June 5, 2024-- Intermediate North teachers Katie Keller and Kristin Renkin (right) hosted the first “Be Future Ready” event at Intermediate North Monday evening.

The focus of the affair-- funded by the Rutgers SNAP Gap grant-- was promoting college and career awareness for secondary students and their families, as well as to provide families with information and eligibility requirements for the New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (NJ SNAP).

On hand to promote future readiness were students from High School South's Business Academy, High School East's STEAM Academy, High School North's NorthSTAR CTE program, and the district Junior ROTC program. Community representatives from Fulfill Foodbank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, Rutgers Family & Community Health Services, and Ocean County College came prepared with career-focused information and resources.

The evening opened with a performance by Intermediate North's orchestra, which played beautifully as guests arrived and which also accompanied JROTC cadets leading the Pledge of Allegiance. High school students led a presentation for middle schoolers, acting out a day in the life of a high school student, and the evening concluded with performances by the Hispanic Heritage Clubs from East, North and South.

Joining parents and families were teachers and staff members from all six secondary schools, as well as district administrators, which applauded all who participated and organized the event for making it a success.

Visit the NJ SNAP website for more information about eligibility.