College Prep Guide | South Jersey | March 2024

College Prep Guide

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Spring into Bridge! The Burlington County Farmers Market

Spring is a season for new beginnings and so the perfect time to immerse yourself in a new hobby that’s fun, social, and challenging – bridge!

Game Friendzy in Cherry Hill is offering two beginner’s bridge courses starting in March for those new to the game or anyone looking for a refresher.

The Introduction to Bridge course will run for nine Thursdays, March 12-May 7, 9:30-11:30 am, at Game Friendzy, 7 Carnegie Plaza, near the intersection of Springdale & Church roads.

A second course, Introduction to Bridge Plus – Bidding and Playing Practice, will be taught online on nine Mondays, 6-7:30 pm, March 25May 20.

The fee for each course is $109 per participant, or $20/ session, which includes instruction, hands-on partici-

pation, and free parking, coffee, tea, and light snacks (for the in-person course).

Register by calling 856-795PLAY (5729) or emaiing info@ gamefriendzy.com.

Bridge, one of the world’s most popular and enduring card games, is played with four people in two competing partnerships, who bid for the contract, which they then try to make or defeat.

It is a wonderful hobby that allows you to enjoy playing with a limited amount of knowledge and provides players with a life-long opportunity for developing and playing.

Introduction to Bridge covers the bidding auction, playing strategies, and defensive techniques. No bridge knowledge and no partners are necessary. Come alone or with friends!

Each session begins with

Voorhees Ballet Theatre Summer Intensive

July 8th-26th

Dancers age 8-18 are welcome to attend

instruction and then participants play hands using the topic of the day.

The Bridge Plus course will help players gain a firmer grasp of the core bidding and playing concepts. It will be taught online using Zoom and Shark Bridge, two free internet programs.

Whole class instruction will be limited so participants can play and bid as many hands as time allows, with the assistance of the facilitator.

Game Friendzy, the area’s premier tabletop gaming location, offers a full roster of games, lessons, special events, and a board game and puzzle lending center.

The facility is also available to rent for parties, family gatherings, games nights, corporate events, and camp visits. Visit the Game Friendzy website at www.gamefriendzy. com.

Placement class is held July 7th where students will be evaluated by our knowledgeable faculty Register today by visiting vbtnj.com or by emailing us at lowedancestudio@gmail.com

The Burlington County Farmers Market will be welcoming its 18th season of celebrating local farms and food vendors a little earlier this year. Traditionally, the farmers market kicked off the season in the first week of May, but this year we have decided to shine a spotlight on what our ag vendors and food makers are doing in March and April.

Our Pre-Season Farmers Market will be held at the Burlington County Agricultural Center at 500 Centerton Rd. in Moorestown, NJ on Saturday, March 9th, March 23rd, April 13th, and April 27th from 10am – 1pm.

Shoppers can expect to see cooler season crops from Black Sheep Farm and Pinelands Produce, as well as artisan cheeses, honey, mushrooms and farm fresh meats from Cherry Grove Farm, Mill Creek Apiary, Little Hooves Romneys, Davidson Mushrooms and Misty Meadow Sheep Dairy Farm. You can also expect some more of your favorite food vendors like Wildflour Bakery, Tis So Sweet, Fishtown Pickle Project, Our Souls Shine, Mom Mom’s Polish

Food, Settantatre Pasta Co., and so much more.

When your tote bags are full of your amazing market finds, enjoy some food and drink prepared by Humble Spud, The Soup Bar and Tea-For-All while listening to live music.

Your gardens are calling, so we’ll have all your springtime needs like daylilies, annuals, perennials, potted bulbs, hanging baskets, houseplants, native plants, vegetable and herb seedlings, and so much more. Find Bart’s Flowers, Springville Herbary, Hope Sprouts, Buds & Botanicals, Oak Tree Acres and more to get your gardens ready for the season.

Starting on March 9th, we will be supporting local earlier than ever, and we hope you will join us for our first ever Pre-Season Farmers Market! So, bundle up and head on over!

Please visit our new website - burlcoagcenter.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter for information on the farmers market. Link us on Facebook - Burlington County Farmers Market / Follow us on Instagram - @burlcofarmersmarket.

Important Changes to the SAT and ACT Coming in 2023

In the world of SAT and ACT test prep, a lot has changed in the last few years. Both exams were impacted by the pandemic, sparking a number of changes (to join some that were already underway). Rich Bernstein of the Huntington Learning Centers of Cherry Hill and Turnersville, shares known SAT and ACT changes. “At Huntington, we’ve seen plenty of SAT and ACT updates, ranging from minor adjustments to sweeping overhauls,” Bernstein says. “Taking SAT and ACT tests in 2023 and 2024 will be different for students.” Here’s what parents and students need to know:

SAT updates

• The SAT and all PSAT-related assessments are going digital. The PSAT became digital in October of 2023. Beginning with the March test, the SAT will be all digital.

• The digital SAT will be shorter. The paper SAT was three hours long. The digital SAT will be two hours, 14 minutes long, still testing students in Reading, Writing, and Math.

• The digital test will be adaptive. The digital SAT will consist of two sections, Reading & Writing and Math, and each section will contain two parts, or modules. Students take the first module and their performance in that module will determine which questions the student will receive in the second module.

• The entire Math section of the SAT will allow a calculator. A graphing calculator will be built into the testing app or students can bring their own.

• Students can use their own computers. Students can take the digital SAT on a laptop or tablet (either a personal device or a school-issued device).

If needed, they can request to borrow one from the College

Board.

• The shorter digital SAT will measure the same core knowledge and skills. The digital SAT will be more efficient in measuring what students need for college and career success. In the Reading and Writing section, for example, students will see shorter texts with one question each (vs. long reading passages with multiple questions per passage). For the Math section, word problems will be more concise.

ACT updates

ACT has begun to offer digital tests, on a limited basis, and only at select testing sites. The test will be identical to the paper and pencil version. The only difference being, it is conducting entirely online.

Learn more about SAT and ACT changes by visiting the College Board and ACT websites.

Taking SAT and ACT tests is important Bernstein reminds parents that even with some colleges and universities being test-optional, taking SAT and ACT tests is worthwhile. “Strong SAT or ACT scores can open up opportunities for students to earn scholarships and direct admission into certain colleges or programs within a university,” he says. More colleges are requiring the SAT or ACT every month.

SAT and ACT test prep with Huntington is an excellent way to improve a score and open the door to more competitive colleges. “Huntington begins every program with a comprehensive evaluation that identifies a student’s strengths and weaknesses,” Bernstein explains. “We feel it is important to personalize each student’s SAT/ACT test prep program to their abilities and goals. In a Huntington test prep program,

Constituting America is a non-partisan educational organization founded in 2010 by Actress Janine Turner, with Cathy Gillespie serving as CEO. Our multi-tiered programs include free presentations in schools (https://constitutingamerica.org/book-aspeech/). Last year alone we made free Constitution presentations in over 125 schools in 13 states across the nation.

We also hold yearly online studies of founding documents; weekly live Constitutional Chats podcasts, Tuesdays at 2pm ET - and streaming on all podcast platforms; and a Constitution-themed contest for students K-Grad school where older students can win scholarship prizes up to $5,000, an all-expense paid mentor trip and national promotion of their winning works: our We The Future Contest. Younger students win gift cards and promotion of their

Constituting America

works. There is even a “Best Constitution Lesson Plan” category for teachers, with a $2000 prize and prize incentives for teachers who send in at least 10 contest entries, including a $1000 teacher prize for sending the most contest entries nationally! Elementary school students compete in Constitution-themed artwork and poem categories while older students compete in Constitution-themed categories such as song, short film, public service announcement, essay and social media “reel,” categories.

We utilize today’s culture through the programs above–song, film, social media and the Internet–to inspire and assist students and adults in learning about the U.S. Constitution. We are the only organization that utilizes our winners’ Constitutional-themed works to promote the Constitution (instead of hiring

Madison Avenue). Through our promotion, our winners’ songs have been played on 81 radio stations across the nation with 174 million impressions! Our winners’ short films have been accepted 120 times into film festivals across the

nation. And our winners’ PSA’s have been played on hundreds of television and radio stations for millions of impressions. Visit us at ConstitutingAmerica.org to sign up for a free school speech, enter

our We The Future scholarship contest, sign up for our weekly podcast, join our book club, read our online studies of founding documents, explore our Clips for Classrooms resources for schools and so much more!

Voorhees Ballet Theatre Summer Intensive

The Voorhees Ballet Theatre is a non-profit organization offering an educational, professional experience for the serious-minded student interested in pursuing a career in the performing arts. Artistic Director Suzanne C. Steinbach started The Voorhees Ballet Theatre in 1986 hoping to give these eager young artists performance

opportunities. The Ensemble Members and Apprentices have performed all over the Delaware Valley at various banquets and community events, plus many nursing homes and assisted living facilities in the area.

This summer, we will once again host our Summer Intensive program, which brings together dancers from

all over South Jersey. This year’s program will run July 8-26. Dancers ages 8-18 are welcome to attend. Placement class is held July 7th, where students will be evaluated by our knowledgeable faculty. Register today by visiting vbtnj.com or by emailing us at lowedancestudion@gmail. com. Discounted rates are available until April 1.

Bridgeton Public School District

MISSION

The Mission of the Bridgeton Public School District is to provide multiple pathways for all students to attain the New Jersey Student Learning Standards and to meet the needs of our diverse student population. All students will be provided with the opportunity and resources to succeed through the creation of state-of-the-art safe learning environments, which will ultimately enable all students to graduate from high school and become productive members of a global community.

VISION

To create a transparent school system with state-of-theart facilities, clearly focused on having all students achieve academic and interpersonal excellence, supported by committed

parents, community members, and staff who feel a moral obligation to help all students meet the highest standards.

GOALS:

COLLEGE & CAREER READINESS

We will continue to monitor and increase student achievement across the district for all students with an equity agenda.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING & STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH

We will continue to expand and improve social-emotional learning (SEL) for all students, as measured by reducing chronic absenteeism, discipline removals, in/out-of-school suspensions, and HIB incidents.

COMMUNICATION/COMMUNITY RELATIONS

We will continue to improve

communication across the district with our stakeholders and include stakeholders in future planning.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT & FACILITIES

We will continue to ensure that the budget provides for the achievement of all students in the district while maintaining fiscal responsibility and safe, healthy, and clean facilities that reflect high standards for learning and foster district pride.

STAFFING, RETENTION, & RECRUITMENT

We will maintain and implement strategies to recruit, retain, and develop highly effective staff.

For more information please contact Lennitas at 856-4558030 x2016

Huntington: Changes coming

continued from page 3

students strengthen their knowledge, learn test-taking tips that will help them on the exam, get comfortable taking practice exams and improve their confidence.”

Learn more about Huntington’s exam prep tutoring for the SAT and ACT by calling 1-800 CAN LEARN, for the centers in Cherry Hill and Turnersville.

About Huntington Huntington Learning Center is the nation’s leading tutoring and test prep provider. We offer customized programs in person, online, and hybrid options. Our certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington’s programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of

Colleges and Schools. The Cherry Hill and Turnersville locations are the only Accredited Tutoring Services in South Jersey. Founded in 1977, Hunting-

ton’s mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.HuntingtonHelps.com.

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Two Beginner’s Bridge Courses Starting in March for those New to the Game or Anyone Looking for a Refresher Registration RequiredEach Course is $109 per participant, or $20/session

Contact Game Friendzy at 856-795-7529 or info@gamefriendzy.com

www.gamefriendzy.com

7 Carnegie Plaza, Cherry Hill

Top 5 Reasons to “Find Your Fit” at RCSJ

1. Opt Out of College Debt Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) offers one of the lowest tuition rates in New Jersey, a host of scholarship, grant, financial aid, workstudy, and payment plan options, and a financial aid team committed to ensuring you never miss an opportunity to save. With 100+ in-demand and industry-informed degree and certificate programs, RCSJ offers the credentials you need to get the job you want – for less.

BRIDGETON PUBLIC SCHOOLS We’re Hiring!

High School Positions:

Special Education Teacher * Mathematics Teacher * Science Teacher * Bilingual Teacher * English Teacher * Dance Teacher * Health/PE Teacher

Middle School Positions:

Bilingual Teacher * ESL Teacher * School Nurse * World Language Teacher * Special Education Teacher * Sign Language Interpreter * School Psychologist * Speech Therapist * Elementary Teacher * Technology Teacher * Art Teacher * Reading Specialist * Health/PE Teacher

Other Positions:

Bus Aide * Food Service Worker * Custodian * Instructional Aides (Bilingual, Preschool, Kindergarten, Special Education)* * Accountant

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Please contact Human Resources: (856) 455-8030 x2016

• Rowan “3+1” - The “3+1” program enables students in select majors to complete three years of coursework at RCSJ and one year at Rowan University to earn a bachelor’s degree for less than $30,000.

• Rowan Choice - Choose Rowan Choice for a residential college experience and save big during your freshman and sophomore years by living at Rowan University and taking RCSJ classes at the community college tuition rate.

2. Receive the Rowan University Advantage RCSJ’s long-standing relationship with Flagship Partner, Rowan University, provides a host of cost-saving opportunities, opens the door to on-campus living, and provides guaranteed acceptance to Rowan University for students who meet academic criteria.

3. Start the Semester on Your Terms

At RCSJ, classes start on your schedule with Flex Start. Select from 5-, 7-, 10-, and 15week course lengths, offered on campus or online, to plan around your work, family, and life. With campuses in Deptford and Vineland, RCSJ offers you convenience close to home.

4. Get Connected for Success

RCSJ’s premier partner lineup – including Acenda Integrated Health, Inspira Health and Rastelli Foods Group – is here to support your success with industry expertise and connections, scholarship dollars, and rewarding clinical, internship, and job opportunities for students and graduates.

5. Outsmart the Obstacles with RCSJ

RCSJ is in the business of helping students outsmart the obstacles to achieve their educational and career goals. If you need access to technology, tutoring help, career advising, first-generation student guidance, mental health support, veterans services, accommodations for a disability, or just a quiet place to study, RCSJ is here to help.

To find your fit at RCSJ visit RCSJ.edu/Degrees.

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“I came to the RCSJ Open House to find out more about the Health Sciences program. I felt comfortable here, there were a lot of nice people here to talk to, and it was easy to find everything I wanted [to know].”

“My son could go here [RCSJ] for two years at a discounted rate...he can be automatically accepted into Rowan University and graduate with a bachelor’s degree at a discounted price. I mean, it’s wonderful.”

— TAMARA H. AND KADEN G.

“I talked to my guidance counselor about going to a community college, because attending a university was a big step for me. RCSJ is affiliated with Rowan University, and I want to go to Rowan. I came to the RCSJ Open House, because I just wanted to see my options and opportunities here.”

— ISABEL O.