CHK Cool School Plunge 2022
Clark Public Schools
Carl H. Kumpf Middle School’s (CHK) Unified Club took part in the Cool School Plunge which is an event held in Asbury Park organized by the Special Olympics of New Jersey. This event is for Unified School programs. The Cool School Plunge allows students and staff to plunge into the freezing ocean. Fundraising proceeds support CHK Unified and Special Olympics New Jersey. Advisors Miss Jennifer Barbera, Miss Dominique Smith, and Mrs. Lauren Cesare created a team of 41 members among the students and staff of the Clark School District.
The CHK Unified team ran under the name “Clark Unified” and in total, they were able to raise over $8,500. Their top fundraisers included 8th graders Eden Ordner ($1,303), Justin Huff ($553) and Hudson Couto ($507), and 7th grader Samara Vazquez ($676). Not only did Clark win first place for fundraising, but they also won first place for most participants.The team went home with two trophies.
“The Cool School Plunge is my favorite event that CHK Unified participates in. I was thrilled with the success this year. Despite the cold weather, everyone had a great time, and it showcased the inclusion that is evident in our district. Our program has grown tremendously over the last two years and it was truly an honor to be awarded the trophies! This is a testament to the hard work of the students and advisors in promoting inclusion. Our success would not be possible without the support of the families and students! I can’t wait for next year’s plunge!” said Arthur L. Johnson teacher and Unified co-advisor, Jenn Barbera. She continued, “The CHK Unified team would like to thank all members of Clark who were able to help us surpass our goal. We look forward to having an even larger team next year!”
“This is Kumpf’s second time attending the Cool School Plunge. What a difference a year can make! I am so proud of not only the size of our team, but the overwhelming support this year! The Cool School Plunge was a chilly, but exciting experience! Many students braved the frigid waters of the Atlantic and dove in. This club would not be possible without the support and dedication of the CHK Unified members, staff members, and families. Thank you, and I am eager to see what is next for CHK Unified, “ said Carl H. Kumpf Teacher and Unified co-advisor, Dominique Smith.
This year, the CHK Unified Team opened up the event to the entire district. Faculty, students, and their families were encouraged to participate in fundraising and joining the CHK Unified Team at the Cool School Plunge. Valley Road School held a Beach Day fundraiser to help support the CHK Unified Team. Mr. Joseph Beltramba, Ms. Stephanie Burdel, Mrs. Jennifer Clere, Ms. Christine Hahn, Mrs. Gail Lombardi, and Ms. Nicole Semon cheered on the CHK Unified Team at the plunge!
Photos by Clark Public Schools
