Lack of technology, language barriers, and food insufficiency were just some of the challenges faced by Chief Education Officer J. Kenyon Kummings as he led the charge to take Wildwood NJ School District online during a pandemic. His district, known as the Wildwood Warriors, harnessed its true warrior spirit with students, staff and parents coming together to make it happen. Kummings launched bilingual communications in English and Spanish, the latter to address its 66% minority population which is largely Hispanic. The district loaned Chromebooks, set up a farm-to-table breakfast and lunch pick-up program, and recreated their academic programs including options for Career to Technical Education. They also connected in meaningful ways with students and families on social media. In this podcast, NJASA Executive Director Dr. Richard Bozza talks with Kummings about the challenges and successes, including examples other districts can follow. Visit njasa.net to join us in exploring best practices together.

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