To the Editor:
This is the time of the year to give thanks for what one possesses. There is plenty to be thankful for with the school system located in Bayonne. This is an indisputable fact. Let me explain:
Achievement: Early Childhood Education was expanded with the state funding. Grammar school students surpassed state mandated scores.BHS students were exposed to a challenging curriculum leading to acceptance to prestigious universities, increasing number of Advanced Placement scholars, and earning millions in scholarships. No public/private/charter school had comparable results.
Innovation: “Art/music” students can select ever-increasing electives. Vocational students can select a variety of shop classes. “Business” students can directly experience the world-of-work. Science/Technology/Engineering/Math (STEM) students can enroll in college level courses. All exemplifies a comprehensive education.
Dedication: This refers to faculty members. Despite negative/erroneous stories in another newspaper, some 95 percent of the student body enter school/attend classes. They are met by professionals, who willingly accept the enormous responsibility to prepare students for the future. These young and not so young teachers had devoted four or more years preparing to meet the needs of each individual pupil.
We know that “the key to success is education.” Therefore, it would be quite ridiculous to ignore/overlook/underestimate the role of educators. Yet the request for a fair contract over the past four years is met by the Board of Empty (aka BOE) with silence and a look of “what” on their faces. Or did I miss something?
CHARLES NUZIALE
Guidance Counselor