Ocean County Vocational Technical School is expanding the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) Full-Time High School, creating new opportunities for students to explore science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the broader STEM fields through an immersive, hands-on educational experience.

The 27,482-square-foot expansion is taking shape at the MATES campus and will add eight classrooms, four advanced laboratories and expanded athletic facilities, including a larger multipurpose room, locker rooms, bleachers and an outdoor sports court. The new laboratories will support student research, biomedical studies, engineering and computer science, providing additional space for students to conduct independent research and participate in hands-on, immersive STEM learning.

Students are expected to begin occupying the new section at the MATES campus in Winter 2026/2027, marking an important next chapter for one of Ocean County’s most high-performing specialized high schools.

Last Fall, Director Commissioner Frank Sadeghi and Commissioner Robert S. Arace visited the MATES campus to see the progress of the expansion firsthand.

“We couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead,” said Commissioner Robert S. Arace. “MATES is one of Ocean County’s premier STEM schools, offering hands-on learning, real research experiences, and pathways into careers in science, engineering, technology, and medicine. This expansion will allow even more students to access these opportunities and build strong futures right here at home.”

“We’re proud to support programs that invest directly in our next generation of leaders.”

Expanding an Already Innovative Learning Environment
MATES is designed to provide students with a rigorous academic curriculum concentrated in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Its unique educational model combines challenging academics with hands-on learning, extensive fieldwork, independent research, work-based learning experiences and STEM-focused partnerships.

The expansion will further strengthen that model by providing students with additional facilities to explore emerging fields and conduct meaningful research while preparing for postsecondary education and careers in high-demand industries.

MATES graduates pursue a wide range of fields, including marine and environmental science, engineering, computer science, mathematics and medicine. Nearly 100% of the MATES Class of 2026 were accepted to colleges and universities across the country, continuing the academy's strong record of preparing students for the next stage of their education and careers.

With construction progressing and the new facilities on the horizon, Winter 2026/2027 will usher in an expanded era of opportunity at MATES—giving more students the space, resources and experiences to turn curiosity into discovery and education into future careers.





About Ocean County Vocational Technical School
Ocean County Vocational Technical School provides an intensive and immersive educational experience aligned with the current and emerging demands of business, industry, and advanced education. We instill the knowledge, skills, and competencies required for students to experience success in entering the workforce, advancing along a career pathway, and achieving career aspirations.