programs contributing to student 11, with expanded curricular offerings, engaged in school, improve their academic per- success are implemented during the summer academic challenges, increased responsibil- formance, and grow personally. months and the regular school year: ity and a focus on personal growth. The pro- Today’s children and adolescents face many chal- gram, incorporating block scheduling and • “Sneak Peek” is a summer preview of Septem- lenges - economic stressors, peer pressure, Inter- academic teams, began with implementation ber coursework for middle and high school net risks, and exposure to drug and alcohol use. of “Freshman Foundations” during the 2009- students. Middle school classes include ses- The Haven, a program designed to help children 2010 school year, and centers around the goal sions in reading, writing, math and science, navigate these pressures, was developed last of providing students with creative problem while high school courses offer instruction in year in a partnership between Piscataway Public solving skills, academic support and enrich- Honors and Advanced Placement subjects. Schools and Rutgers University’s Center for Ap- ment, financial literacy, and educational plan- plied Psychology. ning. Phase three of the redesign project is currently being implemented for juniors. The Haven offers individual and family counseling, life skills and stress-management groups, and cri- sis intervention to prevent future difficulties.

16 Global Outreach • Analese McNight, PHS Class of 2011, spent special memories with orphans in Indonesia a recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, and Times at the annual Human Rights Confer- two weeks as an ambassador to underprivi- by participating in The Memory Project, a shared the effect of this environmental disas- ence at Kean University last February. The stu- leged children in South Africa as part of F3B nationwide initiative in which students create ter on their daily lives. dents, from Conackamack, Quibbletown and (Three Female Ballers) – Empowering Wom- artwork to be sent to children in orphanages Schor Middle Schools, were invited in rec- • Former Quibbletown Middle School students en from Continent to Continent. During her around the world. All three created portraits ognition of outstanding written assignments Tiffany Angeles, Nathalie Franco, Roma Binny visit, Analese touched the hearts of children of children from Indonesia, which were sent responding to famous historical quotes. Par- Patel and Anthony Vergara attended a High by distributing donations to an orphanage, overseas. The Indonesian students respond- ticipating students were Divya Wagle, Simona School Climate Change Teen Summit at Rut- providing basketball equipment and teaching ed by sending their own photos holding their Alomary, Emily Saks, Nehal Patel, Andres gers University last March, where they partici- basketball skills. She visited the U. S. Embassy King portraits. The young ladies’ goal was to Lorenzo, Congxin Li, Mohammed Attiyeh, pated in hands-on activities and worked with and also participated in professional develop- share the message that “art connects us all.” Ginger Abraham, David Osview, Daniel Rosa- Rutgers scientists to learn about the science ment seminars to share information on diverse les, Ruchit Patel and Justin Picos. • Students at Schor experienced global les- of climate change with a goal of developing cultures, conflict resolution, HIV/AIDS, com- sons in economics during a videoconference community service projects. The Quibble- • Students at Conackamack Middle School cre- munications and how wireless phones work. lesson last March with students from Lafitte, town students were the only middle school ated an oversized wall-hanging of all the flags • The phrase “a picture says a thousand LA. Presentations, focusing on poverty and students invited to attend the summit. representing the 68 countries of origin in the words” has special meaning for Conacka- education, included a discussion on the value Conackamack community. Under the direc- • Twelve middle school students heard pre- mack students Lucy Wei and Sayuni Dias, and of a dollar in the United States vs. India, and tion of instructor Kevin Donahue, students sentations on immigration issues from former Quibbletown student Klaudine Celario. Last how the weather impacts the world economy. researched flags to compile for this project, UN Ambassador John Bolton, and Lawrence spring, as students at King School, they made Their peers in Lafitte had been impacted by leaving a “blank” area to add with flags of stu- Downes, editorial writer for the New York dents yet to come.

Every person now must, and can, ask: Where do I as an individual fit into the

global competition and opportunities of the day, and how can I, on my own, collaborate with others globally? —Thomas L. Friedman, “The World is Flat”

17 How Are We Meeting Your Needs? Top-notch customer service is critical to the success of any business or organization. The same holds true for the Piscataway School District. We are committed to meeting your needs and maximizing efficient operations throughout the district. This includes ensuring effective communication with district families and the community through the use of the Global Connect phone notification system, providing answers when you have questions, timely website updates, and the posting of important announcements in Virtual Backpacks on school websites. Expanded Parent Conference After Care Extended Day programs for children Online Registration in preschool through grade 8. The program is staffed by district teachers and aides who help The district’s online registration process for meet- children with their homework, and provide orga- ing with your child’s teachers during Parent Con- nized activities after school. These include com- ferences was expanded during the past year. munity service projects, such as sending letters Initially offered to parents of children in the in- and care packages to our servicemen and wom- termediate schools and high school, the second en overseas, Earth Day art creations for display in phase of automated scheduling was made acces- local stores, and building gingerbread houses for sible to parents of middle school students in the township senior citizens, to name a few. 2010-11 school year. By fall of 2011, parents of students at all grade levels were able to go on- Genesis Parent Module Ask the Superintendent Efficient Operations line, at their convenience, to arrange for confer- Curious about your child’s grades? The district’s Superintendent Robert L. Copeland welcomes In the past year, we have expanded district ef- ence times. Genesis Parent Module online student informa- your questions and comments at “Breakfast with ficiencies with the installation of new boilers, au- Learning Beyond the Regular tion system is available to all parents with stu- the Superintendent” sessions scheduled peri- tomated faucets and motion sensor gymnasium School Day dents in the elementary, intermediate, middle odically on Saturday mornings in the Piscataway lighting at various school buildings. These efforts We know that Piscataway families lead busy lives. schools, and high school. This user-friendly sys- High School Café. It’s an opportunity for parents to conserve energy reduced the district’s annual To assist working parents, the Office of Commu- tem enables you to access your student’s grades, to have an informal discussion about school is- energy bill by over $224,000. nity Education, located in the district’s Admin- attendance, and other important information sues and activities that may arise during the year. istration Building, offers affordable Before and from any computer with an Internet connection.

Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well. —Voltaire, French historian and philosopher

18 At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a

spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude District Administration of those who have lighted the flame Central Administration

Robert L. Copeland...... Superintendent of Schools within us. Brian P. DeLucia...... Business Administrator/Board Secretary —Albert Schwietzer, Philosopher and Carolyn Keck...... Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Nobel Peace Prize winner. Teresa M. Rafferty...... Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Diane Janson...... Director of Student Personnel Services/Guidance Principals Catherine Sousa...... Director of Human Resources Dr. Michael A. Wanko...... Piscataway High School Donna DeAngelis White...... Conackamack Middle School

Management Staff Deidre Ortiz...... Quibbletown Middle School

Jacqueline Evans-Turner...... Literacy/Humanities Richard Hueston...... Schor Middle School Harold Gilchrist...... Information Systems Dr. Suzanne Westberg...... Arbor Intermediate School William R. Griffith...... Facilities Shirley Eyler...... King Intermediate School Lori Handaly-Kaye...... Community Programs Mylo Wright...... Eisenhower Elementary School Lynda Jackey...... Mathematics/Science William Baskerville...... Grandview Elementary School Tracy-Marie Moody...... Secondary Special Education Marlene Davis...... Knollwood Elementary School Phyllis Regnaud...... Elementary Special Education Perry Stio...... Randolphville Elementary School Paul Schoeb...... Physical Education (9-12)/Athletic Director Kimberly Georgeian...... Children’s Corner PreSchool

19 NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ PERMIT NO. 933

1515 Stelton Rd • PO Box 1332 Piscataway, NJ 08855-1332 (732) 572-2289 www.piscatawayschools.org

Board of Education Paula A.Y. Maas, President Thomas Mosier, Vice President Tom Connors Catherine Sucher Greeley Margaret King Alexandra Lopez Mark R. Okamoto Jerry Szymonowicz

Publication of this Annual Report is through a grant from the Office of Community Education; no taxpayer funds were used.