Principal Al Perno and Vice Principal Wendy Ogart are ready for a great year.
By: Brook Olster
JAMESBURG John F. Kennedy Elementary School will be under new leadership starting this fall.
And, the new leaders, teachers and staff are busy preparing for the students’ return Wednesday.
Former Vice Principal Al Perno will serve the Jamesburg School District in a new capacity principal. He was vice principal for one year. In addition, Wendy Ogart of Tinton Falls is new to the district and will serve as vice principal at JFK.
"I relish the opportunity to keep the school moving in a positive direction," said Mr. Perno, who said a new administration will bring a "freshness" to the school.
Prior to become vice principal, Mr. Perno taught second and fourth grade for four years.
Mr. Perno said he is planning to focus on the new curriculum put in place two years ago. This includes the early childhood portfolio now expanded to the third grade which tracks a student’s academic development over a four-year period. Mr. Perno said the portfolio has been successful and teachers have enjoyed the flexibility it brings.
Another area of focus will be preparing students for state assessments, Mr. Perno said.
Other new additions to the plans for the upcoming year include bringing together concepts from several classes and conducting a cultural study under the supervision of the Spanish teacher. In addition, computer teachers will work with other teachers in assisting students to use the Internet and computer programs in their classroom work.
A teacher orientation will be held for new teachers on Aug. 26. JFK will have seven new teachers joining the staff this fall.
Eager children found out last week which teachers they will have this year, something many young students have been waiting for all summer.
Mr. Perno said he is grateful, as he is every year, to Costco for donating backpacks full of school supplies for every student. He said their contribution makes it possible for poor children to have the basic school supplies that other students have.
Ms. Ogart took office Aug. 11 and has attempted to absorb as much as possible about JFK and Jamesburg schools ever since. Her background includes teaching in Asbury Park schools for 14 years and serving as assistant principal at Millstone Elementary School for two years. She has her master’s degree in reading specialist and education administration from Georgian Court College in Lakewood.
She grew up in Bradley Beach.
"I think Mr. Perno and I will make a great team together," Ms. Ogart said. "Most of all, I’m looking forward to becoming part of this community getting to know parents, students and teachers."
Ms. Ogart also said she enjoys the "small town" atmosphere that exists in Jamesburg.
"Everyone here wants to contribute to the kids’ education," she said. "It’s important to realize everyone is valuable in this town."