Today, Manchester Township Elementary School (MTES) was honored to be the first school in Manchester Township School District (MTSD) history to be adopted by the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
The NSA of Lakehurst chose to adopt MTES as a part of the United States Navy's Adopt-A-School Program. This is a proud honor for MTES and the MTSD as a whole. This achievement reflects the positive impact of the collective, ongoing efforts over the last few years that have resulted in a wonderful partnership between the Joint Base and MTES.
Through the MTES partnership with JB-MDL, Navy officers from JB-MDL have provided support to MTES through their Reading Buddies Program, brought to MTSD with the help of Angelica DeJesus, School Liaison Specialist Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Through the Reading Buddies program, MTES students have had the unique opportunity to not only hear Navy officers read to them as special guests but also to learn from them. Classroom visits have become lessons for all students and staff about the officer's jobs, their community, their daily life, dedication, and patriotism. MTES students have been inspired and encouraged by the Navy officers who are role models for our students. In addition, not only did some of the MTES Navy Reading Buddies volunteer to come today to be a part of the historic adoption for the MTES school community, but some have even chosen to send their children to MTES!
Today's adoption was a true display of Manchester Pride. The ceremony brought together not only the MTES school community but also Manchester's Mayor, Town Council members, MTEA President and Marine Veteran Dan Staples, Police Department, Parent Teacher Association, and so many others who joined Principal Healy, Vice Principal Johnston, and Superintendent Pedroza for the occasion. The Mayor came this morning with patriotism in hand, bringing American flags for over 500 of the MTES students to have for the celebration! Each student was provided a flag to celebrate with during the ceremony and bring home as a remembrance of the special day.
Today's adoption ceremony opening remarks were made by a familiar face to MTES students, one of their Reading Buddies, CS2 Luke Morrison. He welcomed students, staff, and dignitaries and introduced the Manchester Township High School (MTHS) JROTC Color Guard. Next, a former MTES student and current MTHS JROTC cadet invited everyone to join her for the Pledge of Allegiance. The MTES chorus then sang, moving the crowd with their singing of the National Anthem.
After being seated, students met Captain James B. Howell, Commanding Officer who traveled to MTES from NSA Lakehurst to officially adopt Manchester Township Elementary School. During his remarks, he had the entire room's attention as he shared JB-MDL's beliefs in the power of strong community relationships. "We are your neighbors and friends, and we are all a part of the Manchester community," shared Cpt. Howell during his remarks. "The NSA Lakehurst Adopt-A-School Program continues to build our connection and shared opportunities and help inspire the next generation. We are excited to be a part of your educational journey. Together, we can learn, grow, and, most importantly, look forward to our continued partnership."
MTES Principal Mrs. Ellen Healy followed Captain Howell in captivating the audience with moving remarks about the partnership. Mrs. Healy is not a stranger to military life as she is the proud daughter of an Air Force Veteran and has a deep heart for and understanding of the value of such a military partnership as this. "It is an absolute privilege and honor for MTES to be chosen by NSA Lakehurst for school adoption," says MTES Principal Healy. "This is a special moment for our school and school district. This adoption signifies community and collaboration and embodies our mission of excellence in education. This partnership represents a shared mission to support the growth and success of every child here at MTES. The presence of our Navy buddies has and will continue to make a lasting impact on our students and their lives. All of our families, especially our military-connected families, mean so much to MTES. It is a sincere privilege to be the first school in Manchester to receive this honor."
After the school community cheered and honored the military-connected students who attend MTES, JB-MDL School Liaison Specialist Angelica DeJesus read the Adoption Proclamation. Captain Powell, Superintendent Pedroza, and Principal Healy moved forward and signed the NSA Lakehurst Adopt-A-School Proclamation Agreement into effect to a room full of happy cheers!
Thank you to our JB-MDL partners, students, staff, and the distinguished members of the Manchester Township Community who came out to celebrate this historical event today. Your support is greatly appreciated and tremendously valued. After all... to raise a child, takes a village!
