Collier School Celebrates Their 2017 Graduates

Collier Youth Services, a non-profit organization that empowers at-risk youth to grow toward their potential in an environment of belonging, dignity, and hope, is proud to announce the graduation of 43 Collier High School students and 31 Middle School students.

In partnership with the State of NJ and sending school districts, Collier School meets the needs of students who have needs that cannot be met in their prior district. Collier’s graduates exemplify what can happen to students when put in a position to succeed surround by caring, loving teachers and staff. Getting to graduation is rarely easy and reaching this milestone is truly a remarkable experience for everyone. This year, Collier is proud to have had 31 eighth graders and 43 High School seniors graduate. Key statistics for the high school graduates include:

• 88% are moving on to four and two-year colleges or vocational/technical school,
• 1 is entering the military,
• 4 are planning to work full-time.

Collier graduates moving on to continue their education are provided “alumni” support for their first year as Collier clearly fulfills its mission promise. The mission of Collier Youth Services is to provide at-risk youth a chance to grow toward their potential in an environment that promotes belonging, dignity and hope.

“Graduation for our Middle School and High School is one of the most important events of our school year, since it symbolizes the significant growth and success that our students have earned while attending Collier School. Through hard work, perseverance and determination, our graduates have achieved this critical milestone which, for many, was once viewed as unattainable – and we are so proud of their accomplishments! We wish all our graduates the best of luck and great success as they continue to pursue their goals and follow their dreams,” said Ms. Cindy D’Arcy, Director of Collier School

Collier School's departmentalized academic program prepares students for admission into four-year colleges, community colleges, and technical/vocational schools, and full-time employment. Collier's strong counseling component combines individual as well as group therapy that encourages and supports social and emotional growth for all students. Clubs, sport teams, and activities round out the educational program, giving students extracurricular opportunities similar to those offered in public schools.

About Collier Youth Services:

For 90 years, Collier Youth Services has focused on improving the lives of underserved youth with academic, developmental, and emotional challenges. Collier operates an array of programs, including Collier High School, Collier Middle School, Extended School Year programs, Caramore Farm, Collier Group Home, and Collier House, in addition to Kateri Day Camp. Collier’s mission is built on an unwavering belief in the worth and potential of all individuals and their capacity for change. For more details, please visit www.collieryouthservices.org or call Russell Gartz at 732-946-4771 x415.