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Monmouth Ocean Educational Services Commission

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News & Events

Regional Achievement Academy Hosts “Black Poster Project” Opioid & Overdose Awareness Event 🖤

RAA students and staff recently participated in a powerful and deeply impactful program through the Black Poster Project, a traveling exhibit designed to raise awareness about addiction and overdose. While difficult at times, the experience created space for honest reflection and meaningful conversation.

Through a message grounded in compassion, honesty, and hope, students explored the realities and consequences of substance use, as well as the importance of mental health awareness. More importantly, the program reinforced a critical message: every student has value, every life matters, and support is always available.

The experience left a lasting impression on our students, encouraging them to reflect on their choices, their futures, and the importance of supporting one another. We are grateful to have provided this meaningful opportunity for our school community.
 

MOESC’s Dr. Wendy Morales Explores Finland’s Schools Through Fulbright Program 🇫🇮

MOESC Assistant Superintendent Dr. Wendy Morales recently participated in the Fulbright Leaders for Global Schools Program, an international experience focused on studying Finland’s highly regarded education system.

During her visit, Dr. Morales–a longtime proponent of global educational awareness–observed a system built on trust, equity, and a commitment to the whole child. Finnish schools emphasize teacher autonomy, minimize standardized testing, and boast strong community support systems designed to meet the needs of all learners.

A key takeaway from the experience was the value placed on the teaching profession. Finnish educators undergo rigorous preparation and are trusted with autonomy to design instruction and assess student progress. This trust-based model allows for greater flexibility, collaboration, and meaningful learning experiences.

Dr. Morales also explored Finland’s approach to global education, including multilingual instruction, culturally responsive practices, and the integration of real-world issues such as sustainability into the curriculum.

She will be sharing her insights with school and district leaders across the region, helping to bring global perspectives into local conversations about teaching, learning, and leadership.
 

New Jersey Virtual School Pursues Accreditation Through Cognia 🎓

New Jersey Virtual School (NJVS) has officially begun the process of pursuing accreditation through Cognia, a globally recognized nonprofit organization that supports continuous school improvement.

This step represents an important milestone for NJVS. Currently, the program operates in partnership with school districts, which retain control over credits, transcripts, and diplomas. Accreditation would allow NJVS to expand its role and directly award credits and serve a broader population of students across New Jersey.

Cognia’s accreditation process is grounded in research-based standards and evaluates the entire educational system, including instruction, leadership, and learning conditions. Rather than a one-time review, it supports ongoing growth and continuous improvement.

This effort reflects NJVS’s commitment to expanding access, increasing flexibility, and meeting the evolving needs of students and families seeking alternative pathways to success.

Introducing MOESC’s New Director of HR & Organizational Development, Karina McIntyre 👏

MOESC is pleased to welcome Karina McIntyre as the new Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development, following the retirement of longtime HR Manager Christine MacDonald.

Karina brings a strong background in educational leadership, special services, and clinical social work, along with a deep commitment to building systems that support both people and practice. Her experience spans school-based mental health, special education leadership, and cross-organizational collaboration, grounded in the belief that when educators and staff feel supported, students are better positioned to thrive.

In her new role, Karina oversees human resources operations across MOESC, including recruitment, compliance, and employee support systems. She also works to strengthen organizational culture by fostering environments where staff experience connection, belonging, and professional growth, while contributing to the ongoing evolution of MOESC alongside the leadership team.

Karina’s approach to leadership is human-centered and equity-focused, with a strong emphasis on how organizational conditions impact both staff well-being and student outcomes. As a doctoral candidate, she actively applies her research to her work, viewing human resources not simply as a function but as an opportunity to intentionally shape the employee experience across the organization.

We are excited to welcome Karina to MOESC and look forward to her leadership in supporting our staff and school communities.
 

Simplify Chemical Solutions Joins MOESC Cooperative Purchasing Program 🧹

The MOESC Cooperative Purchasing Program is pleased to announce a newly awarded contract with Simplify Chemical Solutions, Inc., providing schools with access to a comprehensive range of custodial and maintenance supplies.

The contract includes products such as disposable gloves, floor care chemicals, trash liners, paper products, cleaning tools, microfiber supplies, disinfectants, and custodial equipment, including vacuums, auto scrubbers, and floor machines. Participating districts will also benefit from competitive pricing and discounts on additional related items.

MOESC remains committed to delivering high-quality, cost-effective purchasing solutions that help schools streamline procurement and maximize resources. This partnership with Simplify Chemical Solutions further strengthens our ability to support districts with trusted and reliable products.
 

MOESC Administrators Present at NJPSA/FEA Women’s Leadership Conference 💪

Members of the MOESC team recently presented at the NJPSA/FEA Annual Women’s Leadership Conference, joining hundreds of educational leaders from across New Jersey for a day of reflection, connection, and professional growth.

The session centered on leadership through the lens of courage, authenticity, and vulnerability, drawing inspiration from the work of Brené Brown and the concept of the “Woman in the Arena.” Presenters explored how effective leadership requires a willingness to step forward, take risks, and lead with both strength and empathy.

The experience reinforced the importance of creating spaces where leaders can share their stories, support one another, and grow together. MOESC is proud to contribute to conversations that empower educators to lead with purpose, voice, and values.

MOESC Partners with Equalis Group for Technology Items & Related Products Bid 💻

The MOESC Cooperative Purchasing Program, in partnership with Equalis Group–a national cooperative purchasing organization–is pleased to announce a newly awarded contract with Bluum USA, Inc., providing schools with access to a comprehensive range of technology items and related products.

The contract includes computers, laptops, tablets, networking equipment, audiovisual technology, peripherals, software solutions, and other related technology products. Participating districts will also benefit from competitive pricing and discounts on additional technology-related items and services.

MOESC remains committed to delivering high-quality, cost-effective purchasing solutions that help schools streamline procurement and maximize resources. This partnership with Bluum USA, Inc. and Equalis Group further strengthens our ability to support districts with trusted, innovative technology solutions.