Hate Ends Now: The Cattle Car Exhibit
Amount Approved: $10,000 (Funding from multiple sources)
Grant Recipient: Kerry Marsala
School/Grade: Manalapan‑Englishtown Middle School (Grade 8)

This grant brings the Hate Ends Now Cattle Car Exhibit and original artifact collection to 8th-grade students in the Manalapan-Englishtown Regional School District, offering a meaningful learning experience that aligns with New Jersey’s Holocaust and Genocide Education Mandate (NJ 18A:35-28). Housed inside a life-sized replica of a World War II cattle car, the immersive multimedia exhibit guides students through the realities of the Holocaust, highlighting the moral consequences of hatred, antisemitism, and intolerance. Through survivor testimony, historical context, and authentic artifacts, students engage with the human impact of genocide in a way that goes beyond traditional classroom lessons.

More than just a history lesson, this program serves as moral education. The exhibit prompts students to consider their role in creating a more just and compassionate society—fostering empathy, critical thinking, and ethical choices during a crucial time in their growth. Supported by the Foundation for MERS, district leaders, generous donors, and grants, this initiative exemplifies how education can fight hate, honor memory, and motivate future generations to choose understanding over indifference.

“Sensing” Change: Climate Science Technology
Amount Approved: $8,463
Grant Recipient: Kerry Marsala
School/Grade: District-Wide (Grade 8 Science)

This grant equips 8^th-grade science classrooms with advanced Vernier pH and salinity sensors to enhance instruction in climate change and human impact on global systems. These tools allow students to collect precise, real-time data as they investigate ocean acidification, salinity shifts, and the effects of human activity on Earth’s systems.

By replacing simplified models with authentic scientific instruments, students engage in inquiry-based, data-driven learning aligned with state and national standards. The project builds critical analysis, computational thinking, and problem-solving skills while inspiring students to propose evidence-based solutions to real environmental challenges.

Guidance Office Flexible Learning Space
Amount Approved: $6,810
Grant Recipient: Jayme Orlando
School/Grade: Clark Mills School

This grant transforms the Clark Mills guidance office into a flexible, student-centered environment that supports social-emotional learning, collaboration, and small-group instruction. New furniture and adaptable seating create a calm, welcoming space where students feel comfortable engaging in counseling sessions, discussions, and problem-solving activities.

By investing in a thoughtfully designed space, this project enhances the guidance program’s ability to meet students’ diverse needs. The updated environment promotes focus, emotional regulation, and positive interactions, strengthening support services while fostering a culture of care and belonging within the school community.

WIN Bins for All
Amount Approved: $5,300
Grant Recipient: Sharon Hanson & Jessica Britton
School/Grade: K–5 District-Wide

This grant supports the creation of grade-level Critical Thinking Enrichment “WIN Bins” for K-5 students across the district. Each bin is filled with carefully selected, unplugged games and puzzles designed to strengthen logical reasoning, problem-solving, perseverance, and collaboration. Used during the WIN (What I Need) period, these resources provide meaningful enrichment that complements core instruction while remaining developmentally appropriate and accessible to all learners.

By ensuring each grade level shares a curated set of materials, the program promotes equity and consistency across schools. Teachers benefit from ready-to-use tools that require minimal preparation, while students gain engaging opportunities to think deeply, work collaboratively, and grow both academically and socially making WIN time more impactful for every child.

CMTV Studio Technology Upgrade
Amount Approved: $2,560
Grant Recipient: Simon Nortman
School/Grade:  Clark Mills School (Grades 1–5)

This grant modernizes the Clark Mills Television (CMTV) studio, transforming it from a non-live broadcast program into a high-definition, live production space. New equipment replaces outdated technology that previously limited student creativity and technical skill development, opening the door to authentic media production experiences.

The upgraded studio serves as a dynamic, interdisciplinary classroom where students build communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. As the school’s primary communication hub, CMTV connects the community, celebrates student achievements, and prepares learners with real-world technology and media skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Carnevale Mask Cultural Experience
Amount Approved: $2,452
Grant Recipient: Linda Schiano
School/Grade: Manalapan‑Englishtown Middle School (Grade 8)

This grant brings an immersive cultural experience to all 8^th-grade Italian students through the art of traditional Venetian Carnevale mask-making. Students explore the history and significance of Carnevale di Venezia before decorating authentic imported masks, allowing them to engage directly with Italian culture in a meaningful and memorable way.

Through this hands-on activity, students move beyond textbook learning to form a personal connection with global traditions. The experience enhances cultural awareness, creativity, and engagement while reinforcing language and social studies curriculum goals. This long-standing project remains a highlight for students and a powerful tool for cultural education.

Trauma Informed Regulation Tools and Spaces
Amount Approved: $2,300
Grant Recipient: Lia Camuto & Bridget Drury
School/Grade: Taylor Mills School (Grades K–5)

This grant supports the creation of trauma-informed regulation tools and calming spaces throughout Taylor Mills classrooms. In response to the growing number of students impacted by stress, anxiety, and trauma, these spaces provide safe, predictable environments where students can calm their bodies, manage emotions, and return to learning ready to engage. Sensory tools and flexible seating options allow students to meet individual regulation needs in healthy and appropriate ways.

By embedding trauma-informed practices into daily classroom routines, this initiative promotes emotional safety, resilience, and self-regulation. When students are supported in managing emotions and energy levels, they are better able to focus, build positive relationships, and succeed academically. This grant helps foster a school culture rooted in empathy, understanding, and long-term social-emotional growth.