Congratulations to Kyle Jones who was recognized by representatives of the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties for his winning entry in the Monmouth/ Ocean Foodbank Essay Contest “What does Volunteering mean to me?”

Kyle won first place for all 8th graders among the schools in Monmouth and Ocean County. In his essay, Kyle tells of the impact that IHN and the Youth Connection mission trip through Youth Service Opportunities Project to New York City last Summer, had on his life. Kyle’s essay can be read online.

In addition, The Point Pleasant Boro Board of Education recognized Max Rauffer on February 22 for his work on the Advanced Placement Computer Science class project which developed an app for special needs students in the PALS program at the high school. The app helps students to virtually shop in a supermarket, teaching life skills and preparing the users to function independently. This app was developed by the students using advanced programming skills and languages. Max was a Team Leader and lead engineer on the project. Max also made the “Wall of Fame” in his Computer Science class for getting a 5 (the highest possible score) on the Advanced Placement Computer Science test. Max plans on attending DigiPen Institute of Technology in Redmond, Washington in the fall to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation. A video explaining this project and another app created by the class can be viewed on the Asbury Park Press website link.

Way to go Kyle and Max!