Jefferson Township Public Schools

Jefferson Township Public Schools is a comprehensive community public school district that serves students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade from Jefferson Township, in Morris County, New Jersey, United States. The district is one of the 31 former Abbott districts statewide that were established pursuant to the decision by the New Jersey Supreme Court in the Abbott v. Burke case. As of the 2018–19 school year, the district, comprised of six schools, had an enrollment of 3,311 students and 291.6 classroom teachers (on an FTE basis), for a student–teacher ratio of 11.4:1. The district's headquarters are located at 1010 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge, New Jersey.

Schools

Schools in the district (with 2018–19 enrollment data from the National Center for Education Statistics) are:

• Jefferson Township High School - 1,060 students in grades 9-12
• Jefferson Township Middle School - 708 students in grades 6-8
• Clyde Potts Elementary School - 359 students in grades K-5
• Dennison Triangle School - 274 students in grades PreK-5
• Florence M. Burd Elementary School - 392 students in grades K-5
• Joseph M. Fazzone Elementary School - 518 students in grades K-5

Administration

Members of the district's administration are:

• Dr. Joseph J. DiBella, Superintendent
• Vincent D. Mangiardi, Business Administrator / Board Secretary

Board of Education

As of 2019, the district's Board of Education has nine members. The members of the board of education are:

• Ronald D. Barberio (President)
• Kimberly J. Caridi (Vice President)
• Nicole D. Campopiano
• Robert T. Golkowski
• Frank J. Maselli
• Philip F. McMonagle
• Joseph A. Merola
• James F. Morrone
• Maria Solimine

Academics

Jefferson Township High School was the 99th-ranked public high school in New Jersey out of 339 schools statewide in New Jersey Monthly magazine's September 2014 cover story on the state's "Top Public High Schools", using a new ranking methodology. The school had been ranked 143rd in the state of 328 schools in 2012, after being ranked 134th in 2010 out of 322 schools listed. The magazine ranked the school 123rd in 2008 out of 316 schools.

Jefferson Township Public Schools offers a variety of academic programs and services to support student learning and development. The district provides a comprehensive curriculum that aligns with state standards and prepares students for college and career readiness. Here are some key aspects of the academic programs offered by Jefferson Township Public Schools:

Curriculum and Instruction

The district has developed a rigorous and well-rounded curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects, including:

• English Language Arts: Emphasizing reading comprehension, writing skills, and literary analysis.
• Mathematics: Covering various math disciplines such as algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics.
• Science: Offering courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
• Social Studies: Exploring history, geography, civics, and social sciences.
• Foreign Languages: Providing language instruction in Spanish, French, or other languages.
• Fine Arts: Including visual arts, music, and performing arts programs.
• Physical Education and Health: Promoting physical fitness and wellness.

The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it meets the changing needs of students and aligns with current educational standards.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

Jefferson Township High School offers a variety of AP courses, allowing students to engage in college-level studies and potentially earn college credits. AP courses are available in subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, and foreign languages. These courses provide an opportunity for students to develop critical thinking skills, enhance their academic profile, and prepare for college-level work.

Honors and Advanced Classes

In addition to AP courses, the district offers honors and advanced classes for students who demonstrate exceptional academic abilities. These classes provide a more challenging curriculum and allow students to delve deeper into specific subjects. Honors and advanced classes are available at both the middle and high school levels, ensuring a continuum of rigorous academic opportunities.

Special Education Services

Jefferson Township Public Schools is committed to providing inclusive and supportive educational environments for students with special needs. The district offers a range of special education services, including individualized education programs (IEPs), resource support, and specialized instruction. Special education teachers and support staff work closely with regular classroom teachers to ensure that students receive the necessary accommodations and modifications to thrive academically.

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

The district recognizes the importance of career preparation and offers CTE programs to provide students with practical skills and knowledge for future careers. CTE courses cover a variety of fields, such as business, healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. These programs often include hands-on training, internships, and industry partnerships, giving students real-world experience and a competitive edge in the job market.

Dual Enrollment and Early College Programs

Jefferson Township Public Schools collaborates with local colleges and universities to offer dual enrollment and early college programs. These programs allow high school students to earn college credits while still in high school, saving time and money on their college education. Students can take college-level courses at the high school or attend classes at the partnering college campus.

Extracurricular Activities

The district encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities to enhance their overall educational experience. Jefferson Township Public Schools offers a wide range of clubs, sports teams, performing arts groups, and community service organizations. These activities provide opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, explore their interests, and build social connections. Extracurricular involvement also looks favorable on college applications and can contribute to a well-rounded education.

Professional Development

Jefferson Township Public Schools recognizes the importance of continuous professional development for its teaching staff. The district provides ongoing training, workshops, and conferences to ensure that teachers stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies, educational research, and best practices. Professional development opportunities help teachers refine their instructional techniques, incorporate innovative technologies, and create engaging learning environments for students.

Important Notes

⚠️ Note: The information provided here is based on the available data and may not reflect the most recent developments or changes within the Jefferson Township Public Schools district. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, it is recommended to visit the official website of the district or contact them directly.

Conclusion

Jefferson Township Public Schools is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for future success. The district offers a diverse range of academic programs, from rigorous AP courses to inclusive special education services. With a focus on college and career readiness, Jefferson Township Public Schools equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. By offering a comprehensive curriculum, advanced placement opportunities, and a supportive learning environment, the district ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that opens doors to a wide array of post-secondary options.

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