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Dear Archway Friends and Family,  

During May and June, Archway Programs' calendars were filled with activities, such as school events, barbeques, award ceremonies, proms, and graduations, highlighting our students' achievements and successes. Also, as June ended, we marked the end of our fiscal year and the start of the summer season. It was a time filled with endings and new beginnings. I was honored to attend many exciting activities around Archway and proud of our program's many hallmarks of success. Although I could not attend every event, you were all in my thoughts, and I enjoyed the stories and photos shared from each event. 

Late May, I was honored to attend the 15th Annual Careers Luncheon hosted at the Upper School. The awards luncheon celebrates the relationships Archway staff members have cultivated with the community over the years. The partnerships with local businesses benefit our students and the community. I am proud and honored to be a part of such a positive alliance. 

Speaking of our community, the Just Kids Program has moved into additional areas of our surrounding community and made vast improvements to our existing locations. I was honored and proud to attend their Just Kids Night Out at Dave and Buster's, celebrating the Just Kids staff's wonderful work. Thank you all for your hard work and diligence. Because if all of you, we have come a long way in a short time. 

One of the most significant moments for any school or university is commencement. This sentiment is especially true for the Archway Programs Schools. There is no greater feeling than watching your students cross the threshold from elementary or high school to pursue a higher education, a career, or a vocational/day program. It is a testament to the student's hard work and dedication and the commitment of their families, teachers, and staff. I, too, felt a sense of pride and joy as I watched each graduate receiving their degree. Congratulations to the graduates of the Archway Upper School Class of 2024, the Lower School Class of 2024, and the Creative Achievements Class of 2024! Congratulations to all our Creative Achievements Academy students who moved up this year.  

Established last year, the Advanced Abilities Day Program was part of Archway's continued efforts to provide a bridge between graduating students and continued services. The program provides continued services and a landing place for young adults aging out of school or adults with disabilities seeking vocational services, socialization, and a safe place to continue to grow.   

The program has since proven successful and continues to grow its enrollment, activities and services. So, please mark your calendars for July 24th and celebrate their first anniversary at the 1st Annual Friends and Family Summer Bash. Join us for music, food, games, and facility tours. I hope to see you there!  

Visit the Archway Programs' Upcoming Events page for additional information.  

To the entire Archway Family, our board members, affiliates, and community members, thank you for your continued support as we close the fiscal and school years.  

The end of the fiscal year also brought the retirement of two Archway Programs Board Members. Thank you, Tim Titus and Michele Juliana, for your years of dedication and service to Archway Programs.     

Because of all of you, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. 

Sincerely, 

George Richards 

CEO/CFO 



On Tuesday, June 4th, the Lower School all-purpose room was overflowing with family, friends, staff, and classmates gathered to celebrate the Lower School Class of 2024! The graduates' hard work and perseverance brought nine Archway students to this proud moment. The students were presented with awards and certificates for individual merits and celebrated for their achievements.

Archway Alum Ms. Rylee Howerton, a published author, delivered her commencement address via recording as she participated in her graduation. She also competed in Miss NJ Outstanding Teen, making history as the first contestant with autism spectrum disorder. We were proud to have her as an Archway student and honored to have her as our guest, inspiring us all with her achievements.

Congratulations and best wishes, Robert, Giovonni, Matthew, Derrick, Terrence, Nicholas, Jeremiah, Clayton, and Michelle! You have all been a joy and will forever hold a special place in the hearts of everyone here at Archway. We are Archway Proud of all of you and wish you the brightest future. You will all always be a part of our Archway family. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire Archway staff, students, and families for making the Class of 2024 graduation ceremony a fantastic celebration. 

View the Lower School Graduation 2024 Album here: Lower School Graduation 2024

Congratulations to the Upper School Class of 2024! Students, teachers, parents, guardians, and staff gathered to celebrate as students crossed the stage and received their diplomas. Mr. Mark, the Upper School Principal, opened the ceremony with words of wisdom and encouragement before handing the microphone over to Mr. Ronald Reid, an Upper School Instructor, for a few words of advice regarding the student's future.  

Mr. Logan Graham, an Upper School Student, followed and shared his positive transformation and experiences at Archway. The graduates presented caregivers and teachers with lovely bouquets, and the Archway Choir, led by Mr. Kevin and Miss Julie, filled the room with beautiful music.  

Finally, the moment everyone was waiting for, Mr. Mark presented the graduates with their diplomas, marking both an end and a new beginning.  

Congratulations to our graduates: Kallam, Michael, Ameera, Aiden, Jaden, Joshua, Tyler, William, Cory, Nayley, and Daniel. We are Archway Proud of all of you!  

View the Upper School Graduation 2024 Album here: Upper School Graduation 2024

Upper School Principal Mark Letiziano

Lower School Principal

John Petsch

Cooper’s Poynt Principal Carly White

Creative Achievement Academy Principal

Scott Eckstein

National School Principal's Day

During May, we celebrated School Principal’s Day in recognition of Upper School Principal Mark Letiziano, Lower School Principal John Petsch, Cooper’s Poynt Principal Carly White, and Creative Achievement Academy Principal Scott Eckstein.

As Archway school principals, they are positive role models and mentors for our children. Parents and guardians can rest assured that their children’s best interests are always at the forefront of every action and decision, as they lead with kindness and compassion while never losing sight of the need for structure and safety. We are all lucky to have such a wonderful group of principals. We thank them for their continued devotion to all Archway students, staff, parents, and guardians. 

Archway Honors Nurses During Nation Nurses Week

Archway recognized all the caring and compassionate nurses dedicated to providing care in our time of need during National Nurses Week with a shout-out and a thank you to all the nurses who are a part of Archway Programs! Thank you: Katherine Wallace, Upper School Nurse; Shannon Pryor, Upper School Nurse; Lois Cunnigham, Lower School Nurse; Rebecca Reynolds, Lower School Nurse; Lori Morris-Russo, Creative Achievement School Nurse; Julie Ricci, Creative Achievement School Nurse; Katheleen Rapp, ACT Program Nurse; and Elizabeth Gallen, ACT Program Nurse. Thank you for all you do! 

Teacher Appreciation Week

Upper School staff started Teacher’s Appreciation Week with a delicious assortment of fresh, tasty donuts from a local bakery! Tuesday’s appreciation treat boasted their choice of mouthwatering Donkey Steaks or chicken steaks with fried onions, raw onions, or any of the many delicious trimmings available! What a delicious lunchtime treat! 

During the week-long celebration, staff enjoyed a Waffle Bar fully stocked with delicious toppings. Strawberries, blueberries, jimmies, and whipped cream were only a few of the tasty toppings and delectable sides. Coffee, tea, and an assortment of other beverages were also available. The celebratory week continued with each day boasting yet another special way to thank teachers and staff for their dedication and hard work.

Upper School Students Toured the CCC Campus

During the first week in May, students and staff from the Upper School visited Camden County College (CCC) for a campus tour and information about transitioning from high school to college life. The tour was informative, and the CCC staff offered the students options to make the transition easier and valuable tips on choosing the best career path.   

Upper School Seniors Visit the Lucky Snake Arcade

Upper School students and staff had a blast visiting Lucky Snake Arcade and the Atlantic City Boardwalk for their Senior Trip. Everyone enjoyed the vast collection of activities, arcade games, and an extensive collection of retro games, including pinball machines. The group walked the boardwalk and had lunch before heading back to Archway. Everyone enjoyed themselves, and it was an especially meaningful trip as it was their last together as Archway students.  

Upper School Careers Luncheon

On Wednesday, May 22^nd, students and staff from Archway Upper School and Lower School gathered at the Upper School to celebrate the partnership between the Archway Career Center and local businesses at their 15th Annual Career Education Luncheon. Master of Ceremonies Mark Jones and Tyler Rufer started the celebration with an introduction to the Executive Director of Education, Susan Lafferty, who welcomed the attendees. Inspirational Keynote Speakers Ms. Brooke Bittle and Mr. David Jarow followed.   

Ms. Karen Tiver, School Intake Supervisor, delivered the Greg Trefz Memorial Award, followed by the Janet Geiger Memorial Award presented by Ms. Monica Donley, Special Education Coordinator. Ms. Mary Szczur, Upper School Teacher, and Mr. John Petsch, Lower School Principal, presented the Kris Henle-Blank Award.   

The Presentation of Outstanding Achievement, Horticulture, Culinary, Graphic Design, and Career Education Awards followed a delicious lunch buffet and dessert.  



Upper School Principal Mr. Mark Letiziano delivered inspiring closing remarks, reminding the audience of the importance of businesses offering potential employees that first chance.  

With Mr. Letiziano’s closing remarks in mind, we want to acknowledge our gratitude to Dunkin Donuts, IHOP Restaurants, Blue Violet Flowers and Gifts, Burlington, Fabio’s Pizza, Nutri-Serve, 30 Strikes Lanes, Waterford Township Public Library, Goodwill, Just Kids, Roma Pizza, and Briarwood Lane for your continued support. Your participation in our program has been instrumental in its success and the success of our students. We are truly grateful for all of you.   

Annual Spring Fling 2024

The Upper School and Cooper's Poynt students and staff celebrated their Annual Spring Fling on Thursday, May 23rd, at Lucien's Manor in Berlin. They enjoyed music, dancing, and a delicious luncheon while dressed in their fanciest attire. The dance floor was electric as everyone showed off their best moves, only stopping long enough to test their flexibility and cheer on their friends as each shimmied under the limbo pole. Everyone had a fabulous time and returned to school with many happy memories. 

Staff Appreciation Week

Lower School kicked off Staff Appreciation Week with a visit from the Woot Woot Wagon. Miss Caitlin wheeled the goodie-laden cart up and down the hallways, delivering sweets and treats to classroom staff members. Goodies included fresh fruit, cookies, candy bars, sweet tea, sodas, and more. It was a sweet gesture to show appreciation for the staff members' hard work and dedication. 

Lower School continued its celebration of Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week on Tuesday with a delicious Waffle Bar spread! Fluffy Belgian waffles were accompanied by sausage links and patties, coffee, tea, and many tasty toppings that were sure to fill anyone's sweet tooth! It was a delectable way to start the day and an excellent way to say thank you!  

On Wednesday, May 8th, Mr. John, the Lower School Principal, and Miss Caitlin, the Lower School Secretary Assistant, scooped up delicious ice cream for the staff as part of Staff Appreciation Week. Plenty of toppings were on hand to be sure everyone had their favorites, and all seemed to enjoy the delicious treat.    

Thursday, Lower School celebrated Staff Appreciation Week with lunch from a diner on wheels. Mary's Mobile Diner was on-site, serving a delicious lunch for all staff members. Everyone appreciated the delightful lunch and the thoughtfulness behind the gesture.  

Lower School finished Staff Appreciation Week on Friday by spinning The Employee Wheel for prizes. The prizes included gift cards from Target, WaWa, Dunkin, and Rita's, as well as cash!  

This year's Spin the Wheel Winners included Antoinette Renelle, Richele Johnson, Elona Alvarez, Joanie McConnell, Steve Conaghy, Patrick Creedon, Faith Latvenas, Shani Shpun, Henry Keresty, Gavin Donley, Gabby Worthington, and Alana Martino. Thank you to all our Archway Teachers and Staff for all you do! 

Lower School Students Visit the Funplex

Lower School students and staff enjoyed an exciting field trip to Funplex in Mt. Laurel. Both students and staff enjoyed the colorful lighting and displays of the indoor park, and whether you liked spinning or driving, there were plenty of rides and activities for everyone. After exploring and enjoying all the different rides and games, the group took time out for a delicious lunch. Everyone had a fabulous time and returned to school pleasantly worn out from the day's activities.   

Shining Stars of the Lower School Spring Show 

The stars shone brightly on May 15th and 16th at Archway Lower School. Students performed for a packed house of staff, friends, and family during the Lower School Annual Spring Show. This year’s theme, Follow Your Heart, was held in the school’s all-purpose room. The students sang and used electronic speakers to share their music as the audience cheered them on.  

Student art added to the talent on stage. The room walls were covered with creative displays of student artwork, offering friends and family an art show atmosphere.   

All the students did a spectacular job performing, and we are Archway Proud of each of our shining stars!    

We want to thank Katie Nevins, Musical Director; Miss Shayla, Art Director; and the team of Therapists, O.T., P.T., Counseling, Behaviorists, Swimming, and Gym. Their organizational skills and talent created a beautiful production.    

A sincere thank you to Susan Lafferty, our Executive Director of Education; John Petch, our Lower School Principal; Sandy Goc, Secretary; and Caitlin Stow, Secretary Assistant.    

Thank you to the Archway Board of Trustees for their continued support of the Music and Art Programs.  

Thank you to Mike Smalley, Ron Kirby, and the Maintenance staff for their assistance with the show’s set-up and clean-up.     

Thank you to the Spring Show Committee, the Kitchen Staff, and the student workers for the delicious refreshments for the Spring show.    

Our heartfelt thanks to all the parents, families, and friends who joined us for the show in support of your child! 

If you want to view pictures from the Spring Show, please visit the Annual Spring Show 2024 Album on the Archway Programs Facebook page.   

Lower School Students Rock the Spectrum

Lower School students had a blast at We Rock the Spectrum in Mt. Laurel. The facility and activity center, known for catering to children across the spectrum, provided an environment filled with activities tailored to them and offered what they found enjoyable. Judging by all the happy faces, We Rock the Spectrum left the students and staff with plenty of happy memories!  

The Wizard of Oz Comes to the Lower School Prom 2024

On Thursday, May 23rd, the Lower School celebrated its Annual Prom 2024 with music, dancing, and delicious food. Archway Lower School staff and students blew into Lucien's ballroom and followed the yellow brick road into a fantastic Wizard of Oz Prom!  

Special Services and staff outdid themselves with a colorful, picture-perfect balloon arch and adorable Wizard of Oz decorations throughout the ballroom. Table centerpieces consisted of a quartet of the most lovable Oz characters, colorful hot air balloons in a field of poppies, the green towers of Emerald City, and lollipop bouquets.  

Everyone ate a delicious lunch, danced, and wore silly hats for the picture booth. Dessert was a colorful cake befitting the Great Oz himself! The dessert table, which must have blown in on a gusty gale, appeared to have landed atop a wicked witch, leaving only the cackling crone's striped stockings and ruby slippers in view! It was a sweet ending to a fabulous afternoon!  

Lower School Grads Enjoy Lunch and a Swim Party

Following graduation rehearsal, the Lower School Class of 2024 celebrated their upcoming graduation ceremony with a special picnic lunch of chicken nuggets, French fries, soft drinks, and hot, fresh pretzels for dessert. After lunch, the group enjoyed a refreshing indoor swim party with exciting water activities and games. Everyone enjoyed the lunch and the swimming; of course, they were all looking forward to summer! 

Students & Staff Enjoy a Special Sweet Treat from Kona Ice

Lower School students and staff enjoyed a warm weather treat when the Kona Ice Truck rolled into the parking lot! The clouds loomed, and raindrops threatened to fall, but everyone got their delicious frozen goodness just in time!  

Cooper’s Poynt Students vs Staff B-ball Game  

Cooper's Poynt students and staff went head-to-head during an exciting, energetic, impromptu basketball game. The tension was high, and the sweat was flying, but it was all good fun! The staff reigned supreme by a narrow margin of only one point! This time.

Cooper’s Poynt Students Get Slimed

To beat the gloom of cloudy, overcast skies during the fickle month of May, students from Cooper’s Poynt chose to make slime as their preferred Behavior Mod activity. They each mixed their own batch and colored it to their liking. Once completed, they got busy molding and manipulating the slimy, blue concoction. 

Cooper’s Poynt Students Build a Working Crane 

Mr. Dave’s class from Cooper’s Poynt received a lesson on simple machines. True to form, Mr. Dave turned the lesson into a hands-on project, building a working crane to demonstrate the simplicity and power of simple machines. Yet another great lesson that students will not soon forget.

Cooper's Poynt Celebrates National Yo-Yo Day

Cooper's Poynt staff celebrated National Yo-Yo Day by sharing a few classic yo-yo tricks, such as Walking the Dog and Around the World, with students today. The students all received yo-yos to take home so they could practice the same tricks or create their own. Fun fact: Did you know the largest yo-yo in the world weighs 4,620 pounds? Imagine walking that dog! 

Just Kids Staff Celebrates with a Night Out

Archway Programs' Just Kids held its Just Kids Staff Night Out on Thursday, May 23rd. The celebratory night served as a company get-together and program awards ceremony.  

Donnie Gamble, Just Kids Director, awarded the Gibbsboro Elementary location the Bobbie Cross Site of the Year Award for, as he put it, "raising the bar and being the standard that all before and after care programs are based on."   

Vashmere Valentine was honored with the Sonya Swint Employee of the Year Award. Presenting the award, Mr. Gamble stated, "You made this program one of our prized gems. You made my job easier; you allowed me to focus on other items."  

The evening, filled with accolades and congratulatory moments, reminded us of the importance of working together for a common cause.  

George Richards, Archway CEO/CFO; Shawn Gibson, COO/Vice President; and Michael Smalley, Maintenace Director, were among the many Archway administrators, employees, and staff who joined the celebration. 

Angie's Housemates Cheer Her on at Bowling Banquet

On May 5th, the ladies from our Voorhees group home supported their friend and housemate Angie at her bowling banquet, celebrating an excellent bowling season. The ladies even met up with a former housemate, adding to the special celebration!  

Save the Date! July 24th

Archway Advanced Abilities Day Program Presents: 1st Annual Friends and Family Summer Bash!

Join us to celebrate a year of success at the Archway Advanced Abilities Day Program! Come and enjoy food, music, exciting games, and fun activities. Take a tour of our facility as we celebrate our 1st Anniversary!

Date: July 24th (Rain Date: July 25th)

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Address: 1 Neptune Drive North, Sewell, NJ

July 24th - 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

1 Neptune Drive North

Sewell, NJ, 08080 Building B

AADP Program Participants Enjoy Their Monthly Bowling Trip

Archway Advanced Abilities Day Program (AADP) participants headed to the lanes to tip over some pins during their monthly bowling outing. The group loved the fun and friendly competition, and as always, they are already looking forward to next month's trip! 

Program Participants Build Garden Boxes

During May, Scott Peggs from Archway Maintenance Workshop stopped by the Advanced Abilities Day Program (AADP) to show the group how to build wooden planter boxes. Joy, an AADP Direct Support Professional, spearheaded the garden project, and she worked with the participants to plant tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, and sweet green peppers. The group is excited about tending the garden and watching as the fruits of their labor come to fruition! Check back; I anticipate a meal using the vegetables they harvested from their garden in the future. 

Jesse Get a Cooking Lesson With Delicious Results

Marissa from the Saturday Respite Program recently taught Jesse how to make a lunchtime favorite: Grilled Cheese. It looks like Jesse enjoyed the preparation, and we have no doubt he enjoyed what looked like a delicious sandwich. Great job, Jesse!   

Saturday Respite Participants Make English Muffin Pizzas

Participants from the Archway Saturday Respite Program were busy in the kitchen. The group prepared English Muffin Pizzas for lunch with delicious pizza sauce and various cheeses. Once the participants finished preparing their lunch, they all sat together to enjoy their culinary pizza creations!    

Thank You for Your Support

Thank you from all of us at Blue Violet Flowers & Gifts and Archway Programs!

Your support during the Mother’s Day holiday and beyond helps us to continue providing vocational training and job opportunities for students and adults with disabilities. 

Welcome to the Archway Family!

We are proud to welcome new employees to the Archway Family as our organization expands, allowing us to help more families throughout the community. Please help us give a warm welcome to the newest members of the Archway Family!

Woods System of Care Names Oluwafunmike Ojewoye, MD, as Medical Director of The Medical Center at Woods  

Dr. Ojewoye will maximize effectiveness, efficiency, and productivity in the provision of primary care for individuals with disabilities. 

Woods has brought on board a key new medical leader, Oluwafunmike Ojewoye, MD, to serve as medical director of The Medical Center at Woods. Dr. Ojewoye oversees the daily clinical operations and coordination of primary health care services at the NCQA-certified medical center, which provides specialized care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, brain injury, and behavioral health challenges who may also have complex medical and genetic conditions. 

Dr. Ojewoye will work with Sailaja Musunuri, MD, Woods’ executive vice president of integrative medicine and chief of psychiatry, and Stephen Kolesk, MD, Woods’ vice president for medical affairs and managed care/chief medical officer, to support Woods’ integrated care model.  

The model is part of an overall population health management approach that focuses on whole-person care and recognizes the importance of addressing all of a person’s needs to attain the best possible health and behavioral outcomes. That includes acknowledging the social determinants of health (socioeconomic factors, education, geographic location, membership in an under-represented group, access to transportation, etc.), which play deep and meaningful roles in a person’s health and well-being. In the integrated care model, healthcare and other service providers work together seamlessly to eliminate gaps in care. 

“Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism face enormous barriers to care and, as a result, experience poorer health outcomes, lower quality of life, and higher healthcare costs than the general population,” said Tine Hansen-Turton, President and CEO of Woods System of Care. “Dr. Ojewoye will play an integral role in helping expand our evidence-based integrated care model to break down the barriers to quality care.” 

“I am excited to work with the patient population we work with and excited about all the different possibilities that are ahead to grow the programs and services,” Dr. Ojewoye added. 

The Medical Center at Woods serves as a national model for providing comprehensive, coordinated personalized care for people with complex diagnoses and medical conditions. In April 2023, the Medical Center at Woods was awarded recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance Patient-Centered Medical Home Program (www.ncqa.org). 

The medical center’s successful integrated care model is being replicated in New Jersey. RWJ Barnabas Health, Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, and Woods are joining forces to establish the first integrated healthcare center for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Robert Woods Johnson University Hospital Hamilton. The center is the first of many more of its kind to come. 

Dr. Ojewoye is a board-certified family medicine physician and an active member of the American Academy of Family Medicine. She earned her medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine and completed her residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, in affiliation with BronxCare Health System in New York. Dr. Ojewoye has a strong leadership background, having most recently served as chief medical officer for one of Philadelphia’s largest federally qualified health centers.  

As medical director of The Medical Center at Woods, she is committed to equipping and empowering her colleagues and patients to achieve the best possible health outcomes and improve their lives. 

If you have news or information you would like to see in the next issue of The Bridge, please contact Kelly by phone: 856.767.5757 ext. 242 or by email: kelly.jones@archwayprograms.org.