LEAP announces plans for expansion at 2009 Rutgers/LEAP Preschool Graduation 06/22/09

The Rutgers/LEAP Early Childhood Learning Initiative graduated 45 of its preschoolers during a special promotion ceremony on June 19th.  The ceremony was held at LEAP Elementary School and was attended by over 150 parents and guests. (see pictures)

Wearing their white caps and gowns, students were presented with promotion diplomas by LEAP Superintendent Dr. Deanna Burney and LEAP founder and Board of Trustees chairperson Dr. Gloria Bonilla-Santiago, who took the occasion to share important news with parents. 

Dr. Santiago announced that LEAP was developing plans to expand and found a new High School in Camden with a focus on Engineering.  With an original target date of 2011, the school is being created through a partnership between LEAP Academy, Rutgers University, and Rowan University, which is also expanding its presence on Cooper Street. 

Meanwhile the preschool ceremony featured four different songs, with each of the four rows of students standing up and taking the lead: “It’s A Beautiful Day”; “I’m Going to Kindergarten”; “Mi Escuelita, My School”; and finally their Preschool Cheer.  These preschoolers are now ready to make the leap into Kindergarten while the remaining 45 students will go on to their second year in the Early Childhood Program in September and will be joined by 45 incoming three-year olds. 

Congratulations to the following preschoolers who will be attending Kindergarten next year: