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Important News/Press Releases

3. Committee News

• December 5, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Prepares to Train Teachers”
  The Curriculum Development Committee plans to host regional and in-school training sessions for the use of the Phase II “Universality of Italian Heritage” Curriculum Project during 2006.  The Curriculum has over 30 lesson plans and supplementary teaching materials for use in grades K-12 across a wide range of subject matters.  Teachers interested in using this infusion model that corresponds to NJDOE guidelines and core content standards should contact the Commission in order to receive information on becoming a Phase II Pilot Test District.

• November 11, 2005: “Government Relations Committee Issues Alito Letter”
  In response to the New Jersey Italian American community’s desire to address defamatory anti-Italian comments regarding the U.S. Supreme Court nomination process for Judge Samuel Alito, the Government Relations Committee issued a statement to the public.  Calling on all U.S. citizens to evaluate Judge Alito’s professional qualifications, the Government Relations Committee urged the public not to engage in defamatory or stereotypical rhetoric regarding his Italian American background.  As Judge Alito is a prominent magistrate of Italian descent from the State of New Jersey, the Government Relations Committee congratulates him on his achievements and expressed pride in his Italian Heritage.

• October 29, 2005: “Promotion of Italian Language Committee Holds Hearing”
  The Promotion of the Italian Language Committee convened a public hearing at the 2nd New Jersey Congress of Italian American Organizations in New Brunswick.  Chaired by Catherine Vignale, the Committee hosted a panel discussion with over 40 public participants during the workshop sessions of the Congress.  The Committee sought to solicit views from professional educators, students and concerned parents, regarding the issues affecting the teaching of the Italian Language in the State of New Jersey.  Today, there are over 33,000 students in grades K-12 studying Italian in New Jersey and the demand for continuing instruction at the university level is growing.  The Committee plans to issue a database of those schools with Italian language programs in the State during 2006.

• October 10, 2005: “Community Advisory Council Finalizes Plans for 2nd Congress”
  The Community Advisory Council of the New Jersey Italian and Italian American Heritage Commission has finalized its plans for the 2nd New Jersey Congress of Italian American Organizations.  Last October, the Commission organized the first-ever NJ Congress of Italian American Organizations, held at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ.  The event was attended by over 75 organizations and over 520 Italian American community leaders.  The 8-hour long convention, complete with working sessions, lectures, panel discussions, networking meetings and community entertainment, was so successful that the Congress passed a Resolution calling on the Commission to run the event a second time this year.  On Saturday, October 29th the Commission are again organizing the NJ Italian American Congress.    This year’s theme “NJ’s Italian Americans – Serving Each Other” builds on last year’s concept of “Unifying the Efforts of NJ’s Italian American Organizations”.  This shorter convention, running from 9am to 1pm, will feature working group sessions for program planning and a review of the past year’s Commission activities.  All interested individuals are invited to attend the free event, complete with breakfast and lunch. 

• October 5, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Launches Phase II Pilot to Schools”
  The New Jersey Italian and Italian American Heritage Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee is now in the process of launching the Phase II Pilot of the “Universality of Italian Heritage” Curriculum Project.  Last year, Phase I was successfully completed to 11 school districts, potentially reaching over 7,000 students.  The lesson plans tested were for grades 6-12, while the Phase II Pilot covers the full K-12 grade levels.  Each of the prior participating school districts will be invited back for Phase II and the program will be extended to new selected school districts.

• September 28, 2005: “Government Relations Committee Secures Proclamation”
  To help inaugurate Italian Heritage Month this October, the Government Relations Committee of the New Jersey Italian and Italian American Heritage Commission worked with the Office of Governor Richard Codey to issue a Statewide Proclamation establishing October 2005 as Italian Heritage and Culture Month in the State of New Jersey. Acting Governor Codey declared that New Jersey’s Italian Americans have made “significant contributions to our social, cultural and economic life through their rich heritage” and that “it is appropriate that all New Jerseyans join in honoring Italian Americans for their many outstanding achievements and contributions to our State.”  Since this gubernatorial Proclamation is valid only for the 2005 year, the Government Relations Committee has begun to work with the Senate and the Assembly to try to pass a Joint Resolution from the Senate that would permanently establish October as Italian Heritage Month in the State of New Jersey in perpetuity.  The Senate passed its version in October 2004 and the Commission encourages the Assembly to consider the Resolution for passage after the legislature convenes again in January 2006.

• September 14, 2005: “Phase I Evaluation Received by Curriculum Committee”
  The New Jersey Italian and Italian American Heritage Commission has received an extensive evaluation of the Phase I “Universality of Italian Heritage” Curriculum Project from participating teachers.  The Curriculum Development Committee retained a third-party professional educational consulting firm (Evaluation Solutions, Inc.) to compile the results and comments from 11 school districts in the State of New Jersey.  The complete report, accompanied by a report from the Curriculum Committee will be made available to the public via the website in October 2005.  Over 90% of surveyed teachers provided favorable responses to the curriculum and 82% would use the materials again this year.  An additional 65% stated that they would promote the project to their community.  The Phase I Pilot potentially reached 7,000 schoolchildren throughout the State of New Jersey during its trial in 2004-2005.

• August 11, 2005: “Review of New K-5 Lesson Plans by Curriculum Committee”
  The New Jersey Italian and Italian American Heritage Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee convened to review the Phase II expanded lesson plans for the grade levels K-5.  Including materials on Italian opera, Renaissance art, Italian explorers, folklore and literature, these new lesson plans will enable teachers to instruct K-5 students throughout NJ about aspects of the Italian Heritage.  Chairperson Gilda Rorro Baldassari and Curriculum Editor Dr. Kevin Brady will manage the production and roll-out of Volume II of the “Universality of Italian Heritage” this October to selected New Jersey School Districts.
  

• July 13, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Announces Amicizia Program with Sicily”
  As part of the on-going dialogue with the Government of Sicily, the Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, has fostered a new international program for New Jersey’s school districts.  Known as the “Amicizia” Program, the Commission is seeking to link New Jersey students with Sicilian students through exchanges of English and Italian letters.  Hamilton school district students have launched the project by drafting letters to five schools in Sicily, which have responded.  The project will be coordinated by educators in Sicily and their contact information will be available on the Commission website.

• July 7, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Prepares Phase II Pilot”
  The Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, met to plan the work process during the summer months for the ongoing Curriculum Project entitled “The Universality of Italian Heritage” in Princeton, New Jersey.  Having completed the Phase I Pilot for lesson plans grades 6-12, the Committee is in the process of retaining an outside evaluator of the teacher assessments of the program.  This evaluation and a Report from the Committee will be issued in the Fall.  The original 16 lesson plans will be revised by the Committee for distribution as a second pilot in the Fall, which will expand the target school districts from 11 to approximately 15 and add lessons for K-5.  The 2nd Pilot will launch in October of 2005.  In addition, various products supporting the project are in production, including a website library of curriculum resources, a work on the history of Italy and a promotional video for the Curriculum Project.

• July 1, 2005: “Executive Committee Welcomes New Commissioners”
  Members of the Commission’s Executive Committee (XCOM) welcomed the newly appointed Commissioners to the Board.  At the start of the fourth year of the Commission, four new Commissioners will be joining the Board: Dr. Nancy Carnevale, Domenic Tancredi, Dr. Joseph Seneca and Dr. George Pruitt.  Dr. Carnevale, an Italian professor at Montclair State, is filling a vacancy on the Commission, as is Dr. Joseph Seneca, former Executive Vice President of Rutgers University.  Dr. George Pruitt, President of Thomas Edison State College, is replacing Dr. Stuart Cook as one of the two ex officio members of the Commission.  Domenic Tancredi, an Italian teacher from Maplewood High School, was the former President of the Italian Teachers Association of New Jersey.  All 21 Commission posts have now been filled for the 2005-2006 year.

• June 17, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Meets With Department of Education”
  The Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, held its annual review of the Curriculum Project with the Department of Education in Trenton.  Deputy Commissioner Richard Ten Eyck and his staff reviewed the progress of the Curriculum Program to date, as Chairperson Gilda Rorro presented preliminary results from the 11 school districts selected for the first pilot of grades 6-12.  The meeting laid out long-range planning for the 2nd Pilot to be launched in the Fall and the future wide dissemination of the Curriculum Project to New Jersey’s school districts.  The Department of Education strongly endorsed the process and the materials and congratulated the Commission on developing a very successful program thus far.

• June 2, 2005: “International Relations Committee  Meets Sicilian Government”
  Members of the International Relations Committee (IRC) held a series of high level discussions with members of the Sicilian government related to a series of projects being proposed for the State of New Jersey.  The Sicilian government first approached the Commission last Fall with proposals for collaborative programs and is continuing to develop ideas for commercial, cultural and educational exchanges.   Committee Chairman Larry Paragano hosted a 4 hour working session meeting organized by Buddy Fortunato, owner of the Italian Tribune, New Jersey’s leading Italian American newspaper.  The meeting, attended by Deputy Chief of Staff Joseph Fiordaliso and Vice President of the Commerce Commission Celeste Armenti, focused on collaboration with the Sicilian government on a possible trade mission, cultural exchanges between New Jersey’s museums and Sicilian museums and educational exchanges between New Jersey and Sicilian schools.

• May 19, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Retains Website Content Designer”
  In an effort to continue development of supporting materials for the Curriculum Project entitled “The Universality of Italian Heritage”, the Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, engaged the services of one of Rutgers University’s leading Italian graduate students, Mr. Lorenzo Valterza.  Mr. Valterza holds a Masters in Italian from Rutgers University and has substantial experience in the academic and public school arenas.  Mr. Valterza laid out his website design for the Curriculum, which will include the following sections: a) Summary of Piloted 6-12 lesson plans; b) biographies of leading Italian historical figures; c) bibliographic sources on Italian and Italian American subject matter; d) evaluated website reference links on Italian and Italian American materials; e) historical essays on Italian-related subjects; f) classroom activities designed for teachers on Italian Heritage; g) abstracts for students on essential figures in Italian history; and h) trivia on the Italian Heritage.  Mr. Valterza hopes to complete his work by the middle of the summer for publishing on the Commission’s website.

• May 11, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Reviews Status of Italian History Text”
  The Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, reviewed the work in progress of a new Italian History Text commissioned by the CDC for use in conjunction with the Curriculum Project.  The author, Dr. Anthony DiBattista, has been working on this project for over a year, which covers Italian history from the Neolithic Age through the 21st century.  This work is intended to be easy reading material that summarizes the chronological developments in Italian history for use by students in the school systems and the general public.  The project will continue to be developed through the end of this year.

• April 25, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Adds Districts to Pilot Program”
  The Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, added two more school districts to its Phase I Pilot Program entitled “The Universality of Italian Heritage”.   In addition to the current 9 school districts, Bishop Guilfoyle High School in Carney’s Point and the Trenton school district agreed to implement lesson plans for the Pilot.  The total school districts now testing the project has reached eleven and covers approximately 7,000 students in New Jersey, in various subject areas.

• April 12, 2005: “Government Relations Committee Plans with Greenwald”
  Members of the Government Relations Committee (GRC), chaired by Angelo Morresi, engaged Assemblyman Louis Greenwald in an effort to promote the formation of an Italian American Delegation for the State of New Jersey.  Assemblyman Greenwald and Assemblyman Biondi are seeking to host a September session at the State House to involve the approximately 30 Italian American Senators and Assemblymen in the creation of this delegation.  The concept from the delegation is patterned after the Congressional Italian American Delegation in Washington, D.C. and was fostered at the October 23rd NJ Congress of Italian American Organizations in New Brunswick.

• April 11, 2005: “Italian Events Committee Prepares for Liberation Day”
  The Italian Statewide Events Planning Committee (ISEP), chaired by Mario Marano, held its final meeting in preparation for the execution of Italian Liberation Day at Rutgers University on April 23rd.  This statewide event will honor the service and sacrifice of the Italian Americans who have served in the military or NJ police forces.  The keynote speaker will be General Paul S. Izzo.  Additional speakers scheduled are former Governor James Florio, Vice Consul of Italy Paolo Toschi, Honorary Vice Consul of Italy Gilda Rorro and Cav. Alessandro Vettori.  The Committee reviewed the final program and approved the execution of the event.  Organizations participating as financial and planning sponsors include:  The New Jersey Italian American Heritage Foundation; the Federation of Italian American Societies of New Jersey; the Seaside Italian American Club; the Ocean County United Italian Club; the Bianchi Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Italy; the Elizabeth Chapter of UNICO; the Ribera Italian American Club; and the Italian American Police Society of New Jersey.

• March 31, 2005: “Board of Academic Advisors Reviews Commission Progress”
  Board of Academic Advisors to the Commission, chaired by Dr. William Connell, reviewed the progress of the Commission’s programs during the past year.  The Board advised the Commission to carry on with the testing of its Curriculum Project, to establish a small grants program for the community and to continue to build an identity for the Institute.  The most significant recommendation for the Commission was the implementation of a statewide conference for the Fall of 2006 that would highlight the issues faced by New Jersey’s universities regarding their Italian and Italian Studies programs.  The Board discussed at length the problems faced by these programs, regarding inadequate resources – both financial and personnel – to meet the growing demand for Italian study by students throughout the State.  The Board recommended that a working conference be planned with panel discussion, speakers and breakout sessions for New Jersey university professors and administrators, in order to publicly address the problems and develop proposed solutions.

• March 31, 2005: “Higher Education Committee Addresses Italian Issues”
  The Higher Education Committee (HEC), chaired by Dr. Marisa Trubiano, met to discuss a range of issues and project proposals related to the Commission.  The multimedia CD on Italian Heritage continues to be developed and is targeted for release by the end of 2005.  The Promotion of the Italian Language Committee, chaired by Catherine Vignale, will be meeting in October in order to assess the number and size of Italian language programs in New Jersey.  One of the key issues affecting the implementation of the Advanced Placement Program for the Italian Language in schools is the lack of certified instructors.  The HEC proposed that the Commission consider co-organizing some of these training sessions for qualified Italian language teachers in New Jersey.

• March 24, 2005: “Business and Trade Committee Meets with NJWTC”
  In preparation for the upcoming May 17th New Jersey World Trade Conference on Italy, the Business and Trade Committee (BAT) of the Commission, chaired by Mauro Checchio, convened a meeting with the Board of Directors of the New Jersey World Trade Conference in New Brunswick.  Final preparations were made for the conference, including the speaker and panel list, financial sponsors and invitations.  The BAT hopes that the business with Italy conference will spur two other Commission projects under development, including a trade and culture mission to Italy and the formation of an Italian American Business Network in New Jersey.

• March 22, 2005: “Government Relations Committee Meets Key NJ Officials”
  Members of the Government Relations Committee (GRC), chaired by Angelo Morresi, met briefly with key New Jersey government officials in Cranberry, New Jersey, including Senator Jon Corzine, Governor Richard Codey, Deputy Chief of Staff Joseph Fiordaliso and Senator Joseph Coniglio.  Senator Coniglio discussed the Commission’s work and endorsed his support of the Commission’s work in furthering commercial and cultural exchanges between New Jersey and Italy.

• March 16, 2005: “Italian Cultural and Commercial Council Completes Report”
  The Italian Cultural and Commercial Council, created by the Commission in 2004, completed and issued its final report on the possible programs for increased commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey.  The Council convened at the State House to offer final commentary on the Report and recommended the projects within the Report to the Commission.  The Report is available under the “Reports” section on the website.  With the completion of this study, the Italian Cultural and Commercial Council is expected to be dissolved by the Commission, in order to deploy interested members to other Committees or Councils that will begin working on the various proposed projects in the Report.

• March 10, 2005: “Business and Trade Committee Prepares for Conference”
  The newly formed Business and Trade Committee (BAT), chaired by Mauro Checchio, convened a meeting at Rutgers University in New Brunswick in order to review the status of the forthcoming business conference co-sponsored by the NJ World Trade Council.  The BAT also assessed the feasibility of the development of a trade and cultural mission to Italy and endorsed the creation of a statewide Italian American Business Network by members of its Committee.

• March 10, 2005: “Advisory Council Prepares for Convocation”
  The Community Advisory Council (CAC), chaired by Dr. Eileen Poiani and Mr. Frank Gargione, convened its first meeting of 2005 at Rutgers University in New Brunswick.  The Council reviewed the program for the 4th Italian American Leadership Convocation in Camden Community College on March 19th.  The Council also began discussing the possible program for the Commission’s 2nd NJ Congress of Italian Americans in October of this year.

• March 9, 2005: “Government Relations Committee Meets with Senator Doria”
  Members of the Government Relations Committee (GRC), chaired by Angelo Morresi, held a brief meeting with Senator Joseph Doria to discuss a range of issues on which the Commission is working.  Senator Doria expressed his support of the Commission’s mission and programs, especially the Pilot Curriculum Project being tested this academic year.

• February 15, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Trains Delsea District for Pilot”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) held a training session at the Delsea Regional High School.  The Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, Commissioner and Curriculum Development Committee Chairperson, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, and Associate Director Anthony Carabelli introduced all 16 lesson plans of the Curriculum Infusion Program to four teachers.  Based of the willingness of the high school to pilot this project, the Commission launched their project deep in the heart of south Jersey.  The Commission is hopeful that the project will reach over 200 students within this academic year.  

• February 14, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Trains Old Bridge District for Pilot”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) held a training session in the Old Bridge School District.  The Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, Commissioner and Curriculum Development Committee Chairperson, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, and Executive Director Roger Marinzoli introduced all 16 lesson plans of the Curriculum Infusion Program to ten teachers.  Old Bridge was selected as a pilot school because of its diverse body of students and because it has the largest Italian language program in the State of New Jersey. 

• February 11, 2005: “Curriculum Committee Trains Discovery Charter School”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) conducted a training session at the Discovery Charter School in Newark.  The Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, Commissioner and Curriculum Development Committee Chairperson, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, and Assistant Director Gina Pezzicola introduced several lesson plans of the Curriculum Infusion Program to the students in grades 4-6 to assess their interest.  The program was very well received by teachers and students in the school and hope to integrate the full curriculum for grades K-12 during the next school year.

• February 10, 2005: “Italian Events Planning Committee Convenes”
  The Italian Statewide Events Planning Committee (ISEP), chaired by Mario Marano, held its inaugural meeting in preparation for the execution of Italian Liberation Day at Rutgers University on April 23rd.  This statewide event will honor the service and sacrifice of the Italian Americans who have served in the military or NJ police forces.  The purpose of this meeting was to begin planning the marketing, program and logistics of this event, which was held last year at the Governor’s Mansion in Princeton.  Organizations participating as financial and planning sponsors include:  The New Jersey Italian American Heritage Foundation; the Federation of Italian American Societies of New Jersey; the Seaside Italian American Club; the Ocean County United Italian Club; the Bianchi Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Italy; the Elizabeth Chapter of UNICO; the Ribera Italian American Club; and the Italian American Police Society of New Jersey.

• February 2, 2005: “Princeton District Joins Pilot Program”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) held a training session in the Princeton School District.  The Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, Commissioner and Curriculum Development Committee Chairperson, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, and Executive Director Roger Marinzoli introduced lesson plans of the Curriculum Infusion Program to several teachers.  Princeton was selected as a pilot school due to its advanced high school programs, which may incorporate some of the more advanced lesson plans.

• January 28, 2005: “Advisory Council Meeting at Camden Community College”
  The Community Advisory Council (CAC), chaired by Frank Gargione and Dr. Eileen Poiani, met with Dr. Ray Yanuzzi, the Provost of Camden Community College to plan the 4th Italian American Leadership Convocation in March.  Other key attendees included Commissioner Barbara Lazzaro, Dr. Louis Capelli, Dr. Rosa Zagari-Marinzoli and Assistant Director Gina Pezzicola.  The theme of the convocation developed by the CAC is the promotion of the Italian language and culture through education.  The President of Camden Community College, Dr. Phyllis Della Vecchia has graciously agreed to host the event.

• January 25, 2005: “Business & Trade Committee Meets Italian Trade Commission”
  In preparation for the forthcoming Italian business conference organized by the Commission and the New Jersey World Trade Conference (NJWTC), members of the Business and Trade Committee (BAT), chaired by Commissioner Mauro Checchio, met with the Italian Trade Commission in New York.  Present at the planning session were representatives of the New York and Newark Italian consular offices and officers of the Italian Trade Commission.  The working group also discussed proposals for organizing a trade mission to Italy in the coming year.

• January 19, 2005: “Business & Trade Committee Meets in New York”
  Members of the Business and Trade Committee (BAT), chaired by Commissioner Mauro Checcio, met with the Board of Directors of the New Jersey World Trade Council (NJWTC) in New York at the NJWTC’s Diplomatic Reception.  This annual reception brings together diplomats and business leaders from the Tri-State area to prepare for the annual New Jersey World Trade Conference.  Chairman Paragano addressed the assembly and announced the partnership between the NJWTC and the Commission to organize this year’s conference, which will focus on commercial and cultural opportunities with Italy.

• January 10, 2005: “Hammonton’s Program Reaches Growing Number of Students”
  School officials from Hammonton, Superintendent MayLou DeFrancisco and Curriculum Development Committee members met for an update on the implementation of the Curriculum Project in the Hammonton schools.  Hammonton, which boasts of the highest concentration of Italian Americans in the State, launched the Curriculum project at the high school level in October 2004.  Over 100 teachers in the district were provided with lesson plans from the Curriculum Project to test over the course of the 2004-2005 school year.  The Hammonton school district serves as the Commission’s largest test school for the Pilot.

• December 21, 2004: “International Committee Meets New Consul General”
  Members of the International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Commissioner Larry Paragano, were introduced to the incoming Italian Consul General in Philadelphia, Mr. Stefano Mistretta.  The meeting was brokered by Honorary Vice Consul Dr. Gilda Rorro of South Jersey and centered upon the relationship between the Commission and the Consulate in Philadelphia, which is responsible for Southern Jersey.

• December 7, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Reviews Program with DOE”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, held a meeting with several New Jersey Department of Education officials to discuss the progress of Phase I of the Curriculum Infusion Program.  Members of the committee in attendance included Chair Gilda Rorro, Executive Director Roger Marinzoli and Commission Board of Advisor Dr. Robert Freda.  In addition, the members reviewed future goals and objectives of the committee including the launch of Phase II of the curriculum project for the fall of ’05.  This Phase will be geared to students in grades K through 5.  Mr. James Doolan, Director of the NJ Department of Education's Academic and Professional Standards Office, took part in the discussion.   

• December 3, 2004: “International Relations Committee Meets in Princeton”
  Members of the International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Commissioner Larry Paragano, convened in Princeton to discuss upcoming commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey.  Mr. Fabio Marazzi and Mr. Michael Eckstein of the business law firm MRZP, based in Italy, focused the discussions on the proposed business conference on Italy and the possible trade mission to Italy.

• November 22, 2004: “South Hackensack Teachers Trained for Pilot”
  Teachers from the South Hackensack District were trained by members of the Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) in using the Curriculum materials.  The Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, Commissioner and Curriculum Development Committee Chairperson, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, and Executive Director Roger Marinzoli introduced lesson plans of the Curriculum Infusion Program to several teachers.  South Hackensack was selected by the Committee because of its sizable Italian American population.

• November 18, 2004: “Curriculum Development Committee Trains Hamilton”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC) conducted a training session in the Hamilton School District.  The Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, Commissioner and Curriculum Development Committee Chairperson, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, and Associate Director Anthony Carabelli introduced several lesson plans of the Curriculum Infusion Program to high school teachers.  The Hamilton District was selected as a Central Jersey school system and for its sizable population of Italian Americans.

• November 12, 2004: “Board of Academic Advisors Convenes”
  The Commission’s Board of Academic Advisors, chaired by Dr. William Connell, met at Rutgers University in New Brunswick to review the Commission’s educational programs.  The Curriculum Development Committee introduced its grades 6-12 pilot lesson plans to the Board and sought reviews and assistance from the members.  The Board also assessed the Commission’s longer-range plans for the Institute of Italian and Italian American Heritage Studies at Rutgers University and advised the Commission to establish a small grants process for providing outside groups with project funding.

• November 12, 2004: “Higher Education Committee Meets to Review Programs”
  The Commission’s Higher Education Committee, chaired by Dr. Marisa Trubiano, held its quarterly meeting at Rutgers University.  The Committee reviewed the progress of the Italian Heritage multimedia CD and laid plans for the March professional educator’s conference.  The topic of this year’s conference will be the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire in New York and will focus on the role of Italian women.

• October 23, 2004: “Government Relations Committee Proposes Caucus”
  The Government Relations Committee (GRC), chaired by Angelo Morresi, organized an Italian American Political Caucus out session at the October 23rd Italian American Congress at Rutgers University.  The session brought together elected officials throughout the State of New Jersey to lay the groundwork for the creation of an Italian American Political Caucus in New Jersey.  During the meeting, National Italian American Foundation representative, John Marino, presented ideas on an organizational structure of the proposed Caucus.  Attendees, who included over 30 Italian American leaders, Commissioners and elected officials, passed a resolution at the Congress regarding this initiative.    

• October 20, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Trains Toms River District”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, held a training session at the Toms River Board of Education facility.  Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, Commissioner and Curriculum Development Committee Chairperson, Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, and Executive Director Emeritus Robert Freda introduced to over 30 Toms River teachers all 16 lesson plans of the Curriculum Infusion Program.  Toms River was selected to pilot this project due to the high concentration of Italian Americans living within the school district. There are over 28,000 Italian Americans in Toms River who have demonstrated overwhelming support for the promotion of this Curriculum initiative.  In addition, the project may reach over 800 students with all or most of these lesson plans within this academic year.  

• October 13, 2004: “Verona Welcomes Italian Curriculum Infusion Program”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro, launched its Curriculum Infusion Program in Verona, New Jersey today training eight teachers of the Verona School District (grades 6-12).  Coordinator and Editor of the Pilot Program, Dr. Kevin Brady, and Executive Director A. Roger Marinzoli brought teachers together in order to instruct and advise them on methods of teaching the Italian Curriculum Infusion Program.  The teachers were introduced to all of the 16 lesson plans that have been developed under this initiative.  The CDC selected Verona as a participant due to the efforts of Verona School District Superintendent Earl Kim and his one of a kind Italian Studies after-school program.  In addition, Verona boasts of a high concentration of Italian Americans and the program has received enthusiastic support throughout this community.  The Infusion Program has a potential of reaching over 200 students in the district with all or most of these lesson plans.

• October 3, 2004: “Italian Mission Discussed by International Committee”
  Members of the International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Commissioner Larry Paragano, recently convened to discuss the prospect of organizing a trade mission to Italy.  During the meeting, IRC members decided to involve the New Jersey government, however, the consensus was to have the private sector as the primary driver in this initiative.  Once some details are known, the IRC would then bring the proposal to the Italian and the New Jersey governments. The committee will begin to explore export-import companies from specific industries to invest their financial support, time and energy for this mission.

• September 13, 2004: “Assemblyman Louis Greenwald Meets with GRC”
  Following a preliminary meeting with State Assemblyman Louis Greenwald at the August 2004 Commission meeting, members of the Government Relations Committee (GRC), chaired by Angelo Morresi, met with the Assemblyman Louis Greenwald on September 13, 2004 to discuss the upcoming agenda of the Italian American Commission.  The GRC will continue to reach out to all Italian American legislators in the New Jersey Senate and Assembly and will present to legislators the programs of the Commission, the preliminary demographic analysis of the locations and concentration of Italian Americans in New Jersey and will be seeking bipartisan support for the Commission’s work.  The GRC will also sponsor a workshop for elected officials at the October 23rd Congress to assess whether an Italian American New Jersey Legislature Delegation or a New Jersey Legislative Caucus could be established for the Italian American community, which represents between 20-25% of the total New Jersey population.        

• September 10, 2004: “Advisory Council Finalizing NJ Italian Congress”
  The Community Advisory Council, chaired by Dr. Eileen Poiani and Frank Gargione, convened at Rutgers University to set the final plans for the October 23rd NJ Congress of Italian American Organizations.  At the meeting, a series of video programs were filmed by Jo Shenman for broadcast on cable television in North Jersey, Manhattan and Staten Island.  The taped sessions covered a review of the Curriculum Program, the meeting of the Community Advisory Council, interviews with the Commission’s student interns, discussions with CAC members and a discussion with Commissioner Richard Bilotti.

• September 7, 2004: “HEC Moving on Programs and Language Council”
  The Higher Education Committee, chaired by Dr. Marisa Trubiano, held its quarterly meeting at Rutgers University.  The Committee reviewed the results of the June “Teach the Teachers” program at Montclair State University and addressed some pressing issues regarding the need to train new teachers of the Italian language to meet the growing demand from students.  The Committee also reviewed the work in progress on the Italian Heritage multimedia CD project and discussed the recent creation of the Promotion of the Italian Language Committee, which will be chaired by Catherine Vignale.

• September 1, 2004: “Outreach Committee Sets Plans for Roadshows”
  Members of the Community Outreach Relations Committee (CORC), chaired by Richard Bilotti, met to discuss the launch of Commission roadshow program.  The Commission is seeking to meet with the leaders of the many Italian American organizations around the State.  In order to facilitate this process, the Commission will offer to attend meetings of the various organizations to present the programs of the Commission.  In this way, the Commission can seek to build partnerships with the organizations and coordinate programs with them.

• August 30, 2004:  “CDC Outlines 3-Year Plan for Curriculum Project”
  The chairperson of the Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, outlined a 3-year plan to distribute the “Universality of Italian Heritage” curriculum guidelines to the State’s school districts.  The CDC has developed 16 lesson plans, designed for 6-12 grade students, which are being piloted in selected school districts this academic year.  After a 1-year field test that will include observations, reviews, assessments and revisions, the 1st Volume of the Curriculum Project will become available for the NJ schools by December 2005.  Following the training of teachers during the September-November period, general teaching materials regarding Italian and Italian American Heritage will be edited from the curriculum writers’ work and distributed via the Commission’s website, between December 2004 and March 2005.  In preparation for Phase II of the Pilot Program, an additional 16 lesson plans will be developed and field-tested for the K-5 grades between January 2005 and August 2006.  This second set of lesson plans, the 2nd Volume of the Curriculum Project, should be reviewed, field-tested and ready for general distribution by December 2006. 
  
• August 13, 2004:  “HEC Addresses Italian Language Issues in NJ”
  The Commission’s Higher Education Committee (HEC), chaired by Dr. Marisa Trubiano, held its 3rd quarterly meeting at Rutgers University.  The HEC began to plan programs and activities for the 2004-2005 fiscal year, which include a second “Teach the Teachers” event and the release of an Italian Heritage educational CD to the Italian American community.  In addition, the HEC addressed the issue of the insufficiency of Italian language programs in New Jersey and the relatively low numbers of certified Italian language teachers to address growing community demand.  The HEC voted to establish a subcommittee to begin assessing data to be released from the Department of Education on the numbers and quality of Italian language programs in New Jersey.  In addition, the HEC outlined programs designed to address the growing demand for more Italian language programs.
  
  
• July 26, 2004:  “School Districts Begin Assessing Heritage Curriculum Pilot”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, has received four indications of interest in piloting the “Universality of Italian Heritage” curriculum.  The CDC has been presenting its Curriculum Project to selected school districts that will launch in September.  Thus far, the Highlands school districts in Blackwood, the Verona school district, the Hamilton school district and the Toms River school district have agreed to test the Curriculum Project.  The CDC will approach an additional six districts in August to achieve a critical mass of approximately 8-10 school districts that are geographically distributed.
  
  
• July 13, 2004: “International Committee Explores Trade Mission Idea”
  The Commission’s International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano and Mr. Ron D’Argenio, held an exploratory meeting in Jersey City to assess the potential for initiating a trade mission by New Jersey executives and government officials to Italy.  Given the Commission’s recent formation of the Italian Cultural and Commercial Exchange Council (ICCE) that is tasked with studying ways to increase commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey, the IRC is assessing the possibility of organizing a trade mission in 12-16 months that could combine commercial and cultural exchanges.  Following further research, the IRC plans to report back to the ICCE Council to assist it with its plans.

• July 7, 2004: “International Committee Considers Conference with NJWTC”
  The Commission’s International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano and Mr. Ron D’Argenio, held a second exploratory meeting with the representatives from the New Jersey World Trade Council (NJWTC).  The NJWTC is seeking assistance from the New Jersey Italian and Italian American Commission in sponsoring its annual business conference, which will focus on doing business in Italy.  Given the Commission’s recent formation of the Italian Cultural and Commercial Exchange Council (ICCE) that is tasked with studying ways to increase commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey, the IRC began developing the potential business conference program with the NJWTC.  The conference will feature panel discussions, trade exhibition displays and keynote speakers such as the host country ambassador and the Governor of New Jersey. The establishment of a definitive date for the conference will depend on funding and Commission approval.

• June 30, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Invites School Districts for Pilot”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, began distributing packages of the Curriculum Project to school districts that were considered to be potential candidates for the Pilot Program.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system. These packages contained materials that explained the Curriculum Infusion Model, the 16 Pilot Lesson Plans and Supplementary Teaching Materials that supported the lesson plans.  The CDC plans to meet with the Superintendents of potential candidate school districts over the summer, in order to determine which school districts will be able to begin the Pilot during the Fall of 2004.

• June 29, 2004: “Community Advisory Council Plans Italian Congress”
  The Community Advisory Council (CAC) of the Commission held its second quarterly meeting at Rutgers University.  The CAC serves under the Community Outreach Relations Committee (COR), which is chaired by Commissioner Richard Bilotti.  Mr. Frank Gargione and Dr. Eileen Poiani chair the Council. At this meeting, the 14 appointed members of the Council created the program for their 4th semi-annual convocation, which will be held October 23, 2004, and will be called the New Jersey Congress of Italian American Organizations.  The Council also assessed the status of 10 possible community programs that could be developed in conjunction with the Commission.  These programs include: a) promoting Italian language in New Jersey; b) developing a summer program for Italian American students; c) instituting a mentoring program for Italian American students; d) and creating a master calendar on the Commission website of state-wide community events.  The next Council meeting will be held in September.

• June 8, 2004: “International Relations Committee Holds Talks with NJWTC”
  The Commission’s International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano and Mr. Ron D’Argenio, held an exploratory meeting with the representatives from the New Jersey World Trade Council (NJWTC) in Somerville.  The NJWTC is seeking assistance from the New Jersey Italian and Italian American Commission in sponsoring its annual business conference, which will focus on doing business in Italy.  Given the Commission’s recent formation of the Italian Cultural and Commercial Exchange Council (ICCE) that is tasked with studying ways to increase commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey, the IRC is assessing whether collaboration with the NJWTC will achieve one of these goals.

• June 7, 2004: “International Committee Considers Trade Initiatives”
  The Commission’s International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano and Mr. Ron D’Argenio, held an exploratory meeting in Jersey City to assess the potential for initiating commercial programs between New Jersey to Italy.  Given the Commission’s recent formation of the Italian Cultural and Commercial Exchange Council (ICCE) that is tasked with studying ways to increase commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey, the IRC is assessing the possibility of various programs, including trade missions, international business conferences, roadshows and the opening of a New Jersey Trade Representative Office in Italy.  Following further research, the IRC plans to report back to the ICCE Council to assist it with its plans.

• May 27, 2004: “ISEP Committee Assesses October Heritage Month Event”
  The Commission’s Italian Statewide Events Planning Committee, chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano, held a meeting with representatives from the Order of the Sons of Italy in America, Lodge #2654, the Sicilian Federation, UNICO Chapter #10 of Elizabeth and the Coccia Institute to discuss the hosting of a possible celebratory event for Italian Heritage Month in October.  Through the work of Italian American community leaders, like Mr. Ralph Contini, Governor McGreevey proclaimed October to be Italian Heritage Month.  While Columbus Day celebrations are scheduled all over the State, the ISEP Committee assessed sites for a kick-off for the Proclamation of Italian Heritage Month.  The ISEP Committee will continue discussing possible plans with its partner groups in hopes to generate another event such as the April 24 Liberation Day Event Commemoration at the Governor’s Mansion.
  
  
• May 26, 2004: “IRC Reaches Out to NJ-Israel Commission”
  The Commission’s International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano and Mr. Ron D’Argenio, held an exploratory meeting with the New Jersey Israel Commission (NJIC) to learn from the NJIC’s experience with commercial programs.  Given the Commission’s recent formation of the Italian Cultural and Commercial Exchange Council (ICCE) that is tasked with studying ways to increase commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey, the IRC is studying the models adopted by similar organizations in New Jersey that have had great success.  Following further research, the IRC plans to report back to the ICCE Council in order to assist the Council with its work.

• May 21, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Reviews Final 16 Lesson Plans”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, held a planning meeting to approve the final 16 Lesson Plans for the upcoming Pilot Program in the Fall.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “ Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system.  The final versions included lessons on the contributions of various historical Italian figures, including da Vinci, Galileo, Pico, Mazzei, Cicero, Justinian, Marconi and the Italian explorers of the 15th century.  In addition, topics such as Italian immigration to NJ, ethnic identity and stereotyping, the “Storia Segreta” and Italian contributions to the arts, sciences and architecture are covered in the lesson plans.

• May 19, 2004: “Cultural & Commerce Council Formed by Commission”
  The Commission adopted a Resolution to organize a new Council under its auspices called the Italian Cultural and Commercial Exchange Council (ICCE Council).  All of the attendees of Governor McGreevey’s February 17, 2004 meeting with members of the Italian American community have been invited to participate.  The purpose of the Council is to assess possible programs that would contribute to increased cultural and commercial exchanges between New Jersey and Italy.  The Commission has instructed the Council to develop a Report within 120 days and will provide logistical, organizational and research assistance to this project.  The Commission’s endorsement of this process occurred at the request of the Italian American community, which has held several organizational meetings to explore possibilities. 

• May 13, 2004: “International Relations Committee Meets with NJ WTC”
  The Commission’s International Relations Committee (IRC), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano and Mr. Ron D’Argenio, held an exploratory meeting with representatives from the New Jersey World Trade Council (NJWTC) in New York.  The NJWTC is seeking assistance from the New Jersey Italian and Italian American Commission in sponsoring its annual business conference, which will focus on doing business in Italy.  Each year the NJWTC organizes its business conference around a different country, seeking to educate New Jersey businesses about trade opportunities abroad. The conference features panel discussions, trade exhibition displays and keynote speakers such as the host country ambassador and the Governor of New Jersey.  Given the recent mandate to increase commercial and cultural exchanges between Italy and New Jersey, the IRC is assessing the possibility of collaborating with the NJWTC.

• May 11, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Sets Criteria for School Selection”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, established the criteria for the selection of potential candidates for the Pilot Program, beginning in the Fall of 2004.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “ Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system.  In accordance with broad Department of Education guidelines, the selection criteria for the NJ Pilot Program included: a) communities which have sizeable Italian American populations; b) school districts which have Italian language programs; c) geographical distributions of school districts in North, South and Central NJ; and d) school districts in urban, rural and suburban areas.  The initial Pilot Program hopes to cover approximately six to eight school districts for the 2004-2005 academic year.  The Pilot would be expanded to a greater number of school districts in the following academic year.

1. April 23, 2004: “Higher Education Committee Plans for Summer Programs”
   The Commission’s Higher Education Committee (HEC), chaired by Dr. Marisa Trubiano, held its second quarterly meeting at Rutgers University to develop several programs to be held during the summer of 2004.  In June, the HEC is organizing the “Teach the Teachers” 2-day conference at Montclair State University (MSU), sponsored in collaboration with the Coccia Institute, the National Italian American Foundation and the Institute for the Humanities at MSU.  This conference will host workshops for teachers of the Italian language and culture in New Jersey.  Over the summer, the HEC is assisting Montclair State University and the Coccia Institute to sponsor “Scuola Fanatsia”, a 3-week summer school program for young children to learn about the Italian language and culture. 

• April 15, 2004: “ISEP Committee Finalizes Program for April 24 Event”
  The Commission’s Italian Statewide Events Planning Committee (ISEP), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano, held its final planning and review meeting at the Villa Borghese restaurant in Fords.  The ISEP Committee, in conjunction with its partner organizations (the Ribera Club, the Sicilian Federation, the Order of the Sons of Italy in America Lodge #2654, UNICO Chapter #10 of Elizabeth and the Coccia Institute) finalized the program for April 24, 2004 at the Governor’s Mansion.  Speakers at the flag-raising event are to include Governor McGreevey, former Governors Florio and DiFrancesco, Archbishop Celestino Miglore of the United Nations, comedian Joe Piscopo and Italian Consul General Antonio Bandini of New York.  The program will feature opera and folk music, ceremonies conducted by Italian Carabinieri and Italian refreshments.

• April 2, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Designs Pilot Program”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, held a development meeting at the Department of Education.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “ Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system.  As the teaching materials continue to be drafted for the Curriculum Project, the Committee established the framework for the Pilot Program to be launched in September of the 2004-2005 academic year.  The Pilot Program will feature the introduction of more than 10 lesson plans in several volunteer school districts around the state.  The Pilot Program will include training sessions for teachers, an observation of the teaching of lesson plans and the evaluation of the program by teachers using the materials.

• March 24, 2004: “ISEP Committee Continues to Develop April 24 Event”
  The Commission’s Italian Statewide Events Planning Committee (ISEP), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano, held its second planning meeting at the Villa Borghese restaurant in Fords.  The ISEP Committee, in conjunction with its partner organizations (the Ribera Club, the Sicilian Federation, the Order of the Sons of Italy in America Lodge #2654, UNICO Chapter #10 of Elizabeth and the Coccia Institute) and representatives of the Office of the Governor designed the program for the April 24 Italian Liberation Day Celebration at the Governor’s Mansion.  The event will feature commemorative ceremonies marking the liberation of Italy from Fascist occupation and the victory of the Allies in the Italian campaign.  The event is also meant to celebrate the bonds of friendship between the people of Italy and the people of America.  Over 1,000 people have registered to attend the event.

• March 11, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Appoints New Project Editor”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, held a development meeting at the Department of Education.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system.  In order to efficiently edit and coordinate the product of the curriculum writers, the CDC appointed Dr. Kevin Brady as the editor of the Curriculum Project.  Dr. Brady has held positions as both a public school teacher and a professor and has worked on numerous projects as a curriculum writer and designer.  The CDC welcomed Dr. Brady’s acceptance of the position and will coordinate with him on the development of teaching materials.

• March 9, 2004: “Executive Committee Meets on Governor’s Request”
  In the wake of a meeting with Governor McGreevey and representatives of the Italian Government, held at the State House on February 17, 2004, the Commission’s Executive Committee was called into session.  Governor McGreevey requested that the Commission work in conjunction with the Italian American community to develop plans to foster increased cultural and commercial exchanges between New Jersey and Italy.  The Executive Committee assessed ways to organize an effort to support that request and voted to reach out to the Italian American community to generate ideas.  The process outlined by the Executive Committee included the organization of attendees of the February 17th meeting and the exploration of various programs, activities and funding sources.

• February 23, 2004:  “Events Committee Meets for April 24th Celebration”
  The Commission’s Italian Statewide Events Planning Committee (ISEP), chaired by Mr. Larry Paragano, held its first planning meeting at the Villa Borghese restaurant in Fords.  The ISEP Committee, in conjunction with its partner organizations (the Ribera Club, the Sicilian Federation, the Order of the Sons of Italy in America Lodge #2654, UNICO Chapter #10 of Elizabeth and the Coccia Institute) and representatives of the Office of the Governor began planning for the April 24 Italian Liberation Day event to be held at the Governor’s Mansion.  The Committee outlined the process for generating attendance, which will require an invitation from the Office of the Governor and RSVP, due to limited space and security considerations.  The Committee also outlined the basic program, which will include Commemoration ceremonies, culminating in a flag-raising.

• February 11, 2004:  “Curriculum Committee Reviews Heritage Papers”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, held a development meeting at the Department of Education.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system.  During this meeting, the CDC reviewed the progress of two papers developed by Committee members Dr. Anthony DiBattista and Carolyn Yoder that provide a user-friendly history of Italian Heritage and the history of Italian Americans in New Jersey.  These papers will be developed into “Heritage History Booklets” that will be disseminated to students and communities as part of the Curriculum Project.

• February 10, 2004: “Advisory Council Plans Statewide Programs”
  The Commission’s Community Advisory Council (CAC) held its first quarterly meeting at Rutgers University.  The CAC is an organization created by the Community Outreach Relations Committee (COR), chaired by Richard Bilotti.  Council members are appointed by the Committee for a three-year term and serve to interface between the Commission and the community.  Members are appointed based on their demonstrated interest and involvement with the Commission and are selected on the basis of their involvement in Italian American organizations and geographic distribution.  Mr. Frank Gargione and Dr. Eileen Poiani chair the Council.  At this first meeting, the Council considered a series of possible statewide programs that the Commission could implement and began preparations for its March 27 Convocation.

• January 30, 2004: “Higher Education Committee Develops Spring Programs”
  The Commission’s Higher Education Committee, chaired by Dr. Marisa Trubiano, held its first quarterly meeting at Rutgers University to continue the development of several collaborative educational programs to be launched in the Spring.  These programs included the following: a) a round-table discussion at the Northeastern Conference of the Teaching of Foreign Languages in New York; b) a student conference hosted in collaboration with the Italian Teachers Association of New Jersey; and c) several scholarships for summer study in Sienna, Italy for high school students.

• January 22, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Hosts Writer’s Workshop”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, held a curriculum writer’s workshop for Phase 1 of the Curriculum Writing Project at Seton Hall University.  The Committee has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system.  The Writer’s Workshop was conducted to assign a battery of ten new curriculum writers an additional set of lesson plans.  The timetable for the preparation of these new lesson plans was set for the end of April.

• January 16, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Plans to Increase Lesson Plans”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, held a development meeting at the Department of Education.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “ Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system.  At this meeting, the Committee reviewed the six units of the Curriculum Program, which included Classical Heritage, Renaissance Heritage, Italian & Italian American Achievers, Immigration and Stereotyping & Ethnic Identity.  The lesson plans within these units were written “by teachers, for teachers” and edited by Dr. Jean Voorhees and the Committee Membership.  The Committee agreed to expand the number of lesson plans to approximately fifty, and agreed on topics to be developed into new lesson plans.  These lesson plans would be developed by a group of curriculum writers, drawn from the New Jersey educational community.

• January 6, 2004: “Curriculum Committee Reviews Curriculum Project”
  The Commission’s Curriculum Development Committee (CDC), chaired by Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari, held a development meeting at the Department of Education.  The CDC has developed a series of lesson plans and teaching aids called the “ Universality of Italian Heritage” for use in the New Jersey school system. At this meeting, the CDC reviewed the thirty-plus lesson plans that were produced by the CDC’s writers in 2003 and agreed to move to the second phase of the Curriculum Writing Project.  New structural standards for lesson plans were adopted, as recommended by Committee Members from the Department of Education.

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