MAPLEWOOD/SOUTH ORANGE — Thirty-nine teens and their parents gathered Thursday, July 30, at Columbia High School for the Cougar Prep graduation. Cougar Prep is four-week high school readiness program for incoming freshmen; the collaboration between the South Orange-Maplewood School District and The Loft, managed by FAMILYConnections, prepares 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 release. “This was a great year with a great group of kids. They took part in morning academics with CHS teachers and life skills training and recreation sponsored by The Loft. We congratulate each of them on their hard work and wish them well as they begin their freshman year.”
CHS Principal Elizabeth Aaron and Assistant Principal Michael Healy congratulated students on their successful completion of the Cougar Prep program, reminding them that they have received 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 by CHS administration, guidance and security, the Maplewood Police Department, the Sheriff’s Office, David’s Shoes and FAMILYConnections’ Clean and Cool Program focused on expectations, alcohol and drugs, violence, gangs, and good decision making.
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.