Foundation’s Board of Trustees Reorganizes and Re-energizes for 2017

January 19, 2017 (North Bergen, N.J.) – The HCST Foundation’s Trustee Board meeting ushered in some significant changes to the Foundation’s membership, including the appointment of new Vice President, two Board Trustees and a new Development Coordinator, announced Daniel Gans, President of the HCST Foundation. 

The Trustee meeting, which took place at Explore2000 Middle School in Jersey City, NJ, discussed the state of the Foundation and a review of the progress of the organization’s efforts in 2016. Most significantly, the existing Board unanimously confirmed several additional appointments to the Foundation including two new Board Trustees, Linda J. Quentzel and Joseph M. Muniz; Development Coordinator, Silverio A. Vega; new Vice President Laurent Lisimachio; and Advisory Board Chairperson, Amy Lin-Rodriguez. 

Ms. Quentzel, the former Executive Director of the HCST Foundation, has lent over thirty years to the Hudson County Schools of Technology. One of the co-founders of the HCST Foundation in 2009, Ms. Quentzel’s appointment as Board Trustee comes as she retired down from her role as Executive Director on January 1, 2017.

Mr. Muniz, the current Board Secretary for the Hudson County Schools of Technology, has dedicated his career to public service in Hudson County. In 2015, Mr. Muniz was recognized for his work as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Hudson Community Action Corporation, an organization that provides federally qualified healthcare to the North Hudson area.

Mr. Vega’s role as Development Coordinator will aid the Foundation during Ms. Quentzel’s outgoing transition. Mr. Vega brings over thirty years of public service in New Jersey as Mayor of the Town of West New York, Hudson County Freeholder and New Jersey State Assemblyman. 

Mr. Lisimachio, a Principal at the global architecture and design firm Gensler, has served previously as Board Trustee to the Foundation. In 2013, Mr. Lisimachio was the Gala Honoree for his work with the Hudson County Schools of Technology. 

Ms. Lin-Rodriguez, principal of Explore2000, oversees the district’s Middle School, a school notable for its academically-integrated curriculum, has proven a deep commitment to quality education throughout her tenure in the district.

Foundation President Daniel Gans says of these recent appointments, “These are powerful additions to our Board and to the Foundation as a whole. Each of these appointments reflects optimism for the future of this organization, and their success will be critical as we move forward in pursuit of our mission. I congratulate them all, and look forward to working alongside them.”

HCST Superintendent Frank J. Gargiulo adds, “The Foundation continually attracts quality voices from all over our community. These voices and experiences are vital to the success of our students, our schools and Hudson County as a whole. I’m glad to see that the Foundation continues to find highly successful individuals to support our schools and programs.”

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County Prep High School Alum, Jersey City Native Sets Record at Paralympic Olympics

JERSEY CITY, NJ -- A Hudson County Schools of Technology (HCST) County Prep High School Class of 2012 alum and Jersey City native, Raymond Martin, won a gold medal and set a new record during the 1500m T52 race in the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

 “It's such a pleasure to see this young man represent Hudson County and the Hudson County Schools of Technology in such a positive manner on the world stage,” said Hudson County Executive Thomas DeGise. “We are all very proud of him.”

 Martin set the Paralympic Record in the 1500m race with a time of 3:40:63. He also competed in the 400m race taking the top medal of gold, and winning the silver medal in the 100m race.

 “Raymond is a really special person,” said HCST Superintendent of Schools Frank J. Gargiulo. “He serves as an inspiration to our current students and alumni at the Hudson County Schools of Technology, demonstrating that hard work and dedication truly do pay off.”

 He previously competed in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, winning Gold in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races. Raymond holds the World Record in the T52 classification in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m and 5000m races. He is also the first man to win five individual word titles at a single International Paralympics Committee (IPC) competition.

 “There was no doubt in our minds that Raymond was going to succeed and make a difference,” said County Prep High School Principal Barbara Mendolla. “We at County Prep High School are all very proud of him; he has always been disciplined and ambitious, even as a student.”
 The HCST Foundation originally awarded Martin a scholarship so he could attend the trials for the 2012 London Paralympics.

 “The records and accomplishments that Raymond has achieved is no surprise to the HCST family,” said HCST Foundation Executive Director Linda J. Quentzel. “We always believed in his abilities and determination, and knew we were making a wise investment in our student in helping him get to the 2012 Paralympics.”

 Martin is entering his senior year at the University of Illinois, majoring in Kinesiology and pursuing a career as a Physician’s Assistant.

 “I have been working with the Special Olympics for over 30 years, and am elated over Raymond’s accomplishments,” said HCST Board President Craig Guy. “He is one of our many students and alumni that are change makers in the world, and we are proud to have played a small part in preparing them for their careers.”

County Prep Students Visit GOYA

On Friday, May 20, 2016, over 20 County Prep students participated in a structured learning experience at GOYA's facilities in both Secaucus and Jersey City.  Students toured the production facility to see first-hand how products are manufactured, packaged, and stored.  They were also exposed to the importance of an efficient and reliable supply chain of materials in order to maximize profits and optimize customer satisfaction.  At the conclusion of this tour, students visited GOYA's state-of-the-art Corporate Headquarters in Jersey City where they met with executives who shared their personal professional experiences at GOYA.  Students had the opportunity to speak informally with employees during a luncheon sponsored by GOYA  A special thank-you is extended to GOYA for organizing a Job Shadow Day for our students.

Chilltown Collective x County Prep Collaboration

Chilltown Collective x County Prep Collaboration

By Laura Lindo

Students look forward to creating memories, finding what they would like to pursue, and experiencing new things throughout their four years in high school. With different events held to foster their unique talents, meeting and making new friends, they are exposed to numerous life-changing situations. This 2015-2016 school year, County Prep High School students chose to take a different route in hopes of making their four-year adventure even more engaging. Collaboration with an exclusive brand holding a unique purpose, Chilltown Collective exposes teenagers to new opportunities and teaches them real life skills. Working in collaboration with County Prep, students open their minds to new possibilities. From using what they already know to learning new things, this partnership would grant them the opportunity to challenge themselves with different tasks.

Throughout the 2015-2016 school year, the Chilltown Collective team has collaborated with Student Council, advised by Ms. Torres, Mr. J. Carey and Mr. T. Carey, on the jersey design and production of their annual Volleyball Tournament. Back in October, the affiliation with County Prep started when Chilltown Collective contributed to the annual Casino Night fundraiser to help raise money for the HCAVTEA scholarship fund. The Chilltown Collective brand will bring more to future events. Some of these events entail the annual basketball tournament; school-wide spirit week; and a partnership with a fashion brand and local influencer. As students learn about what this brand means, they may feel a sense of belonging. County Prep High School and Chilltown strive to provide a home to all students and remind them to “Know Your Roots.”

Lovelisa’s Statement:

As an alumnus, I strongly believe that a lot of my accomplishments and vast skillset comes from the foundation at County Prep High School. The education, guidance, and support from the teachers, coaches and fellow students at County Prep contributed to strengthening my ability to progress as an individual and helped pave the way to where I am today. I have a deep appreciation for the school and the opportunities it has cultivated. Being in a team setting in both the basketball and volleyball teams holds a memorable time in my life which I cherish to this day. My four years at County Prep High School helped me push my limits. As mentioned in an article by EIGHTY MAG* Issue 3 in 2015, “being part of a team made me more personable, more of a leader” she explains. “Having girls to work with on and off the court, I learned how to build relationships.” It’s important to “Know Your Roots”, because essentially, you don’t know where you’re going unless you know where you came from. This is why I dedicate my time to the students at County Prep, so I could inspire to step out of their comfort zone, open their minds, shoot for the stars, and do what they love. As a collective, we “Do It For The Kids.”

* Founded by CP alumni Chadner Navarro + partner, Marinell Morales

HCST Foundation Gala Inspires Giving from Local Big Brothers Big Sisters Leader

December 17, 2015 (North Bergen, N.J.) – Carlos Lejnieks, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson and Union Counties, gifted HCST students with fifty pairs of Panasonic Sound Rush headsets, announced Linda J. Quentzel, Executive
Director of the HCST Foundation.

Mr. Lejnieks attended the annual HCST Foundation Gala this November where he was introduced to the passion and talent of the district’s students. In the spirit of giving, he was moved to pass along this donation to our students on behalf of his organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters.

The headphones, which are valued at over $50 each, were distributed by population to HCST schools County Prep High School, High Tech High School, Explore 2000 Middle School and KAS Prep High School.

Daniel Gans, President of the HCST Foundation, was grateful of Mr. Lejnieks’ donation: “Our mission at the Foundation is ostensibly one of giving back, and this [donation] allows us to execute that part of our vision more directly.”

Frank J. Gargiulo, HCST district Superintendent said, “We are very appreciative of this gesture from the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. Our students come from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and these headphones might make someone’s holiday. I’m sure the students will be appreciative, too.”

HCST Foundation Executive Director Linda J. Quentzel adds, “Mr. Lejnieks’ donation was a big-hearted and timely endeavor. We appreciate his support, and are proud that his organization would find our institution and our mission so motivating.”

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HCSTF Supports STEM Family Night Activities at Explore 2000 Middle School

October 16, 2015 (North Bergen, N.J.) –The HCST Foundation provided grant money to support Explore 2000 Middle School—a STEM Education school that is part of the HCST Foundation and located in Downtown Jersey City—as they invited students and parents into their facility for an evening of engagement, announced Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Director of the HCST Foundation.

The Family Connection Event, which included resources and leadership from STEM Education, LLC, engaged participants in three distinctive activities: Building a Hovercraft; Racecar Competitions; and Puffmobile Races. According to Explore 2000 Principal Amy Lin-Rodriguez, the evening “Served as enrichment for students, parents, and even as professional development for our facilitators.”

Mrs. Lin-Rodriguez continues, “Our hope [for this event] is to create after-school programs, and eventually offer a summer camp for STEM Education.”

HCST Superintendent Frank J. Gargiulo elaborated on the importance of the STEM movement at the Middle School level. “Trends come and go, but the heart of STEM is problem-solving. No matter what technologies become available in the future, every industry needs problem-solvers, and this evening helped get these students closer to that skillset.”

Daniel Gans, President of the HCST Foundation, adds, “This kind of family-style even not only helps the students, it brings the classroom to the community and allows parents a glimpse into—not just the products of learning, but the learning process at work for our youngest students. The Foundation is proud to help bring these new approaches to learning into the community.”

Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Director of the HCST Foundation, says, “The Back to School Family Night was an opportunity for us to continue our efforts at incorporating the community, whether that means bringing in parents or experts or alumni—or all three—we’re happy to support any endeavor of this kind.”

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Board Trustee Supports Overseas Training for Vocational Educators

October 15, 2015 (North Bergen, N.J.) – Andrew Campbell, HCSTF Board Trustee, financially supported the efforts of two High Tech High School vocational teachers, Gregory Simon and Zachary Bolich, in their efforts to be among the first Americans to receive a Level 1 Siemens Certification in Mechanical and Manufacturing Systems, announced HCST Foundation Executive Director, Linda J. Quentzel.

Mr. Simon and Mr. Bolich, who teach Architecture and Wood Technology, respectively, in the Digital Design & Fabrication Academy (D|FAB) at High Tech High School, began their training on October 5, 2015, in Berlin, Germany. According to Siemens, the training “is an academic, comprehensive industry skill program delivered through partner schools around the world via the train-the-trainer model.” Mr. Simon and Mr. Bolich’s training will focus primarily on the manufacturing processes and efficient operating procedures of preconfigured Computer Numerical Control devices. Frequently known as CNC devices, these machines convert computer-aided design software into numbers to control the cutting and shaping of materials.

High Tech High School Assistant Principal, Allyson Krone, says of the endeavor, “The Siemens training is rigorous but essential to keeping our manufacturing and design students at the forefront of workplace technology. I am exceedingly grateful for Mr. Campbell’s progressive approach to industrial technology and his continued support of our program.” Frank J. Gargiulo, HCST Superintendent, says the opportunity for teachers is vital to the district. “Vocational teachers have the distinct advantage of historical and practical knowledge. But as technologies change, so goes the industry. It is an imperative for this—or any—vocational district to ensure their instructors are given access to train with and experience the latest technologies in their fields.”

HCST Foundation President, Daniel Gans, adds, “The community at large benefits from good teachers who know the latest trends and technologies in their fields. If we are going to support a vocational model, we must support our educators beyond the classroom.” Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Director of the HCST Foundation expressed her gratitude for Board Trustee Campbell’s efforts. “Andrew has once again demonstrated his commitment to this district— the students, teachers, and community at large—by providing the necessary financial support for HCST to remain at the forefront of industrial developments in technology.”

Andrew Campbell is the CEO of Eastern Millwork, Inc., and is the industry leader of the Force21 program, a coalition of industry partners and High Tech High School whose goal is to deliver industry-focused, 21st-century talent across educational levels from high school to university to the workforce.

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Annual Golf Outing Raises Record Funds

July 20, 2015 (North Bergen, N.J.) – The HCST Foundation's annual golf outing has raised over $56,000 to aid educational and enrichment programs at the Hudson County Schools of Technology, setting a new benchmark for the event's fundraising efforts, announced Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Director of the HCST Foundation.

The Golf Outing began with an 8:00 am shotgun start at the Preakness Valley Golf Course in Wayne, and was followed by a luncheon at The Barnyard and Carriage House in Totowa, NJ. The luncheon offered golfers and guests alike the opportunity to participate in a variety of raffles and contests to win prizes which were donated by members of the local business and education communities.

This year's fundraising efforts topped the previous best--last year's $34,000--by $12,000.



The Superintendent of Hudson County Schools of Technology, Frank Gargiulo, expressed his gratitude to the Foundation and the attending community: "

For an end-of-year event, the Golf Outing reminds the students, teachers, and parents, that the community is ready and willing to support our schools year-round. To see an increase in funding here is a real gift."

HCST Foundation President Daniel Gans said of the event: "It is wonderful to see the Golf Outing gain in popularity and become an even more integral part of our fundraising efforts. The extra funds raised are going to make a significant difference in the educational experience of our students while improving the capabilities of our educators."

Executive Director of the HCST Foundation, Linda J. Quentzel, adds: "The success of this year's Golf Outing is boon to our general efforts. While this has never been a small endeavor, its growth reflects the community's desire to continually improve the district.


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Generational Icon and Hip-Hop Artist Kendrick Lamar Visits High Tech High School

June 11, 2015 (North Bergen, N.J.) – Grammy Award-winning hip-hop artist and cultural icon Kendrick Lamar paid a visit to High Tech High School this Monday to meet with students who studied his critically-acclaimed album with their English teacher Brian Mooney, announced Linda J. Quentzel, Executive Director of the Hudson County Schools of Technology Foundation.

The visit came after a blog post by Mr. Mooney went viral and caught the attention of Kendrick Lamar, who is originally from Compton, California. Mr. Lamar’s management contacted Mr. Mooney to show their gratitude and they agreed to visit the school, free of charge, in early June. The HCST Foundation agreed to finance the supporting materials necessary for such an undertaking, the likes of which have never been seen at High Tech High School.

Mr. Lamar’s visit commenced with an intimate meeting in Mr. Mooney’s classroom with his World Literature, Hip-Hop Literature, and Slam Poetry Club students. These students shared their work with the artist, who discussed the impact of their work on his work before joining the students in a cypher—rapping and sharing poems in a small group.

The visit continued in the school’s Field House, where Mr. Lamar joined Dr. Chris Emdin of Teacher’s College, Columbia University, Dr. Jamila Lyiscott, also of Columbia University, as well as HTHS Assistant Principal Allyson Krone and HTHS alum and hip-hop artist Greg Aram, to participate in a panel discussion of student work.

During the panel discussion, HTHS seniors Sade Ford and Ben Vock, both of Jersey City, shared poetry that was created in response to Lamar’s album, To Pimp a Butterfly. The panel—which also included Mr. Mooney—then commented on the artistic, personal, and political concepts contained in the student work.

In addition to the panel discussion, the event featured performances from current HTHS junior Michael Salazar and the aforementioned alum Greg Aram. The HTHS Dance Majors also performed an original piece they choreographed just for Mr. Lamar.

The event concluded with Lamar performing the song, “Alright,” and telling the crowd, “It’s truly a blessing to be in front of you all…I will be back.”

The unit of study which led to such a powerful culminating event initially began with students studying The Bluest Eye, a novel by Toni Morrison which deals with many of the same issues that Mr. Lamar discusses in his Grammy-winning album. Of the decision to include Lamar’s work alongside Morrison’s. Mr. Mooney said, ““Kendrick’s lyrics allowed students a deeper, more meaningful interaction with Morrison’s novel.” ... ... “We could not have made this happen without the continued support of the HCST Foundation,” Mooney added, “Their understanding of the need for innovative education has made a permanent mark on the students present today.” Allyson Krone, Assistant Principal at High Tech, expressed gratitude for Mr. Mooney and Mr. Lamar’s work.

“Kendrick’s album touches on themes that are not just political, but also personal. Mr. Mooney created a space where students can discuss things like depression and oppression side-by-side. As an administrator, I’m lucky to have such a brave and dedicated educator on my staff. As a music fan and educator, I’m grateful that an artist like Kendrick Lamar was willing to come into such an intimate learning space and share his ideas.”

HCST Foundation President Daniel Gans said of the event: “The HCST Foundation is honored to have been a part of such an event. Mr. Mooney continues to innovate in his classroom and we exist to support that level of innovation. This event was unlike anything in High Tech’s history, and we are excited about what may come next.”

HCST Superintendent Frank Gargiulo added, “We welcome Kendrick Lamar’s visit because it allows us to showcase the progressive and culturally relevant work that our teachers and students engage in all year.”

Linda J. Quentzel, HCST Foundation Executive Director, added, “Brian Mooney continually strives to make education meaningful, and in this case he really hit the mark. We are always happy to support such powerful classroom work that can unite the community and capture the enthusiasm of the whole student body. ”

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County Prep Senior Earns Goya Foods Culinary Arts Scholarship

May 29, 2015 (North Bergen, N.J.) – County Prep High School senior Karina Diaz has been awarded a Goya Foods Culinary Arts Scholarship, amounting to $20,000 towards her education over the next four years, announced Linda J. Quentzel, HCST Foundation Executive Director.

The Goya Foods Culinary Arts Scholarship Program is offered to students who plan to study culinary arts or food sciences as full-time college freshmen. Students are selected based on a variety of considerations, including leadership and academic performance. Applicants must also complete an essay that explains how “Goya has enriched [their] family traditions.”

Diaz, who plans to attend the Culinary Arts Institute at Hudson County Community College in September, was recognized for her outstanding academic work. She earned a 4.3 grade point average throughout her tenure at County Prep.

Culinary Arts instructor Chef Kevin Collins says of Diaz’s recognition, “We are very proud of her accomplishment.”

Barbara Mendolla, Principal of County Prep High School, adds, “Karina Diaz demonstrates creativity, talent and extraordinary achievement.”

HCSTF President Daniel Gans congratulated young Ms. Diaz: “This is a highly selective scholarship, and we are glad to see an HCST student earn such an award from such a respected HCST Foundation partner. This is truly the mission being accomplished.”

Frank Gargiulo, HCST Superintendent added, “Our culinary programs have been very successful, and I applaud Karina’s hard work as well as her instructors’ dedication.”

HCST Foundation Executive Director Linda J. Quentzel said, “Goya Foods is a valued member of our business community, and their recognition of Karina’s hard work is precisely the kind of connection we aim to make with the HCST Foundation.”

Goya Foods is represented on the HCST Foundation Advisory Board by Mr. Rafael Toro.

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Teeing Off to Our New Schools

May 5, 2015

 Dear Supporter,

There has never been a more exciting time here at the Hudson County Schools of Technology. We are undergoing several major renovations and capital improvements that will change the learning environments for our students. From our brand new 330,000 sq ft state-­‐of-­‐the-­‐art High Tech High School facility in Secaucus to the expansion of County Prep in Jersey City, getting involved in the Hudson County Schools of Technology Foundation has never been more important or critical. 

In order to help these students be successful, the HCST Foundation was established to promote quality and innovative education for the community by empowering the district through financial support and community involvement. Since its inception, the Foundation has raised over $700,000 to support programs and field experiences thanks to your help.

We hope we can continue to count on your support for this wonderful organization that has helped so many students achieve.

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