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Student success and achievement continues to drive the agenda of the new superintendent of the Toms River Regional School District after being at the helm for a half term.On WOBM-AM's Townsquare Tonight, Superintendent David Healy explained where his

David Healy Toms River Schools Superintendent
David Healy Toms River Schools Superintendent
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focus has been this year.

"We're focusing on improving the culture and climate within our schools. There's a direct correlation between positive school culture and student achievement and you can't have one without the other," said Healy.

However, he's keenly aware that helping students succeed is a team effort. That's why he held an assembly for every staff member, from teachers to bus drivers, at the Pine Belt Arena this fall explaining their critical roles. He also talked about the importance in investing in teachers.

"One of the most important things you can do to improve student achievement is meaningful ongoing targeted professional development for your instructional staff and we're doing that. We're bringing in 21st century skills.

They've also made investments in 21st century technology. "We've made a number of investments in infrastructure, hardware and we've purchased tablets, chrome books, lap tops, desk tops and overhead projectors for the classroom."

Healy said the two biggest items on the 2015 - 2016 agenda are establishing full day kindergarten and Freshmen Academies.

"Where incoming freshmen are connected to a select team of caring academy staff who will use research-proven best instructional strategies to teach the curriculum as well as address students needs on a more personal level."

There are eighteen schools in the Toms River Regional School District.

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