Union City Education Association
Hudson County educator Joseph A. Vitale, III from Union City Public Schools was awarded a $10,000 grant entitled Learning with Joy, Leading with Purpose, Lifting with Kindness. This is an extended-day enrichment initiative serving approximately 400 students in grades 1-8 at Ester Salas Academy. The project addresses a lack of after-school programming by providing structured, culturally responsive enrichment focused on academic support, character education, social-emotional learning, and the arts. Students participate in engaging activities that promote kindness, leadership, empathy, and academic growth while celebrating the school’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity. The program strengthens school culture, supports multilingual learners, increases family engagement, and provides safe, meaningful learning opportunities beyond the regular school day.
For more information, contact:
Joseph A. Vitale, III
Ester Salas Academy
(201) 271-2289