Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Hoboken Dual Language School Becomes First Charter School to Receive School Leader Award for 2023- Executive Director Jen Sargent Also Recognized and Honored

As many regular readers of this blog know, I was an original Board member of the Hola Dual Language School and proudly served in that capacity for over a decade. It is wonderful to see this public school thriving and becoming a model school and program not only in Hoboken or in New Jersey but nationally. Congratulations to the Founder and Executive Direct Jennifer Sargent for her leadership and vision. -Dr. Petrosino 

The Hoboken Dual Language Charter School (HoLa) has become the first charter school to receive the School Leader Award from the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) for 2023. The announcement came on Monday, Sept. 25.

HoLa is a K-8 dual language public charter school in Hoboken with more than 415 students. Students predominantly join HoLa in kindergarten and, regardless of language background, spend 90 percent of their day in Spanish-speaking classrooms in the early grades. Students gradually receive increasing amounts of instruction in English as they get older, and by 4th grade, instruction is 50 percent Spanish and 50 percent English.

HoLa was specifically recognized for the successful launch of its AP Spanish program in Middle School, an initiative that has enriched the educational experience of its students.

“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire HoLa community,” said Jen Sargent, HoLa’s executive director and co-founder. “We are honored to be recognized by the NJSBA for our innovative programs and our commitment to student success. This remarkable success stems from the unique experience our students receive, starting in kindergarten, where they seamlessly master the art of reading and writing in both Spanish and English.”

Hola Graduation 2023
Executive Director Jen Sargent far right

HoLa’s School Leader Award will be presented to their leadership team at a Hudson County School Boards Association (HCSBA) event on Nov. 28. The school will also be featured in the NJSBA School Leader magazine later this year, showcasing the school’s efforts. HoLa is the only free public Spanish / English dual language charter school in the state.

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