Local schools, businesses ready for back to school

 Camp Excel Camp Excel Camp Excel is renowned for its summer program that enriches and enhances the lives of children with social skill challenges. But the benefits of Camp Excel are not just limited to the summer months. Now children can Excel all year long! The three-hour program includes a social skills group with a master’s level therapist and an additional two hours of fun activities.An all-adult, trained staff provides guidance in using those skills throughout the day, giving children the opportunity to experience in-the-moment learning that stays with them. Social Skills Saturday programs are offered throughout the school year for children ages 5 to 17 with ADHD,Asperger’s and social skills challenges.Three nine-week sessions beginning in September, January, and March make Camp Excel available year-round (now enrolling for session beginning Sept. 28).Activities at Camp Excel’s Saturday program include group discussion, sports, art, special events, trips, interactive games and more.Transportation is available from central pick-up points at an additional fee. Group sessions may be covered by health insurance. For more information, visit www.CampExcel.com or call 877-865-9333.

 Center Stage Center Stage Center Stage has been at the forefront of dance and theater education in central New Jersey for the last 37 years.The dance department offers classes in jazz, hip hop, classical ballet, tap and lyrical/ contemporary. The theater department includes instruction in action, musical theater and vocal performance. Preschool classes are offered for children as young as 2 with My First Steps, leading to Curtain Up for 3- and 4-year-olds, and Princess Ballerina for 4- and 5-year-olds.This year, Center Stage company dancers became national dance champions at the Dancers, Inc. competition in Hershey Park. Owner George Warren says,“Our faculty is accomplished and nurturing and we always stress excellent technique with the greatest amount of enjoyment.” Center Stage alumni have appeared in almost 40 Broadway shows and national and international tours, as well as appearing on television, in commercials, ballet and modern dance companies, and professional sports dance/cheer teams. Center Stage is not taking September registrations. Center Stage is located at 1610 Route 35 south in Ocean (732-695-6400) and 1240 Campus Drive West, Marlboro (732-972- 1116).

 Colts Neck Dance & Performing Arts Academy Colts Neck Dance & Performing Arts Academy Colts Neck Dance & Performing Arts Academy has been educating students in dance and the performing arts of Monmouth and Ocean counties for more than 19 years.The professional teachers are committed to help build confidence in your child while they reach and achieve their dreams and personal goals.They offer recreational and competitive dance classes for all students.They are growing their programs to better serve the community.Visit the website regularly to see the new and upcoming classes, including precompetitive dance classes in tap and jazz. There are musical theater classes for acting, vocal and preparing for auditions for college and beyond, taught by performing artists from touring and Broadway companies. In cheer dance the students learn sharp choreography, jumps and expression by a previous cheerleader/coach.The Irish step dancing class is taught by Fitzsimmons School of Irish Dance for students of all ages.This fall they will present Colts Neck Dance alumni Miss Stephanie Klemons, as she will be offering an intensive master class and will offer advise about getting into the biz.As co-dance captain for In The Heights on Broadway, and with her numerous accomplishments since graduating from Rutgers with a double major in modern dance and genetics and microbio research, Colts Neck Dance is pleased to offer this opportunity to the community and interested students.The dancers are involved in high school dance programs, dance and cheer teams, dance companies, local theater and holiday Nutcracker venues. Many students are chosen to participate in many of the summer programs in the tri-state area. Some dancers are fortunate to have been awarded partial financial scholarships when being accepted into their college and dance programs. Many alumni have gone on to dance professionally for dance companies, touring groups and perform on Broadway.Ask about the 10-week Broadway Intensive; all students will have head shots taken and résumés created, and will prepare an audition and monologue, and they will perform in a showcase and be presented to talent professionals. There are two convenient locations: Morello Plaza, 410 Route 34 south, and Colts Neck Shopping Center, 420 Route 34 south, both in Colts Neck.The studios are well-equipped with two-way glass for viewing, sprung hardwood flooring, professional sound system, and theatrical lighting. For more information, call 732-866-3930. Visit www.coltsneckdance.com for the date of the next open house.

 Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Learning Center Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Learning Center  Dr. Helene Zimnes Dr. Helene Zimnes  Count Basie Theatre Count Basie Theatre Count Basie Theatre is a leader in arts education. Participation in a theater arts program, dancing, singing, being in a play, and playing a mu sical instrument are all worthwhile and fun activities. But recent scientific evidence shows that there are even greater benefits people glean from consistent immersion in the arts.Arts exposure produces the most dramatic and life-changing results. Among the numerous, measurable benefits are an increased appreciation of learning; enhanced creativity and problem solving skills; ability to work collaboratively; and greater cultural awareness. Goal-setting and follow-through skills, along with greater self-discipline and focus, are additional bonuses.There is also an abounding volume of evidence touting the arts’ ability to impact human beings on a neurological level.These findings continue to validate the Count Basie Theatre’s commitment to performing arts and educational programming. Count Basie Theatre is located at 99 Monmouth St. in Red Bank. For more information, call 732-224-8778.

 L.A. Dance Center of the Arts L.A. Dance Center of the Arts The dental office of Dr. Helene Zimnes provides comprehensive general, cosmetic and family dentistry for all ages. She provides gentle, high quality dental care in a relaxed environment and has the reputation in Eatontown as warm, friendly and professional.The office is equipped with digital x-rays to significantly reduce patients’ exposure to radiation, and an intra oral camera to give each patient an educational tour of their mouth. Oral cancer and periodontal screenings are offered at every checkup. Dr. Zimnes also offers tooth colored fillings, metal free crowns, veneers, Zoom whitening, implant restorations, bridges plus, full and partial dentures. Dr. Helene Zimnes is a graduate of The College of New Jersey and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Her office is located at 15 White St. in Eatontown. For more information, call 732-542-0034 or visit www.eatontowndentist.com.

 Learning Tree Preschool Learning Tree Preschool Learning is paired with enjoyment and Jewish values at Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Learning Center in Rumson.The New Jersey state-certified teachers incorporate all of the learning areas into a center-based curriculum while giving children a strong foundation for their Jewish lives.The highlight of the week is Friday when the classes celebrate Shabbat as a community.The comprehensive program features technology time, music appreciation, and physical education with a certified instructor who makes great use of the full-size gymnasium.The after-school enrichment program is a favorite of the children and parents. Gan Yeladim offers after-school enrichment classes including karate, dance, Spanish and baking.The fun continues with the summer program, Camp Keshet. Each day throughout seven weeks is packed with fun-filled activities incorporated into exciting weekly themes.The children enjoy treas ure hunts during Adventure Week and create colorful tie-dye projects during Wild and Wacky Week. Every day brings new experiences for the 2-5 year olds. Summer days include both indoor and outdoor activities with age-appropriate play and special events. Campers enjoy specials such as music, sports, arts and crafts, nature and Judaica and Israeli culture. For more information, contact Suzanne Wycoff at 732-842-1800, ext.209 or at suzanne.ganyeladim@cbirumson.org.

 Rumson Country Day School Rumson Country Day School  Ranney School Ranney School L.A. Dance Center of the Arts, located in Lincroft, is more than just a dance studio.When your child has dance in their life, it will stay with them forever. It gives them the confidence to handle all challenges that come as they grow. Dancing is a great way for people of all ages to have fun and stay in shape. Because dance is a social activity, it leads to high self-esteem and a positive outlook. It builds self-confidence as well as social skills. Dancing also has many health benefits, including increasing in your flexibility, strength and endurance. L.A. Dance takes dancers beginning at the age of 2 ½.The young children take classes in tap and creative movement. Children in kindergarten through high school can take recreational combo classes where they can experience two styles of dance in one class. Offerings include ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and hip hop.There are also hip hop classes for boys ages 5-10.There are competition company classes for children ages 5-18.These children participate in many dance competitions and perform for the community.They have won many awards in national competitions, including best choreography, best technique and top studio. At the annual recital, held at Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, the students enjoy the experience of performing on a stage and receiving participation trophies. L.A. Dance offers quality dance education in a fun, safe and nurturing environment.The friendly staff is dedicated to you and your child. The studio has been newly renovated and will have an open house registration on Aug. 19, 21, 26, 28 and Sept. 4 and 5, from 4-8 p.m.The first day of classes is Sept. 9. For more information, call 732- 219-7778 or visit www.ladancenynj.com.

 Tab Ramos Indoor Sports Center Tab Ramos Indoor Sports Center  Seashore School Seashore School Be a part of your child’s learning in the heart of Red Bank, at Learning Tree Preschool. Parents will spend many years cheering from the sidelines rather than taking active roles in their child’s education. However, when you choose a cooperative preschool you have a chance to stay in the game. In a cooperative, parents rotate assisting in the classroom and share the journey. Learning Tree Preschool offers cooperative programs for children from 2 to 5 years of age.“Children at Learning Tree are encouraged to learn by doing,” says Director Kara Crespo.“Students experience the fun of learning by participating in activities designed to stimulate growth in a wide range of areas, including social and cognitive development and gross and fine motor skills.” By choosing Learning Tree, families are hands on with their children as they participate in a curriculum planned by creative and dedicated professionals. “Learning Tree Preschool allows your child to experience school with the security of having someone familiar there to make the adjustment easier. Academically I’ve been impressed with the techniques used to make learning fun,” says Jen P. of Red Bank.“I will always cherish having shared this unique experience with my children.”To learning more, contact Kara Crespo, director, at 732- 530- 5441.

At Ranney School, the mission-promise that every child will be known and valued drives student success. Founded in 1960 and located on a picturesque 60-acre campus in Tinton Falls, Ranney School is more than an exceptional co-educational day school, it’s a home away from home for 820 students, a place where young minds are nurtured and essential skills are mastered. It is where children establish a love for learning starting at age 3 and a passion for exploring the world around them that lasts well beyond high school graduation. Ranney’s small class sizes and inspirational and caring faculty are all part of a distinctive academic community that is personalized and values each child’s individuality, academic and co-curricular interests. Expansive, modern classrooms, a 400-seat performing arts hall and world-class athletic facilities — including a track and field, tennis courts, two gyms, and a 25-meter indoor pool — provide each student with ample opportunity to discover their passions.A rigorous, college preparatory, liberal arts program challenges and prepares students for success. For 53 years, the school’s motto of knowledge, vision and honor have been the school’s guiding principles. Ranney’s teaching philosophy encourages students from beginners (age 3) through grade 12 to become independent, respectful and responsible citizens of the world. Ranney graduates attend the nation’s most selective colleges and universities and more than 80 percent are accepted at their first or second choice. Nearly half of the graduating class of 2013 are affectionately called lifers, a title shared by students who began their educational experience with Ranney in the Lower School and continued at the school for 10 years or more.Want to learn more? The website is a terrific place to start, or better yet, contact the admissions office to experience the energy of the students and faculty by visiting the school in person. Ranney is located about an hour’s drive from New York City and from Princeton.Apply now for your child’s future.Visit www.ranneyschool.org.

Guided by a mission and environment that embraces both its history and its future, the Rumson Country Day School (RCDS) is a community that specializes in educating children from nursery through eighth grade.The school has a caring environment where passion for learning abounds and strong connections form between students and faculty.Always encouraged to try new experiences, RCDS students receive tremendous support from their teachers and classmates. As advisors and coaches, the adults inspire intellectual curiosity, accountability and compassion for others.At this special time in a child’s development, they believe that placing your child in a family environment dedicated to recognizing strengths, nurturing skills and communicating with confidence is the greatest gift you can give. Strong academics, athletics, arts and technology are foundational to the program, giving students confidence and the ability to use their considerable intellect and drive for the greater good. Kind, honest, responsible and respectful are four qualities of character that serve as essential cornerstones of the RCDS experience.These character traits, combined with performance characteristics such as resilience, teamwork and creativity, are reinforced throughout campus life to create a wellbalanced learning environment.Above all, they want the students to view RCDS as a second home. Rumson Country Day School is located at 35 Bellevue Ave., Rumson. For more information, call 732-842-0527 or visit www.rcds.com.

If you want your child to be happy, challenged and ahead of the game, The Seashore School is the place to be. For 40 years, Seashore has been making learning fun and helping children develop the skills needed to excel academically, athletically and socially. From preschool through eighth grade, students take foreign language, science, computers, physical education and swim lessons, plus specialized training in drama, dance, music and art. Since there are small class sizes and a family environment, children feel a strong sense of belonging and form friendships that last a lifetime.The approach to education is so successful, students typically perform a grade above their peers, score in the top percentile in standardized exams, are recognized nationally for achievement, take first place in academic competitions, won 2011 and 2012 silver medals from Columbia University Scholastic Press Association, and are accepted to top schools including High Tech High School,Allied, Biotechnology, Communications, Marine Academy of Science and Technology, and Christian Brothers Academy. In addition, Seashore provides free door-to-door transportation, childcare from 7:30-9 a.m. for parents who work early, extended care until 6 p.m., and affordable payment plans. Don’t miss the Preschool and Pre-K Preview Aug. 24 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For directions, call 732-222-6464, visit www.seashorecampandschool.com or check Facebook.

Tab Ramos Indoor Sports Center, located at 17 Blair Road in Aberdeen, was established in August of 2003.Tab Ramos is a National Soccer Hall of Fame Player and calls the sports center home.The sports center is an indoor, climate-controlled facility with 46,000 square feet of sports fun, boasting a 165-foot by 105-foot state-of-the-art turf field, a 165-foot by 80-foot multi-sport arena, a newlyrenovated3v3battingcageareawhichis approximately 65 feet by 30 feet, snack bar, adult lounge with upstairs viewing area, and a new expanded multi-purpose room.The sports center offers various youth and adult leagues including soccer, roller hockey, flag football, basketball, dodge ball, lacrosse and women’s deck hockey. The youth classes and clinics run all year long. They offer soccer, learn to play basketball, learn to skate, roller hockey, flag football, lacrosse and multi-sports classes for ages 2-14.There is also a summer camp and school break camps.Adult and youth birthday parties are their specialty; they customize any party toward your needs. Rentals are available for sports teams, individuals, organizations, schools and organizations.Visit www.tabramossportscenter.com for more information. Celebrate Tab Ramos’ 10th year on Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.There will be lots of fun for all ages, prizes, giveaways, food and drinks and many more surprises throughout the day.

Trinity Hall, an independent, all-girls high school in the Catholic tradition, will open its doors in fall 2013 to students from 23 towns in Monmouth County.The school is located at 900 Leonardville Road in Middletown Township.Trinity Hall students will experience educational programs developed just for girls. The school provides small classes in a range of courses, from engineering, physics and advanced mathematics, to interdisciplinary courses in the humanities.A full fine arts selection will be offered to the student body.The leadership class will accommodate at least two interscholastic sports programs each season, beginning with junior varsity teams. In a technology-rich learning environment and a challenging interdisciplinary curricular program,Trinity Hall’s faculty will foster leadership, respect, perseverance and faith.Trinity Hall will host Open House events at the school Oct. 5, 9:30 a.m., and Nov. 2, 9:30 a.m. Open Houses will include campus tours and the opportunity to meet students and teachers.Applications for the 2014/2015 school year are available online now at www.TrinityHallNJ. org.