Toms River, NJ – The successful Project SPEAR-IT, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at High School South, will soon have a counterpart at High School North, thanks to a three-year extension of the Youth Career Pathways grant from the United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties (UWMOC). The new program, named NorthStar, is set to launch for the 2023-2024 school year and has already begun preparations, including curriculum development, ordering supplies, and setting up the workspace.
SPEAR-IT, led by teacher Tim O’Leary, has been one of the most popular courses at High School South since its inception in 2018. The program offers students hands-on learning experiences such as basic electrical work, carpentry, and various refurbishing projects. The impact SPEAR-IT had on students prompted UWMOC to approve the extension and expansion of the grant.
Brian Ainley will lead the NorthStar program, and efforts are underway to integrate the curriculum into the course guide, secure equipment, and prepare the classroom. Classroom E-02 is already stocked with new supplies and 3-D printers, offering abundant space for hands-on learning activities.
High School North Principal Ed Keller expressed his enthusiasm for the program. “Seeing this program thrive at High School South, I couldn’t help but think, I want that here,” said Keller. “NorthStar will not only expand our students’ career visions but also help them develop practical, everyday skills that will be useful in any academic or career path they choose to pursue.”