Gillian McGrath, manager of The Loft, right, with a Cougar Prep graduate
MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Twenty-three teenagers and their parents gathered Thursday, July 28, at Columbia High School to graduate from Cougar Prep, a four-week high school readiness program for incoming freshmen. Cougar Prep is a collaboration between the South Orange-Maplewood School District and The Loft, managed by FAMILYConnections, preparing rising eighth-graders for the transition from middle school to high school.
“Cougar Prep is part of FAMILYConnections’ ongoing partnership with CHS to provide teens with academic and life skills support,” FAMILYConnections Executive Director Jacques Hryshko said in a press release. “Our graduates took part in morning academics with CHS teachers and life skills training and recreation sponsored by The Loft. We congratulate them for a job well done and wish them well as they begin their high school career.”
CHS Assistant Principal Terry Woolard congratulated students on their successful completion of the Cougar Prep program, reminding them that they will receive 1.25 high school credits for satisfying program requirements.
Cougar Prep delivers intensive academics paired with recreation and small group discussions on life skills, healthy decision making, anger management, goal-setting and consequences to actions. Presentations made by CHS administration, guidance and security, SOMSD in-house counsel Philip Stern, the Maplewood Police Department, the Sheriff’s Office and David’s Shoes focused on expectations, prevention related to alcohol and drugs, violence, gangs and good decision making.
This year participants completed a research project related to one of two topics: sports and society or environmental science. Students also had the opportunity to participate in additional arts and crafts activities in the afternoon, such as mini canvas paintings, planting and clay magnets.
The Loft at CHS is funded by the Department of Children and Families, Division of Family and Community Partnerships. Investors Bank provided funding for Cougar Prep.
For more information about The Loft, call 973-762-5600, ext. 1188.
Photos Courtesy of Nancy Wellbrock
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