SJ Schools - Cherry Hill West

Mention Cherry Hill High School West, and you may not think of it as one of the best schools in the state, or even in South Jersey, but that may be because you just don’t know enough about the school. Let’s see if we can change that...

For instance, did you know that the school serves approx. 1,600 students, 15% of whom speak English as a second language? They offer in excess of 180 honors, accelerated and standard courses. They have also been credited with initiating the International Baccalaureate Diploma program – A rigorous pre-university program that meets the needs of highly motivated juniors and seniors. The Science, English and Math Departments have all received accolades and first place finishes in regional and national competitions, and 85% of graduating West Seniors go on to further their education.

The Cherry Hill High School West Marching Band captured the United States Scholastic Band Association's Group 1A Championship in Atlantic City on November 10 with more than 50 bands participating in the competition. In addition to first place honors, the band also won caption awards for Best Music, Best Overall Effect, and Best Percussion. The first place victory caps the West band's most successful competitive season. The band won the USSBA Central Jersey Regional Championships at The College of New Jersey in October and took top honors at a third competition in Pennsauken this fall. Jim Mark is the band director. Mr. Mark and the West Marching Band are scheduled to be recognized by the Board of Education at the Action Meeting on December 18 at Stockton Elementary School.

A few West teachers that deserve some recognition are:

Stanley Krantz, science teacher and facilitator at Cherry Hill High School West, for his selection as a State Finalist for the New Jersey 2001 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

John Semar, physical education teacher, for his induction into the South Jersey Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Larry Casto, district webmaster (and teacher at Cherry Hill High School West) for the Award of Excellence presented to the district website by the New Jersey School Boards Association in the 2001 School Communications Competition.

Christine Bass, vocal music director at Cherry Hill High School West, named the New Jersey All-State Chorus Conductor for 2002. Mrs. Bass, of Marlton, was selected from a pool of choral directors statewide to conduct the chorus of approximately 350 high school students. So, as you can see Cherry Hill High School West has much more to offer the community than you might think.

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Author: Steve Kelly - Editor, SouthJersey.com