Press Release – Kearny School District’s Extended School Year (ESY) program has provided continuous support for students with disabilities for more than five decades while empowering its high school students to step into meaningful mentorship and leadership roles.
First established in 1971, the program has grown significantly to meet the needs of an expanding student population. Each summer, approximately 60 Kearny High School (KHS) student aides are selected to work alongside district educators, supporting younger students in classroom, recreational and social settings.
“We are incredibly proud of how this program has continued to grow and thrive over the last five decades,” Superintendent of Schools Flora Encarnacao said. “The district is committed to strengthening this partnership, which provides our student aides with valuable leadership opportunities while delivering peer support, care and encouragement to our students with disabilities as they learn and grow together.”
Director of Special Services Melissa DeLima oversees the ESY program, where student aides serve as energetic peer role models throughout the summer session, assisting younger students with communication, socialization and skill-building activities. Head Teacher Marilyn Best manages daily operations alongside district staff, coordinating classroom placements to maximize support for students with diverse learning needs.
“We consistently receive positive feedback regarding the student aides, both from staff and the student aides themselves,” DeLima said. “Their dependability, enthusiasm and willingness to engage with our students are frequently recognized and appreciated.”
For many participants, the experience shapes their future careers. Kerrith Canaley Fearon, KHS 1986 graduate who worked as an ESY aide, went on to become a veteran teacher in the district.
“That experience sparked my passion for education and showed me the impact a caring, dedicated teacher can have on a child’s confidence and growth,” Fearon said. “The lessons I learned during that summer have stayed with me throughout my 35-year career as a teacher in the Kearny School District and continue to guide my approach as a compassionate, student-centered teacher.”
Similarly, Special Education Teacher Alison Funk, KHS 2007 graduate, began her career path as an ESY student aide and now returns each summer as a teacher in the program, guiding the next generation of high school aides.
Participating high school aides gain foundational work experience while building essential life skills in leadership, teamwork, and empathy. Student aides like Michael English, KHS 2026 graduate, who participated in the program for three years, credits the role with teaching valuable lessons in patience and compassion.
Student Aide Dominic Velasquez, KHS 2026 graduate, noted the hands-on experience solidified a desire to pursue a career in education.
“Working with students in special education is challenging as it is rewarding,” Velasquez said. “This program has provided me with opportunities to work one-on-one with students of multiple needs, which I can use when I become a teacher.”
Feedback from families consistently highlights the positive environment created by the high school aides. Parents share that their children feel supported and excited to attend each day, building strong bonds with their mentors as aides meet students where they are, provide respect and encourage active classroom participation.
As the district plans for future summers, administrators plan to expand leadership, service and professional development opportunities for high school participants, ensuring the program remains a vital cornerstone of community support and inclusive education in Kearny.