CRIMSON KNIGHTS FOUNDATION GALA - Wall Township Public ...
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Wall Township Public Schools January 2019
“Empowering and educating confident individuals to achieve their unique potential.”
CRIMSON KNIGHTS FOUNDATION GALA
The Crimson Knights Foundation held its first annual Gala Awards Dinner on November
14, 2018 at the Spring Lake Manor. Honorees were chosen from three categories: Distin-
guished Alumni, Excellence in Community Leadership, and Meritorious Board of Educa-
tion Employee. The recipients were: Marisa Brahney, Anchor for News 12 New Jersey,
Christopher J. Gramiccioni, Monmouth County Prosecutor, and Leslie S. Hol-
lander, Chairperson of the Fine Arts and Music Department at Wall High
School. Emcees for the evening were Lou Russo and Liz Jeressi from 94.3 The
Point radio. The Crimson Knights Foundation (CKF) is a 501c3 non-profit
foundation that was founded in 2016. They are focused on our students and
providing assistance to the district in areas of need within our schools. Their
goal is to help purchase essentials for the Arts, Music, and Athletics that the
school board and taxpayers of Wall Township have difficulty fitting into the
annual budget. Last year, they raised money through the Annual Town Pep
Rally and through corporate sponsorships. They were able to donate $12,000
toward a new sound system at the football stadium, $1,000 for practice T-
shirts for the WHS marching band, and this year they are raising funds to assist
with upgrades to the Eva Applegate Auditorium at WHS.
Marisa Brahney is a member of the Wall Class of 2000 and an Emmy-award
winning weekday anchor at News 12 New Jersey. She is also a graduate of Loy-
ola University in Maryland. “During her time at News 12 New Jersey, Ms. Brah-
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
ney has covered many of the state’s major stories including the Bridgegate scandal, the
CKF Gala (continued) ..............2
deadly 2016 Hoboken train crash, the 2015 Edgewater apartment fire and Pope Francis’
2019-2020 Calendar ................2
visit to the tristate area. She also co-produced and anchored an in-depth documentary
Reading Workshop ..................3
special called Choices & Chances: New Jersey’s Heroin Epidemic, for which she won a
What our students say ............3
2015 New York Emmy Award” (published bio in the Gala Program). Ms. Brahney com-
In Memory of Eva Applegate ...4
mented at the Gala, “Everything you do outside of the classroom is so important; so, I
WHS NHS Inductions ............4
love what the Foundation is doing for that!”
Staff Members of the Year ......5
The Excellence in Community Leadership Award was presented to Wall Township resi-
Staff Members (continued) .....6
dent and Monmouth County Prosecutor, Christopher J. Gramiccioni. Mr. Gramiccioni
More than Academics ..............7
earned his Bachelor of Science degrees in Economics and Geography from Towson and a
Guide to Problem Solving ........8
Juris Doctor degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law. “Mr. Gramiccioni
BOE Reorganization 2019 .......8
has spent a career in public service, is a recognized expert in criminal law and procedure,
evidence and trial advocacy, and has successfully tried to verdict more than 50 contested
jury trials. He is a member of the New Jersey, New York, Maryland, and District of Co-
lumbia bars and a trustee of the 200 Club of Monmouth County and the Monmouth
County Human Relations Committee.” (published bio in the Gala Program). According to
Mr. Gramiccioni, “I am the proud father of three children, all of whom are enrolled in
(Continued on page 2)
1(Continued from page 1)
Wall Township school system. It is a true blessing to live in a great place like Wall Township.”
The Foundation also honored Mr. Leslie S. Hollander in recognition of his forty-nine years of service as the Director of Instrumental
Music at Wall High School. He also served as the Band Director and Lecturer in Music and Music Education at Monmouth College from
1979-1992. He holds a B.A. and M.A. in Music Education from Jersey City Stage College and continued his post-graduate studies at
Teacher’s College of Columbia University. Mr. Hollander previously served on the New Jersey Music Educator’s Association State Board
of Directors Executive Committee. He served as President of the Central Jersey Music Educators Association, the Monmouth Symphony
Orchestra, the Region II International Association of Jazz Educators, and the All Shore Band Directors Association. He was Conductor
of the Central Jersey Region II Symphonic Band and the Garden State Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. His orchestras and bands have
performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kimmel Center and Lincoln Center. Under his direction, the Wall High School Bands have a long tradi-
tion of individual musical achievement and have won countless awards at national music festivals (published bio in the Gala Program).
. In his speech at the Gala, Mr. Hollander commented on the importance of “guiding our students in a direction that they will remember
for the rest of their lives.” Given the turnout of alumni that evening, it is clear that Mr. Hollander’s guidance has been far reaching.
Following the Gala, the Crimson Knights Foundation, presented the Board
of Education with a donation of $20,000 at the December 18, 2018 meet-
ing of the BOE. $17,000 of the donation is to be used for upgrades to the
Eva Applegate Theater at Wall High School and $3,000 was donated in
increments of $500 to each of the other six schools in the district: Wall
Primary, Allenwood, Central, Old Mill, West Belmar, and Wall Intermedi-
ate School for “Principal Choice” enhancements at the schools. Each prin-
cipal will decide on a priority project for his/her building. Pictured here
from left to right are Mr. Mike Parnell (Secretary), Ms. Roseann Tsandiotis
(President), Mr. Gary Pollack (Committee Chair), Mrs. Gina Newman
(Treasurer), and Mrs. Cheryl Dyer, (Superintendent of Schools). Unfortu-
nately, Mrs. Eva Applegate (Trustee), Mrs. Laurie Chiodo (Trustee) and
Mr. Adam Hayek (Committee Chair) were not able to attend the presentation of the donation.
The Crimson Knights Foundation encourages community members, parents, and businesses to join them in their philanthropic endeav-
ors. Please feel free to contact them at CKFWAll@gmail.com.
2019-2020 SCHOOL CALENDAR
The recommended school calendar for 2019-2020 is available on the The fact that Christmas is on a Wednesday affects the end date of the
website. Several variables influence the development of the calendar year. It would be unrealistic to have a day of school on Monday, De-
and impact the start and end dates of each school year. Contractual- cember 23rd and then begin Winter Break on a Tuesday. The Spring
ly, we must schedule three in-service days for teachers and 183 in- Break is scheduled for the week that includes Passover and Good
structional days. The three extra instructional days allow us to cancel Friday. It also includes the Monday after Easter.
school three times for emergencies or inclement weather without
Consideration was also given to a long weekend in February for Pres-
adding days at the end of the school year. In New Jersey, we are
ident's Day and including the Friday of Memorial Day weekend as a
required to have 180 days of instruction.
scheduled school closing. Historically, having this as a scheduled
For 2019-2020, we are not able to schedule teacher in-service days closing has proven beneficial when there is a really bad winter. It
before Labor Day because September 1st is a Sunday and the teach- allows the district to 're-claim' it as an instructional day if needed
ers’ contract does not begin until September 1st. Two of the in- without affecting the Spring Break.
service days are planned for September 3rd and 4th. The third in-
The Board of Education is scheduled to take action to approve the
service day is scheduled for October 9th, which is also Yom Kippur.
calendar at the January 22nd meeting.
2READING WORKSHOP
Last year Wall Township School District completed an
Mini Lesson Independent and Shared Learning
English Language Arts (ELA) program evaluation for
Small Groups
grades K-12. Part of that evaluation was an in-depth look (10-15 minutes) (10 minutes)
(30-40 minutes)
at evidence-based best practices in instructional strategies
and programs that support high levels of literacy. As a
result, stakeholders involved in the year- long evaluation
Read Aloud Independent Reading Sharing Projects
selected the reading workshop literacy model. Pilot teach- Think Aloud Collaboration Author’s Chair
ers in grade K, 1, and 2 are currently receiving profession-
Shared Reading Discussions Status Check
al development and implementing this model in their
classrooms. The program will be adopted for all K-2 class- Modeled Reading Guided Reading Review
rooms in 2019-2020, while simultaneously being piloted
Review Conferences Assessment
in grades 3, 4, 5. The district will have full implementation
in the 2020-2021 school year. All elementary teachers
Assessment Strategy Groups
will be attending extensive professional learning for the Assessment
next two years to support effective instructional practices
and assessment methods. Additionally, pilot workshop classrooms have been established in grades 6-12.
Once implemented, reading workshop can quickly become students' favorite part of the day. The feedback we have heard from students is very encour-
aging. Teachers report that students in the workshop classrooms are eager to read self-selected books, utilizing the strategies taught in the program.
Since the format gives students tools for selecting and comprehending literature, students who were once reluctant readers now find themselves with
the skills needed to be successful readers. Over the course of the year, students read many books and are encouraged to explore different genres, au-
thors, and texts. The program emphasizes the interaction between readers and text. Students learn to ask questions, make connections with prior
knowledge and previously read texts, and ask questions to clarify faulty comprehension they recognize has occurred. The program includes peer confer-
ences and teacher conferences with students but emphasizes students' independence and allows them to become successful readers outside of the class-
room. See what our students say about reading in the box below! Students are identified by their initials and grade.
Article contributed by Mrs. C. Brenner, Elementary Supervisor
"The best thing is that we read books every day and focus on my book in a quiet place. I also like coming helped me understand it and practice good reading
that we have private and partner reading." (WR, K) together with other students to talk about our skills." (IW, 8)
books. I also really like the read aloud, too.” (SH, 6)
“I like using pointer finger power!” (MB, K) "The best part is definitely being able to pick my own
"I love the read aloud. It helps me practice reading books. I read more and even more difficult books,
“I like having my own reading baggie!” (LB, 1)
skills. I also really like flexible seating. I read better when I can pick them." (BW, 8)
“I like to figure out the words when I read. I try every when I feel comfortable." (JP, 7)
“I like reading because it inspires my creativity, and
time to get better at reading the words.” (SG, 2)
"I love book clubs. Being able to talk about the book takes me to new places.” (JZ. 9)
“I like trying the new stop and jots. It’s a challenge. I helps me understand it better, and I am also able to
"Reading, to me, allows me to have time to escape
like reading because it makes us smarter.” (JL, 2) see other people's perspectives." (AE, 7)
and imagine new worlds, my own way, in my own
“I like to read and relax. I can get comfy when I read. "We love when the teacher reads to us. It helps us head." (AT, 10)
Reading is calm. I can read anywhere.” (CW, 3) understand the book better, and helps us understand
“I enjoy reading because it allows visiting other
our own books better." (AK, 7)
“My favorite part about reading is the way the author worlds that are not my own. I like connecting to
tells the story helps you picture what is happening in “I like the independent reading portion. I can focus characters similar to me.” (HM, 11)
your mind, just like a movie.” (CB, 4) and read for longer times. I also like that the teachers
“I love to read because I can live inside of a fictional
are able to meet with us in small groups to help
"I like that I am able to be creative in my Reader's character's head for a while and see what that charac-
strengthen our reading skills." (SP, 7)
Notebook. I remember what I am reading about with ter sees.” (RK, 12)
the notes I take. For example, if I've read a book a "We like the read alouds because we like going to the
“I love to read because it transports me into another
month ago, I can look back to my notes and remem- carpet and listening to the teacher; it helps us under-
universe.” (MD, 12)
ber what I read about and use it towards what I am stand better." (EC, 7)
currently reading." (CS, 6)
"I liked that I was able to pick my own book, and that
“I like independently reading in class. It helps me I was able to discuss it with the teacher. That really
3IN MEMORY OF EVA APPLEGATE
The Wall Township Public Schools community was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Eva Applegate on December 23, 2018.
Mrs. Applegate was critically injured when she was struck by a car while crossing the street in Manasquan on October 4, 2018. She was
making a miraculous recovery, but complications arose that led to her death. She served on the Wall Board of Education for over twen-
ty-seven years. Prior to, and after, serving on the BOE, she volunteered her time with the music department. She was present at every
football game helped with the marching band and chaperoned many trips for the music department. Board President Robin Zawodni-
ak was quoted in an article in the Coast Star on December 26th, “To some, Eva was simply known as ‘the nice lady who made sure we
had our band uniforms and attended all of our performances.’ To me, she was a fierce advocate and champion of causes near and dear
to her, such as music, the arts, special education, Project Graduation, and the high school’s Navy Cadet Corps.” In recent years, Mrs.
Applegate was one of the founding members and trustees of the Crimson Knights Foundation. Her dedication to the district is embod-
ied in one of her final acts. From her room in the rehabilitation facility, she recorded the introduction for Mr. Leslie Hollander, a re-
cipient of the meritorious BOE member award at the first annual CKF Gala. Even in her recovery, she put the school district and the
Foundation ahead of her own needs. Other members of the community will step up and do the tasks that Eva did; including, but not
limited to, organizing volunteers for Project Graduation, serving meatballs to the judges at the Meatball Gala, and making sure that
the students have uniforms that fit them properly. Someone will probably sit in the seats that she occupied religiously at every concert
and play at the high school and intermediate school. But, no one will ever replace her.
Dr. Carly York, Supervisor of Music, is working with the music department to plan a concert in memory of Eva Applegate to be held in
the theater that is named after her at the high school. Please check the website for an announcement with details. Mrs. Applegate’s
family requested that any donations in her memory be made to the Crimson Knights Foundation toward upgrades to the Eva Apple-
gate Theater. Please contact Crimson Knights Foundation, PO Box 1502, Wall Township, NJ 07719 or email CKFWall@gmail.com.
The CKF is a 501c3 non-profit foundation.
WHS NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTIONS
“It all starts with a candle. A simple candle that signifies a tradi- Society advisor, dedi-
tion of honor, yet an ardent flame that passes along the pillars of cated to the mem-
leadership, character, scholarship, and service to a group of stu- bers.
dents with the passion to pursue them. For the National Honor
The members, walk-
Society officers, however, induction is more than just a candle;
ing carefully down
induction is months of preparation, of long days and sleepless
the aisles with solemn
nights. We worked tirelessly to put together a night that would be
faces alight, finally
memorable for not only the members and the inductees, but for
shared their flame
those watching that simple candle with its remarkable flame. And
with the inductees,
with hours of hard work and dedication, December 6, 2018, was
and passed the tradi-
decidedly memorable.
tion of honor. The sentiment was felt throughout the audience, as
The night began with the anxious chatter of the inductees and the new members held their right hands high to pledge to act
members, whose nerves only grew as their families arrived. With with integrity and utmost morality.
their straightened ties and pressed dresses, the aisles of the Eva
Induction was more than we hoped for. As the families and mem-
A. Applegate theater were filled with those ready to pass the torch
bers took pictures in the cafeteria, faces bright with smiles, we
of honor, and those ready to accept the responsibility. We, the
took a minute to think about all that we accomplished, and all
officers, after speaking on behalf of the four pillars, celebrated
that the National Honor Society stood for. And to think, it all
Samantha Murray, this year’s honorary member, and an excep-
started with a candle.”
tional role model and teacher to the students of Wall High
School. Holding flowers and wearing nostalgic smiles, we also The inductions were held on December 6, 2018.
4 celebrated the ten years that Amanda Glynn, the National Honor
Contributed by the NHS OfficersCONGRATULATIONS TO OUR OUTSTANDING STAFF!
Each school participated in the nomination and selection process for child grow more confident every day. She is a teacher leader, a child
the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program. This program highlights advocate and a trusted colleague. Wall Intermediate School Edu-
educational innovation, student achievement, the rewards of teaching, cational Services Professional of the Year: Tolerant, respectful,
and important services outside of the classroom that lead to student accepting, caring and kind. These are the qualities that we try to foster
success. The Teachers of the Year can continue through the process in all of our WIS students when we encourage them to be on TRACK.
and be considered for County Teacher of the Year. The County Teach- Maura Mulhern emulates and models these qualities daily. Because of
ers of the Year can continue through for consideration as NJ State her outstanding character, combined with her commitment to her
Teacher of the Year. students, she is the 2019 Wall Intermediate School Educational Ser-
vice Professional of the Year. Mrs. Mulhern has been a member of the
The winners of the TOY and ESP were announced on Monday, January
Child Study Team at Wall Intermediate School for 4 years, serving as
7, 2019 by the Superintendent.
an LDTC. She has built a very positive reputation among the students,
Wall High School Teacher of the Year: Mr. Grober is in his 26th the parents and the staff. Although Mrs. Mulhern is organized, atten-
year of teaching. He is a graduate of Glen Ridge High School and Tem- tive to deadlines and possesses many other qualities of an outstanding
ple University. After completing his Biology degree at Temple, he case manager, she was chosen because of her amazing rapport and
earned his degree in Oceanography from Florida Tech. Soon after, he relationships with our students and their parents.
realized his desire to enter the field of education and to work with
Allenwood School Teacher of the Year: Erin Seber teaches stu-
students. He completed a science education program and began teach-
dents with behavioral needs in fourth and fifth grade. She is a highly
ing science at Wall High School in 1993. He currently facilitates the
effective veteran teacher who has a great deal of experience working
horticulture program at the high school where he shares his passion
with students with special needs. Mrs. Seber recently completed her
for hands-on work with his students. The memories students create in
coursework to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She uses
his class will last a lifetime. He has been a Wall High School Swim
therapeutic techniques to help students find academic and behavioral
Coach since 1996. He encourages all students to join the swim team
success. When she’s not working with students at Allenwood, Mrs.
and promotes a positive team experience for all athletes. Greg Grober
Seber loves spending time with her husband, Mike, and her daughter,
enjoys swimming, surfing, and skateboarding. Wall High School
Siena. Allenwood School Educational Services Professional
Educational Services Professional of the Year: Kathy Lancton
of the Year: Mary Castaldo, “Mrs. C.” is a valued paraprofessional
has worked at Wall High School as the School Social Worker on the
who works as one member of the first grade team. With more than 25
Child Study Team for 22 years. She lives in Ocean Township and has a
years of experience as an educator, Mrs. Castaldo uses all of her skills
sister and two nephews whom she enjoys spending time with. Kathy is
to help the learners. She works with students in the classroom, Re-
an avid traveler. Some of her many trips include numerous destina-
source Room, and at special area classes. Mrs. C. can always be count-
tions in Europe as well as Thailand and Africa. She loves adventure
ed on to help students and staff.
and especially enjoys scuba diving. Ms. Lancton is a kind and good-
humored co-worker with a quick smile. Compassionate, dedicated and Central School Teacher of the Year: Carole Surgent has been a
hard-working are adjectives that describe her professionally. She en- teacher at Central School for over 20 years. She teaches students tech-
joys working with the students at WHS, helping them to reach their nology techniques and encourages students to be responsible digital
potential. Ms. Lancton has impacted the lives of countless students as citizens. Her passion for teaching electrifies the classroom and stu-
evidenced by the frequent visits she has from former students to thank dents instantly become excited about learning. She often helps fellow
her for her assistance. Congratulations to Ms. Lancton as Wall High colleagues with technology and is always eager to share new strategies
School's 2018-2019 Educational Services Professional of the Year or professional development with them. Mrs. Surgent is a true gem as
recipient. she treats every child at Central School as if they were her own. You
can often hear Mrs. Surgent giving students encouragement in the
Wall Intermediate School Teacher of the Year: Respected by
hallways or see her giving them a high five or a hug. She goes above
students, parents, colleagues and peers, Laura Lang is the definition of
and beyond for the staff and students at Central School. She attends
a master teacher. Throughout her tenure at WIS, she has taught dif-
after school events which means so much to our students and families
ferent subjects, but she has never lost sight that she teaches children
and she truly loves being there. We can always count on Mrs. Surgent
first. As the Math Intervention teacher, Mrs. Lang fosters independ-
for her kindness and big heart. She is an integral part of our Central
ence and a love of learning with academically challenged students.
(Continued on page 6)
Through her patience, kindness and sense of humor, she helps each
5(Continued from page 5) thoughtfully plans and skillfully delivers to her class and individual
students. She has embraced and led school wide projects and brings
School Family and we are very fortunate to call her our Teacher of the her enthusiasm for reading to all of the students hosting Family Liter-
Year. Central School Educational Services Professional of the acy Night for the past 10 years. She facilitates the Trout is Out grant
Year: Bari Bradley has been Central School’s school nurse for over 25 program every year and has raised with the Bear Cubs over 800 Rain-
years. She is dedicated to the health and medical care of the students bow Trout that are proudly released into the Manasquan Reservoir
and staff at Central School. She is extremely knowledgeable and takes each spring. West Belmar School Educational Services Profes-
care of each child’s medical needs. On a daily basis, she displays kind- sional of the Year: Dina Cole serves as West Belmar School’s speech
ness, patience and understanding to our young learners. She often and language therapist for the past 10 years and has been in the field of
takes care of our students emotional needs in addition to their medical developing student’s language skills for a total of 19 years. She brings
needs. Over the years, she has organized numerous programs for our her knowledge, expertise and positive attitude into the various aspects
students including toy drives, safety helmet assemblies, fire safety of her position. When working with students she has a keen sense of
assemblies, and CPR training for students. She is proactive ability to target and develop her student’s language skills by imple-
and communicates with parents to keep our students healthy and safe. menting a variety of strategies. She serves as the case manager for
She always puts our students first and goes above and beyond on a many of the students. She effectively builds strong relationships with
daily basis. Her devotion and love of the students has earned her the students, parents and colleagues to develop positive educational plans
respect and admiration of the students, staff, and parents. We are very for her student’s success. She is a key member of the Response to
fortunate to have Nurse Bradley at Central School. Intervention Core team. At monthly meetings, she leads the staff to
take away meaningful interventions that assist students academically,
Old Mill School Teacher of the Year: Mrs. Lauren Wilder has
socially and emotionally.
proudly served the Wall Township School District students for over 13
years. As the school’s technology teacher, she effectively teaches stu- Primary School Teacher of the Year: The Primary School was not
dents the skills needed to become learners in the digital age. Mrs. able to select a Teacher of the Year due to the small size of the staff and
Wilder teaches the students the practicality of working with various the requirement that the recipient could not be a person who received
programs (ex. research and coding programs), tools needed in the this recognition in the past five years. Primary School Education-
workplace (ex. Google Suite), and media needed for social communica- al Services Professional of the Year: Laurice Smith has been an
tion. Mrs. Wilder is seen by those who interact with her, students and occupational therapist serving the needs of students in the Wall Town-
teachers, as being knowledgeable, practical and savvy in our digital ship Public Schools since 2009. She has provided services to pre-
environment. It goes without saying that her approachability and schoolers with disabilities at the Wall Primary School for her entire
willingness to help out those in the school community on any project time in district. Her approach is to always make her therapeutic time
or task are exemplars of someone selected as Teacher of the Year. It is with her students fun and engaging. Whether she is strengthening
an honor that Mrs. Wilder represents Old Mill School as the Teacher of their core and balance on a swing while they both swing and throw
the Year. Old Mill School Educational Services Professional of beanbags, or exercising small muscle groups by pushing small objects
the Year: Kris Morano has proudly served the Wall Township School into containers, there are usually big smiles and bursts of laugh-
District students for over 10 years. As a media specialist, she effectively ter. Ms. Smith frequently visits classrooms to provide therapy in the
teaches the students the skills needed to research topics, locate media students’ natural environment, and to observe generalization of readi-
materials, and discern between the various forms of media as being ness skills. She is a resource to both classroom teachers, other related
helpful or not helpful in the learning process. While teaching these service professionals and to the Child Study Team. She makes recom-
necessary things, Mrs. Morano incorporates a wide variety of technolo- mendations to parents about how to reinforce skills at home and how
gy into her lessons, including the use of Ozobots. Mrs. Morano sets to extend learning. One particularly successful initiative implemented
herself apart from others by assisting teachers and paraprofessionals by Ms. Smith has been the preschool yoga program that addresses
in identifying and selecting books and websites to help compliment both control of certain muscle groups as well as self regulation. While
classroom lessons. It is with great pride that Mrs. Morano represents the yoga is introduced in small groups, eventually the students are so
Old Mill School as the Educational Services Professional of the Year. proficient that they can perform their moves in a much larger group. It
is testament to Ms. Smith’s skill to see 40 three and four year olds
West Belmar School Teacher of the Year: The Bear Cubs at West
doing their yoga poses in unison. We at Wall Primary School are
Belmar School have had the privilege to have Gayle McGuire as a class-
proud that Ms. Smith is our educational services professional of the
room and special education teacher for the past 13 years. Gayle
year. She is so deserving of this honor.
McGuire is an extremely talented teacher who is determined and has
the conviction that all students can learn no matter what the challenge Bios of the recipients were contributed by the building principals.
may be. She brings this positive attitude into every lesson she
6LEARNING IS MORE THAN ACADEMICS
Children learn and develop socially, emotionally, and academically ment, isolation, stereotypes, intolerance, racism, sexism, bullying,
through the experiences they have in our school system. In Wall violence, suicide, homophobia, hopelessness, apathy, and hidden pres-
Township Public Schools we believe in educating and growing the sures to create an image, achieve or live up to the expectations of oth-
whole child. So how exactly do we teach students to be kind, caring ers. It was a highly regarded event by both staff and students. The
human beings who demonstrate perseverance, resilience, and pas- program fosters empathy and understanding, social and self aware-
sion? How do we teach them confidence and compassion? It begins ness, connection and belongingness, and inclusion.
with treating our students with kindness and compassion while simul- Great Kindness Challenge- Jan. 28- Feb. 1, 2019- Students and
taneously holding them accountable for their behavior towards one Families will have the opportunity to participate in activities that pro-
another and towards the adults in their lives. It begins with hiring staff mote and create a culture of kindness and compassion within our
members who share our philosophy and vision and then supporting school and community.
them in their efforts to bring that vision to fruition. National No One Eats Alone Day- WIS will be honoring National
No One Eats Alone Day with special activities during a lunch in Febru-
In WTPS, we maintain a staff of school counselors at each building,
ary to encourage kindness, inclusion, and meeting new people. A com-
social workers, school psychologists, student assistance counselors and
mittee of peer leaders will assist in the planning and implementation
behaviorists. Those professionals work with the administration to plan
of this event.
activities and events that focus on mental, emotional and physical
Student Recognition: Elementary students are recognized at
health. Here are some examples of the ways in which we promote
monthly assemblies for their character and hard work. WIS has the
social and emotional development at our schools:
Knighting Program that recognizes positive characteristics in stu-
Peace Week: September 17-21, 2018 Students engaged in multiple dents. Students are nominated by teachers/staff anonymously for
activities: writing positive peer messages in lunch which were dis- displaying leadership and kindness qualities within and outside the
played on walls in Cafe, sidewalk chalk activity outside (students drew classroom. The High School recognizes Students of the Week for be-
images of peace on the entrance walkway), and wore clothing to sup- havior and character.
port Peace Day. Assemblies and Guest Speakers: Elementary students experi-
Week of Respect: October 1-5, 2018 Students participated in writing enced the Kindness Adventure Assembly in November. 6th grade-
Thank You Notes to past or present teachers and staff members who Brooks Gibbs Assembly 11/16/18- Brooks Gibbs presented on social
made a difference in their lives. This activity helped demonstrate skills and taught students how to build emotional resilience and live by
respect and teach students ways to acknowledge those who have the Golden Rule. 7th, 8th, and 9th grade- Gian Paul Gonzalez Assem-
helped them in their lives. Students and Staff participated in a Unity bly 10/30/18- Gian Paul presented on the ideas of how students can
Dance/Flash Mob that helped promote connectedness and unity with- examine their own lives and learn how to commit to being “All In”. He
in the school. also presents on how to be fully committed and take their lives and
Violence Awareness Week: October 15-19, 2018 Students and Staff dreams to the next level all while being a true leader within their com-
observed a moment a silence to recognize the importance of school munity/school. 8th grade- Project PRIDE Presentation 1/8/19-
safety and honor all those students and staff members affected by Presentation on promoting responsibility in drug education, presented
school violence around the world. Students had the opportunity to by Dept. of Corrections minimum custody offenders.
participate in Chip Away at Violence activity in the lunch room. Stu- Clubs and Community Service: Wall High School continues to
dents were asked to write down ways to stay safe in their school, home, CHOOSE KIND. Project Snowflake has yet again been a huge success
and community on post-it notes and then they were given a free bag of and has made such an impact on our students at Wall High School!
chips. The post-it notes were displayed on the Cafeteria walls for the This student run school-wide fundraiser supported by the National
students to see and visualize throughout the week. Honor Society, Peer Leaders, Student Council, Art Club, the Life Skills
Red Ribbon Week: October 2018 Students participated in writing class, administration, staff, students and community members has
reasons why on pledges to stay drug-free during lunch peri- already helped 87 students this year at Wall High School have a bright-
ods. Pledges were displays in hallways. At the High School, all of the er holiday. Project Snowflake will continue throughout the school year
October events were combined in the “Month of Wellness,” which to assist our students in need! Heroes & Cool Kids club had their first
culminated with Challenge Day on October 31st. The Challenge Day push in lesson to the entire 5th grade classes in the district on building
program goes beyond traditional anti-bullying efforts, building empa- resiliency. At WIS, students participated in Mission Snowflake to raise
thy and inspiring a school-wide movement of compassion and positive funds for their fellow community members. All of the fundraising went
change. They addressed some common issues seen in most schools directly towards helping families in need during the holiday season.
including cliques, gossip, rumors, negative judgments, teasing, harass- (The counseling staff contributed to this article)
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WTPS
A PARENT’S GUIDE TO PROBLEM SOLVING
Wall Township Public Schools is a K-
12 school district in Monmouth Coun-
Parents are encouraged to reach out to classroom teachers in order to solve problems that
ty, New Jersey. The district serves
approximately 3,400 students. There may arise during the school year to obtain answers to questions. If the parent has a concern
are four elementary schools, one about a teaching staff member other than an administrator, the parent should first discuss the
intermediate school, one high school
and one primary school (pre-school).
matter with the staff member. The staff member will be directed to make every reasonable
The WTPS is a partnership of com- effort to explain the difficulty and/or take appropriate action in accordance with district regu-
mitted staff, dedicated learners, and
lations and within his/her authority and district regulations. If the matter cannot be satisfac-
supportive community members. The
mission of the Wall Township Public torily resolved, the parent should discuss the matter with the Principal. The Principal will take
Schools is to empower all students to all reasonable and prudent steps to resolve the complaint or to explain to the parent why the
lead lives of fulfillment and purpose
matter cannot be resolved as the parent wishes. If the matter cannot be resolved at the Princi-
by providing a safe, comprehensive
and caring educational environment pal level, the parent may submit to the Superintendent a written request for a conference.
that will enable students to achieve (see Policy and Regulation 9130 available on the website and the Chain of Communication).
their unique potential academically,
socially and emotionally. Our students If a parent has a concern about an administrative staff member, the parent should first dis-
will become confident, creative and
cuss the matter with the administrator. If the matter cannot be resolved, the matter can be
critical thinkers who communicate
effectively and engage meaningfully as appealed directly to the Superintendent.
responsible members of a global
society. If a parent has a concern about a support staff member, then parent should first discuss the
matter with the support staff member. If the matter cannot be resolved at this level, the par-
ent should discuss the matter with the support staff member’s supervisor and/or the Princi-
pal. If necessary, an appeal can be made to the Superintendent.
Concerns about a program, practice or operation should be addressed by the administrator or
Visit our website: department head most directly concerned with the matter.
www.wall.k12.nj.us Concerns about textbooks, library books, reference works, and other instructional materials
used in the district should be made in writing and submitted directly to the Director of Curric-
ulum and Instruction and/or the Director of Special Services.
Parents are encouraged to reach out to the Superintendent’s secretary with any questions
WTPS about who to call or email with a concern. (see contact information in the box on the left) .
1620 18th Ave.
Box 1199
Wall, NJ 07719
BOE REORGANIZATION FOR 2019
Phone: 732-556-2006
Fax: 732-556-2101
The Wall Township Board of Education held its The BOE President is an ex officio member of
E-mail: kkeator@wall.k12.nj.us
every committee.
(Secretary to the Superintendent) reorganization meeting on January 2, 2019. Mrs.
Allison Connolly was elected President and Mrs. The BOE Calendar of Meetings was approved at
Mrs. Cheryl Dyer the reorganization meeting:
Robin Zawodniak was elected Vice-President. The
Superintendent of Schools
January 22, 2019 July 16, 2019
following committees were established for 2019
cdyer@wall.k12.nj.us (committee chairs are identified by italics): February 19, 2019 August 20, 2019
March 19, 2019 September 24, 2019
Finance and Facilities: T. Magee, R. Addoni-
zio, J. Sullivan, D. Molloy (alt) April 16, 2019 October 15, 2019
Policy: R. Zawodniak, J. Sullivan, M. McArthur, May 21, 2019 November 19, 2019
T. Magee (alt)
June 18, 2019 December 17, 2019
Personnel/Negotiations: M. McArthur, T.
Magee, R. Zawodniak , D. Molloy (alt)
Curriculum and Instruction: D. Molloy, C. The Reorganization meeting for 2020 is sched-
San Filippo, K. Wondrack, J. Sullivan (alt)
uled for January 7, 2020. BOE meetings are held
Public Relations: C. San Filippo, R. Addonizio, in the auditorium at WIS and live streamed to the
K. Wondrack, M. McArthur (alt)
8 district website/You Tube Channel.You can also read
