Two County Prep 2009 Graduates Display Artwork at NJCU End of Year Show

Christopher Mineses and Daniel Jones, 2009 graduates of County Prep High School, recently displayed their artwork during their BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) end of year show at New Jersey City University. The show ran from Monday, April 7 – Thursday, April 10 in the NJCU Visual Arts Building. The event began with a reception on Monday evening.

“Instant Gratification,” the title of Christopher Mineses’ show is a reflection of his personal philosophy, both in his life and in his art. Chris’ passion for achieving a sense of balance and gratification is expressed through his love of visual art and music.



He states that the misconception of Hip-Hop culture is what inspires him to disprove the negative stereotypes associated with the genre, and to relate how this music has impacted events on his journey to adulthood. His goal was to create a visual timeline of his life in order to leave the viewer with a better understanding of who he is.

Hope and Love are themes that are easily identifiable in Daniel Jones’ artwork. His talent of combining text and imagery proves that words, though small in size, are powerful. It is his belief that words convey deep, powerful messages that can inspire, teach, and remind us that we are loved. He wants the viewer to understand these messages and apply them to their own lives. Daniel’s hope is that his choice of verses will comfort, inspire and give hope to his audience.

Principal Barbara Mendolla congratulations Chris and Daniel and wishes them continued success.

Grant Funds 21st Century Skills for 20th Century Restoration Project

April 2, 2014 (North Bergen, NJ) – An historic 1969 Volkswagen Beetle convertible will have a chance at a new life thanks to a grant awarded to Mr. Sergio Gamarra’s Automotive Technology class at High Tech High School, announced Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Director of the HCST Foundation.


The Beetle, affectionately known as Karmen to Gamarra and his students, was originally donated by the HCST Foundation during the 2012-2013 school year. The vehicle, to date, has been used for a variety of basic automotive learning experiences. Now, the time has come to give Karmen her due respect and get this classic back on the road.

To achieve this, students in Mr. Gamrra’s class submitted an in-depth proposal outlining their goals for the project. The project utilizes 21st Century skills—such as creativity, decision-making, critical thinking, and collaboration—to bring a 20th Century relic back to life.

“By combining project-based learning with a long-term project,” Gamarra explains, “students will develop various 21st Century skills and earn the pride that comes with the final product.”

Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Director of the HCST Foundation, says, “Under Mr. Gamarra’s tutelage, the Auto Tech program at HCST has come to represent the crux of academic and vocational learning, and we are eager to see this program develop.”

Mr. Gamarra and his students expect to have Karmen on the road by June 10, 2014.

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