Frank DiFelice
Ocean Academy Staff,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Principal Finkelstein and the entire Ocean Academy staff for providing an excellent education program for my son, Nick. What has impressed my wife and I the most about this particular education program, is the nurturing and compassionate environment in which the program is being provided. It is this aspect of Ocean Academy that compels me to write this letter.
It has been over two years since our son Nick has had the fortunate opportunity to transfer to this school. It is difficult to convey in words, the positive way in which a stable and nurturing school environment has impacted almost every facet of our son's life - in fact, our entire family. At the time of transfer, Nick was academically and socially dysfunctional, had a low self-concept, and disliked attending school. I refrain from explaining / elaborating why my son's previous school experience was incompatible with his self-concept, self- confidence, and personal growth; this is not the appropriate forum.
Ocean Academy offered Nick exactly what he needed at a critical time in his life - a caring, compassionate, and supportive school environment. It is in this environment that Nick has again begun to thrive, not only academically, but also socially. He enjoys a good rapport with his teachers. He enjoys going to school again. The teachers and staff at Ocean Academy really seem to take an interest in Nick's extra-curricular activities, which seems to further encourage his interests.
Nick has had many accomplishments outside of school; most notably his NJ EMT certification, CPR Instructor certification, and his numerous milestone achievements, training, and experiences within his career as a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol. He also currently enjoys employment as a Radiology file clerk at Shore Memorial Hospital in Somers Point, NJ. He is presently preparing to take his military entrance exam scheduled for December, as it is his goal to enlist in the U.S. Air Force after high school graduation.
I mention these accomplishments to point out that all have occurred in the past two years while attending Ocean Academy. It is my belief that these achievements would not have happened had he remained in his previous school. It would not have been possible. These accomplishments along with Nick's academic success are the direct result of the supportive and nurturing environment provided by the staff at Ocean Academy. Support provided at home without a supportive school staff would not have been enough.
I will always be grateful to the Ocean Academy staff.
