September 2022: Our State of Education | New Jersey Monthly

September 2022: Our State of Education

More than two years into the pandemic, New Jersey schools are still facing challenges. Yet, heading into the 2022-2023 academic year, many districts are embracing those struggles as learning opportunities, using the knowledge gained during difficult months to create and enhance forward-thinking programs and course offerings.

Our education issue delves into school districts’ increased mental health efforts—plus other hot topics, unique programs and classes in K-12 and higher education across the state, and the reverberating success following Saint Peter’s University’s miraculous NCAA Tournament run.

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GARDEN VARIETY

A man playing Ping-Pong

Playing Ping-Pong May Help Parkinson’s Sufferers

How PingPongParkinson, a nonprofit founded by musician Nenad Bach, is benefiting New Jerseyans with the disease at its River Edge location.

Peach-colored vase holding sprawling, colorful floral arrangement

Intense Gardening Workshop to Feature Leading Experts, Designers

Spots are still available for the Sustainable Flowers Project workshop—a three-day study at the world-class Jardin de Buis in Hunterdon County.

Manasquan High School surfer rides a wave

Jersey Shore High Schools Dominate Surf Competitions

The Garden State has grown to feature one of the most comprehensive and organized high school surf networks of any state on the East Coast.

Governor Murphy signs legislation on licensing

NJ Police Must Now Be Licensed

All law enforcement officers in the state are required to pass periodic professional and psychological training classes every three years.

Rahway Woodworker Elevates Everyday Items

Justin Bailey’s hand-hewn utilitarian goods don’t blend into the woodwork.

Designer Cara Brown models her custom necklace and tweed jacket in a field

How This Hopewell Township Designer Creates Instant Heirlooms

Cara Brown built a legacy of bespoke fashion by repurposing found objects.

Sonia Michaluk

Award-Winning Teen Spends Her Time Protecting New Jersey’s Waterways

Student scientist Sonia Michaluk discovered her passion at a young age while volunteering at Ridgeview Conservancy, a Princeton nonprofit.

College student studying from home in his room

How Higher Education Has Changed Forever

NJ schools can never go back to the way things were before the pandemic.

FEATURES

Nate Burleson on 'CBS Mornings'

At CBS, Nate Burleson Fulfills a Dream That’s Bigger Than Football

New Jersey resident Nate Burleson spent 11 years in the NFL. Now he’s enjoying a meteoric broadcasting career that’s transcended sports.

Dupré Kelly

Newark Rapper Turned Councilman Dupré Kelly Eager to ‘Govern Where I Grew’

Dupré Kelly rose to fame as a rapper with Lords of the Underground. Now he represents his home, Newark’s West Ward.

Director Kevin Smith in his comic book shop, Jay and Silent Bob's Secret Stash, in Red Bank

‘Clerks’ Director Kevin Smith Returns to a Jersey Shore State of Mind

The Red Bank native proves the Garden State is not just a quick stop. He’s back to launch a film house and reboot his cult-classic film.

Girl writing on chalkboard

Our State of Education: How New Jersey Schools and Students Are Faring

As we head into the 2022–2023 academic year, many districts are embracing innovations in learning and mental health.

Illustration of graduation cap with colorful butterflies

These Unique Programs and Courses Engage NJ Students of All Ages

Highlights range from Centenary University’s brand-new Master’s in Happiness Studies to Lodi High School’s biomedical lab that mimics a real hospital.

NJ's acting education commissioner Angelica Allen-McMillan interacts with young students

NJ’s Acting Education Commissioner Talks Teacher Shortages, Safety and Mental Health

A conversation with Angelica Allen-McMillan on educating students in challenging times.

Illustration showing small colleges riding waves

Small Colleges Are Struggling. Will They Survive?

Small private colleges and universities in New Jersey—and around the nation—are facing reduced resources and other challenges in a changing landscape.

Teik Lim, the new president of NJIT in Newark

Meet Teik Lim, NJIT’s First President of Color

The ninth leader of New Jersey Institute of Technology talks about enduring racism, prioritizing inclusion and adapting to the digital revolution.

Saint Peter's

Saint Peter’s Still Reaping Rewards of Miraculous NCAA Tournament Run

Saint Peter’s, a tiny commuter university in Jersey City, shocked the basketball world in March. The school has continued to benefit far beyond the court.

Illustration of John and Joyce Sheridan

Reopened Investigation Into Deaths of GOP Insider and His Wife Captivates New Jersey

What secrets might ooze out as investigators take another look at the 2014 deaths of John and Joyce Sheridan?

HOME & GARDEN

Exterior of Cold Brook Farm in Hunterdon County showcases solar panels on roof

How This Hunterdon County Couple Created a Super-Sustainable Home

The DeSalvos embarked on a multiyear journey to design and build Cold Brook Farm, an energy-efficient homestead with a minimal carbon footprint.

EAT & DRINK

Patrons dine in Canal House Station in Milford, in what used to be the train station's waiting room

Restaurant Review: Rustic Elegance at Milford’s Canal House Station

Old friends Christopher Hersheimer and Melissa Hamilton endow classic American food with fresh appeal.

John Diakakis, the blind waiter and manager behind the Bendix Diner in Hasbrouck Heights

Meet the Blind Waiter Behind the Bendix Diner

John Diakakis manages the homey—and lovably homely—eatery in Hasbrouck Heights, which turns 75 this year.

Pizza at Alberto’s Restaurant & Pizzeria in Belleville

Alberto’s Restaurant & Pizzeria Pays Tribute to Owners’ Native Argentina

This Belleville pizzeria serves traditional Argentinian cuisine alongside classic American staples.

A soft pretzel with several glasses of different beers at Alternate Ending Beer Co. in Aberdeen

Movie Theater–Turned–Brewery Remains a Cinephile’s Paradise

Alternate Ending Beer Co. in Aberdeen boasts film references and movie nights alongside classic bar fare and an extensive tap list.

Crab legs and corn at Blue Claw Crab Eatery

Blue Claw Crab Eatery Boasts Generously Portioned Seafood Feasts

The long-running Burlington restaurant sources its crabs daily.

Cockburn's port bottle and cocktail

Port Is More Than Just a One-Trick Pony

Often relegated to the dessert section of a drinks menu, this fortified wine is expanding its identity.

EXIT RAMP

Photo of a painting-sculpture hybrid portrait of Bruce Springsteen

20 Years Later, Bruce Springsteen’s ‘The Rising’ Is Worth Revisiting on 9/11

Opinion: Springsteen’s 2002 album feels like a fuller reflection on September 11 and its aftermath than the annual services we’ve become accustomed to.