WWW.HOBOKEN.K12.NJ.US HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS RIGOR, RELEVANCE, AND RELATIONSHIPS
HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS AT A GLANCE HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS WHAT: A Progressive School District WHERE: Hoboken, New Jersey WEBSITE: www.hoboken.k12.nj.us RIGOR, RELEV RELATIONSH INNOVATIVE EDUCATION, LIMITLESS POTENTIAL 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
VANCE, AND HIPS Recognized for its forward-thinking curriculum, commitment to inclusivity, and dedication to providing opportunities for every student, Hoboken Public Schools has emerged as a leader in education. The district thrives by developing innovative programs, promoting student-driven learning, and cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment. 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
At the core of Hoboken Public Schools are three guiding principles: innovation, inclusion, and opportunity. Superintendent Dr. Christine Johnson explains,“We do everything we possibly can to create the most unique and innovative programs for all of our students, making sure that we are including every child in every educational opportunity that we put out there.” LAUNCHING SUCCESS FROM DAY ONE Understanding the critical role of early childhood education, Hoboken Public Schools provides a free, full-day preschool program for its youngest learners. Serving more than 1,000 children in 65 classrooms, the district implements the Tools of the Mind curriculum to help students build a strong foundation for future academic success. “Our goal with preschool education is to provide equal opportunity, equal access, early education to every single three and four year old in our community,” says Superintendent Johnson.“When it’s time to enroll in kindergarten, they have all experienced educational, social, emotional, and play opportunities so that they can be successful in the early elementary years.” FOCUSED FOUNDATIONS IN LITERACY & MATHEMATICS While many school districts across the country faced extended closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, Hoboken Public Schools remained open—an approach that helped reduce learning loss. Looking ahead, the district is placing a strong emphasis on literacy by adopting the Orton-Gillingham method, a multisensory approach to reading instruction. With over 100 educators trained in this evidence-based technique, students are gaining essential reading and phonics skills from the earliest grades. “We are just lucky enough to have an organization like the Hoboken Public Education Foundation,” says Assistant Superintendent Sandra Rodriguez-Gomez. “They heard us, really vetted our thinking around what we intended to do and the impact we knew we could have, to take something as specific as the Orton-Gillingham Tactile Learning Model and bring it into our classrooms.”Thanks to their backing, 100% of Hoboken’s K–2 teachers are now trained in the method, and model classrooms using this approach 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
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are in place for grades 3–5 across the district. In mathematics, Hoboken takes a similarly engaging approach by offering hands-on, discovery-based learning experiences. This allows students to build a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts through exploration and inquiry. In addition to curriculum development and teacher training, the district invests heavily in professional development and ensures educators have access to the necessary materials and resources. “We have found that there’s a lot of thought that goes into new applications and new modalities at the classroom level, but if there are not the resources and the professional development to support that, then it doesn’t have the impact,” adds Rodriguez-Gomez. “Right now, we’re in a really interesting place where many partner districts are coming to Hoboken to just watch the magic happen in these classrooms.” THE HOBOKEN PUBLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION The Hoboken Public Education Foundation (HPEF), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, plays a vital role in supporting the district’s continued success. Co5 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Delta Dental of New Jersey (DDNJ) is helping to expand dental care access by providing an enhanced special health care needs benefit. Group-covered members of any age with a qualifying special health care need are eligible for this benefit. As defined by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, special health care needs include any physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioural, cognitive, or emotional impairment or limiting condition that requires medical management, health care intervention, and/or use of specialized services or programs. The benefit covers additional dental examinations and/or consultations, which can be beneficial prior to treatment to help patients learn what to expect and what is needed for a successful dental appointment. Up to four total dental cleanings in a benefit year are also included, as well as treatment delivery modifications (including anaesthesia) necessary for dental staff to provide oral health care for patients with sensory sensitivities, behavioural challenges, or other barriers to treatment. DDNJ has a long history of working with organizations that support people with special needs, and the company is acutely aware of the unmet dental care needs facing those individuals. This benefit helps to break down barriers to make oral health care more inclusive. Expanding access to dental care for children & adults with special needs. deltadentalnj.com/SHCN Delta Dental of New Jersey is expanding dental care access by offering an enhanced special health care needs benefit for group-covered children and adults with qualifying special health care conditions.
founder and President Jackie Dowd explains, “We have our own mission around raising private funds to benefit the public schools as well as to generate support and enthusiasm in our community. But our main goal is really to support the district in its move to become the best schools that we can be.” In close collaboration with Hoboken Public Schools, HPEF works to identify key priorities and determine how best to meet the district’s needs.“We work with Dr. Johnson directly around what her goals are, gaps that need to be filled, and new programs that can be offered,” Dowd shares.As a result of this partnership, HPEF has helped provide Chromebooks for students during the pandemic, funded literacy initiatives, and supported innovative educational programming. “We’re here to support the great stuff that’s going 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
learner-centered approach, designed to equip students with the skills necessary for success in the modern workforce. “We pride ourselves on not necessarily teaching students what to think and what to do, but how to think,” he explains. “What we’re actually doing is creating thinkers.” The district’s curriculum, ranging from biomedical science and aviation to urban farming and on in the district,” Dowd adds.“It’s been an incredible eight years for us. I think a lot of that is due to the support that we have within the community in Hoboken today.” FUTURE-FOCUSED EDUCATION Chris Dellafave, Director of Innovative Programs, highlights Hoboken Public Schools’ focus on a 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
Mount Vernon Group Architects (MVG) is a full-service architectural firm established in 1954. We provide our clients with cost-effective, sustainable design for educational, municipal, and institutional projects. MVG has designed over 250 educational buildings for public and independent clients, including elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools, as well as college and university buildings. Other architectural services we provide are Master Planning, Feasibility Studies, Interior Design, Historic Preservation, as well as Construction Administration. Our dedicated team of architects, interior designers, and construction administrators work seamlessly across our offices in New Jersey and Massachusetts to exceed client goals. Sara M. Gilmore Academy Union City, NJ LEED Gold Certi ed Mount Vernon Group Architects, Inc. 24 Commerce Street Suite 629 Newark, NJ 07102 P: 973.273.9704 www.mvgarchitects.com Photo Credit: © Brett Beyer ARCHITECTURE | INTERIOR DESIGN | MASTER PLANNING HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
engineering, emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving. Students engage in hands-on, realworld experiences like the River Keepers program, where they conduct scientific research on the Hudson River, and the Classrooms Without Walls initiative, which offers international learning opportunities in places such as Japan and the Galápagos Islands. “What we do really well here is provide choices,” Dellafave adds. “It’s the principles of creating learners. Rather than teaching what to teach, we teach how to learn.” EQUITY, BELONGING & EMPOWERMENT In Hoboken, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) go beyond policy—they are integral to the district’s core identity. Stephen Dickerson, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, ensures these values are woven into every facet of the school experience. From culturally responsive initiatives like the Amistad program to student-led cultural celebrations, the district fosters an environment where every student feels acknowledged, valued, and respected. “Diversity is our superpower,” Dickerson says proudly. “Each month we focus on different themes and programs. But what we focus on the most, is ensuring that all this work is integrated in everything that we do. A lot of my work is with administration and how their buildings are built to connect and develop culture, and ensuring that all students, regardless of any identities, are coming into our buildings and feeling safe, feeling secure, feeling the opportunities that are there for them.” 10 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
CHAMPIONING SUCCESS IN ARTS & ATHLETICS Hoboken Public Schools is proud to offer a nationally recognized theater program, with students competing in the prestigious International Thespian Competition, held at universities across the nation. Dr. Johnson shares,“Just recently they competed in a statewide competition at Montclair State University and won a record 10 awards at the New Jersey competition. They also were selected to be the first school district in North America to do the districtwide musical on Harry Potter and the Cursed Child debut on a school stage.” The district also boasts a vibrant music program, including a renowned orchestra and the awardwinning Rocking Red Wings marching band, who have been invited to participate in the Washington, D.C. Memorial Day Parade multiple years in a row. “what I think is the best part about the Fine and Performing Arts is that each of us have a hand in it,” Dr. Johnson says. “The HPEF has donated money 11 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
toward so many different components, the Board of Education supports every initiative that comes across their dais when it comes to fine and performing arts. And from a DEI perspective, we make sure that we put instruments in the hands of every child from the time they’re in second or third grade all the way up.” In athletics, the district offers a wide range of sports, from traditional options like football and basketball to newer programs such as lacrosse, wrestling, and eSports. “We operate not only varsity athletic programs, but junior varsity programs, and in some cases, freshman programs as well,” Dr. Johnson notes. “Approximately 67% of our students in Hoboken High School participate in at least one sport. That’s really important, because in some way, we want our kids to be connected through a cocurricular or extracurricular activity.” Additionally, Hoboken Public Schools boasts a highly successful debate program, with students competing both nationally and internationally.“They 12 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
are extremely, extremely accomplished, winning multiple awards in Harvard Model Congress, Junior Model UN and Mock Trial,” Dr. Johnson highlights. “Both advisors to that particular program are very in tune with our district’s goals that are associated with inclusion, diversity, equity, and opportunities for all students. Well over 100 students participate in this debate program.” FUTURE GOALS & STRATEGIC PRIORITIES As the district continues to experience steady enrollment growth, space has become an increasingly urgent concern. Although a recent referendum for a new school building did not pass, Dr. Johnson emphasizes that the district remains committed to this goal. Looking ahead, the Board of Education will continue to prioritize student achievement and advance the district’s innovative initiatives.“It’s super important for us to keep moving obstacles out of their way, making sure that they have everything that they need, so that this amazing work can continue to grow and flourish,” says Board President Ailene McGuirk. Vice President Sharyn Angley adds,“We are one school community, but we have endless possibilities.And as 13 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 HOBOKEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc. www.deltadentalnj.com Delta Dental of New Jersey, the state’s leading dental benefits provider, serves over 2.1 million people in New Jersey and Connecticut with dental and vision plans. Since 1969, its mission has been to promote oral health by delivering high-quality, accessible benefit programs of exceptional service and value. n Mount Vernon Group Architects, Inc. www.mvgarchitects.com Mount Vernon Group Architects, Inc. is full service architectural firm specializing in the design of educational, municipal and institutional projects throughout the Northeast. Our dedicated team of architects, interior designers, and construction administrators is committed to delivering exceptional results for our clients. n Mile Square Early Learning Center www.mselc1979.org Our approach is backed by educational research and has proven to be effective for young children. Our goal is to provide the best possible start for each child, nurturing their unique talents and interests in a supportive, educational environment. Although play is the primary vehicle for children to develop complex concepts and skills, we still focus on friendship, kindness and the positive communication necessary for children to develop meaningful relationships with their peers. n The Capstone Center www.thecapstonecenter.com The Capstone Center was founded and is led by four doctoral-level, BCBA®-credentialed directors. Both doctoral- and masters-level BCBA-credentialed clinicians and teachers round out the team—providing extensive experience and support to learners, parents/caregivers, and educators. Our individualized services are rooted in evidence-based practices to help children and young adults with ASD and I/DD live their fullest lives. a board we want to make those possibilities happen for every student, whether it’s in the classroom, or out of the classroom, to prepare them for a full life ahead.” 14 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
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