Since its inception in 1996, Somerset Hills Education Foundation has been a force for good for the SHSD community but suffered a downturn in activity during the COVID-19 years. Last year’s hiring of the new Superintendent, Dr Brian Brotschul, allowed a new board of seven trustees to undertake the foundation’s work. The head of the revitalized foundation is Mrs. Olga Christie, who has planned multiple fundraising events in the past.
One such event was Tweeds and Feathers at Upton Pyne, a relaxing autumnal social gathering that allowed people to take in the beauty of the nature around them. This event launched SHEF’s new initiative in support of character education at SHSD. As Mrs. Christie herself says, SHEF defines character education as “both professional development and training for teachers that help build an inclusive and supportive learning culture,” as well as “building life skills for students that strengthen core values and open learning pathways into the future.” In addition to the natural beauty that Tweeds offered, it also introduced Somerset Hills’ locals to Flip Flippen, the founder of the biggest team development program in the world and currently in progress at BMS, Capturing Kids’ Hearts.
To follow the success of Tweeds and Feathers, SHEF is hosting its second annual Holiday Pet Parade, which highlights the joy and compassion pets bring to our lives. This event will be taking place on December 8, 2024, in Liberty Park on Main Street in Peapack-Gladstone, NJ. The parade will feature pets dressed in their holiday best, accompanied by their owners, all set against the festive backdrop of the community tree lighting and other seasonal traditions. Regarding the Jazz Ensemble supporting the second pet parade as they did the first, band director Mr. Taesler comments: “My students get to help unite the community by participating in a professional music performance setting which, in this case, is building community and providing education through an innovative program.” The Jazz Ensemble’s contribution will only highlight the Pet Parade’s reputation as an excellent opportunity to showcase a common commitment to SHEF’s positive values, while simultaneously bringing the families of Somerset Hills together.
All proceeds from the event go directly to culture-building programs that equip teachers and students with the life skills to connect, learn, and grow in a mindful, supportive environment. These initiatives are at the heart of SHEF’s mission to foster positive character development in the local schools and community.
