The mission of Ford Avenue School #14 is to enable students to reach their highest potential by successfully achieving challenging academic and social objectives in preparation for the next stage of development. The Education Program at Ford Avenue Elementary School #14 is designed to meet the needs of each individual student in grades kindergarten through five. At School #14 education is a shared responsibility of teachers, parents, students and community The School #14 staff maintains an environment free from discrimination, embraces change, values diversity, prioritizes safety and believes educational excellence ensures success while fostering self worth and self reliance. In order to prepare the students for current and future challenges of learning; high expectations are a standard for students teachers and administrators The staff of School #14 supports and accepts the challenge of on going curriculum development as a necessary responsibility and believes that technology is essential to our way of life.

The instructional program encompasses mathematics, social studies, science, health and computer science. All curriculum and instruction fully adheres to the N.J. Core Curriculum Standards. There is an extensive analysis of the N.J.-ASK Test results
and a comprehensive plan of action developed to address the needs in the areas of language arts and math. The Literacy First Program was implemented in first grade last year and is being introduced in Grade 2 this current school year. Literacy First is an evidence-based literacy model that incorporates a workshop format with a balanced literacy approach. This program is students centered, process oriented and incorporates all discipline areas through learning centers, group reading, individual instruction and a word study project. Grades three, four and five continue to use a “balanced literacy program” which includes a Reading & Writing Workshop as a major component of instruction. Literature circles are conducted and individual writing portfolios are kept by each student. The Everyday Math Program is applied in grades K- 5, and continues to be a huge success. . Math scores have sustained improvement after implementing the Everyday Math Program four years ago. The program encourages the students to think logically and to explore math beyond the basic math facts.

The students at Ford Avenue Elementary #14 are offered basic instructional skills, with an ASI ( academic support instructor) teacher. A certified Speech Therapist meets with those students identified with pronunciation and diction difficulties twice each
week. Special Education programs are offered at School #14 and a Child Study Team is available to consult with staff and parents. The special education teachers have made “in class support” the focus of their instructional time. An occupational therapist is available for any student requiring therapy. Students participating in the Gifted & Talented Program meet each week to receive instruction. A full time nurse is assigned to School #14 to provide health care and instruction to the students. Music and Art are taught as special subject areas in grades one through five and instrumental music is offered in grades three through five. The chorus and band perform a concert each spring to encourage music participation. The library is the research center and houses the internet; the students are encouraged to use the library daily. Parents volunteer to assist the students in the library each week. Each classroom is equipped with a computer and every classroom teacher is supplied with an “e-mail” address. This year 20 additional notebook computers were added to the twenty lap-top computers and 20 notebook computers available for the students’ daily use. The lap-tops are used daily in conjunction with the Study Island Program & the Learnia Program which has been incorporated into the third, fourth, and fifth grade curriculum. LCD Projectors along with mimeo interactives are incorporated into the curriculum to enhance classroom instruction.

Several programs compliment the comprehensive instruction programs at School #14. An I&RS (intervention and referral service) actively meet each week to discuss “student referrals” made by classroom teachers. This committee makes observations recommendations and provides the classroom teacher with suggestions for differentiated instruction. The Character Education Program encourages the students of School #14 to participate in many charitable/community activities each year. The November/December food drive is an annual event which both the students and faculty take an active role.
Various classes respond to the many relevant programs and educational contests sponsored by community groups including: Fire Prevention Week, Earth Week, American Education Week, Veterans Day, Martin Luther King Essay Contest, Barron Arts Evening of Young Writers, Rainbow Express Literary Magazine and St. John’s University Young Scholars. Students attending School #14 have the opportunity be a member of the student council, safety patrol, and honor roll, student of the month and peer mediation programs.

Ford Avenue Elementary School #14 is fortunate to have a highly visible, active Parent Teacher Organization. All profits from PTO fund raisers are dedicated to student activities which enhance the instructional program. The PTO sponsors assembly programs, provides funds for field trips and conducts a “field day” for the entire student body each year. The unwavering support of our staff, PTO and community set the stage for each child reaching their full potential at Ford Ave. Elem. School #14.