Aug. 5, 2024-- Last week, incoming fifth-grade students from the district’s 12 elementary schools were invited to participate in Toms River Regional Schools’ seventh annual Peer Leadership Program.

This week-long program was held at Beachwood Elementary and focused on enhancing students’ leadership skills with a focus on self-care, empathy, kindness, acceptance of others, and ability to communicate. The camp serves as an opportunity to extend and build upon the various social and emotional offerings already embedded within the elementary schools’ curriculum and daily practices.

The program features team-building activities, keynote speeches from community members and leaders-- including Superintendent Michael Citta (right)-- problem-solving challenges, and opportunities for self-reflection.

“While our ultimate goal remains the same, one of my favorite things about this program is how each year it looks a little bit different,” said Jim Klass who, in addition to his role as supervisor of instruction at Beachwood, helps lead the summer program. “Seeing students from every one of our elementary schools interact with one another and learn such valuable leadership skills throughout the week is nothing short of incredible. Our facilitators are passionate and dedicated teachers from across the district who truly make the program come alive!”

This fantastic opportunity was made possible through funding from the Toms River Municipal Alliance. This year’s facilitators included Ms. Okuniewicz (South Toms River), Mrs. Cameron (Beachwood), Ms. Francis (Pine Beach), Mrs. Smith (West Dover), and Mrs. Hanson (Cedar Grove).

Partnerships included RWJBarnabas Health, Toms River Regional Schools Food Services Department, JBJ Soul Kitchen, Dementia Living Solutions, LeadU, and other health and wellness professionals from throughout the area. This exceptional group of students will serve as leaders in various capacities within their home schools throughout the 2024-2025 school year.