Holmdel Community Unites To Celebrate S.T.A.R.S. Program Students & Staff

HOLMDEL, NJ — The Holmdel community came together at a recent Board of Education meeting to celebrate the achievements of the Holmdel S.T.A.R.S. Program, which aims to support students with disabilities (ages 18-21) in their transition from school to adult life.

Launched in 2021, the S.T.A.R.S. (Student Transition to Adulthood Ready for Success) Program provides various services designed to prepare students for their post-secondary goals.

These goals include things such as employment, independent living and active community engagement, with each student receiving personalized support from an experienced team of educators and specialists.

During the Jan. 29 board meeting, S.T.A.R.S. students took to the floor to share their program experiences with attendees and highlight how the program has impacted their lives.

One student, John Junior, spoke about how the program has taught him job skills and helped him to make new friends.

“Working at Dearborn has not only taught me valuable job skills but also helped me make new friends and become more confident in social situations,” Junior said.

Mary Simon, from Bayshore Veterinary Hospital, spoke about the professionalism and determination of S.T.A.R.S. students who work with them, adding that their contributions are “invaluable.”

“The young adults in the S.T.A.R.S.Program are punctual, eager, and incredibly adept at their assigned tasks,” Simon said. “Their contributions are invaluable to our operations.”

The Board of Education also recognized the S.T.A.R.S. Program’s successes while emphasizing its role in fostering student achievement.

As the program continues to grow, the Holmdel School System said it remains committed to expanding its reach and impact to ensure every student is equipped with the tools to succeed beyond the classroom.

“One of my priorities as Board President is to recognize as many of our outstanding students, teachers, staff, and administrators who make the Holmdel Township School District exceptional,” Holmdel Board of Education President Christian DiMare said.

“The BOE is committed to celebrating their achievements and highlighting the success and impact of our programs in enriching students' lives and strengthening our community,” DiMare continued. “Shining the light on our S.T.A.R.S. Program made for an unforgettable, joyous evening.”

To watch a recording of the Jan. 29 meeting, you can click here.