Graduation, American Legion State Program Among June Highlights in Moorestown School District

While June is a short school month, it is always very exciting. Students of all grades are recognized for incredible accomplishments, and others graduate.

In addition, the Board of Education took action on two contracts, and provided an update on the strategic planning process and the referendum projects, among other items.

First, I would like to personally congratulate each individual who graduated Moorestown High School on June 18. This was truly an exceptional class, with students moving onto a wide array of colleges/universities, military service, and careers.

After graduation, another very successful Project Graduation took place, with a majority of students attending and many community volunteers assisting. Also, at the Senior Awards Ceremony on June 9, more than half of the graduating class was recognized for academic, athletic, and volunteer accomplishments, with over $180,000 being awarded in local scholarships.

I would also like to recognize the eight rising MHS seniors who will be attending the American Legion Jersey Boys State Program from June 21st to June 26th, including:

• Joshua Barbella;
• James Conshery;
• Michael DiMarino;
• Kyle Loveland;
• Ryan Muir;
• Melvin Sheppard;
• Peter Vosbikian; and
• Brian Wright Jr.

They will join nearly 1,000 other students from across New Jersey. During the week, students are exposed to government and politics, and hear from many incredible speakers, including the Lt. Governor, U.S. Senators, and business leaders. I enjoy volunteering as a staff member, and I encourage other students to look into the program.

At the June monthly meeting, Superintendent Rehm thanked the individuals who participated in the district’s strategic planning process. Participants included parents, students, teachers, administrators, and board members, among others, through surveys, focus groups, and extended meetings. At the August Board meeting, the facilitator will present the findings and discuss next steps.

The Board approved two contracts at the June meeting for the 2015-2016 school year. The Woodbury Medical Office will handle school physician services, and Moon Landscaping will provide ground services.

The 2015 Taxpayers’ Guide to Education Spending was recently released by the New Jersey Department of Education, which breaks down and explains district spending into a variety of categories. The Guide can be found online at www.state.nj.us/education/guide/2015/district.shtml.

As a reminder, space is still available in the 2015 Summer Enrichment Camp, which is open to both Moorestown students and non-residents, and offers interesting classes on a wide range of topics.

Also, for boys and girls starting kindergarten this September, a Kindergarten Camp is available during the summer. The camp helps children transition into kindergarten. For additional information and to sign up, visit http://mtpswebpay-com.3dcartstores.com.

Be sure to mark the dates for “MoorArts has Talent!” on July 10 at 8 p.m., and on July 11 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Both Moorestown residents and students will be showcased during these special performances. Tickets can be purchased at http://moorarts.org.

The next regular monthly meeting of the Moorestown Board of Education is Aug. 11 at 7:30 p.m. in the William Allen Middle School Media Center.

Since there is not a regularly scheduled July board meeting, the next edition of this column will not be published until August, but do not hesitate to reach out to the district or myself in the meantime.

Enjoy the summer and I look forward to seeing you in August!

The attached images were provided by Brandon J. Pugh

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The views and content in this column do not necessarily represent those of the Moorestown Board of Education as a whole or any other individual member.

About this column: In this column, Moorestown Board of Education Member Brandon Pugh provides monthly updates on what’s going on in the school district and on the BOE.