Structured Learning Experience: NJ Judiciary

Stephanie Rivera from the New Jersey Judiciary met with over 75 students at County Prep on Wednesday, December 10, 2014. 

The presentation included an overview of the 10 Judicial Job Bands:  Support Staff, Case Processing, Administrative Professional, Information Technology, Court Interpreter, Legal, Official Court Reporter, Support Staff Supervisory, Professional Supervisory, and Court Executive/Managers.  Career pathways in each of these bands were discussed at length and students engaged in a Q&A at the end of the session.  It was a very valuable Structured Learning Experience that outlined viable post-secondary career options for our students.

HCST Students Participate in Structured Learning Experience

On Wednesday, December 17, Kayla Roman and Daniel Fenlon from County Prep  and Zachary Murillo and Richard Farrington from High Tech visited Brookdale Community College’s Automotive Technology Labs to get a first-hand glimpse of the various programs.  They toured the brand new state-of-the-art facility  which is designed to meet the continual demand for trained automotive technicians.  The students rotated through the different automotive specialties and observed current students testing, diagnosing, and repairing automobiles.  Brookdale Community College has partnered with major companies including General Motors, Toyota, and STS Tire and Auto Center providing a clear-cut pathway to employment upon completion of the respective programs.  Overall, it was an invaluable structured learning experience that defined a viable career option for our students.

County Prep Social Worker, Martha Rand, to train other professionals in anti-bullying interventions and remediation.

County Prep Social Worker, Martha Rand, to train other professionals in anti-bullying interventions and remediation. 

In January, 2015, Martha Rand, LCSW, and HCST Child Study Team Social Worker will provide training in identifying, preventing, intervening and remediating Relational Aggression (RA).   RA is a form of bullying often associated with middle and high school age girls.  The training will be presented to educators at the Lodi Boys and Girls Club through Educators Training Institute.  On the national level, Ms. Rand will be presenting on techniques and skills to educate and intervene with regard to relational aggression at the American Council of School Social Workers (ACSSW) in New Orleans.    

Here at County Prep and Explore Middle School, Ms. Rand has facilitated leadership groups for girls during the year and in the summer program, as well as after school leadership groups utilizing mindfulness based skills, creative arts activities and techniques to build peer to peer connections.    

   

High Tech National Honor Society Sponsors Drive to Assist the York Street Project

(North Bergen, NJ—December 19, 2014) The High Tech National Honor Society (NHS), moderated by veteran Language Arts teacher and Department Liaison Joan Marie Bellotti, recently sponsored a drive to support the York Street Project, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.

Students in all of the homerooms at High Tech donated items such as toiletries, bathroom and facial tissues, paper towels, adhesive bandages, stationery items, batteries, and garbage bags, which NHS members boxed.  NHS president Tyler Law, a resident of Bayonne, and his mother, Lori Ann Law, delivered the boxed goods to Kenmare High School in Jersey City for distribution to all of the York Street Project facilities.

In addition to the NHS president, the following NHS students helped and boxed items: Alexandra Altamura and Koby Garcia of West New York; Bayonne residents Ida Behreini and Taylor Turzycki; and Nisarg Shah of North Bergen.

Weaving innovative programs that shelter, feed, educate, and promote the healing and independence of people in need, especially women and their children, the York Street Project works in four interrelated, coordinated, yet separate, programs at the Nurturing Place, St. Joseph’s Home, St. Mary’s Residence, and the aforementioned Kenmare High School.

Pictured from left to right: Tyler Law and an unidentified representative from the York Street Project

Pictured from left to right: Koby Garcia, Tyler Law, Nisarg Shah, and Taylor Turzycki

Pictured from left to right: Ida Behreini, Alexandra Altamura, and Tyler Law

High Tech National Honor Society Holds Annual Book Swap

(North Bergen, NJ—December 18, 2014) The High Tech National Honor Society (NHS), moderated by veteran Language Arts teacher and Department Liaison Joan Marie Bellotti, recently sponsored its annual Book Swap, a popular five-hour event, held in the Resource Center of the North Hudson Center of Hudson County Schools of Technology, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.

Students and staff brought gently used books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, and even VHS cassettes to swap for other such media.  Everyone had the opportunity for even swaps.

Held twice a year in the winter and spring, the NHS Book Swap proved to be a successful and enjoyable means to recycle used items.  This year, students, faculty, and staff donated about 300 items for swapping.  After all of the items had been swapped, students had the opportunity to partake and own remaining items.

Pictured (from left to right): Luana Xu of Secaucus, Kearny resident Sofia Ordonez, and Danielle Heaney of Secaucus 

County Prep High School Video Production Students Visit MSU’S Dumont Television Center

COUNTY PREP VIDEO PRODUCTION STUDENTS VISIT MSU’S DUMONT TELEVISION CENTER

On November 21, 2014, County Prep’s Video Production students visited Montclair State University’s DuMont Television Center. The Center is a state-of-the-art, professionally equipped, high-definition television and digital media production facility. Students learned about scriptwriting and storyboarding to live-action shooting, digital editing and live webcast streaming.

After an introduction speech from Professor Larry Londino, County Prep students were able to experience the process of filming MSU’s weekly cable show “Carpe Diem.” Here they had the opportunity to shadow the show’s directors, producers, audio technicians, and cameramen. To end the visit, when the filming was finished, the students were given a tour of the building and received valuable advice from current MSU students.

Structured Learning Experience – US NAVY PRESENTATION

Structured Learning Experience – US NAVY PRESENTATION

Petty Officer Torres and Seaman Blanco from the United States Navy spoke with County Prep students on Tuesday, December 9, 2014. They discussed potential career pathways and the skills one must possess in order to succeed in this segment of the armed forces.  The students had an opportunity to ask about the demands of the US Navy as an organization as well as the challenges inherent in each of the specialties.  All the students were offered the opportunity to take a “practice” Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to assess current strengths and weakness to help them plan their post-secondary options.

Essex County College Police Academy – Structured Learning Experience

Twelve students from County Prep High School visited the Essex County College Police Academy on Wednesday, December 3, 2014. The tour included a presentation which outlined the educational and training requirements for careers in law enforcement.  In addition, there was a Q&A session which gave the students “real-life” examples of the challenges and rewards of the profession.  The students had the opportunity to try the “firearms simulator” designed to hone precision and accuracy skills.  They also learned about the inner-workings of a real police car and were able to activate the sirens and give commands over the speaker system.  The students witnessed first-hand the rigor and intensity of the physical training component of the program.  Overall, they were exposed to a “true to life” training environment of new recruits which increased their awareness of the skills required to succeed in such a setting.

County Prep High School Students Attend FCCLA Fall Conference

FCCLA FALL CONFERENCE - November 2014

The County Prep FCCLA delegation attended the Fall conference this November at the Pines Manor in Edison. The conference was attended by 600 members from schools throughout New Jersey. Our students competed in the following events:

Apple Bake Off

The Apple Bake-Off Competitive Event is a State Event sponsored by The Culinary Institute of America and conducted at the NJ FCCLA Fall Leadership Connection. It is an individual event that is open to New Jersey FCCLA 12th grade members. The event focuses on an original baked apple recipe and essay that features one variety of apple. The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) provided scholarships for the winners. County Prep senior, Samone Wellington, was awarded a silver medal along with Antonia Tsielepas, who was awarded with a 1^st place gold medal and $2,000 scholarship to the CIA.

Cupcake Challenge

The Cupcake Challenge Competitive Event is a State Event conducted at the NJ FCCLA Fall Leadership Connection. It is a team event that encourages members to create an original cupcake recipe from scratch that incorporates squash as an ingredient. The members must make a minimum of 5 dozen cupcakes that will be sold at the NJ FCCLA Fall Leadership Connection to raise money for the National Outreach Project, Share Our Strength. The cupcakes are evaluated on the taste, texture, appearance, and creativity as well as the efficiency and creativity of the display. Silver medals were awarded to the team of Josh Coleman, Jaymi Llarenas, and Naiomi Mercedes. In addition, the team of Tamara Alicea, Valerie O’Higgins, and Antonia Tsielepas placed first and were awarded gold medals.

Tune Into FCCLA

The Tune Into FCCLA Competitive Event is a State Event conducted at the NJ FCCLA Fall Leadership Connection. It is designed to energize our technically gifted and creative members. Tune Into FCCLA is a team event that allows participants to develop an FCCLA marketing project using a video to promote membership and public relations. This video is a great Public Relations tool to showcase student’s creativity and the quality of FCCLA programs. We would like to recognize Andrew Levy, Iulian Cernatinsch, and Amanda Ortega for being awarded with 1^st place gold medals.

Passion For Fashion Design Challenge

The Passion for Fashion Design Challenge Competitive Event is a State Event conducted at the NJ FCCLA Fall Leadership Connection. It is an individual event that allows participants to exhibit fashion design creativity and construction savvy by creating doll clothes to wear on our mini FCCLA runway. Each participant designs and drafts a pattern and constructs an original doll-sized garment for a twelve 12- inch fashion doll, such as a Barbie doll.  In addition, an original design in full color and one that was drawn by hand needed to be submitted.  County Prep junior, Natassha Rivera, was awarded a silver medal alongside Jessica Camano, Immani Bermingham, and Mayra Morales, who were awarded gold medals. We also recognize Ibeliz Aviles for placing first and winning a scholarship to Berkeley College’s summer program.

UNICO of Kearny Commends High Tech’s Jared Machado for Volunteering on Behalf of Mentally and Physically Challenged Individuals

(Kearny, NJ—December 5, 2014) The Kearny chapter of UNICO National has sent a commendation letter to High Tech to honor Jared Machado of Harrison for his service to the community, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.

Machado, a High Tech student, along with three students from Kearny High School, volunteered to assist the Kearny chapter of UNICO by undertaking various duties at its annual Christmas Party for Mentally and Physically Challenged Individuals.  For four hours, Machado and the other students helped set up tables and chairs, assisted in distributing food and snacks, and even helped clean up once the Christmas Party ended.

“In today’s world where many young people are concerned only with video games, taking ‘selfies,’ and posting on Facebook, it’s refreshing and reassuring when a young person volunteers to help those less fortunate than himself,” states Louis Pandolfi, President of the Kearny chapter of UNICO in his letter addressed to Dr. Giammarella.  “It is for this reason that I commend Jared Machado to you.”

Founded in 1922 in Waterbury, Connecticut, UNICO (Italian for “unique”) formed when a group led by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola banded together to establish a special, proud organization.  Dr. Vastola's dream to orchestrate an Italian-American body dedicated to service, charitable works, higher education, and patriotism places community above fraternity.  UNICO acts as a representative organization that showcases the contributions of Italian-Americans to the American way of life.  Its sole purpose, to unite all Italian-Americans and motivate them to become more civic-minded, has resulted in UNICO switching to the acronym for “Unity, Neighborliness, Integrity, Charity, and Opportunity.”

MTC Visits High Tech Musical Theatre for Series of Master Classes.

(North Bergen, NJ—December 11, 2014) Manhattan Theatre Club (MTC) and High Tech Musical Theatre joined forces to provide Musical Theatre majors with a chance to partake in script analysis, see the Broadway play The Lost Lake, and visit with Director Victor Maog, actors Frank Hartz (from HBO’s The Leftovers), and Jonathan David (from Showtime’s Shameless), announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.  

In a series of visits, majors read an advance copy of The Lost Lake, starring Traci Thoms and John Hawkes.  The team responsible for the Pulitzer Prize-winning Proof and The Columnist returned to MTC with The Lost Lake, a riveting and spirited world premiere play written by Tony Award-winner David Auburn and directed by Tony winner Daniel Sullivan.  An engrossing, revealing portrait of two strangers bound by circumstance, The Lost Lake dramatizes the struggle for human connection in an imperfect world.

The Musical Theatre majors worked on improvisational theatre and original script work based on the play.  They also composed original material, performing it in class with professional actors.  Already in deep preparation for their upcoming Magic of Disney production in January and spring production of A Chorus Line, the majors visited MTC’s production of Country Home with Blythe Danner and look forward to the upcoming Constellations with Jake Gyllenhaal.  They will be working closely with the play Airline Highway this spring, helmed by Tony winning director Joe Mantello (of Wicked and The Normal Heart).  

“I feel that it’s imperative that students are exposed to artists working in the professional theatre world,” says Alex Perez, director of High Tech Musical Theatre.  “We are excited to create new alliances with such an incredible theatre company like Manhattan Theatre Club.”  

Founded in 1970 and committed to the creation of new plays and musicals through an intensive Artistic Development Program, MTC presents original works on its stages.  MTC’s Education Program promotes active participation in the arts through in-class instruction, student and family matinees, teacher training, internships, and online distance learning. MTC includes a subscriber base of 20,000 at present and showcases its productions at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.

County Prep High School Hosts College and Career Fair

County Prep hosted a college and career fair on October 9^th, 2014. There were many hands that helped to orchestrate this event including the administrators, the teachers, the guidance counselors, Ms. Galluccio, Mr. Patten and his Audio/Visual students, as well as the maintenance and security staffs, the transportation staff and the Culinary Program. Colleges, universities, as well as the military and apprenticeship programs were in attendance. There were a total of 40 organizations representing New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Florida, Vermont and Connecticut.

Overall, feedback was positive. County Prep culinary students had the opportunity to showcase their work. Chef Palsi's, Chef Collins's and Chef Delesky’s students greatly impressed the fair attendees with their lunch which was served immediately before the fair. “Amazing lunch!”, “Very impressed!” and “Can we please come back again next year?” were a few of the comments made after admissions counselors sampled the food prepared by the students.

The admissions counselors were also impressed by the juniors and the seniors who attended the fair. The general comment was that County Prep’s students were well-informed and focused as they circulated through the event. The event itself allowed students to gather information about potential colleges and career options in a “one-stop-shop” situation.

After speaking with a variety of students after the fair, Ms. Ulivella (who planned the event) was satisfied that the fair accomplished its purpose which was to expose students to the myriad of possibilities that are available to them after high school in one convenient location. She also hopes that the fair inspired students to research further to make well-informed decisions. Ms. Ulivella stated, “It’s an exciting but big decision and one that will affect the course of a person’s life. I wanted to help aid in that process.” 

County Prep High School French Class Participates in the French Institute Alliance Francaise Young Audience Program

Madame Shields’s Level II French class participated in the FIAF, French Institute Alliance Francaise Young Audience Program, on Tuesday November 25^th in New York City. Students watched and interacted with well-known choreographer Stefanie Batten Bland and her modern dance company on the occasion of the debut of her piece “Patient(ce)”. “Patient (ce)” addresses themes of jazz, isolation and integration in the United states. Through a collaboration with futuristic jazz ensemble Burnt Sugar Arkestra, it examines our instinct to create in the face of oppression.

The dancer and choreographer Stefanie Batten Bland has family roots that are a mix of Creole, African American, Native American and Scots-Irish. Stefanie has danced for Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, Pal Frenak, Sean Curran, Georges Momboye, Cie Linga, Pina Bausch Tanz Theater Wuppertal, Lar Lubovitch, Julie Taymor and Angelin Preljocaj, among others. Stefanie’s choreographic vision of contemporary dance redefines community by illustrating the synergy that arises when interdisciplinary artists from varied backgrounds and cultures collide. Her works are based in dance, with a strong installation component which allows futuristic worlds to take place in space and time. Stephanie mixes European subtlety and American ardor to investigate physical notions of community, adding her own layer of dance to that of her parents' (Mary Batten and Ed Bland) artistic legacy of music and writing.

In 2008, while head choreographer at the Paris Opera Comique in France, Stefanie founded Company Stefanie Batten Bland so that she might better investigate the human condition and relationship within the natural world. Her works are physically and technically demanding.

This performance had a strong interactive element with the student audience. Students were able to experience improvising a “lava lamp” and dancing through the “waves of the ocean." They also reflected on the theme of rules, restrictions, and freedom.

After the performance, the class had a family style lunch at “Madame Claude”, a cozy, bistro-style French restaurant in Jersey City. The owner, Alice Troletto, graciously opened her restaurant early just for the students. They had to order and converse in French, while tasting traditional French dishes such as: different fromage from various parts of France, Escargots, Croque Monsieur, the famous French Steak, Ratatouille, Gratin aux legumes, Crème brulée and Crepes. They listened to French chansonettes and enjoyed an environment of French memorabilia.

The students thoroughly enjoyed both the performance and the French dejeuner; for most of them it was their first time tasting French cuisine.

Theatre Arts Students of County Prep High School Attend Performance of "The Country House"

The Theatre Arts students of County Prep High School participated in the Manhattan Theatre Club Core Education program of the Broadway Production of “The Country House”. As part of this program, the students participated in workshops with Manhattan Theatre Club resident artist Melissa Murray-Mutch, and other professional actors, in order to prepare and discuss "The Country House." During the workshops they acted, read, improvised and wrote their own scenes inspired by Donald Margulies’s new play. 

Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Donald Margulies (Time Stands Still, Sight Unseen) has returned to Broadway with his tenth MTC production, a new comedy about a deeply dramatic family. Tony and Emmy winner Blythe Danner (The Commons of Pensacola, Meet the Parents) stars as Anna Patterson, the matriarch of a brood of famous and longing-to-be-famous creative artists who have gathered at their Berkshires summerhouse during the Williamstown Theatre Festival. But when the weekend takes an unexpected turn, everyone is forced to improvise, inciting a series of simmering jealousies, romantic outbursts and passionate soul-searching.

Considered “one of the MOST SATISFYING NEW AMERICAN PLAYS to reach Broadway in the past decade” by The Wall Street Journal, this witty and compelling new play provides a piercing look at a family of performers coming to terms with the roles they play in each other’s lives. Tony winner Daniel Sullivan (The Columnist, Good People, Time Stands Still) directs.

The play is performed by Blythe Danner, Kate Jennings Grant, Eric Lange, David Rasche, Sarah Steele, and Daniel Sunjata

The students thoroughly enjoyed the play: some considered it “the best play ever”, others found it “riveting and classically amusing," and all were enthralled by Eric Lange’s performance. Eric played the role of Elliott, Anna’s son who always felt unloved and unappreciated by his mother. The character really took the audience on a journey, bringing forth incredible laughter, as well as the most sincere tears.

According to Ms.  Raluca Shields, the Theatre Arts teacher at Country Prep, this was a very enriching experience and the students are looking forward to more collaboration with the Manhattan Theatre Club in the near future.

Explore 2000 Renews Ties to PSEG SPARK Program with HCSTF Support

December 1, 2014 (North Bergen, N.J.) – The HCST Foundation (HCSTF) is pleased to announce the renewal of the PSEG SPARK science grant for Aquatic Adventures, a program that utilizes underwater vehicles to explore local marine biology, announced Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Direct of the HCST Foundation.

This grant continues last year’s endeavor to include 25 middle-grade science students in a week-long program to utilize remotely operated underwater vehicles to explore local marine biology. This summer’s second voyage will once again take place at the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park in North Bergen, NJ.

A result of collaboration between Explore2000 staff, the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium, PSEG and the HCST Foundation, the 2014 SPARK grant totals over $14,000. Explore2000 Assistant Principal Amy Lin-Rodriguez says, “We are fortunate to have the continued support of the HCST Foundation. This funding will help our facilitators with professional development for maintaining successful program implementation and enhancing our existing STEM programs.”

Daniel Gans, HCSTF Board President, applauds the collaboration. Gans says, “We are excited to be a part of PSEG SPARK, which gives students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology that will be used in the jobs of tomorrow. This program is another example of the Foundation continuing to meet the Mission of experiential learning and achieving greater goals.”

HCSTF Executive Director Quentzel adds, “To have the PSEG SPARK science grant renewed is a boon to our mission.” She continues, “This year’s iteration will allow educators to build on their previous knowledge while allowing a new group of students to participate in this singular experience.”

Read the article on njseagrant.org website

Click to download the HCST Foundation Press Release.

Youth Transitions to Work (YTTW) Construction Trades Structured Learning Experience (SLE)

Youth Transitions to Work (YTTW) Construction Trades Structured Learning Experience (SLE)

Chris Di Meo from the Youth Transition to Work (YTTW) Building Trades program met with County Prep and ATD students on November 24, 2014 to discuss potential career pathways in the construction industry.  The apprenticeship program encompasses almost all of the construction trades and combines “on-the-job” training with classroom instruction.  Students will have the opportunity to train at one of New Jersey’s state-of-the-art centers. This “Earn While You Learn Initiative” is an outstanding post-secondary career option for anyone interested in the building trades.

Structured Learning Experience Program

Structured Learning Experience Program  - Youth Transitions to Work Starting Points Apprenticeship Program

A representative from the Youth Transitions to Work Starting Points Apprenticeship program spoke to County Prep students on Friday, November 21, 2014 about an exciting child care services program.  The presentation included an overview of career opportunities offered through the Starting Points apprenticeship certification program as part of the structured learning experience/transition planning for post-secondary options.  Students engaged in a Q&A session and were offered the opportunity to partake in the Youth Transitions to Work Saturday Workshops  to further explore this career option. 

Mood Fabric Structured Learning Experience 2014

Mood Fabric Structured Learning Experience 2014

The seniors from the Fashion Design and Merchandising program visited Mood Fabrics in New York City. Mood Fabrics is the store where the design contestants from the Emmy nominated show, Project Runway, shop for their fabrics and trimmings. The fabric purchased by the students will be used to construct garments for FCCLA competitions and the County Prep Fashion Show. During this structured learning experience, students demonstrated their planning and time management skills, critical thinking, and problem solving strategies as well as research skills and the elements and principles of visual art. Cost analyses were used to determine the fabric consumption of the purchases.  We look forward to seeing the finished designs on the runway this April at the County Prep fashion show.

Hudson County Community College – “Culinary Student for the Day” Structured Learning Experience

Hudson County Community College – “Culinary Student for the Day” Structured Learning Experience

Six County Prep culinary arts students visited Hudson County Community College on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 to participate in their “ Culinary Student for the Day” program. Tamera Alicea, Kyra Amaya, Joshua Lopez, William Matlock, Chelsea Steward, and Antonia Tsielepas were part of an excellent experience. The students cycled through the various culinary labs to gain exposure to the post-secondary culinary arts program and to “feel” what it is like to be a college student.  They also had the opportunity to interact with the professors and to partake in “hands-on” activities in the various kitchens.  The students met with an admissions counselor to review the application process.  At the conclusion of the tour, the students attended a luncheon in the dining hall that was served and prepared by the culinary college students.  Overall, it was an invaluable structured learning experience that defined a potential career option for our students.

Author Tris McCall visits County Prep

Tris McCall, award-winning former music critic for the Star Ledger, Hudson County-centric author, singer, musician and song-writer visited County Prep High School. Mr. McCall displayed his impressive command of the music industry and responded to student queries about his experiences as a writer.  Students from Mr. Calvanico’s History of Rock and Roll, Ms. Fedele’s Creative Writing class, and Mr. Figeureo’s and Mr. Matthews’ Music/Audio Technology specialization were invited to benefit from Mr. McCall’s real-world honed vision of culture and politics in New Jersey.  While an hour was allotted, students and staff continued the dialogue afterward in the hallway, fascinated by his front row and behind-the-scenes knowledge of bands and individual artists.

Tris will be offering a reading of his new book locally in early December (specifics yet to be determined); his is a tale of Hudson County politics with a personal bent.

Ms. Galluccio is to be thanked for her impeccable professionalism and efficiency in arranging to provide this Structured Learning Experience.   Extreme thanks to Tris McCall, a well-regarded, multi-faceted authority, for having spoken gratis as a favor to one of his regular readers, psychologist Lisa Tomasini.

County Prep Senior Wins State Soccer Championship

Congratulations to County Prep senior Ali Lachgar.  He is a key member of the Harrison boys soccer team that has just won the 2014 NJSIAA Group 1 State Championship. The victory means that Blue Tide are the best team in the state for all Group 1 schools. Harrison defeated Haddon Township 4 – 0 in the final game held at Kean University on Sunday November 23, 2014. The left halfback scored a goal in the victory to help seal the win. Ali is planning on attending college and hopes to continue his success on the field at the next level. Well done, Ali!

Youth Transitions to Work (YTTW) Certified Nursing Assistant and Physical Therapy Aide Programs

Structured Learning Experience -  Youth Transitions to Work (YTTW) Certified Nursing Assistant and Physical Therapy Aide Programs

Representatives from the Youth Transitions to Work (YTTW) Apprenticeship Program presented to over 50 students at County Prep High School on Monday, November 10, 2014.  The scholarship program provides outreach, training, and placements for students interested in becoming Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) or Physical Therapy Aides (PTA).  Students learned about potential career pathways that can be launched as part of this “Earn While You Learn” initiative.

High Tech Badminton Club Alumni Sing High Tech's Praises

Where Are Those Great High Tech High School Badminton Club Members Now?

By Kelsey Paul

It comes as no surprise that High Tech’s 2014 graduates continue to hone their skills throughout their college careers. And, those from the Badminton Club are no different. Some participate on competitive badminton teams and intermurals. “It’s pretty popular; it has around 60 members, a dedicated section of the Werblin Recreation Center with a total of three courts,” says Jackson Luis, a freshman at Rutgers University in New Brunswick. Others take to a lighter route, like the freshman at Hawaii Pacific University, Kayleigh Rogers. “Yeah, I play recreationally with some kids who played in high school. There’s no intramural program for it; we just play outside in an open field.” 

Whatever form of the game the former High Tech High Badminton Club members take to, they all have the same fiery passion they had when they first held the racket in their hand their first club practice at High Tech. However in college, the stakes have been raised and the competition has been heightened. “While practicing, I'm always focusing on form and footwork--2 important fundamentals I ignored in high school. There are so many high-level players here, and they're always giving me tips on how to improve my game play. The coaches say I’m good, but it'll probably take a year in order for me to become good enough to make the team due to the competition,” says Garrett Chu, a freshman at Rutgers University Business School. Yes, the foot work may matter more, and, yes, college badminton may be more stringent than high school badminton. But, many will attest to the “footing” in badminton they received while at High Tech being a positive building block. “The badminton program she [Ms. Gilmartin] has going on at High Tech is, believe it or not, better than Colgate. We have a small student-run club and everything is basically self-supported,” says Mark Ma, a freshman at Colgate University. Ms. Gilmartin, the glue that keeps Badminton Club functioning and expanding, has made great strides to give her students the best resources to excel. She even managed to get the Hummersknott/Oxford Badminton club of Darlington, United Kingdom to come compete with High Tech’s Badminton Club during the summer of 2013. This meeting provided students the chance to exchange badminton tips and to form an international friendship. Ms. Gilmartin prepares her students for a competitive world but also teaches that kindness and friendship extends beyond the perimeters of High Tech. It extends to accepting people from all walks of life. “Going off my experience in joining the Badminton Club at High Tech, I wasn't surprised by how easy it was making friends at my college's Badminton Club,” says Toshi Piazza of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York.

So, the High Tech graduates of 2014 have fared well both academically and in their badminton performances. They have practiced form. They have drilled over and over again. They have made friends. And, they all got their start from the quaint and dedicated High Tech Badminton Club. Still, Mark Ma, would not be the troublemaker that he is if he didn’t offer his little tidbit to Ms. Gilmartin and the rest of the club. His suggestions? “Get better nets and, for the love of God, get the lines right next time!” Okay, Mark Ma, Badminton Club will get the lines right this time around.

Here's to the bright futures of all High Tech’s students!

High Tech Engages in Café Chic

(North Bergen, NJ—October 27, 2014) The High Tech Sophomore French classes took the opportunity to express French design and culture in Café Chic, the classes’ end of the unit French project, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech.

During the first marking period, the sophomores became familiar with French design and cuisine, very prominent influences in French culture, and taught throughout the unit.

Encouraged to bring in French dishes and make outfits for a fashion show, the students in each sophomore French class constructed and managed their own cuisine booths.  This event, a mix of a French fashion show along with a French café, featured models, designers, and DJs, all of whom took part in creating the student-based French Fashion show.  These models brought in their own outfits and composed French biographies.

Students also expressed their different personalities by collaborating with French styles and ideas.  In the overall café project, students created and sold a variety of French-inspired cuisines, ranging from macaroons, crepes, croque-monsieur, chocolate fondue, and baguettes with cheese.  Not only did this cooking project teach them about French food and culture, but it also helped them appreciate money management and hone their organizational skills.

“It was a very fun project for everyone and a very good fundraiser as well,” says Dr. Laje Gashi, veteran French instructor at High Tech.  “As a whole, the sophomore French class was able to raise about $600 and they will take this money to go to an actual French café.”

Structured Learning Experiences

Structured Learning Experiences – Hudson County Community College Tour -

County Prep students visited Hudson County Community College on Tuesday, October 21, 2014.  The students met with an admissions representative to discuss the various programs offered at the institution and the overall college application process. The visit included a tour of the offices, library, and classrooms.  The students were exposed to a two-year college as a potential post-secondary option.

Structured Learning Experience – Bergen County Community College Tour -

County Prep students visited Bergen County Community College on Tuesday, November 11, 2014.  The students met with an admissions representative to discuss the various programs offered at the institution and the overall college application process. The visit included a tour of the culinary arts facilities, medical sciences laboratory, library, tutoring services, and classrooms.  The students were exposed to a two-year college as a potential post-secondary option.

Job Shadowing – Clip Shoppe

 Job Shadowing – Clip Shoppe

County Prep students Sherry, Joshua, and Cindy visited the Clip Shoppe on Thursday, October 23, 2014 to explore possible career pathways as a dog groomer.  The students met with an Admissions Representative to discuss program requirements and toured the facilities. The Clip Shoppe offers a state-approved 420 hour Professional Dog Groomer Certificate.  Students in the program learn essential elements to become a finished groomer and quickly begin a paid career working within a grooming shop or a grooming facility environment.  The students shadowed all facets of the dog grooming process and participated in “hands-on” activities.    All in all, it was a very valuable structured learning experience that complemented classroom learning.

Structured Learning Experience – Georgian Court University

Structured Learning Experience – Georgian Court University

County Prep students visited Georgian Court University on Tuesday, October 28, 2014.  The students met with an admissions representative to discuss the various programs offered at the institution and the overall college application process. The visit included a tour of the residential housing units, library, and classrooms.  The tour concluded with a complimentary luncheon hosted in the dining room.  Narendra Gajraj, Giselle Lopez, Anji Masoud, Josette Ortega, Gianni Ortega, Brianna Pitchford, Kayla Roman, Alexandra Suarez were exposed to the college as a potential post-secondary choice.

County Prep Students: Structured Learning Experience – Centenary College

Structured Learning Experience – Centenary College

Six County Prep students visited Centenary College on Thursday, October 30, 2014.  William Bush, Narendra Gajraj, Gianni Ortega, Ashlee Reynolds, Alexandra Suarez, and Paola Veliz were exposed to the college as a potential post-secondary choice.  They met with an admissions representative to discuss the various programs offered at the institution and the overall college application process. The visit included a tour of the residential housing units, library, and classrooms.  

Cosmetology class comes to JDC

On Friday October 24th, seven cosmetology students from the adult school came to the Hudson County Juvenile Detention Center to provide manicures to staff and residents at the JDC. All who participated had a wonderful time being pampered by the students.

We would like to thank Ms. Mcfadden for assisting us in making this happen and we look forward to having the students come back in the future for more pampering.

The students are Kevaan Walton, Milagros DeJesus, Francia Dunbar, Yoweek Scott, Alejandro Beccera, Ana Benner, and Deneal Kelly.

Business Insider Lists High Tech High School as One of the Top 25 Public Schools in the Nation

(New York, NY—November 4, 2014) Business Insider, a business and technology news website launched in February 2009, ranked High Tech High School 21st and gave the school an A+ in its list of the 25 best public schools in America, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.

Please follow the link for the details on Business Insider.

Business Insider provides and analyzes business news and acts as an aggregator of top news stories from around the web. The site reported a profit for the first time ever in the 4th quarter of 2010. In June 2012, it received 5.4 million unique visitors.

Explore 2000: Opportunities To Visit Our School!

Collaborative Science Fair and Student Showcase

DECEMBER 15 & 17, 2014
JOIN ANY TIME BETWEEN 9:00 A.M-10:30 A.M

Explore 2000 is giving you the opportunity to visit our school. After each academic trimester, we hold a student showcase where we present all of the information learned during our field experiences and activities with our classroom advisors. Please join us if you’re interested in learning more about our experiences and for the chance to interact with our students. 

Download Flyer>>

Two High Tech Students’ Writings Featured in Book Entitled 'New Jersey Workers Then & Now'

(Haledon, NJ—November 3, 2014) The American Labor Museum/Botto House National Landmark has selected the writings of two High Tech students, Jersey City resident Mously Lo and Eleanore Woodruff of Weehawken, to be featured in the book, New Jersey Workers Then & Now: Celebrating New Jersey’s 350th Anniversary, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.

Targeting students third through twelfth grade, the American Labor Museum/Botto House National Landmark’s Writing Contest invited students to share their creative talents and unique ideas to commemorate the 350th anniversary of the Garden State. Students like Lo and Woodruff had to choose a contemporary New Jersey worker and compare his or her workplace experience to the same type of worker from days past. Projects appeared as original essays or poems for consideration in New Jersey Workers Then & Now: Celebrating New Jersey’s 350th Anniversary.

The American Labor Museum/Botto House National Landmark invited Lo and Woodruff, as well as their teachers, families, and friends, to the unveiling ceremony for the book at the Museum on October 17th, sponsored in part by the Passaic County Educational Association (PCEA).

High Tech Dance Majors to Participate in Taylor Teen Ensemble

(New York, NY—November 3, 2014) Three High Tech dance majors have been invited to participate in the Paul Taylor Teen Ensemble, which offers high school students a chance to learn a diverse repertory, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech.

Senior dance majors and Kearny residents Demaris Gonzalez and Kyla Gualtieri and junior dance major Raechelle Manalo, a resident of Secaucus, auditioned for the Paul Taylor Dance Company in May, with all three earning their invitations to participate in the Taylor Teen Ensemble.

Chosen by audition only, the Taylor Teen Ensemble expands a student’s experience with Paul Taylor’s movement style, while developing the student’s technical proficiency and artistry. Students in the Taylor Teen Ensemble must commit a year to the program, which includes classes in technique and rehearsals, culminating in performances within the tri-state area at public and private schools, as well as larger, popular venues such as Symphony Space, Peridance Capezio Center, and SUNY Purchase.

Classes, which began at the Taylor School in September, take place three days a week (Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), and continue throughout the spring.

As an added treat, Gonzalez, Gualtieri, and Manalo will perform in the 2015 University Partners Showcase at the Joyce Theater on Valentine’s Day. As part of the Martha Graham Dance Company’s 2015 Season, students from select national dance training programs will also perform there.

“The Taylor Teen Ensemble is a phenomenal opportunity for these girls,” says Trista DeFilippis, veteran dance instructor at High Tech. “Not only will this experience enhance Demaris, Kyla, and Raechelle’s versatility as dancers and performers, but it will be a terrific addition to their resumes, especially during the college application process.”

County Prep Dance Teacher Performs in Hoboken

County Prep Dance teacher Heather Warfel Sandler is one of 21 choreographers selected to present original work as part of the Fifth Annual Your Move Modern Dance Festival.  The festival seeks to highlight the modern dance scene in Jersey City and beyond.  Ms.Warfel Sandler will present a duet choreographed in collaboration with her husband, Ross Sandler.  Ms.Warfel Sandler says, "As an active member of the Jersey City arts community, I'm honored and excited to participate in this performance, alongside both experienced and up-and-coming choreographers.  I'm grateful to HCST for supporting and encouraging the continuation of my professional career as a dancer and choreographer.  It will be a special experience to discuss the performance and my creative process with my students, and for them to see that process come to fruition in a professional production." The festival is co-founded and produced by Meagan Woods, a graduate of the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers, and recently appointed dance consultant at County Prep.  "Heather's created a new piece set to Motown music that will highlight DeBaun's ornate curtain and proscenium stage," said Woods in an interview with nj.com. "She's a staple in the Jersey City dance community. We look forward to what her witty choreography will bring to the festival." See full article below.

Your Move Modern Dance Festival moves to Hoboken for fifth anniversary article from nj.com

NJ.com article photo

NJ.com article photo

NJ.com article photo

2013-2014 FCCLA National Leadership Conference

      County Prep students traveled to San Antonio, Texas this past July to participate in the 2013-2014 FCCLA National Leadership conference. "Power Up with FCCLA" served as the theme for this year's event. The representatives from County Prep High School achieved various awards.
     In the category of "Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation," Lissette Molina and Ahmed Sayedahmed won a Gold medal. In "Fashion Design," Natassha Rivera was awarded a Gold medal. Gold medals were also awarded to Hamiyyet Bilgi and Michael Tadros for "Entrepreneurship" and to Tanya Ponce for "Recycle and Redesign."  Students who earned Silver Medals include Aya Elamroussi for "Advocacy," Carmen Chen for "Recycle and Redesign," and Mia Malmad for "Career Investigation."
    FCCLA is a nonprofit national student leadership organization for young women and men in public and private schools through grade twelve.
     There are over 200,000 members in over 5,500 chapters. The chapters focus on many youth concerns and promote personal growth and development. For more information please visit www.fcclainc.org or www.njfccla.org

County Prep Interact Club Walkathon

The County Prep Interact Club, a high school chapter of the International Rotary Club, held a walkathon on Friday, September 26th at County Prep High School.  Over fifty students and several staff members participated. The event supported the Friends of Leonard Gordon Park (FoLGP), a Jersey City park (also known as Mosquito Park) located on Kennedy Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue.  Co-President Kayla Feathers was excited with the success of the club's first fundraiser: "The event turned out better than we had expected. I would like to thank everyone who participated. Without you, we would not be able to fulfill our goal." The Interact Club members will be working with the FoLGP on their next fundraiser, a pancake breakfast on November 22nd at Applebee’s. 

Jason Patel, Project Manager from NorthPoint Financial Services, Visits High Tech Business & Technology Club

High Tech's Business & Technology Club/Business Department recently hosted guest speaker Mr. Jason Patel, Project Manager from NorthPoint Financial Services, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.

NorthPoint Financial Services, based in New York City, offers a wide range of financial solutions in advisory and assessment, project planning and management, and software development outsourcing. The firm provides financial solutions investment management, hedge fund, credit fund, pension fund, endowment, and asset management. In short, NorthPoint provides clients with the most effective, industry-leading solutions and works closely with industry innovators and business partners.

As NorthPoint's representative, Mr. Patel offered business majors insight into the financial market of the 21st century. He discussed the factors at play in growing careers and opportunities in the business industry.

“The presentation was a great experience for students," said Business & Technology club moderator, Dr. Abbasi, "as it provided them a window into the workings of real businesses in the financial industry.”

Barry Cummings Receives Meritorious Service Award

On September 17, 2014, at the NJJDA Annual training conference, the Juvenile Justice Commission gave Barry Cummings a meritorious service award for his 35 years of service, teaching the youth of Hudson County.

High Tech Musical Theatre Students Set to Perform at Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2015

(Edinburgh, SCT—September 24, 2014) The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the famous and largest theatre festival in the world, has once again invited High Tech Musical Theatre to tour and perform in Auld Reekie, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.
As part of the organizational forum known as the American High School Theatre Festival (AHSTF), which recently celebrated its twentieth anniversary, High Tech Musical Theatre joins only nineteen other secondary schools in the entire United States being represented at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Students will spend a fortnight in Great Britain next August, partaking in special workshops at London’s famous Globe Theatre, sightseeing in beautiful Scotland, and, finally, the pièces de résistance, putting on four performances of their adaptation of Rent—which premieres at High Tech next spring—at Church Hill Theatre in Edinburgh.

Celebrating its fifteenth year, High Tech Musical Theatre, under the direction of Alex Perez and support from Musical Director Rod Shepard, has been widely recognized state-wide, nationally, and internationally. Since 2000, the program has earned forty-five nominations and thirteen Papermill Playhouse Awards, including honors for Best Overall Production, Best Director, Best Costumes, Best Makeup, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Featured Performers, and Best Educational Impact. Other accomplishments include an Off-Off-Broadway, six-week run of the 2003 production Oz, A Twisted Musical, representing the country at the Oberhavel Germany Arts Festival in 2001, and recognition by the Metro-North Cappies Awards, which honors excellence in New Jersey Theatre, with fifteen nominations and six wins in a span of two years.
High Tech Musical Theatre offers master classes instructed by industry professionals, such as Broadway’s Kerry Butler, Rob McClure, Kenita Miller, Colin Hanlon, and James Rado, and partnerships with Manhattan Theatre Club (MTC) and Papermill Playhouse. Many graduates continue in the arts and attend such prestigious institutions as Tisch School of the Arts, Carnegie Mellon, Stella Adler, Yale Drama, American Musical and Dramatic Academy, The Atlantic Theatre Company, and Rutgers Mason Gross School. Alumni have even appeared on Broadway, regional productions, national tours, and in films and television.
“Raising money is half the battle, the other half is staying committed to putting on a great production,” says Perez. “We’re up for the challenge, but we need support from our community to give these students the chance of a lifetime. It will forever be a moment in their lives that nothing else can replace.”
High Tech Musical Theatre needs to raise $130,000 to cover airline flights, room & board, rights, set & costume rentals, workshops, and travel needs. Please contribute at http://www.gofundme.com/elcavc.

Seven High Tech Students Qualify to Enter the 2015 National Merit® Scholarship Program

(Evanston, IL—September 23, 2014) High Tech High School seniors Tristan Ventura of Bayonne, Hoboken resident Gabriel Bond, Noah Dutton and Meichin Ong of Jersey City, Kearny resident SiTian Zhang, Karina Voronich of North Bergen, and Secaucus resident Luana Xu have met the qualifications for the National Merit® Scholarship Program this year, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech.
A Letter of Commendation from High Tech High School and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) will be presented by Dr. Giammarella to the seven outstanding scholars. NMSC has recognized approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the country, although they will not continue in the competition for National Merit® Scholarships in 2015. Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2015 competition by taking the PSAT/NMSQT® last year.
With a selection Index score of 203 or above, each student ranks among the 50,000 highest-scoring participants of those 1.5 million program entrants. Because they have demonstrated outstanding academic potential, they will be referred by the College Plans Reporting Service (CPRS) to two U.S. colleges or universities that interest them.
Of these 50,000 highest-scoring participants, about 16,000 will be recognized as National Merit Program semifinalists, representing the top scorers in each state, and approximately 34,000 other high scorers will be commended for their performances on the PSAT/NMSQT. Semifinalists will have the opportunity to continue in the competition for Merit Scholarship® awards.

High Tech Ping-Pong Club Donates New Table

(North Bergen, NJ—September 18, 2014) Merely two years after its inauguration, the High Tech High School Ping-Pong Club has donated a brand-new table to the school for club use, announced Dr. Joseph Giammarella, Principal of High Tech High School.
Since its inception, the Ping-Pong Club has hosted four school-wide and district-wide tournaments, with overwhelming student participation, to become one of High Tech High’s most popular extracurricular activities.
"The Ping-Pong Club has grown tremendously in the past two years,” observes Club Moderator Dr. Syed Abbasi. “Our students at High Tech have shown great enthusiasm and interest in the sport, and this club has huge potential to grow in the near future.”
The High Tech High School Ping-Pong Club's earnings, garnered from its unanimously successful tournaments, fully funded the new table.

Explore 2000 Middle School Student’s Film: An Official Selection of the 2014 Golden Door International Film Festival

(Jersey City, NJ – September 12, 2014) For Joseph Sexton, Explore 2000 Middle School Third Year Student, film-making is his utmost passion. Most weekends, you’ll likely find this talented 13-year-old with his camera, working on a cinematic project.

At age 8, his parents got him a Flip camera, and he was hooked. “He was a natural, taking to it like a fish to water, producing some amazing stuff even back then,” explains his mom. “Course, back then, he didn’t know how to edit, so he’d shoot 10 minute long scenes that were never-ending.”

Fast forward a few years, and Joseph’s s latest film, The Colors of Timothy has been named an Official Selection of the 2014 Golden Door International Film Festival! This film was originally created for and viewed during the Explore 2000 2014 Spring Celebration: Colors. Joseph wrote, directed, edited, and played the lead.

Joeseph’s film will be screened at the Grand Ballroom Theatre at the Westin Hotel at 1pm Saturday, Sept 20, 2014. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/855050. The 2014 Golden Door International Film Festival is run by the Sorvino family of actors and this year sponsored by Tommy Hilfiger. 

The Explore 2000 family wishes to congratulate, Joseph- we are so proud of your cinematographic gift!

Read the article on Explore 2000's website >>