ACS was recently awarded a $1,000 grant from the AtlantiCare Healthy Schools, Healthy Children program to support educational programs focused on nutrition and physical activity. Additional funding of up to $300 was also approved for CPR training for ACS staff.

The grant check was presented to ACS faculty members at an AtlantiCare workshop on Wednesday, January 8 held at the Atlantic City campus of Stockton University. Pictured at the workshop, from left, are 5th grade teacher Bethany Kiefer, 4th grade teacher Eric Tardif, and high school science teacher Dave Genter. The workshop provided valuable school garden and greenhouse educational training and materials.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen said ACS will use the grant funds to purchase new equipment and supplies for the school garden and greenhouse, and new equipment for physical education classes and elementary recess activities.

“We are very grateful for the generous support from the AtlantiCare Foundation that helps us continue providing our students with an outstanding educational experience,” Oblen said. “Our students at every grade level enjoy the hands-on learning in the school garden and greenhouse and we are also excited to be purchasing new PE and recess equipment for this spring with these funds.”

Oblen said ACS will continue to offer an after-school Garden Club this spring, led by faculty members Tardif and Kiefer. ACS is also considering adding a Junior Master Gardeners program as an after-school club.