March 2024 Update

Dear Oceanport and Sea Bright School Community,

I would like to take an opportunity to introduce myself as the interim superintendent. I began on March 1st and will be in place until Dr. Karen Barry begins in May.

During my first few weeks in Oceanport, I quickly discovered that the Charger community is focused on providing the best educational experience possible for each student. I have especially enjoyed meeting the staff and many students, and look forward to getting to know them better. I would like to thank the teachers, secretaries, support staff, central office staff, and custodial/grounds staff for a warm welcome. I would be remiss if I did not thank the administrative team, especially, Dr. Godlesky, for their assistance, support, and commitment to ensuring this transition is as smooth as possible.

I have had the good fortune to work as an assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent in PreK-12 settings. I believe these experiences will allow for a smooth and productive transition. Please know that I will approach the next two months as a committed member of the Charger community.

With this in mind, I look forward to continuing to contribute to a positive and productive experience for every student and family!

All the best,

John Russo, Interim Superintendent

Each year, the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children (NJAGC) presents Distinguished Student Awards to inspire gifted students to reach their full potential, highlight students with exceptional abilities, and to draw attention to the educational needs of New Jersey’s gifted students. Rylee's writing entry was awarded second place in the state in the third through fifth-grade writing category. This year's topic was joyful growth and Rylee's essay focused on her training for a one-mile road race. As Rylee wrote, "No matter what happens in the race I have grown as a runner. Now I know that to go through growth you take one step at a time." Congratulations, Rylee!

Last week, Maple Place presented their spring musical production of Mean Girls, Jr. The show was performed to almost a SOLD OUT crowd all three nights! Director, Mr. D.J. Brown, and Musical Director, Mrs. Erica Bach, did an amazing job with the student cast, while Mrs. Daley worked with the Stage Crew, Mrs. Canessa provided the set design, and Mrs. Cooper put together the costumes. The cast and crew worked tirelessly for months prior to the show, which allowed them to put on a truly fantastic show. Congratulations to all involved! We are so proud of your accomplishments. To our 8th grade students who are moving on to high school, we can't wait to see what you do next! A special thank you to all of our parents and community members who came out to support our students and staff.

On March 12th, 8th grade student, Sheridan "Shea" Taylor, was the Maple Place Middle School representative at the annual New Jersey School Board Association's Monmouth County Dialogue which was held at Ocean Township Intermediate School. The dialogue provides student representatives with a chance to talk about their school and their community. Shea did an amazing job representing all of us at Maple Place.

PTO Meeting

The next PTO Meeting is Tuesday, April 9 at 7:00 pm at Maple Place Media Center.

If you are interested in planning events, decorating, or volunteering for next year, reach out to a PTO Board Member.

Save the Date!

April 23: Maple Place Book Fair begins

April 26: Sweet Heart Dance for girls in Grades Prek-6 and their special guys

May 6: Wolf Hill Book Fair begins

May 10: Tri District Dance for 7th & 8th graders in WLB, OP and MB school districts

June 9: Annual Wiffleball Tournament for Boys in Grades 1-8 and their baseball buddy

Registration for the Monmouth County Schools Partnership for Wellness Symposium is now open! This meaningful evening will take place at Brookdale Community College on April 15th beginning at 6PM. Featuring a keynote by Carli Bushoven of the Madison Holleran Foundation and breakout sessions curated for the needs of students (grades 6-8), parents and educators. The evening will conclude with a panel discussion by mental health experts and student leaders from around Monmouth County, discussing the importance of mental health and wellness. Additionally, nearly thirty local, County and State agencies will be in attendance providing meaningful resources on an array of topics. Please join us as we continue to work together to support the mental wellness of our communities! #BeYouBeWell

Registration Link: https://tinyurl.com/MCSPW2024