(Left to Right): Sarah Andrews, Logan Kriete and Brittany Rich

North Broward Prep
praises student FSPA award winners

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – Three creative students from the North Broward Preparatory Schools recently competed for newspaper and broadcast awards and have been recognized by the Florida Scholastic Press Association (FSPA) for their achievements.

Logan Kriete, a senior from Boca Raton, won second place for Web design for the Eagle’s Eye, the school’s online newspaper. Junior Sarah Andrews from Coral Springs was a third-place winner in the photography contest. The subject of her winning entry was “Chaos Unleased,” which was the theme of the conference.

Brittany Rich, a video student from Boca Raton, ranked first in the FSPA’s public service announcement (PSA) competition. Her video, “Banish Bullying,” addressed bullying in cyberspace and was the second honor she received for a PSA this year. Her first PSA, which was about seatbelt safety, won four national awards at various competitions across and U.S. It was also featured in South Florida on a WPTV Channel 5 news segment. Rich, who is in her senior year, plans to attend the University of Miami and major in film.

“We are extremely proud of these students and delighted that they have been lauded for their accomplishments,” said Sherri Andrews, head of the school’s video journalism/media department. “These awards mean a lot to Logan, Sarah and Brittany, and the honors will look impressive alongside their other achievements.”

The FSPA is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1946. It is the scholastic press association for Florida and its members consist of more than 300 student publications, online media teams and broadcast programs from the state. The main mission of the organization is to educate, train and support scholastic journalists and their advisers.Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. It attracts students from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, as well as from out of state and around the world. The private educational institution prepares students academically more and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential. For further information about NBPS, visit www.nbps.org or call 954-736-4694.

North Broward Prep student reaches for the ‘STARS’ and succeeds

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – Most high school students consider summer break to be a reprieve from their studies. However, Jordan Masanoff of The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) in Coconut Creek – along with more than 70 other aspiring scientists elsewhere – chose to do the opposite. They participated in and graduated from the Pfizer Inc. and Solutia Inc. 2007 Students and Teachers as Research Scientists (STARS) program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

An academically talented student, Masanoff of Parkland, Florida was accepted into the intensive, six-week summer STARS program with help from North Broward Prep biology teacher Howard York who had written a letter of recommendation for him. Masanoff said he’s learned much from York (his ninth-grade biology teacher and AP biology teacher in the tenth grade). Last year Masanoff was a laboratory research assistant to York, and he will work with the teacher again at North Broward Prep as a senior during the 2007-08 school year. “Mr. York went far beyond his teaching requirements by meeting with me and giving me guidance on my educational path,” Masanoff pointed out.

The STARS program took Masanoff to the CEIBA Biology Center in Guyana in South America to conduct field research. He was accompanied by Dr. Godfrey Bourne from UM-St. Louis, who became his mentor. Other STARS participants also worked on professional research with some of the region’s top biologists, chemists, computer scientists, engineers, medical researchers, physicists and psychologists. Research topics ranged from neural circuits in the brain and human/robot interaction to evolutionary computations.

The program provided an excellent opportunity for young scientists to explore a career in research and determine their level of interest. It introduced participants such as Jordan to the various aspects of the scientific enterprise as practiced by successful scientists more in academic, private or corporate research institutions. Besides conducting research and presenting papers, students took part in career workshops, attended lectures and enjoyed evening social activities.

For STARS, Masanoff had to submit two research papers. He chose as his subject for both the “Female Preference for Multiple Traits in a Weakly Polymorphic Livebearing Fish, Poecilia vivipara.” According to the wannabe scientist, one had more “science fair-style” writing. He is waiting for it to be judged by Pfizer and Solutia.

He co-authored the other research paper with Dr. Bourne. “It is in the editing stages and we hope to get it accepted for publication in a science journal,” Masanoff noted.

Masanoff entered North Broward Prep in the third grade and developed an interest in science when he was in middle school. “My family and teachers encouraged me to pursue this,” he said. Initially he thought about a career in medicine as an orthopedic surgeon. But, after his STARS experience, he is very passionate about research.

“While academic curriculums preach success in standardized and AP tests (leading to memorization-based learning), the inquiry-based learning of research allows an individual to truly gain knowledge and become educated through self-discovery. Research has allowed me to become a complete master of a specific subject,” he concluded.

For 18 years, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, in cooperation with Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University and the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in Missouri has sponsored the STARS program. Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer partners with the universities involved in the STARS program, and science-based companies like Solutia (whose materials are used primarily in the construction, transportation and manufacturing markets) also lend support and maintain a close relationship with the program.

NBPS is a member of the Meritas Family of Schools, a unique worldwide network of exceptional private college preparatory institutions that infuses classroom instruction with a strong global perspective.

Established in 1957, NBPS attracts students from northern Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, as well as from out of state and out of the country. Grades range from Pre-K through 12. For further information, call 954-736-4694.

Ways to help your child succeed in school
By Dr. Jeanne M. Korn, Assistant Headmaster
The North Broward Preparatory Schools

Dr. Jeanne Korn

The start of a new school year is a time when students are filled with dreams and expectations. How delightful it is to be greeted by so many smiling faces, and I always ponder who is smiling more – the students or the parents!

As we slowly begin to get back into the routine of school, I propose that parents help their child readjust to schedules, homework demands, studying and being responsible for their materials by considering some of my suggestions below:

• Create a study routine. It is important to set a time and quiet place for your child to work every day after school. After your child completes homework, ask your child to share the final results. Become involved. Utilize the various communication tools that the school sets forth for communication (i.e., email, telephone call, parent-teacher conference, a note in the homework journal or your child’s backpack and attendance at all school events)

• Encourage independence. Allow your child to make mistakes and learn to accept their consequences. Be a parent who helps support your child by following school rules and policies, such as arriving to school on time, following the drop-off and pick-up procedures, sending things back to school in a timely manner. In addition, speak about the teachers and the school in a positive manner in front of your child.

• Build success. Help raise your child’s self-esteem by setting reachable goals and praising your child’s efforts, not just the results. Be a parent who truly understands your child’s strengths and weaknesses. Children need to know that they are loved for the person that they are and not the person you wish them to become.

• Assign your child responsibilities at home. Being responsible for chores helps a child’s sense of importance and self-esteem blossom in a positive manner. We all need to feel needed.

• Read, read, read and read some more…and make it fun. Talk about what your child is reading. Turn off the television and find time during the week for the family to read together. Children learn by modeling. They are watching you even when you don’t think they are…so read!

• Make school important. Be a parent who insists on punctuality, best effort and good attendance. You are setting patterns and developing habits that last a lifetime and are exceedingly difficult to alter in later years. Best wishes for a wonderful 2007-2008!

The North Broward Preparatory Schools serves families living in northern Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, as well as students from out of state and out of the country.

Dr. Jeanne M. Korn, Ed.D. can be reached at 954-736-4694.

Affiniti Architects to design Taylor Woodrow model in Fort Myers

BOCA RATON, Fla.—Worldwide developer Taylor Woodrow recently commissioned Affiniti Architects in Boca Raton to design the Santa Clara model at Portico, a planned community in Fort Myers.

The two-bedroom-plus-den, 2 ½-bath single-family home will feature California-inspired Spanish Mission architecture. “I wanted to break out of traditional Mediterranean style and do something different,” said Tom Fichter, vice president of home building for the Southwest Florida division of Taylor Woodrow. Fichter has been working with Affiniti Architects for six years. “Their creativity puts a design I have in my mind on paper,” he said.

Affiniti Architects is a full-service architectural firm headquartered at 6100 Broken Sound Parkway N.W., Suite 8, Boca Raton, Fla. 33487. Specializing in resort, luxury, and multifamily residences, Affiniti also has offices in Tampa and the Bahamas.

Affiniti has earned more than 200 national and regional design awards for residential architecture, including numerous “Best of Show” awards from the Builders Association of South Florida.

For more information, call (561) 750-0445.

CARRON HOUSE RESIDENTS CHOOSE
ROBB & STUCKY DESIGN TEAM
FOR RENOVATION

BOCA RATON, Fla. -When residents of Carron House decided it was time to refurbish the community living areas of their condominium building in Highland Beach, they chose Rene Evans, ASID, and Richard Ramus, design consultants at Robb & Stucky in Boca Raton, to make the transformation. The committee in charge of the project interviewed several other design firms, but decided Robb & Stucky would best achieve its goals.

“The building hadn’t been touched since 1982,” said Bob Hildreth, president of the board and chairman of the redecorating committee. “We wanted to bring it up to date so our residents would be proud when they bring in guests.”

The new decor had to please a variety of tastes. “We didn’t want anything too busy or too bold,” Hildreth noted. “We wanted the design to be soothing and tasteful, with neutral colors and a minimalist feeling.” Why was Robb & Stucky the committee’s choice? “Because of the company’s reputation, and the way the designers presented ideas,” Hildreth said. The committee appreciated that Robb & Stucky has a wide variety of quality furnishings on display in its showroom arranged in lifestyle vignettes. “It helped to be able to see the furniture as we went through the process,” Hildreth said.

The Robb & Stucky team created a design that combines clean, contemporary lines with Zen-like timelessness. A dropped ceiling in the center of the elegant lobby will house “zero sight line” lighting, a new product by Lucifer Lighting. The recessed halogen fixtures are 1 3/4-inch diameter, trimless orifices of pure light. The floor of the lobby will be 24-by-24-inch squares of antique Crema Marfil marble highlighted by a clean-lined, contemporary 60-inch circular inset of darker narrow marble strips. Bas-relief (a technique in which designs project slightly from the background) wall build-outs will add depth and architectural interest.

In the social room, the design team will use the same marble as the lobby laid on the diagonal. Two seating areas will include an intimate chat group of four square-backed chairs with round, upholstered insets surrounding a round cocktail table, and another grouping anchored by a sofa. Additional bas-relief build-outs create continuity with the lobby.

Ceilings at Carron House are relatively low by today’s standards. To make them seem higher, the design team will remove existing crown moldings, which will also produce a more contemporary look. “The Robb & Stucky designers are able to take our ideas and turn them into reality,” Hildreth said. “I’m happy with the design process, and I look forward to seeing the finished product.” Founded in 1915, in Fort Myers, Fla., Robb & Stucky is a nationally recognized interior design and premier home furnishings retailer with showrooms in Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Robb & Stucky offers a unique lifestyle shopping experience with an unparalleled collection of fine furnishings and award-winning ensemble of designers.

Celebrating more than 90 years, Robb & Stucky recently opened showrooms in Orlando and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and Dallas, Texas. The outdoor division of Robb & Stucky expands with the opening of showrooms in Boca Raton, Orlando, and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and Chandler, Arizona.

Robb & Stucky is certified by the state of Florida to practice interior design, license number IB0000745. The company is an industry partner with the American Society of Interior Designers. Robb & Stucky is located in Mizner Park at 200 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (561) 347-1717.

AFFINITI ARCHITECTS TO DESIGN UPSIDE-DOWN HOME

BOCA RATON, Fla.— A house that’s upside down? Well, not quite. But Affiniti Architects in Boca Raton has been commissioned to design a waterfront home on Jupiter Island that will have bedrooms on the first floor, and common living areas like the kitchen and living, dining, and family rooms on the second floor.

The unusual design that is the opposite of traditional two-story layouts makes the most efficient use of a sloping oceanfront lot. The water view is much more visible from the second floor, where most daytime activities will take place, than from the first floor, where the homeowners will sleep.

Affiniti Architects is a full-service architectural firm headquartered at 6100 Broken Sound Parkway N.W., Suite 8, Boca Raton, Fla. 33487. Specializing in resort, luxury, and multifamily residences, Affiniti also has offices in Tampa and the Bahamas.

Affiniti has earned more than 200 national and regional design awards for residential architecture, including numerous “Best of Show” awards from the Builders Association of South Florida. For more information, call (561) 750-0445.

PURCHASE OPPORTUNITY IN COSTA RICA INTRODUCED
TO LOCAL REALTORS AT ROBB & STUCKY SEMINAR

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Robb & Stucky Interiors recently hosted a seminar in both Palm Beach Gardens and Boca Raton showrooms that introduced the Ailanto Wellness Resort and Spa in Costa Rica to Palm Beach County Realtors®.

Selected to furnish the 55 estate homes, 106 condominiums, 10 casitas, hotel and other public spaces at Ailanto, Robb & Stucky was pleased to invite the resort’s developer, Dr. Hugo Ribadeneira, to speak on the latest trend in personal health management. His discussion included “medical tourism” destinations such as Ailanto, where development has just begun on a 73-acre site in the Guanacaste area of the country.

“Dr. Ribadeneira is responsible for the structuring and development of this exotic, first-of-its-kind facility, and we wanted him to educate the local market about purchase opportunities, including a Fractional Homeownership Program,” said Dan Lubner, vice president of marketing for Robb & Stucky. ““Unlike a timeshare, ownership will be fee simple. Plus, it is easy for Americans to buy property in Costa Rica.”

The private, all-inclusive resort will provide lodging, food, entertainment, a 21-acre health spa complex, tennis, retail shops and a helipad. There will also be licensed medical facilities where one can elect to have cosmetic surgery, including recovery by trained medical professionals.

According to Dr. Ribadeneira, our surroundings play a large role in how we feel. “Wellness living is about your environment and Ailanto is all about luxury in a natural, green setting. Everything is being built around the typography – the trees and lush landscapes, a rainforest and thermal lagoons.” The property is at the base of a non-active volcano, providing even greater beauty.

Ailanto will offer everything from practicing yoga on platforms in trees to nutrition counseling and healthy cooking classes. The developer said he chose Robb & Stucky to furnish Ailanto because ”Robb & Stucky is about high quality and luxury. It is compatible with Ailanto.” Robb & Stucky is creating a custom line of furnishings for the resort.

Those who purchase at Ailanto by July 31, 2007 will receive the Robb & Stucky furniture package designed for their residence at no cost. Prices are set to increase 25 percent as of August 1. There are no limitations on when or how much time an owner can spend at the resort property, and unoccupied units may be placed into the hotel’s rental pool, enabling the owner to generate income. Realtor incentives are offered at Ailanto as well. For further information, call Cloud Nine Realty in Sarasota, Florida at (941) 927-3725.

Founded in 1915, in Fort Myers, Fla., Robb & Stucky is a nationally recognized interior design and premier home furnishings retailer with showrooms in Florida, Texas and Arizona. Robb & Stucky offers a unique lifestyle shopping experience with an unparalleled collection of fine furnishings and award-winning ensemble of designers.

Celebrating more than 90 years, Robb & Stucky recently opened showrooms in Orlando and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and Dallas, Texas. The outdoor division of Robb & Stucky expands with the opening of showrooms in Boca Raton, Orlando and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida and Chandler, Arizona.

For more information visit the website www.RobbStucky.com Robb & Stucky is certified by the state of Florida to practice interior design, license number IB0000745. The company is an industry partner with the American Society of Interior Designers.

Robb & Stucky Interiors is located at 3801 Design Center Drive in Palm Beach Gardens, and at 200 Plaza Real in Boca Raton. Showroom hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (561) 904-7200 in Palm Beach Gardens and (561) 347-1717 in Boca Raton or visit.

RICHARD RAMUS
TO DESIGN CONDOMINUM INTERIORS
IN COSTA RICA

BOCA RATON, Fla.—Richard Ramus, a design consultant at Robb & Stucky Interiors in Boca Raton, has accepted a commission to design the interiors of four condominium models at Aqua Residences in Jaco Beach, a seven-story mid-rise building in Costa Rica being developed by LK Pacific Development.

The residences range from 1,500 to 2,100 square feet. Ramus is designing two interiors in a British Colonial style, and two in a contemporary metro style reminiscent of the northeastern U.S. Founded in 1915, in Fort Myers, Fla., Robb & Stucky is a nationally recognized interior design and premier home furnishings retailer with showrooms in Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Robb & Stucky offers a unique lifestyle shopping experience with an unparalleled collection of fine furnishings and award-winning ensemble of designers.

Celebrating more than 90 years, Robb & Stucky recently opened showrooms in Orlando and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and Dallas, Texas. The outdoor division of Robb & Stucky expands with the opening of showrooms in Boca Raton, Orlando, and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and Chandler, Arizona.

Robb & Stucky is certified by the state of Florida to practice interior design, license number IB0000745. The company is an industry partner with the American Society of Interior Designers. Robb & Stucky is located in Mizner Park at 200 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 561-347-1717.

AFFINITI ARCHITECTS DESIGNS RESORT ACADEMY TO TEACH AND PRESERVE BAHAMIAN CULTURE

BOCA RATON, Fla. — A 48-acre teaching resort with an integrated academy to teach and preserve Bahamian culture and customs is among the new commissions recently accepted by Affiniti Architects in Boca Raton. Sanctioned by the Bahamian government, the academy will include a traditional academic village with staff houses and teaching facilities. Interns and staff will be able to immerse themselves in historical island culture that is currently being lost to modernization, and learn skills such as fishing and cooking methods.

One hundred for-sale hotel condo suites will be located individually throughout the property, which will include natural lush, indigenous vegetation and a 50-foot-high hill. No cars will be allowed past the gatehouse, and all power and water will be produced onsite. Visitors will experience traditional Bahamian culture while helping to preserve it. Affiniti Architects is a full-service architectural firm headquartered at 6100 Broken Sound Parkway N.W., Suite 8, Boca Raton, Fla. 33487. Specializing in resort, luxury, and multifamily residences, Affiniti also has offices in Tampa and the Bahamas.

Affiniti has earned more than 200 national and regional design awards for residential architecture, including numerous “Best of Show” awards from the Builders Association of South Florida. For more information, call (561) 750-0445.

SOUTH FLORIDA HOME DESIGNED BY AFFINITI ARCHITECTS WILL HAVE WATERPROOF BASEMENT

BOCA RATON, Fla.--A South Florida home with a basement? Absolutely. Affiniti Architects in Boca Raton recently accepted a commission to design a $12-million home that will include an underground archival space that is completely waterproof. The 10,000-square-foot residence in Lost Tree Village on the shores of Little Lake Worth will feature classic island-style architecture with customized, decorative hand carved stone detailing; one-of-a-kind doors, windows, and cabinetry; and state-of-the-art electronics. Construction is scheduled to begin this fall.

Affiniti Architects is a full-service architectural firm headquartered at 6100 Broken Sound Parkway N.W., Suite 8, Boca Raton, Fla. 33487. Specializing in resort, luxury, and multifamily residences, Affiniti also has offices in Tampa and the Bahamas. Affiniti has earned more than 200 national and regional design awards for residential architecture, including numerous “Best of Show” awards from the Builders Association of South Florida. For more information, call (561) 750-0445.

North Broward Prep School Athletic Director Danny Haney with several six-year-olds at the Meritas sister school in Mexico during the recent Basketball Camp. Haney is also Athletic Director for the worldwide Meritas Family of Schools.

NBPS athletic director organizes basketball camp
in Mexico to share knowledge

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – Several coaches from The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) in Coconut Creek participated in a week-long Meritas basketball camp this summer at Instituto San Roberto, a Meritas sister school in Monterrey, Mexico. NBPS is a member of the Fort Lauderdale-based Meritas Family of Schools, a unique worldwide network of exceptional private college preparatory institutions that infuses classroom instruction with a strong global perspective.

When North Broward Prep’s Athletic Director Danny Haney, who wears a second hat as Athletic Director for Meritas Schools, set up the basketball camp, he and everyone else involved in the inaugural event didn’t know what to expect.

“What we discovered was an experience we will never forget,” Haney said. “The week we spent together is a clear indication of where Meritas is headed – coaches sharing ideas with coaches from our sister schools, and working alongside one another to help make everyone better. This camp was exactly what I hoped it would be.”

More than 120 students from the San Agustin and Valle Alto campuses of Instituto San Roberto attended the camp. “Meritas coaches from North Broward Prep School, the Henderson International School in Las Vegas, and Collège du Léman in Geneva, Switzerland joined with coaches from the host school to create a learning environment unlike any other,” Haney noted. “The camp emphasized shooting, passing, rebounding, ball handling and defense. Campers also matched up in both free-throw and hot-shot competitions, and applied what they had learned by playing live games in the afternoon.”

Haney, a well-known South Florida high school coach, and former professional player Theren “T” Bullock who is affiliated with Collège du Léman shared a wealth of basketball knowledge. Instituto San Roberto coaches were also acclimated to drills and practice plans frequently used by other schools in order to prepare for interscholastic competition.

Meritas schools, which are academically aggressive and inspire every student to achieve his or her full potential, have distinctive advantages. Not only do Meritas sports competitions bring students together from every continent, but students also participate in video-conferencing with their Meritas peers in other states and countries. They can study at Meritas sister schools for a semester, a summer, or a year; and Meritas schools synchronize their curricula to allow students to take intensive two-week courses offered by any of the schools across the world. Because of the emphasis on teamwork, Meritas students acquire an understanding of diversity and cultural sensitivities.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. The private institution attracts students from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. For further information, call 954-736-4694.

NBPS has no boundaries

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – Students living in South Florida who attended North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) during the 2006-07 school year came from as far south as Sunny Isles Beach in Miami-Dade County and as far north as Lake Worth in Palm Beach County. More than 40 percent of the families live in Coral Springs and Parkland areas, while more than 30 percent are from Boca Raton. Families living in eastern Broward County (i.e., Pompano Beach, Lighthouse Point, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale) made up approximately 14 percent. These locations are just a short bus ride away.

In addition, NBPS has captured the attention of international families who want their children to receive a high-quality college preparatory education in the U.S.

This past year, North Broward Prep had 14 students enrolled from a number of different countries. Four were in middle school, 10 in high school. These international exchange students came from Mexico, Spain, Germany and South Korea.

Furthermore, because some international families who live locally sent their children to NBPS, the school’s American students were exposed to even more peers from other nations.

“North Broward Prep students make friends and work alongside their peers from different cultures, which helps prepare them to succeed and lead in a global society,” said Headmaster David V. Hicks. “By interacting with their counterparts from other countries, they learn about cultural diversity and develop respect for others. Our American students also learn far more than any textbook could teach them.”

Currently NBPS offers supervised residential boarding on its 80-acre campus for male students, and plans to accommodate females in the future. In addition, some international students live with host families who have a child or children enrolled at the school.

According to Hicks, this is in keeping with the leading-edge learning international focus of the Meritas Family of Schools. North Broward Prep is one of eight schools worldwide that are currently a part of this one-of-a-kind network of distinctive college preparatory schools.

North Broward Prep students are able to participate in video-conferencing with their Meritas peers in other states and countries, and they can study at Meritas sister schools for a semester, a summer, or a year. Meritas sports competitions bring students together from every continent; and every year Meritas schools synchronize their curricula to allow students to take intensive two-week courses offered by any of the schools across the world. “Because of the emphasis on teamwork, the students acquire an understanding of cultural sensitivities. Additionally, they are engaged in giving back through humanitarian projects,” Hicks added.

“By not only learning with students from all over the world, but also by living with them, our students expand their horizons, come to a more profound understanding of themselves as Americans, and develop greater empathy for those who have been shaped by different cultures and beliefs,” he concluded.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college prep schools. The private educational institution has a campus in Coconut Creek that serves grades Pre-K through 12, and an additional Lower School campus in Coral Springs. For further information, call 954-736-4694.

North Broward Prep student named
Female Athlete of the Year in
Broward County

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. - The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) in Coconut Creek produces award-winning athletes. Among them is Rochelle Moncrieffe, a 2007 graduating senior who lives in Coconut Creek. She has attended NBPS since the 6th grade and has been one of the private school's top female athletes during all four years of high school.

During The Miami Herald's 43rd annual All-Broward Athletic Awards Breakfast, presented by Bank United this past May in Davie, Florida, Broward County's top high school athletes were honored. It was there that Moncrieffe was recognized for her prowess and received one of the major awards that an athlete can receive from The Miami Herald: Female Athletic of the Year (3A-1A).

According to NBPS Athletic Director Danny Haney, 3A-1A refers to the state classification or size of the school, based upon population. "This means that Rochelle is the top female athlete of all small schools in Broward County, which is quite an impressive distinction."

School coaches and Herald writers for each sport cast votes, after reviewing an entire year of statistics and all-county honors. "This year, she had been rated as First Team All-County Soccer, First Team All-County Basketball, and Second Team All-County Flag Football," Haney said. "Rochelle was a leader of all three teams and was consistently recognized throughout the year. To her credit as well, she helped lead the NBPS girls' soccer team to a district title."

Commenting further, Haney added, "It is a wonderful experience to see one of our athletes honored at such a high level. Rochelle is departing North Broward Prep as one of the most decorated female athletes in the school's 50-year history. Her leadership, both on and off the field, and her athletic talents, will be hard to replace. She will be missed."

Moncrieffe will continue her soccer career at the college level. She has received a full soccer scholarship to Jackson State University in Mississippi.

The NBPS graduate is now in the company of other female Athlete of the Year winners such as tennis great Chris Evert, who was honored when she was a high school athlete in Broward County many years ago. The Miami Herald has presented student athletes and school coaches with All-Broward plaques and trophies since 1963. The awards have been presented at a breakfast in Broward since 1993, and the event attracts more than 1,000 persons.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area's oldest college preparatory schools. The private institution attracts students from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

Ben Schreier of Affiniti Architects commissioned By Mark Timothy, Inc.

Ben Schreier is AIA with Affiniti Architects.

24,000-square-foot multi-generational home among architect’s commissions

BOCA RATON, Fla. — A 24,000-square-foot, country-style home designed to house three generations is among the new commissions recently accepted by Benjamin Schreier, AIA. Schreier is a partner in Affiniti Architects, a full-service architectural firm headquartered n Boca Raton.

The home will have separate wings that allow an extended family to live together during holidays and vacations and still have privacy. Among the features: a children’s study area that evokes the ambience of a 1920s railroad clerk’s office, and a decorative tin ceiling in the family room. The dramatic foyer has a sweeping staircase defined by a unique iron railing with metal dowels attached to the sides of the steps.

Affiniti Architects has offices in Boca Raton, Tampa, and the Bahamas. The firm has earned more than 200 national and regional design awards for residential architecture, including numerous “Best of Show” awards from the South Florida Builder’s Association.

Affiniti Architects was founded on the principal of producing projects through team organization and turnkey construction. Annual construction volume is approximately $500 million.

Affiniti Architects is located at 3835 NW Boca Raton Boulevard, Suite 100C in Boca Raton, Fla. For more information, call 561-750-0445 or visit www.affinitiarchitects.com.

BOCA RATON, Fla.- Ben Schreier, AIA, recently accepted a commission to design a 10,000-square-foot, oceanfront spec home in Delray Beach for luxury builder Mark Timothy, Inc. Schreier is a partner in Affiniti Architects, a full-service architectural firm headquartered in Boca Raton.

The Georgian design is part of a trend Schreier sees toward northern-style architecture in South Florida. “The home will be elegant and understated, with Georgian moldings, bandings and proportions, but with an exterior of Florida stucco instead of traditional brick,” he said. “These more northern-style designs are becoming alternatives to Mediterranean and island-style architecture.”

The home will have three loggias overlooking the ocean featuring a summer kitchen, a dining area, comfortable seating and a fireplace. The two garages will be air-conditioned. “Air-conditioned garages are something that many discerning home buyers are asking for today,” Schreier said. “They expect more comfort, more luxurious finishes, and higher quality in every area.”

Mark Timothy, Inc. has been building homes priced between $15 million and $40 million for 18 years. Just a few months ago, the firm offered a spec home priced at $20 million for sale and almost immediately had four offers on it, including one that was $1 million higher than his asking price.

The Delray Beach home that Schreier is designing will be of a similar genre, and one of three oceanfront spec homes in Palm Beach County that Mark Timothy, Inc. will offer over the next 18 months. “I’m building them because I’m confident that the buyers will be there,” he said.

Affiniti Architects is located at 6100 Broken Sound Parkway NW, Suite 8 in Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-750-0445 or visit www.AffinitiArchitects.com.

NBPS seniors going to top-tier universities

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – Seniors at the North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) have been admitted to universities that are among the finest and most competitive schools in the country, announced NBPS High School Principal Danny Tuchman.

NBPS Valedictorian Emma Yates of Coconut Creek will be going to Princeton University. According to Tuchman, she is “a science-oriented intellectual and humanist who has been admitted virtually everywhere.”

Amanda Gill and Christina Del Carpio, both of Parkland, are bound for Duke University. Del Carpio is a scholar, debater and athlete with a focus on biological studies. She is goal oriented and a community service volunteer. Gill is a gifted musician who plays both the piano and violin in the NBPS orchestra as well as trombone in the school’s marching band.

Admitted to Columbia, Kay Kay Carrington of Lighthouse Point is, in the words of Tuchman, “equal parts scholar and athlete.”

Although admitted elsewhere, William Glick of Lighthouse Point has chosen to enroll in the University of Chicago. Likewise, Mark Rangel of Coral Springs will be enrolling in Washington University in St. Louis.

“The list goes on, and our seniors have also been admitted to other top-tier universities such as Boston College, Brandeis University, Cornell, George Washington, Vanderbilt, Tulane, Emory and Northwestern,” Tuchman noted.

“It is very exciting for all of us at NBPS to see that our graduates are going to American’s foremost universities,” he continued. “These universities obviously know about NBPS and the quality of our graduates. To me, it clearly shows that our faculty prepares our students to compete with ‘the best of the best,’ as well as ensures that they will be successful in whatever they choose to do after high school, college and beyond.”

Commenting on her experience since she came to NBPS in the 6th grade, Amanda Gill said, “North Broward Preparatory Schools’ atmosphere is very academically oriented. This made me push myself harder to reach my goals. North Broward has a standard of excellence shared by everyone, and students are interested in excelling academically.” Gill added that the teachers are very helpful, and that she has made some wonderful friends over the years.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. It attracts students not only from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, but from around the world as well. The private educational institution serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

For further information about NBPS please call (954) 736-4694

NBPS WELCOMES DECORATED SOLDIERS HOME FROM IRAQ

(L to R) Brooke Ferrer, North Broward Prep School’s school nurse and mother of the two decorated Marine Reservists; Headmaster David Hicks; Philip E. Morgaman, school president; Chris Ferrer; Marine Sergeant Alexander Escobar; and Alex Ferrer.

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) got a head start on celebrating Memorial Day this year when its faculty, administrators and entire student body gathered on the Coconut Creek campus to welcome home twin brothers who had served in Iraq. Each a recipient of a Purple Heart, Alexander and Christopher Ferrer are lance corporals, firefighters and EMTs in the Marine Reserves. They entered NBPS in the second grade and graduated from the private school in 2004.

“One of the things we talk about is that North Broward Prep is a family,” said Philip E. Morgaman, president of the school. “We’re bonded together by a love for one another and a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood. Students who have graduated come back because it feels good to come ‘home.’ That’s what brings us here today. The Ferrer brothers continue to be part of our family.”

Sergeant Alexander Escobar, also from the Second AABN Bravo Scout Platoon, joined the Ferrers at the patriotic outdoor event, which featured expressions of gratitude from Morgaman, performances by the High School Concert Band, and plenty of American flag waving from the 2,000 students who had assembled for the special tribute.

Brooke Ferrer, mother of the twins and NBPS Upper School’s nurse for the past 11 years, thanked the school for its wonderful support. “I couldn’t have gotten through this without you,” she said.

Her sons had served two tours of duty in Iraq, spending 7 months there. Alexander had been shot and Christopher survived a suicide bombing in that war-torn country.

Both soldiers acknowledged the letters they had received from the faculty and students. “It was really rough in Iraq. Your letters helped get us through,” Christopher said. Alexander also verbalized his gratitude.

“These men have undertaken a special course. They chose to serve in the U.S. military where they risked their lives to keep us safe. They are our guardians and protectors. They have shown us the greatest love of all by making this sacrifice for us,” Morgaman said, before giving the twins each an award of appreciation.

“Events such as this help our students realize that they are part of something big. This is the kind of event that builds a sense of community for kids. It was like being back in Norman Rockwell days,” he later commented.

The Ferrers, who had followed an older brother into the Marines, returned home to Fort Lauderdale this spring. They remain on active duty at the U.S. Marine Corps base in Hialeah until early June. Both boys plan to start paramedic school in the fall of 2007.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. It attracts students from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, all well as students from around the world .The private educational institution, which has a second Lower Campus in Coral Springs, serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

For further information about NBPS please call (954) 736-4694

NBPS students win big at Cappies

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. -- Eleven students from the North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) in Coconut Creek were among 2007 award winners in The Cappies (the Critics and Awards Program). The honors were presented in mid May at the South Florida Cappies gala at Parker Playhouse in Fort Lauderdale. There are presently 16 Cappies chapters across the U.S. and Canada.

The American high school awards program, which is intended to encourage students to become involved in theater, gives recognition to students who excel in high school theater programs or as critics writing reviews about those shows.

NBPS students were the proud recipients of several major awards. For the fourth consecutive year, Sarah Marshak of Coral Springs won the Senior Critics award. She is the only critic in the history of Cappies nationally to have won the critics award every year since freshman year, out of 16 chapters across the US and Canada. Prior to the gala, the NBPS senior had been interviewed on NBC6-TV’s Today in South Florida morning show.

Aaron Ricciardi, a senior from Coral Springs, won the Male Vocalist Award, while Evan Diamond, a tenth grader from Parkland, was honored with the Cameo Actor in a Musical Award.

Receiving the Critics Team Award furthered the excitement of the evening and made the following students delirious: Sarah Marshak; Justin Schwartz, a senior from Coral Springs; William Glick, a senior from Lighthouse Point; David Friedman, a tenth grader from Parkland; Stephanie Malove, a tenth grader from Parkland; tenth grader Layne Kula and ninth grader Marlee Kula from Parkland; Josh Solomon, a ninth grader from Coral Springs; and Jessica Kent, a ninth grader from Boca Raton.

In the Ensemble Music category, Katryna Lim from Coral Springs, Jessica Kent from Boca Raton, Sammie Ludin from Weston and Aaron Ricciardi from Coral Springs were recognized with a Superior award. Superior awards also went to Ariana Chapman and Jordan Hemphill, both from Boca Raton, for Duet Acting; to Jessica Kent for Solo Music; and to Katryna Lim and Aaron Ricciardi for Duet Music.

Zac Wolf and Sam Weiner won an Excellent award for Duet Acting. Both NBPS students live in Boca Raton.

Lieberman pointed out the Fine Arts program at NBPS is exceptional. “Encompassing theatre, music, dance, visual arts and media, this program helps students become more well-rounded individuals. We offer them knowledge of the history of theater, stage productions, technical production management, acting, dance, music theory, bands, vocals, orchestral, jazz and Thespian competitions,” he said. “Furthermore, we provide experiences than enhance humanitarian consciousness and bring about an understanding of cultural diversity so that students learn to interact benevolently with others.”

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. The private institution attracts students from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

For further information about NBPS please call (954) 736-4694

European Charity Band to help disadvantaged children through the gift of music

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. –The European Charity Band, comprised of music, vocal and dance students from the Meritas International family of schools located in Florida, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Houston and Mexico, will be going overseas on June 12. The 70 youngsters, ages 13 to 17, are on a mission to make life more pleasant for disadvantaged children.

Select students from North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) in Coconut Creek, which was the first private educational institution to join Meritas, will be among them.

The group will converge at North Broward Prep a week earlier to rehearse before jetting off to England via American Airlines with the European Charity Band Tour Director Danny Lieberman. Lieberman, who is also the Director of Fine Arts at Meritas and NBPS, has been leading students throughout Europe for two decades. The tour, which was his brainchild, is tied into the efforts of International Make-A-Wish. Lieberman served as the International Make-A-Wish president from 1998-2000. Before that, he was involved with Make-A-Wish for 20 years as a founder of a New York chapter and as a vice president for Make-A-Wish of America. This is the 11th year that Lieberman is coordinating and leading a group of teens who will share the gift of music.

During the past 10 years, more than 500 students have taken part in these annual European tours, performing in numerous cities and towns to bring cheer to terminally ill and disadvantage children.

“The aim is to give and to share,” Lieberman said. “It is not just about the music. It is about love and cultural diversity. But, most of all, it is about caring for others who are different from us. The core value instilled is sensitivity to diversity and giving of one’s self to those who are less fortunate.”

The NBPS group is particularly proud to have presented a keyboard to a 16-year-old from Vienna in 2005, and a pink bedroom set and clothing to a six-year-old in that same city in 2006. Last year the students also visited several schools and hospitals.

In addition to London, this year’s tour includes visits to Salzburg, Amsterdam, Prague, Vienna, Brussels and Geneva. While in Geneva, the group will make a musical stopover at its Meritas sister school, College du Leman, and will do a benefit concert for Make-A-Wish Switzerland.

Departing June 12, the band will return on June 27th. The groups include dancers, singers, a Concert Band and a Jazz Ensemble. Musical selections range from jazz, Bach and the Beatles to Broadway and rock & roll. Students bring along their instruments, music stands, amplifiers and all the electrical gear necessary to entertain.

The ensembles will perform locally before their departure. The public is invited to attend. Concerts are scheduled at 7 p.m. on June 8 at the City of Coconut Creek Community Center; 6 p.m. on June 11 at the Marriott Hotel Beach Place in Fort Lauderdale; and at 7 p.m. on June 11th at the Township Center for the Performing Arts in Coconut Creek. For ticket information, call 954-736-4694, ext.324.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. It attracts students not only from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, but from around the world as well. The private educational institution serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

For further information about NBPS please call (954) 736-4694

Pictured are some students and an adviser at the Meritas student summit hosted recently by the North Broward Preparatory Schools in Coconut Creek.

BPS STUDENTS JOIN MERITAS’ INTERNATIONAL EFFORT TO ADOPT AN UNDERDEVELOPED VILLAGE

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. –This spring, Meritas schools sent their student government officers and advisers from around the globe to a special summit at the North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) in Coconut Creek. NBPS is among members of the growing, worldwide Meritas family of exceptional college preparatory schools.

On the third day of the summit, the Meritas representatives came together to work on their individual leadership skills and their respective student governments. They also identified collaborative charitable opportunities.

The most exciting result of the summit was the creation of a charitable action plan designed to capitalize on the strength of the Meritas network of schools by unifying their efforts in order to make a difference globally.

By January 2008, their collective goal is to raise a minimum of $80,000 to be used to adopt an underdeveloped village in Mexico or Central America.

Whether it was coincidental or not that the summit took place a month after World Water Day, the students were initially interested in providing the village with healthy water. Their intent is to donate and install a Play Pump, which ingeniously uses playground equipment as a means to extract safe water from an underground aquifer. The energy of children at play becomes the power supply. Clean, bore-hole water is pumped into storage tanks while the merry-go-round-like equipment is being enjoyed by children.

The students’ plan also identifies non-monetary ways to support the village. Meritas students will be given the opportunity to participate in the actual installation and construction projects. Additionally, they will enhance their ability to give through clothing, book and school-supply drives.

“Humanitarian efforts such as this are an integral part of the learning experience at Meritas schools,” said David V. Hicks, vice president of Academic Affairs for Meritas and the headmaster at NBPS. “This is just one example of how we engage our students, teach them about cultural diversity, and encourage them to give to those who are less fortunate.”

Continuing, he added, “This is an ambitious undertaking for Meritas students, but they always set high goals. We are very proud that they have selected this as a collaborative fundraising project. This undertaking demonstrates that they are thinking globally and actively involved in helping to solve some of the world’s problems It also shows what an international network of extraordinary schools can accomplish when they work together.”

Meritas schools represented at the summit included NBPS in Coconut Creek, Florida; The Henderson International School in Las Vegas, Nevada; The Village School in Houston, Texas; Heritage Oak in Yorba Linda, California; Instituto San Roberto in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; and Collège du Léman in Geneva, Switzerland.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools.

The private educational institution serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially to succeed and lead in a global society. Attending students live in Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties as well as abroad.

For further information about NBPS please call (954) 736-4694

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(L to R): Coach Dellenbach with North Broward Preparatory Schools’ Athletic Director Danny Haney

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NFL veteran named head football coach at
 North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS)

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. –North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) in Coconut Creek scored big in early May when the Athletic Department announced that Jeff Dellenbach will be the MEagles’ new head football coach, starting immediately.

NBPS’ Athletic Director Danny Haney shared the exciting news at an outdoor, on-campus gathering attended by Headmaster David V. Hicks, the football staff and some of the students.

This is the first high school head football coaching position for Dellenbach. The NFL veteran will oversee NBPS’ varsity team and a junior high team of 7th, 8th and 9th graders.

Dellenbach brings to the school 16 years in the NFL. Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1985, he played 10 years under Coach Don Shula and was an assistant offensive line coach for the Dolphins. He also played one year with the New England Patriots, three years with the Green Bay Packers, and one year each with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Seattle Seahawks. Throughout his career, Dellenbach played all five offensive line positions. He participated in two Super Bowls and was a member of the Packers when that team won Super Bowl XXXI (1997).

In college, when he attended the University of Wisconsin in his native state, Dellenbach was the Second Team All-Big Ten Selection (1983), as well as the Third Team All-American Selection, Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year, and First Team All-Big Ten Selection (1984).

Before introducing the new head coach, Haney said he had met Dellenbach two years early and was impressed with him. “Jeff is big into helping the community, which is compatible with our school’s philosophy. He and his family give back through their involvement with Miami’s Children Hospital, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the Boys & Girls Clubs. He is a phenomenal person and we’re sure he’ll be a tremendous asset to NBPS and a great role model for our players,” Haney noted.

“Mr. Hicks, our headmaster, is really responsible for this happening. When he joined NBPS this year, he said he wanted to create a very exciting atmosphere. Football is certainly a part of it,” Haney said. “We have beautiful facilities here and everything to make a successful team.”

Receiving both applause and cheers, Dellenbach said he was running a successful business – the Ultimate Sports Institute – and that he wasn’t looking for a high school head coaching position. “But the more I heard about North Broward Prep, the more I knew the position was right for me,” he said.

Dellenbach’s Ultimate Sports Institute is a company that provides athletic conditioning, strength training, biomechanics, nutritional advice and safety tips from athletic professionals. He plans to stay involved. A 20-year Weston resident, Dellenbach is married and has four children.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. It attracts students not only from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, but from around the world as well. The private educational institution serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. Lower and Upper Schools are located in Coconut Creek, and there is a Lower School campus in Coral Springs. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

For further information about NBPS please call (954) 736-4694

North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) appoints

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – Dr. Kathleen Rotella, a 30-year veteran in the field of private education, will join the North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) as Director of Lower Schools. The position becomes effective on July 1, 2007.

“Dr. Rotella brings a consistent record of high achievement to our lower school campuses in Coconut Creek and Coral Springs, Florida,” said NBPS Headmaster David V. Hicks.

As Director of the Lower and Intermediate Schools at Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart in Miami, Florida. Dr. Rotella developed strong physical education, summer, after-school, and lap-top technology programs. More recently, she headed up the middle school at St. Mark’s in Fort Lauderdale. There, she designed a schedule that prioritized academic excellence and extra-curricular activities with the physiological characteristics of middle school children.

In 2006, Dr. Rotella was selected as one of 71 Fellows for special training as heads of schools by the National Association of Independent Schools. She participated in a leadership institute, attended a series of NAIS conference workshops, and completed a leadership project that focused on analyzing students’ standardized test scores and using the findings to develop individual student profiles and customized teaching strategies that improved performance.

Dr. Rotella received a bachelor of science degree in Education from Florida International University followed by a master’s degree in Physical Education from the University of Miami. She resumed her studies years later and earned a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Rotella moved to South Florida in 1960. She and her husband currently live in the Coral Ridge area of Fort Lauderdale.

Dr. Rotella also serves as vice president of the Broward County Non-Public School Association. Among her responsibilities are the planning and coordination of the organization’s annual Pinnacle Awards luncheon.

“More important than any of these achievements are her love of children and her delight in working with teachers, parents and students,” Hicks said. “Kathleen [Kitty] is very enthusiastic about her new appointment. Additionally, with her love of family and sports, she plans to be visible at both NBPS campuses and looks forward to the school year with high hopes and high expectations.”

Continuing, Hicks said, “We, too, have our sights set on the stars next year and I am confident that, under Dr. Rotella’s caring leadership, our children will reach those stars.”

The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) is one of the oldest private college preparatory institutions in the area, having been established 50 years ago. It is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools worldwide, which provides NBPS students with travel and enrichment opportunities not available at other area college preparatory schools.

For further information about NBPS please call (954) 736-4694, ext. 324.

NBPS students capture multiple awards in dance!

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – The Fine Arts Department at the North Broward Preparatory Schools is abuzz with excitement after being recognized as a multiple winner in the Nexstar Dance Competition held recently in Coconut Creek Florida.

Nexstar National Talent Competition is a dance competition where local studios compete for title awards.

Aglow with pride, Fine Arts Director Daniel Lieberman announced that Melissa D’Errico High School Dance Team won a first place Platinum Award and 1st Overall Highest Score in its category for a lyrical dance, “Minstrel’s Prayer”; a first place Platinum award and 2nd Overall Highest Score for “Technologic”, a modern jazz dance; and a High Gold Award and 3rd Overall Highest Score for a jazz dance, “Body Language.”

The “Body Language” performance also received the “Feel Good Award”, and this NBPS team captured the Backstage Award (both were Special Judge’s Awards). In addition, soloist Ree Joslyn took a High Gold Award, while Alex Masi and Kat Franklin each won a Gold award. Accolades also went to Paula Caselton’s High School Dance Team as the team received a High Gold Award and a 4th Overall Highest Score for lyrical dance “Every Time We Touch.” Likewise, their jazz dance “Queen of the Night” performance won Gold and was recognized for the 5th Overall Highest Score in its category. High Gold award-winning soloists include Melissa Then, Jenn Perfect and Anna Walsh.

“NBPS continues its strong focus on the fine arts, whether it’s dance, music, theatre, visual arts or media,” Lieberman said. “We believe that programs such as these contribute to our students becoming more well-rounded individuals. To discover their talents and to cultivate them is a true joy. Plus, we oftentimes tie these programs in with humanitarian efforts, in order to teach children the satisfaction derived from giving back to the community.”

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. It attracts students not only from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, but from around the world as well. The private educational institution serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential. 

For further information about NBPS and its Fine Arts programs, please call (954) 736-4694, ext. 324.

BOLD NEW CURRICULUM, UPGRADED FACILITIES AND $4 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS ARE TRADEMARKS OF
NBPS’ PLEDGE TO BRING AMERICAN EDUCATION INTO 21ST CENTURY

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – An old adage “Think globally, act locally” holds true for one of the oldest, private college preparatory educational institutions in South Florida. In a bold and visionary move to prepare the next generation of Americans for the new world order, North Broward Preparatory School (NBPS) in Coral Springs is introducing an innovative curriculum for Pre-K four year olds through the first grade starting in the 2007-2008 school year.

“Children will not emerge as leaders on tomorrow’s global stage without the proper foundation early in life,” said NBPS Headmaster David V. Hicks. “The pillars of that foundation are not just the academics; they are also the characteristics of emotional intelligence that we develop in our students.”

In 2006, the New Commission on the Skills of the American Workforce, a bipartisan panel of education leaders, revealed a dismal report on the state of American education. A bare minimum required by the measures like “No Child Left Behind” will likely leave an entire generation behind, according to the report’s findings. Similarly, Florida’s preoccupation with FCATK leaves little time for anything but basic math and reading.

NBPS – a member of the Meritas Family of Schools that is recognized for its international study, travel and humanitarian program opportunities – realizes that the new, emerging and rather “flat” world requires much more. “Along with the core academic and technological skills, American students must be able to work in teams and have a deep understanding of cultural differences,” noted Hicks who also is vice president of Academic Affairs for Meritas. Starting in August 2007, NBPS’ Coral Springs curriculum will address all of that.

Firstly, NBPS recognizes that the rising Chinese empire and its 1.5 billion Mandarin speakers are playing a crucial role in the world’s economy and cannot be ignored. “With more students studying at honors level in China than the total number of children in America, this influence will only become more apparent as our children move into adulthood,” Hicks noted. “Therefore, beginning at four years of age, Pre-K, Kindergarten and first-grade students at NBPS will have daily classes in Mandarin taught by native speakers.”

In addition, NBPS will create an enhanced learning environment to support such innovative practices by redesigning its facilities. For example, as children enter the classrooms for Mandarin, they will be visually transported to Old China.

Still, the school’s uncompromising ambition stretches far beyond China. Young students in Coral Springs will become familiar with geography, literature and customs of the world on the other six continents. They will interact with the sciences as never before, leading to an understanding and application of scientific reasoning from an early age.

Furthermore, the unique curriculum will teach youngsters to play stringed instruments, such as the violin, with confidence and as members of a musical ensemble.

Continuing, Hicks said, “We, of course, will teach in an age-appropriate manner. It will be playful and fun, and young children will soak up what’s being presented.”

Exam dates are set for April 28, May 19 and June 2, 2007. For more information about these scholarship opportunities, call 954-840-8918.

“We are living in times where technology is growing by leaps and bounds. Kids can easily obtain information from Google, but they need far more than that, including an international mindset. That’s why our 21st century educational initiatives are so important. We feel it is our responsibility to create a richer, more robust learning environment for today’s youth,” Hicks concluded.

Established in 1957, NPBS has campuses in Coral Springs and Coconut Creek. The private institution attracts students from Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties as well as from around the world. NBPS serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global community.

NBPS was the first member of The Meritas Family of Schools that today has schools as faraway as Switzerland. This international family of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools is committed to maximizing student potential.

(Top, L to R) North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) Coral Springs Assistant Principal Angela Kopels and Principal Else Ecoff with (bottom, L to R) auction winners Julia Hopper, assistant principal for a day; and Katie Bishop, principal for a day.

PTA charity auction puts elementary school students in high-powered positions at North Broward Preparatory Schools

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – Coral Springs Lower Campus Principal Elise Ecoff at North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) relinquished her office for one day as a way to raise funds for the school.

Likewise, so did the schools’ assistant principal and director of physical education. Even the head of security had to step aside when he was temporarily replaced by a student at the school whose parents had placed winning bids at a PTA auction held earlier this year.

“The PTA event took place on NBPS’ Coconut Creek campus and parents on both campuses were involved. Supporters kept the action going so that their child (and, in some cases, children) could role play in these or other supervisory positions for a day.

Cheryl Cleary, Carol Chenkin, Marie Chusid and Marina Chaney chaired this year’s event committee and the auction was well received by parents and children alike.

Funds that the PTA generously donates are used to purchase ancillary materials that enhance learning. Last year, funds raised were used for everything from creating a first-grade “reading room” complete with cozy furniture and rgs to sending teachers to national conferences.

“I was very excited to be principal for a day at my school,” said Katie Bishop who lives in Coral Springs. “I liked eating lunch in the teacher’s lounge and doing the survey of the students.”

Ecoff said that this gave some of her students an opportunity to begin to develop their leadership skills while learning about how a school operates. “Plus, it is a whole lot of fun for everyone!” she concluded.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. It primarily attracts students from Broward and Palm Beach counties, and many international students also attend NBPS. The private educational institution serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

For further information about NBPSand it's programs, please call 954-736-4694.

PHOTO CUTLINE: (L-R) NBPS Fine Arts Director Daniel Lieberman
with band leader Anthony Williams.

Preparatory Schools in Coconut Creek
has been selected to play for the Miami Herald’s NORTH BROWARD PREPARATORY JAZZ BAND TO PLAY AT MIAMI HERALD’S SILVER KNIGHTS PROGRAM

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. - For the fifth year in a row, the Jazz Band at North Broward illustrious Silver Knights awards ceremony. Silver Knights, which is taped for a later television broadcast, recognizes top students from throughout Broward County for outstanding achievement in a variety of categories.

Winners in a highly competitive program are announced during the Academy Awards-style presentation fraught with suspense. Throughout the evening, music helps build tension and accompanies each nominee as he or she approaches the stage.

“It’s a great opportunity for our musicians to be in a high-pressure performance environment with TV cameras rolling,” said NBPS Director of Fine Arts Daniel Lieberman, who will conduct the Jazz Band during the Silver Knights program May 1. “They know anything can happen, and it usually does.”

“Musicians at NBPS are very professional performers,” Lieberman continued. “It’s an honor to be selected to play for Silver Knights, because it’s such a meaningful occasion for schools all over the county. Our kids realize how important the music is to the program. It’s always an exciting evening -- for both the nominees and for us.”

The Jazz Band is a part of NBPS’ concert band, which will tour in Europe this summer. Included in the itinerary will be performances in Surrey, England; Schevingen, the Haag, Geneva, Vienna and Prague.

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools in the area. The private educational institution serves grades pre-K through 12, preparing students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society.

NBPS is a member of the Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory institutions committed to maximizing student potential. For more information, call 954-736-4694.

North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS)
names Anthony Williams as new band director

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – The news that Anthony Williams will become North Broward Preparatory Schools’ new band director beginning with the 2007/2008 school year is music to the ears of students and parents whose children are in the Music program at the private educational institution located in Coconut Creek, Florida.

According to Daniel Lieberman, NBPS’ director of Fine Arts, one of the school’s strong suits is its unique Fine Arts programs, and one of those programs – Music – will become even better with Williams coming on board, starting this summer with camp.

“We consider it a triumph to have hired Anthony away from the public school arena where he leaves a memorable mark on every position he has held,” Lieberman said. “Anthony’s credentials are remarkable and they speak volumes about the great music education that our band students will continue to receive here at North Broward.”

Williams has been playing music for three decades, beginning in the seventh grade in his home state of Alabama. In high school, he was an All-County and All-State trombone player and also won the John Phillip Sousa Award for the school. He subsequently relocated to Tallahassee, Florida to attend Florida A & M University where he studied trombone with the late Charles S. Bing. In 1990, Williams graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education.

Beginning his career as the director of bands in 1990 at Pines Middle School in Pembroke Pines where he taught for five years, in 1995 he moved to Silver Trail Middle School in Pembroke Pines and, in 2001, to Falcon Cove Middle School in Weston.

“Anthony’s students have received superior ratings in Jazz, Concert, Solo and Ensemble and, most recently, won First Place and Grand Champion at Fiesta-Val in Atlanta. Plus, he has received a five-year Superior award from the Florida Bandmasters Association (FBA),” Lieberman continued.

This music veteran was honored with the Teacher of the Year award from Pines and Silver Trail Middle schools, and was voted Arts Teacher of the Year at Falcon Cove Middle where he was a finalist for Broward County. Williams was also nominated twice for Disney’s Teacher of the Year award, honored as a Director of Distinction by the Fiesta-Val music competition and, in 2007, was the principal Elementary Honor Band conductor in Broward County as well as the Volusia County Middle School Honor Band conductor.

He is an active member of FBA, the Florida Music Educators Association (FMEA) and the Broward County Band Directors Association (BCBDA). Williams is a past-chairman of BCBDA and currently is president of Musical Experience, Inc., which sponsors camps and competitions for all students. “Anthony has consistently received superior ratings for the past 15 years in Jazz and Concert Bands in Music Performance Assessment. Likewise, bands under his direction have place first in the Fiesta-Val and Southern Star competitions. These bands have also been the Grand Champions of these competitions for the last three years,” Lieberman said.

“Bringing ‘the best of the best’ to NBPS will elevate our already great band program to an even higher level of excellence. We warmly welcome this talented professional and are confident he will be an invaluable asset to our Fine Arts team,” Lieberman concluded.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to be a part of a team of educators with similar interests and goals," Williams said. Married with a daughter, he resides in Pembroke Pines. During his spare time, Williams rides his motorcycle and enjoys college and professional football. (Watching the Dallas Cowboys play is a special leisure-time pursuit!)

The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) is one of the oldest private college preparatory institutions in the area, having been established 50 years ago. It is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools worldwide, which provides NBPS students with travel and enrichment opportunities not available at other area college preparatory schools.

For further information about NBPS and its unique Fine Arts programs, please call 954-736-4694, ext. 324.

North Broward Preparatory Schools goes green

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS) is taking action to protect and sustain the environment by going green. In a formal announcement about this campus-wide initiative, made by Headmaster David V. Hicks in April to coincide with Earth Day, he said, “May it someday be that North Broward is the greenest school in Florida.”

According to Hicks, part of what schools are about is forming good habits and realigning bad ones. “We at NBPS have talked most of the year about our obligation as a learning, teaching and consuming community to practice, learn and teach habits of sustainable living. Now it is time to put our words into action and sustain an effort to go green,” he said.

Hicks estimated that this aggressive green mentality will save NBPS thousands of dollars over the course of a year. Currently NBPS is paying more than $61,000 for waste pick-up. “At the same time we will be helping to save the earth, our actions will also be beneficial from a business standpoint,” he noted.

When NBPS students return to the school’s lower and upper campuses in Coconut Creek, as well as its lower school campus in Coral Springs this fall, they will find trash compactors that reduce the volume of waste from a ratio of approximately 4:1. NBPS will purchase roll-off containers to hold paper and cardboard, and those materials will be sold to a company that will recycle the materials. Toner cartridges from printers will also be set aside for recycling.

Other planned purchases include super sorters for bottles and cans, recycling bins for classrooms, and washable glass or plastic cups for the cafeterias. NBPS has already removed Styrofoam cups from the faculty work areas and encouraged teachers to bring their own ceramic mugs for coffee.

“If we can’t get rid of something in a manner that is environmentally friendly, we won’t buy it,” Hicks pointed out. “We are even going to be more conscientious about keeping more the temperature in our spaces comfortable, but not cold to the point where some of us need to wear sweaters to stay warm.”

NBPS intends to educate students about the environmental importance of recycling and has urged the NBPS science department to offer honors electives in topics such as environmental engineering and renewable energy.

In conjunction with its “going green” launch, NBPS is selling t-shirts with slogans that range from “Conservation is key and “One earth – one chance” to “Together we can change the world.” All monies raised will help defray costs for the purchase of this equipment.

Hicks is hoping the eco-friendly habits that NBPS is trying to engrain in its students are also being taught at home. “The fine art of sustainable living begins in the home. Children who come to school accustomed to picking up after themselves, recycling their trash and are aware about not wasting water and electricity will help to lead us all to a nobler vision of ourselves and our place on the earth,” he noted.

In a recent school newsletter, Hicks wrote: “It’s a mistake to think that environmental protection is a political issue – something best left up to the government. I urge you [parents] to investigate the topic for yourself.” He suggested an excellent place to start: Living Green, a short, practical book just written by an NBPS parent, Greg Horn. The book is available in local bookstores as well as in the NBPS store.

Hicks concluded by expressing appreciation to NBPS Middle School Principal Patrice Rogers and her Ecology Club at NBPS for “stirring the conscience of the school in these matters and for their efforts over the years to make a difference.”

Established in 1957, NBPS is one of the area’s oldest college preparatory schools. The private educational institution serves grades Pre-K through 12 and prepares students academically and socially for college and to succeed and lead in a global society. NBPS is a member of The Meritas Family of Schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential.

For further information, call 954-736-4694.

NATIONWIDE ‘TOLL ADVANTAGE DAYS’ TO FEATURE WHAT’S NEW IN CONSTRUCTION APRIL 28 & 29 Public invited to behind-the-scenes look at luxuy home building.

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. – Toll Brothers, the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes, will host a Toll Advantage Days on Saturday, April 28, and Sunday, April 29, 2007 at its communities nationwide, including Southeast Florida. Open to prospective homebuyers between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., the events will give the public a rare opportunity to meet with Toll Brothers management teams and learn how homes are built from start to finish.

According to Toll Brothers Division President Mike Donnelly, the events will provide a behind-the-scenes look at luxury home building. He said that similar events, held statewide this past January, drew many interested people.

Toll Brothers will open the doors to residences under construction and invite the public to experience first-hand the numerous advantages a Toll Brothers home includes,” Donnelly explained. “Visitors will have the opportunity to preview hot products and learn about what’s new in quality construction techniques and craftsmanship. This is a rare opportunity to be with industry experts, tour construction sites and find out about the ‘latest and greatest.’”

Visitors will learn about land planning and community design; the best ideas for placing a home on a home site; identifying and recognizing quality construction; home building technology and energy efficiency, all while touring homes in various stages of construction. Information packets will also be handed out.

As an example, visitors will be told about Bituthene 3000 Water Membrane; high-efficiency, 13 seer air-conditioning systems; impact glass; Gyprete in two-story homes; Hardibacker in wet areas and many other components found in Toll Brothers homes.

“This will be a very informative and worthwhile experience,” Donnelly pointed out.

Toll Advantage Days are being held at these Southeast Florida Toll Brothers communities:

•Wellington View, just north of Forest Hill Boulevard on Sansbury Way/Lyons Road in West Palm Beach.

•Ocean’s Edge at Singer Island, between the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, east of PGA Boulevard. Event will be at off-site Ocean’s Edge sales center in Palm Beach Gardens, on northeast corner of PGA Boulevard & U.S. 1 in Oakbrook Square Shopping Center within courtyard shops (Suite 80).

•Frenchman’s Reserve, on Alternate A1A, one mile north of PGA Boulevard in eastern Palm Beach Gardens.

•Jupiter Country Club, just west of Florida’s Turnpike on Indiantown Road in Jupiter,

•The Estates at Tradition, just west of Interstate 95 exit 118 (Tradition Parkway interchange/Gatlin Boulevard) in Port St. Lucie.

•Fairway Lakes at Viera (From I-95, exit #191 at Wickham Road. Travel west to Stadium Parkway and turn right. Entrance to Fairway Lakes is ½ mile on left.)

Admission to these Toll Advantage Days is free of charge. Food and beverages will be provided.

ADLER NETWORK PUBLIC RELATIONS

(L to R) Neil Bacher on guitar with vocalist Frank Sagarese performing at the North Broward Preparatory Schools faculty concert in Coconut Creek.

(While the upbeat fundraiser showcased the talents of NBPS music teachers, private instrument and vocal coaches, as well as several students, it contributed to a scholarship fund that is enabling eight Haitian students living in Pompano Beach to attend NBPS and receive academic and extracurricular opportunities they never would have had access to otherwise.

Fine Arts faculty concert benefits NBPS Booster Scholarship Fund

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – The North Broward Preparatory Schools (NBPS), one of the oldest private college preparatory institutions in the area, continued efforts to give back to the community when the Fine Arts Department recently presented its second annual faculty concert. The entertaining evening event raised money for the NBPS Booster Scholarship Fund, which has enabled eight Haitian students living in Pompano Beach to attend NBPS for the past three years, where they have academic and extracurricular opportunities they never would have had access to otherwise.

Twenty-six multi-talented NBPS music teachers, private instrument and vocal coaches, most of whom are or were professional performers, packed the house at The Township Center for the Performing Arts, which is convenient to the school’s Coconut Creek and Coral Springs campuses. They performed everything from classical, jazz and pop to blues and soul. Even Fine Arts Director Daniel Lieberman played saxophone and drums when he wasn’t conducting or acting as the emcee for the uplifting event. In addition, several NBPS students who maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 auditioned to perform with the teachers and staff. Their performances, like those of the faculty, received standing ovations.

“Although the benefit concert was billed as ‘It’s All About Music,’ it wasn’t really about the music,” said Lieberman. “It was about making a difference in people’s lives. This is very important to NBPS and to me personally.” Lieberman is a past president and a current board member of the Make-A-Wish Foundation International.

“We played for a reason tonight,” Lieberman noted. “Several years ago we bonded with a charity and began sponsoring these eight students from surrounding communities could have the advantage of taking the same classes and participating in the same extracurricular activities that our NBPS students do.”

As the concert drew to an end, Lieberman expressed appreciation to the audience of supporters and extended a special thanks to Boca Raton residents Sandra and Philip E. Morgaman. Philip Morgaman is president of NBPS as well as chairman/CEO of Meritas schools, an international network of unique and distinctive college preparatory schools committed to maximizing student potential. Morgaman acquired NBPS in 1995, and subsequently expanded its campuses and programs. He later made NBPS the first member school in The Meritas Family of Schools worldwide, which provides NBPS students with travel and enrichment opportunities not available at other area college preparatory schools.

Lieberman pointed out that the NBPS Booster Scholarship fund will result in more than $1 million in contributions to the eight students over an eight-year period, and it is one of several charitable projects that NBPS undertakes every year.

“Because children learn by example, we believe in exposing our students to these types of philanthropic endeavors,” Lieberman continued. “It teaches them compassion, builds character, helps them become more well-rounded individuals, and prepares them to lead in a global society.”

For further information about NBPS and its unique Fine Arts programs, please call (954) 247-0011, ext. 324.