The event, which took place at the J. Mason Tomlin School, celebrated Mantua’s recent designation as a National District of Character, the highest award by Character.org
Press release issued by the Mantua Township School District:
The Mantua Township School District hosted their second Big Night Out, a celebration of character, community and connections, on Thursday, June 7. The event, which took place at the J. Mason Tomlin School, celebrated Mantua’s recent designation as a National District of Character, the highest award by Character.org.
A year in the making, Big Night Out was planned around the district’s character education program known as CRS (Character, Relationships, Significance). CRS emphasizes ten virtues including wisdom, integrity, self-control, fairness, courage, positive attitude, humility, respect, love and service.
“Big Night Out was a true celebration of character for everyone who attended. It was especially meaningful to see how participants from all facets of our community came together in support of our students,” Dr. Robert Fisicaro said, Superintendent of Mantua Township Schools.
The evening started with the Pledge of Allegiance led by the local Boy Scouts of America troop. Next, Alayna Casey and Jaidan DeStefano, Mantua Township School graduates and Clearview Regional Middle School students, sang the national anthem. They were followed by a stellar performance by the Clearview Regional High School Marching Band. Alyssa Platt, a Centre City School first grader, sang a song. The Stained Glass Band, a South Jersey acoustic cover band, kept the crowd entertained for the rest of the night.
Students were kept busy with family-friendly activities such as henna applications, yoga demonstrations, martial arts demonstrations, padded sumo wrestling suit matches, a photo booth, face painting and more. The major highlight of the evening was the Splash and Dash Water Run Race, a one-mile race complete with water balloons, water blasters and Mantua Township Fire Department trucks at the finish line to spray runners as they completed the race.
Fulton Bank and the Mantua Township Historical Commission were among approximately 40 community partners who were invited to promote their respective organizations and businesses.
A raffle for sports memorabilia and themed baskets helped to raise important funds in support of the Mantua Township School District character education program. It is believed that character education can have a positive impact on student achievement.
