By Linda Boker-Angelo

Gloucester City School Board President Louisa Llewellyn told the NEWS she was thrilled by the improving scores posted by Gloucester City High 11^th graders in 2007-08.

She stopped by the office the day after last week’s Board of Education (BOE) meeting, pointing out that the students scored better in both Mathematics and Language Arts.

Some 78.4 percent of last year’s 11^th graders were either advanced or proficient in Math, compared to 67.8 percent in 2006-07, and 52.8 percent in 2002-03.

\”It is a remarkable turnaround,\” said Llewellyn, a former teacher in the school district, who said she was very proud of the students, teachers and staff at the High School.

In Language Arts, 86.2 percent of the students were either advanced or proficient, compared to 77.9 percent in 2006-07, and 69.5 percent in 2002-03.

By Leigh Anne

Hockenberry Hubbs

The Mount Ephraim Board of Education (BOE) announced during February’s meeting its approval of the pre-school plan and pre-school day care.

Both the before and after school programs will offer more options to parents.

Board members said 45 children were attending the Just Kids Program as of February 4, for grades K-6, from 7 a.m. until the start of school and from the time of dismissal until 6 p.m.

Also, Board members said the Police Department performed Critical Incident Training at the Kershaw Middle School on January 21 and February 4, and that this training will greatly aid the police in the event of a lock down situation.

$1000 Donation Helps Young Musicians

Mount Ephraim, NJ – February 19, 2009 – Surrounded by young music students from RW Kershaw School Jazz Band in Mt. Ephraim, director, Mary Manion, was smiling. \”This is a great day in the Music Department!\” she said. The students agreed. This year, the Mt. Ephraim P.T.O. made a generous donation of $1000 to the Music Department to help meet its equipment needs.

The administration and school board of Mt. Ephraim have a long tradition of special support for the district’s music program. This includes funding for regular performing ensembles such as the Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Choruses and the Garage Band. Mary Manion directs the instrumental program and Beth Egan directs the vocal music program. In addition to regular concerts, the music students are involved in many special projects throughout the year. \”More than 50% of the student body is involved in a regular performing ensemble. For a small K-8 district, we have a lot happening in music!\’ said Manion.

 PHOTO \”Mt. Ephraim Jazz Band and new PTO Equipment\”

The Mt. Ephraim P.T.O. donation allowed for the purchase of two replacement amplifiers, a snare drum, a \”DJ\” Mixer unit and a hi-hat stand. No sooner did the order arrive last week than the equipment was pressed into service for the district-wide talent show and the \”Jump Rope For Heart\” fundraiser.

The equipment is being used daily in instrumental classes and will benefit the entire school. \”We know how hard the parents work for every dollar they raise for the kids.\” Manion said. \”This equipment truly enhances our program and shows the commitment the parents have to our schools. We are grateful to the P.T.O.!\”