News & Events
Student Returns to Share Successes
February 07, 2008
On Thursday, February 7, 2008, a tall and handsome young man stood before the administrative staff at the New Road School of Parlin. For a fleeting moment there was a gasp from our director, Annette Hockenjos, and second looks from others. Michael R., now 17 years old, returned to visit the school.
Michael entered New Road School when he was just 7 years old, facing many social and academic challenges. Ms. Morales, Ms. Manger and Ms. Engel are a few of the teachers Michael had during his seven year stay. In 2004, at 14 years old, Michael had moved to South Jersey and was placed in another private school. We were all sad to see him leave.
Now, standing at 6’3" tall, sporting a varsity football letterman jacket from Pinelands High School, Michael will be graduating this June, 2008. Michael stated that “playing wide receiver for Pinelands and working with the coach had changed his focus on life a lot." Michael’s mom also stated that he has grown up a great deal and has learned to handle tough situations in a much better way. As wide receiver, Michael is nick-named “Large Marge” by his teammates!
In addition for playing for the Pinelands Wildcats, Michael is focused on his graduation and attending Ocean County College in the fall. Once he receives his college credits from OCC, he will be able to choose whether or not he wants to attend Rowan University or Farleigh Dickinson. Although Michael is still undecided upon his major area of study, he feels honored that he will have such a fantastic choice in colleges.
When asked what was the most memorable part of his stay with us here at New Road he said “sewing with Mrs. Pollak during clubs." Michael said he was always on “red level” for his behavior and his club was always sewing. Strangely enough, he enjoyed his time with Mrs. Pollak and the quilt he was working on was finally completed by other students just this passed year!
Michael will be studying for his drivers license soon although he says he is in no hurry.
Michael now knows that with the proper goals, structure and direction, he could accomplish anything.
