The Connection Warren-Watchung Edition Feb/Mar 2019

Kid’z CONNECT ion THE ACADEMY OF OUR LADY OF PEACE 99 South Street New Providence, NJ 07974 By: Sherry Kevoe Principal Joel Castillo, EDS Upon entering The Academy of Our Lady of Peace school one gets an immediate sense of calm and interest in learning. I met with Mr. Castillo, Principal, who is very genuine and interested in the suc- cess of both students and faculty. He is proud of the collaborative effort on the part of faculty in help- ing to create a “family” atmos- phere whereby students want to learn and excel. After meeting Mr. Castillo, it became obvious why The Acade- my has won the National Blue Rib- bon School of Excellence Award. This award is based on the school’s overall academic performance. This prestigious award is given to a select number of private or public schools that exceed the criteria and represents exemplary teaching and learning. The school follows the N.J. Core Curriculum Standards along with the Archdiocese of Newark. Mr. Castillo came to The Acade- my of Our Lady of Peace after many years of experience in educa- tion. He has been a principal here for the past five years and is pas- sionate about his faculty, students and the overall quality of the cur- riculum. The school was founded in 1954 and serves students Pre-K through 8th grade. The curriculum provides a solid foundation that focuses on spiritual growth and academic achievement. Although The Academy of Our Lady of Peace is primarily a Christian school, the teaching of faith transcends students of all religions. The Academy of Our Lady of Peace offers before care beginning at 7:15am and after care from 3:00-6:00. They offer scholarships based on merit and are proud of the many students that go on to magnet schools and college. There is a strong sense of community and religion as well as extra-curricular programs such as drama, forensics, football, track, cheer leading, bowling, volleyball and soccer. Mr. Castillo believes in a good balance between fun time and academic performance. Most of the faculty have been at the school for many years and are evaluated in an ongo- ing process all of which serves to maintain their high standards. Class sizes are kept to a maxi- mum of 21 but average 15. Many parents offer to volunteer and avail the school of their own expertise by doing presentations to classes. Family involvement is encouraged with a special connection between home, school, church and commu- nity being fostered. Families inter- ested in The Academy of Our Lady of Peace for their child must go through an interview process and spend some time at the school for an evaluation. There are sum- mer programs offered and available based on the needs of the families each season. Mr. Castillo prides the school on their strong faith, spiritu- ality, nurturing atmosphere and innovative techniques in teaching. For questions and information visit www.TheAcademyOLP.org. NEW SHOW FOR 2019! ALL CHILDREN’S THEATRE 1-Two Week Session • 8am - 5pm • Monday-Friday WATCHUNG ARTS CENTER at the WATCHUNG CIRCLE Download registration form at www.allchildrenstheatre.org Supervised by Certified Teachers Singing, Dancing, Acting, Scenery Design, Public Performance(s), Cast Party Call All Children’s Theatre… Tel (973) 335-5328 JERSEY ARTS Our 24th Annual BROADWAY KIDS CAMP Boys & Girls ages 6-17 August 12 - August 23 Air Conditioned Multiple locations throughout New Jersey! Save $25 using promo code: INNOVATE25RPRINT at invent.org/camp For Grades k-6 All-new programming led by local educators In partnership with the USPTO a High-energy, hands-on stem camp PAGE 52 www.theconnectionsnj.com