Making Strides

TRENTON — Patton J. Hill Elementary School, under Principal Wayne Dennis’ leadership, met all its targets for language arts and math on the recent N.J. School Performance Report.

Dennis and his staff have introduced several initiatives that have had transformational effects on the school community.

“Here we celebrate success, the 5 character pillars, and (5 C’s): Capable, Careful, Considerate, Cooperative and Considerate,” Dennis said. He also stressed that their students remain steadfast through hard work and dedication to increasing their achievement.

P.J. Hill Elementary School has implemented a college day initiative, every third Friday of the month in which classroom teachers post a placard that states the college that the teacher attended. Additionally, the year of the students will graduate from college is also posted. Each classroom has established a college corner, college banners are posted throughout the school as well as a college resource center for students to utilize. It also has a parent, staff and student of the month. Dennis has established a “Principal Coffee” where community members are invited to discuss any pertinent issues affecting the community.

“I am very happy with my grandson, he’s learning math and writing well. I like to see how they motivates students with messages on the walls about the importance of education,” said Joseph Johnson, grandfather of an 8-year-old student.

“I believe this school needs more support of the Board of Education. The superintendent has not responded to our requests, here at Patton Hill we need permanent teachers,” said Tye Cooper, mother of a sixth-grader.

Other initiatives that had been helping to transform the school include a male mentoring program with Rider University; spirit day every Friday; staff vs. student basketball; student government for middle school students; Principal Book of the Month; Scholastic book fair; Principal’s Drop Everything and Write; Principal’s Math Problem of the Week; Family Math Night; Family Literacy Night; and Science Fair and the Eighth Grade Social.

“Mr. Dennis has collaborated and formed partnerships with the university community as well as other community based organizations,” said P.J. Hill School Special Education teacher Rehan Majeed.

P.J. Hill Elementary School has also introduced a program that has meaningfully engaged the parents through workshops regarding how to better support their children.

“We encourage all students, parents and community members to take an active part in all our school programs,” said Dennis.

Article is available at: http://www.trentonian.com/article/TT/20130529/NEWS01/130529569