In a rush and can't read the article? Just play the audio file above to listen instead.
Ensuring that students thrive at every stage of their education is critical for providing them with successful choices after they complete their K-12 schooling. This focus on strong growth across all years of learning is crucial for building their futures, especially as career planning increasingly extends beyond the traditional college route.
Garfield High School once offered three distinct paths for students: General, Business, and College. However, this system had its flaws, notably the difficulty students faced in changing paths once they were placed. The push for college education became particularly strong during the Vietnam War era, with many believing that every child should be prepared for college. Back then, tuition was affordable, and students could work and save enough to pay for college year by year without incurring debt. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. College costs have skyrocketed, even at state schools. For example, when my daughter was born, Harvard was the third most expensive college at $14,700 per year. Today, it costs $79,450 per year. Never did I imagine needing to save an extraordinary amount of money to send my children to college. The reality hit hard when my son’s tuition at Pennsylvania State University exceeded $100,000 for four years. College is now under scrutiny as students weigh whether it is a wise investment, especially since many entry-level jobs pay low wages and take years to reach a livable income. Today's generation faces the burden of college loans, potential mortgages, and childcare costs, all on an often unsustainable income.
One way to alleviate this financial strain is through the Early College Program with Bergen Community College (BCC), which I helped establish during my tenure as an administrator. This program allows students to earn an associate degree even before they graduate from high school. Many GHS teachers, certified in their subject areas, have become adjunct professors, offering courses at a significantly reduced cost. Students eligible for free or reduced lunch only pay a nominal registration fee each year, slightly more than $15. The inaugural class had six students, and this past year, nineteen graduated with the degree. By completing two years of college while still in high school, students can reduce their future education expenses significantly. Additionally, students who aren't formally in the program can still take the courses and apply for credit once they meet BCC's requirements. Continued support for this program is essential, and we must recognize both the students and the teachers who obtained advanced degrees to make this possible. These efforts have not only enhanced students' skills but have also made higher education more affordable.
Students today are exploring career options that don't require them to accumulate substantial debt. Vocational alternatives often offer higher starting salaries, and the New Jersey Department of Education has recognized this by introducing Career and Technical Education (CTE) certifications. To offer a CTE program, a teacher must have the appropriate certification.
Garfield High School was once the pride of Bergen County, with a wide range of course offerings that allowed students to explore various fields. These included cooking, sewing, auto/small engine repair, printing, mechanical drawing, EMT training, and television production. However, most of these programs have been discontinued, with students being sent to Bergen County Technical School instead. The loss of these opportunities limits students' ability to explore and develop their interests. Given the high cost of post-secondary education, it’s vital to offer a variety of programs at the high school level so students can make informed decisions before they graduate.
Some of the discontinued programs could be reinstated at GHS without placing a heavy financial burden on taxpayers. For example, there is a current CTE program in technical drawing, utilizing the existing woodshop, would pave the way for a CTE program in construction. Students could gain hands-on experience by participating with projects within the city, with supplies covered by the projects themselves. This would provide students with valuable skills while benefiting the community. However, it is crucial to ensure that students are properly supervised and that appropriate insurance is in place to protect them.
Reviving the EMT program could also set students on a path toward health careers. Hackensack Meridian Medical Center (HUMC) already partners with the district, so there may be opportunities for them to support this program. Having students trained as EMTs would benefit the district by providing health cadets/youth members at school activities.
Expanding programs could also involve using resources within the district. For example, high school students could take courses in the middle school’s cooking lab or greenhouse, with their remaining classes scheduled at the high school.
We also lost the full GTV program, which once had a fully operational TV studio offering CTE courses. As equipment became outdated and support dwindled, the full CTE program was phased out. However, it has the potential to not only teach TV production but also strengthen students’ language arts skills through broadcast journalism and public speaking. Additionally, the program could fulfill Garfield’s broadcasting needs, as it once did.
Another area to consider is childcare. Courses could be established where students learn about childcare while providing daycare services. This could be beneficial for students who are parents, as well as teachers with young children, by reducing stress and financial strain.
Whatever programs are chosen for the future, it is essential to conduct thorough research before making decisions. New programs place significant stress on those involved, and proper support is necessary to ensure their success. During the implementation of the Early College Program, I worked many evenings to get everything in place. Most educators already work beyond the school day, and adding more responsibilities without adequate support could harm morale.
For senior citizens and younger families moving into the community, tax burdens must be carefully considered. Seniors are on fixed incomes, and young families are often burdened with mortgages, childcare costs, and student loans.
As a retiree on a fixed income, I am committed to researching ways to minimize costs for the community. If elected, I will thoroughly investigate the financial impacts of any decisions before moving forward.
To view the description of the Early College Program offered at Garfield High School, click on the download above.
Career and Technical Educations (CTE) Teachers Certification https://www.nj.gov/education/certification/cte/
About Career and Technical Education https://careertechnj.org/about-career-technical-education/