KIVA High School in Monmouth County Vocational School District provides a comprehensive program for at-risk and special needs secondary students in grades 9-12. By providing small group instruction in an alternative setting, KIVA works to support the "whole" child" and to help each student meet with academic, vocational, and personal success. We at KIVA work to build an educational environment that ensures that each child is safe, engaged, healthy, supported and challenged. In order to meet the needs of the "whole child," we require skilled and compassionate leaders; knowledgeable, creative and dedicated faculty and staff; proud and involved parents and stakeholders; and a spirit of innovation and perseverance.
Our student body is comprised of applicants from over 20 high schools within Monmouth County, as well as from several districts outside of the county. Our overall objective is to ensure that students gain a thorough and efficient education by following the Core Curriculum Content and Workplace Readiness Standards. In order to do this, we create individualized lesson plans, which are then implemented using alternative teaching strategies. Upon completion of our program, students receive a standard NJ High School diploma, demonstrating that they have satisfied all the requirements outlined in their Individual Education Plans.
In order to measure the results of student achievement in relation to our school’s stated objectives, we utilize a traditional evaluation system and factor in non-traditional assessments appropriate to our student population. KIVA high school students gain entry-level workplace skills, academic excellence, and an appreciation for lifelong learning. An intensive HSPA Prep has been included in KIVA’s curriculum in order to advance students under No Child Left Behind. In addition to the accomplishment of Individual Educational Plans objectives, positive results in the areas of attendance, behavior, and attitude toward school are included in the achievement level of our students. We have an active Structured Learning Program that provides assistance to students who are seeking to gain and maintain employment. Hands-on job training takes place in our shops. Work-site task shadowing is available.
During the 2009-2010 school year, numerous activities took place which were carefully designed to bolster students’ dedication to themselves, the school and world community. These projects reflect the philosophy of KIVA that each person has a valuable contribution to make to society. Below are some of the activities through which KIVA students have made a positive impact in the community:
Self and Leadership
Membership in Vocational Student Organizations
Individual/Group Counseling Sessions
Participation in vocational skills competition Perfect Attendance Recognition
Monthly Student Achievement Awards
Monmouth County School Boards Student Recognition Award
Incentive field trips
Structured Learning Partnerships with several area businesses
Self-Esteem/Gang Violence Workshops (Street Warriors)
Career Day
Honor Roll
Community Service Activities
The KIVA Community
Peer mediation
New student mentorship
Yearbook
Guest Speakers
Student Council
Enhancing physical plant (back area)
Anti-Bullying Initiative
HSPA Prep
Attendance Initiative
Design contest – Building Trades & Auto
KIVA Community Service
Holiday food/clothing/toy drives
World AIDS Day ceremony
Tinton Falls Public Works and Recreation Departments community projects
Principal
D. Brandon Cooley
