Student news: Carl Sandburg Middle School hosts Civil War Day
Students, staff, school administrators and Old Bridge Mayor Owen Henry will be wearing authentic Civil War uniforms and costumes when Carl Sandburg Middle School in Old Bridge hosts its second Civil War Day from 9 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. on May 19, at the school.
The school was the recipient of a $2,000 grant from donorschoose.org, which is a United States-based non-profit organization that allows individuals to donate directly to public school classroom projects. The money will cover the expenses for the re-enactors from the NJ 14th regiment and the NY 6th Battery, who will fire an authentic Civil War cannon at 2 p.m.
The students will rotate through several stations during the day with the culminating events set from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. with weapon demonstrations and the firing of the cannon.
As part of the seventh-grade curriculum, the students study the Civil War. This program will be the culminating event for this topic, according to a news release. The students each have a schedule where they rotate every 20 minutes to a different "station" where they learn about life during the Civil War, including about the life of a soldier and what it was like socially during the time. They also learn about the Underground Railroad.
During the day-long activities, eighth graders provide a reader's theater for the story, "The Gettysburg Cannon." The youngsters also assist at the stations.
The costumes worn by several faculty members, who dress up in authentic Civil War uniforms and dresses, were purchased courtesy of donations from local merchants in town. The Old Bridge mayor is expected to dress up as Robert E. Lee.
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Advancing Opportunities
Sayreville native and Rutgers University student Carly Hewitt was honored by Advancing Opportunities at its annual Spring Hoedown. Carly received the “Andrew J. Murphy Award,” which recognizes an individual with a disability who demonstrates courage, determination, confidence and spirit.
Hewitt has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a neuromuscular disease that renders her unable to move any of her muscles or breathe independently. She relies on a wheelchair and a ventilator, but that is not stopping her from pursuing a degree in psychology from Rutgers University, according to a news release.
In order to complete her schoolwork, Advancing Opportunities’ Assistive Technology Center introduced Hewitt to eye gaze technology. Working with AT Specialist Jeannette VanHouten, Carly learned to use the technology to communicate and operate her computer.
“I use an eye gaze computer system to do everything in life,” Hewitt added. “It is my lifesaver! I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have the opportunity to use it.”
“Carly is one shining example of the mission of Advancing Opportunities at work,” said the organization’s CEO Jack Mudge in the news release. “Our team works every day to make things that were once impossible possible for people with disabilities, but our work would be nothing without the determination and courage of people like Carly.”
Inspired by her first-grade teacher, Hewitt plans to pursue a career in the field of education, ideally as a learning disabilities teacher consultant or a curriculum writer.
“Assistive technology” refers to a piece of equipment or environmental adaptation that helps a person with a disability achieve a goal. The Assistive Technology Center is a program of the Assistive Technology Department at Advancing Opportunities, a leader in the field of disability services throughout the State of New Jersey since 1950.
Albright College
South Plainfield resident Roemello Monroe, a student at Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania, presented research at the Higher Education Council of Berks County's 18 annual Undergraduate Research & Creativity Conference, held at Penn State Berks on April 22. Monroe presented "Waste Management on Albright's Campus: An analysis using the lens of sustainability."
Bright Beginnings Learning Center
The Bright Beginnings Learning Center’s (BBLC) “Coding and Robotics Club” is one of seven programs statewide selected to receive an “Innovations in Special Education Award” for “successful, creative efforts” enabling special needs students to achieve their potential.
The Piscataway-based school's “Coding and Robotics Club” entry was one of 57 submissions to the contest, sponsored by the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA), and the Association of Schools and Agencies for the Handicapped (ASAH).
One of six schools within the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey (ESCNJ), representatives was recognized at an awards ceremony on May 8 at the Westin Forrestal Village in Princeton. Among the dignitaries invited to attend the awards ceremony are Governor Chris Christie, members of the New Jersey State Legislature, the Commissioner of Education, and other state officials, according to NJSBA Executive Director Lawrence S. Feinsod,and ASAH Executive Director Gerard M. Thiers.
“We are pleased with the recognition, and it underscores the support of our Board of Directors regarding our efforts to build the technology capacity of our special needs students,” ESCNJ Superintendent Mark J. Finkelstein said in a news release.
“The Coding and Robotics Club, as well as our robotics curriculum have been particularly engaging to our higher functioning special needs students. The skills they are learning will greatly benefit them in securing future employment,” he added.
The ESCNJ’s special needs coding and robotics curriculum was featured in presentations at the 2016 NJSBA Convention, and the New Jersey Association of School Administrators “Techspo ‘17” conference earlier this year.
Dunellen: Faber School
On April 28, Faber School Celebrated Arbor Day. The day began with The Dunellen Shade Tree Committee educating the students and staff about Arbor Day. The Assemblies were led by Sue Butterworth, Robert Rios and Robert Berg, with special help from Trina Rios.
Arbor day was created in 1872 in Nebraska by, J. Sterling Morton. The first grade did the simple act of planting a Knazan Cherry Tree in honor of Arbor Day. But by planting trees on Arbor day, the students showed a concern for future generations. The planting of the tree shows that someday it will provide wood products, wildlife habitats, erosion control, shelter, and beauty, according to a school news release. This tree is also an inspiration for the children, which they will see every time they go to play outside.
According to Principal Gary Lubisco, Jr. “It is important that our students understand why we need trees and learn how to plant and care for trees. The Dunellen Shade Tree Committee does a great job teaching our students and the entire community about the importance of trees and Arbor Day.”
Eastern Connecticut State University
Joseph Siecinski of Edison was inducted into the Delta Omega chapter of Delta Mu Delta (DMD), the international honor society for business administration, at Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic, Connecticut.
Farmers Insurance
Local Farmers Insurance® agent, Edward Van Eckert awarded John P. Stevens teacher Marissa Freeman with a $2,500 educational grant as part of the insurer group’s Thank America’s Teachers® program.
"Teachers across the country are so passionate about what they do, and they are committed to improving their schools in any way they can," said Van Eckert in a news release. “I am so excited to have had the honor of presenting Freeman with a $2,500 grant through Thank America's Teachers®.”
The teacher at the Edison-based high school plans to use these funds to expand her students’ understanding of “making greener choices” and learn the value of maintaining, marketing and budgeting their school’s greenhouse and the John P. Stevens Farm Stand. Students in this registered Eco School’s Multiply Disabled program will assist with operating the farm stand featuring produce and products from the greenhouse.
Freeman is in the first group of 60 winners to receive a $2,500 educational grant through the Farmers Insurance ® Thank America’s Teachers ® national program in 2017.
Immaculate Conception School
If you stroll the halls of Immaculate Conception School in Spotswood on Friday, May 19, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. you may encounter Egyptian pharaohs, Medieval gargoyles, dinosaurs, and a few other surprises.
Many inspired projects and fun activities await guests at the school's annual art exhibit, according to a news release. Highlights include: The display of a remarkable, Biblically-inspired “Dreamcoat” created for the ICS spring musical, 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,' by students in grades 3-8; a special Artomé “show within a show” of framed K-8 student art available for purchase; craft and music workshops; and an 8th Grade Retrospective showcasing art completed by graduating students during their K-7 years.
In addition, there will be face painting, door prizes, and light refreshments. So mark your calendars and join us for an enjoyable evening.
Guests are invited to make a donation to the ICS Art Program at the door. For more information, contact Cetti-na Cardone at 732-251-3090 or at ccardone@icsspotswood.com.
Ithaca College
Edison resident Ahana Dave at student at Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York, was inducted into the National Association of Communication honor society Lambda Pi Eta on April 18. Dave also presented her research at the 2017 National conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) at the University of Memphis in Tennessee.
Middlesex County College
Rachel Mahoney of Iselin was used to getting nothing but “A”s in all her classes, so when she started in Microbiology at Middlesex County College in Edison in September, it was a rude awakening.
A “B” was looming on the horizon. But she was quiet and too shy to speak with her professor. She was also a little overwhelmed, balancing a full load of classes and working two jobs: one at a restaurant and another as a peer mentor at the college.
But she was also determined. She quit the restaurant job and focused on her studies. She got that A.
Even better, she summoned the courage to talk with her professor, Erin Christensen, who saw potential in her student and asked if she’d like to participate in a research study.
“I didn’t know anything about microbiology or how it related to real life,” Mahoney said. “But I immediately said I was very interested in this opportunity.”
The project was examining water samples in the Elizabeth Marina to check bacteria levels and to see if they have become resistant to antibiotics.
So, along with her research partner, Mahoney gathered six water samples, brought them back to the lab, and allowed them to grow. They then identified bacteria that grew from the water samples using biochemical tests.
“We’re concerned that people toss old prescription drugs down the drain, or flush them down the toilet, which can get into the water system,” Christensen said. “These drugs may affect the bacteria and make it resistant to antibiotics. This is not a good thing.”
The project confirmed that indeed there were resistant bacteria in the water.
“The bacteria may have picked up a gene that gives it the ability to be resistant to antibiotics,” Mahoney said. “We need further study to determine why they are there and whether they can spread their resistance to other bacteria in the water.”
Mahoney, who is graduating this month and transferring to Rutgers University, was presented a $3,000 scholarship from the New Jersey Water Environment Association at its annual conference in Atlantic City May 10.
Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools
Richard Shine, a veteran teacher in the electrical apprentice program of the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools, has been named instructor of the year for the United States and Canada by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
The award was presented in Washington, D.C., at the 2017 IBEW Construction and Maintenance Conference.
Shine, a resident of Milltown, worked as an electrician for almost 40 years, retiring in 2000, and has been teaching in the apprenticeship program since 1968. He is a member of IBEW Local 456 in North Brunswick.
“They gave me the award before about 1,000 people,” he said. “It was pretty neat.”
“You were chosen because you and your work exemplify everything the IBEW stands for – your dedication to hard work, your leadership on and off the job site, and looking out for your fellow IBEW brothers and sisters,” Matthew Walton, producer of the IBEW “Hour Power” online magazine, wrote to Shine. Walton and his crew filmed a video tribute to Shine that included footage in his classroom on the MCVTS East Brunswick campus.
“His dedication to teaching the next generation of workers is what America needs,” said Michael McLaughlin, president of Local 456. “We need people to rebuild the infrastructure of this nation. Without people like Richard Shine, that won’t happen.”
“He’s the gold standard for instructors,” said Joseph Egan, business agent of Local 456 and a state assemblyman. “Everybody who has ever had him in class remembers him because he is so sincere and wants everybody to learn.”
“When I first started, I figured I could give our apprentices a decent background to be a good electrician and a good person,” Shine said. “My goal for them is to be an outstanding citizen, to be a good union member and to appreciate what they have in life.”
Shine teaches first-year apprentices, who work full time while attending classes at night. His son, Richard Jr., teaches third-year apprentices in the program. Shine and his wife of 52 years, Frances, a retired school nurse, also have two daughters, Kelly Consalvo, a teacher’s aide in Jackson, and Kathleen Dailey, a special education teacher in North Brunswick, and four grandchildren.
At 77, he says he has no plans to retire, using his teaching stipends to take annual skiing trips and to follow the football Giants on the road. “I’m in good shape to continue to do what I can do,” he said.
More information on the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools is available at www.mcvts.net. Like us on Facebook – there’s a link on the home page.
Mother Seton Regional High School
Mother Seton Regional High School, Clark, finished in First Place of all the Catholic high schools in Union County and placed fifth among all Union County high schools in the New Jersey Mathematics League competition.
Mother Seton’s team also captured fifth place among all the Catholic High Schools in the state.
Mother Seton’s top participants were seniors Barbara Fiedorowicz and Boran Zhang, of Edison, Ashley Ann Thomas of Orange and junior Jillian Frost of Rahway.
North Brunswick Township High School
The North Brunswick Township High School STOP Student Committee Isabela Colon, Fiona Asham, Alina Akhtar and Kayla Hofacker worked with the township police department to recognize Distracted Driving Awareness Month in April.
The police department supported by the STOP Committee posted an electronic billboard in front of NBTHS with the message, “YOU DRIVE, YOU TEXT, YOU PAY” to inform the North Brunswick community about being attentive drivers and not be distracted by cell phones, conversations, emails, text messages and social media., according to a news release
The police department's Traffic Safety and Patrol followed this up with a motor vehicle checkpoint at the high school where vehicles were stopped for violations with the police officers talking to violators about safe driving. Police department members then visited the high school during lunch periods to promote the banner made by the STOP Student Committee which stated “I pledge to be an Attentive Driver - JUST DRIVE”.
The school's NBTHS Student STOP Committee was selected in the U GOT BRAINS Champion Schools Program with the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey and received a stipend fund to be used for transportation safety projects working with the North Brunswick Police Department.
The STOP Students will be receive their award at a May 25 program, which challenges New Jersey high school students to develop fun and interactive campaigns aimed at educating their peers about the importance of driving safety.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and disability among teens in the United States. Since its inception in 2009, the “U Got Brains Champion Schools Program” has worked with students to address this issue with their peers, and take a positive approach to make changes in their community, according to a news release.
“Motor vehicle crashes remain the number one cause of traumatic brain injury in teens and young adults,” said Rita Steindlberger, president and CEO of the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey, “but we know that with help from our Champion Schools students and teacher advisors, we can continue to reduce those numbers.”
Over the last seven years, more than 100 high schools throughout the state have developed campaigns addressing every aspect of teen safe driving ranging from powerful public service announcements and music videos, to the invention of a cell phone “safe box” that disables a car’s radio until the drivers’ cell phone is locked inside that box. Previous years’ projects can be viewed at www.ugotbrains/champion-schools-program.
The top two campaigns, selected by a panel of judges, are awarded a grand prize, a driving simulator for their school donated by New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Company, the founding sponsor of the program.
Additional sponsors include Allstate Insurance, New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, State Farm Insurance, New Jersey Education Association, New Jersey Teen Safe Driving Coalition, Nikhil Badlani Foundation, Six Flags Great Adventure, AAA NJ Automobile Club, AT & T and the Council on Brain Injury.
Perth Amboy Catholic School
Protect Me With 3+
The Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern New Jersey (the Partnership), in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Health, recently announced the winners for the fifth annual Protect Me With 3+ adolescent immunization awareness poster and video contest.
The winners and finalists in each category were honored at an awards ceremony and banquet conducted at The Conference Center at RWJ Hamilton Center for Health & Wellness on April 23.The top three winners in the poster and video categories received prizes and the opportunity for their artistic creations to be distributed during statewide immunization awareness activities.
Middle School Poster Contest Winners:first place: Evonne Chiang of Union Township Middle School; second place: Meredith Waropay of Indian Mills Memorial School; thirrd place: Arya Sasne of Thomas Grove Middle School in West Windsor.
High School Poster Contest Winners:first place: Camryn Fontana of Bergen County Technical High School; second place: Sarah Eveland of Hanover Park High School
third place: D’Asia Simpson of Atlantic County Institute of Technology
Video Contest Winners: first place: Spencer Friedman of Brandon Livingston;
second place: Shannon McGavin of Henry Huston Regional School; third place: Zayna Bajwa of Academic of Allied Health & Science.
Teachers and schools with the most eligible classroom submissions in each category were also acknowledged at the ceremony. The winning teachers and schools include: Venisha Jordan of Franklin Elementary, Rahway, Middle School Poster Category; Cindy Pfirrmann of Scotch Plains Fanwood High School, Scotch Plains, High School Poster Category; William Werntz of Marlboro High School, Marlboro, Video Category.
The Protect Me With 3+ contest aims to raisesawareness about the importance of adolescent immunizations to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), human papillomavirus (HPV), meningococcal conjugate, and influenza (flu).
This year, the contest submissions doubled to nearly 400 poster and video entries from middle school and high school students across the state. The winning creations can be viewed at http://protectmewith3.com/winners.
New Jersey students in grades 5-8 were eligible to submit posters, while students in grades 9-12 were eligible to submit either posters or videos. The public voted for their favorite entries from March 20 through April 2.
To learn more about vaccinations, visit the New Jersey Department of Health’s website: http://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/vpdp/index.shtml.
Quinnipiac University
The following Central Jersey residents at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut. were inducted in Beta Gamma Sigma, the international honor society: Joseph Amato of Monroe Township, Ryan Slattery of Old Bridge.
Rider University
Kyle Anacker of Monroe Township was inducted into Sigma Iota Epsilon Management Honor Society. SIE is a National Honorary and Professional Management Fraternity for students with high academic standing who are interested in business management. Kyle is pursuing a master's degree in business administration at Rider University, Lawrenceville.
Susquehanna University
Lauren Cram of East Brunswick was one of 50 students from Susquehanna University who recently presented research at the 31st annual National Conference on Undergraduate Research in Memphis, Tennessee. Cram's research was titled "Examination of Microglial Morphology in a Mouse Model of Acute Ethanol Intoxication."
Wilkes University
Ryan Richards of Plainsboro was part of the Wilkes University Enactus team that presented at the national exposition in Washington, D.C.. on March 30. The team earned a regional championship at the event. The team also was invited to participate in the organization's national competition, planned for May 21 - 23 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Student and School news appears Fridays. Email:hntmetro@mycentraljersey.com