OCEAN COUNTY, NEW JERSEY- The Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) proudly held commencement ceremonies for their three full-time High School Career Academies on Monday, July 6th. Students studying fields ranging from math and science to the performing arts and law enforcement were honored and received certifications at the event. The 2020 academic year posed a unique challenge to students, as the COVID-19 crisis forced OCVTS’ students and instructors to move towards remote learning in mid-March. Much in the spirit of OCVTS the students and staff faced the challenge head-on, finishing the academic year and obtaining their certifications remotely.

Superintendent Karen L. Homiek of the Ocean County Vocational Technical School District certified the graduating classes of the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science, OCVTS Grunin Performing Arts Academy, and Academy of Law and Public Safety. In Superintendent Homiek’s address to the students she recognized that the graduates were deprived of key milestones and faced unprecedented challenges. She added, “It has been a very long journey to get here but I do believe that the journey was well worth the effort. Despite the pandemic that continues to complicate all of our lives, you, with the help of your teachers and administrators, finished the year with as much learning, collaboration, communication and celebration possible.”

Attendees of the ceremonies included, Joseph Vicari, Freeholder Director, Stephen Scaturro, Vice President of the OCVTS Board of Education, Maureen Stankowitz, OCVTS Board member, Dr. Michael B. Maschi, Assistant Superintendent, and Frank J. Frazee, Business Administrator.

The Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) is a specialized high school centered around marine and environmental science. With a focus on math and science MATES students complete an independent research project as well as hands-on field work on the Barnegat Bay.

The OCVTS Grunin Performing Arts Academy (PAA) is a comprehensive high school for students in Ocean County featuring four distinct majors: Audio Engineering, Dance, Theater, and Vocal. Traditionally, PAA students hold showcase performances in the fall, spring, and winter. In February 2020 PAA students showcased their talents in the musical Legally Blonde, held at the historic Strand Theater in Lakewood, NJ.

The Academy of Law and Public Safety (ALPS) offers a unique and comprehensive foundation for students interested in a career in public safety. Our 2020 graduates successfully completed their Special Law Enforcement Officer training, Basic Telecommunications training and Emergency Medical Responder training. Many of this year’s graduates will be working this summer in Ocean County’s local beach communities as dispatchers and special ones within local departments.

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.