Our Journey – 40 Years of the School’s History
Forty years ago, in September 1985, thanks to the initiative of Nest 946 of the Polish Falcons of America, a Saturday Polish language school was brought to life. Dedicated members of the organization — Frank and Regina Grodzki, together with Grzegorz and Liliana Czechowicz — took the important step of registering the school with the Central Organization of Polish Supplementary Schools in America, laying the foundation for a tradition that continues to this day.
1985-1995
— 1985/1986
In its very first year, the school welcomed twelve students and had one dedicated teacher, Danuta Jankowska. Classes, lasting two hours, were held at the Polanka in Hillsborough, NJ. As the teacher fondly remembers, “the beginnings were difficult,” as children of different ages and varying levels of Polish language skills gathered in a single classroom. Despite the challenges, there was no shortage of heart and determination. Nest 946 of the Polish Falcons of America generously covered all of the school’s expenses, making it possible for this dream to take its first steps.
— 1986/1987
In the school’s second year, Father Stanislaw Walega, pastor of Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish in Bound Brook, NJ, generously opened the doors of the parish school building to the Polish language school. With this new home, the number of students grew to twenty. Danuta Jankowska continued as the devoted teacher, guiding her growing group of students with care and dedication.
— 1987/1988
The school expanded to two classes, each with twelve students. The teaching staff also grew, with Beata Jankowska and Teresa Zagajewska joining as teachers. The school’s spiritual guidance was entrusted to Father Józef Krajewski, who became its religious advisor. It was also during this time that a modest tuition fee was introduced to help support the growing needs of the school.
— 1988/1989
The number of students doubled, and the teaching staff continued to grow. Anna Grochocka joined the faculty and was appointed the school’s director. That same year, a special moment in the school’s young history took place — the annual Christmas celebration was visited by a crew from Polish television in New York, bringing excitement and a sense of pride to students, teachers, and families alike.
— 1989/1990
The school soon grew to thirty-eight students, and new teachers joined the faculty to meet the growing needs. Lidia Spychalska and Janusz Kowalczuk became part of the dedicated team of educators. That year also marked the formation of the first Parent Committee, with Jarema Krause appointed as its chairman — a meaningful step in building a close-knit, supportive school community.
— 1990/1991
That year, the number of instructional hours was increased to three, giving students even more time to learn and connect with their heritage. For the very first time, the students took part in a special Mother’s Day program during Polish School Day at the American Czestochowa — a proud and memorable moment for the young performers, their families, and teachers. To close out the school year, a joyful picnic was organized at Colonial Park, bringing together students, parents, and friends to celebrate another chapter in the school’s growing story.
— 1991/1992
A dance group was formed under the direction of Jacek Jackowski, adding a new and vibrant dimension to the school’s activities. New teachers, Stanisława Rosada and Lucyna Lis, joined the faculty as the school grew to forty-three students across four classes. Władysław Kulak was elected chairman of the Parent Committee, strengthening the school’s community bonds. To celebrate the end of the school year, the organizing body generously sponsored a memorable trip for the children to Hershey Park, PA — a joyful reward for their hard work and dedication.
— 1992/1993
Enrollment grew to forty-six students, and two new teachers — Jadwiga Witkowska and Maria Kowalczuk — joined the dedicated staff. Father Józef Krajewski, who had long served as the school’s spiritual guide, stepped down, and his role was taken over by Father Jan Stec. The school year ended on a joyful note with a trip to the circus in Philadelphia — a delightful adventure that left lasting memories for the students.
— 1993/1994
A proud milestone was reached as the first graduates received their certificates of completion. Under the guidance of Maria Kowalczuk, Dawid Grzebyk and Anna Puzio became the school’s very first alumni — a moment of great pride for the entire community. That same year, two new teachers, Małgorzata Lampe and Joanna Karczewska, joined the team, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm. The school’s dance group continued to thrive, now led by Ryszard Juchiewicz, delighting audiences with Polish folk dance and spirit.
— 1994/1995
In the school’s milestone 10th anniversary year, enrollment reached sixty students — a testament to its growing presence and impact. That year, three more students completed their education: Ewelina Kowalczuk, Ewelina Nowosielski, and Jennifer Wleklik proudly joined the ranks of the school’s alumni. The dance group received beautiful new costumes, lovingly sewn by the Parent Committee under the leadership of Halina Wleklik. The group gave many performances at school events and was invited to participate in Polish community celebrations throughout the area. The 10th anniversary was joyfully marked with a celebratory ball at the Sokoły picnic grounds, and to cap off the year, the children enjoyed an unforgettable trip to Dorney Park.
1995-2005
— 1995/1996
Another proud class of graduates completed their journey this year: Diana Bukowczyk, Tomasz Grochocki, Oliwia Janik, Karolina Piorek, Dorota Puzio, Aneta Suski, and Teresa Radwańska — each leaving their own mark on the school’s growing legacy. The teaching team welcomed a new Polish language specialist, Elżbieta Laskowska, whose experience and passion enriched the classroom. The Parent Committee continued to play a vital role in school life, with Janina Bukowczyk serving as its dedicated chairperson.
— 1996/1997
The school continued to flourish, reaching an enrollment of sixty-five students. Another group of graduates proudly received their diplomas: Beata Grzeczkowicz, Anastazja Maziarz, Agnieszka Roszkowski, Julian Uściłowicz, and Joanna Zala. Marzena Karnas joined the teaching team, bringing fresh enthusiasm to the classroom. The Parent Committee was led that year by Wiesława Roszkowska, whose commitment helped strengthen the school community. Dance instruction was led by Małgorzata Medrek, inspiring students through Polish folk traditions. Spiritual care of the school was entrusted to Father Mieczysław Jarząbek, who became a valued guide and presence.
— 1997/1998
The school was honored by a visit from the leadership of the Central Organization of Polish Supplementary Schools — President Jan Woźniak and inspector Dorota Kirsz. The overall work and spirit of the school were evaluated very positively, a proud affirmation of the efforts of teachers, students, and parents alike. Another group of students completed their education: Katarzyna Grochocka, Tomasz Lis, Ewa Możdżeń, and Natalia Wiewióra joined the growing list of alumni. The school’s dance group gave a special showcase performance at the American Czestochowa, earning recognition and applause. To celebrate the end of another fruitful year, students once again enjoyed a trip to Dorney Park — a joyful tradition filled with laughter and friendship.
— 1998/1999
This year, the eighth grade worked very hard preparing for the Inter-School Mickiewicz Competition. Thanks to their dedication, Christopher Adamczyk and Monika Karazja became laureates, each earning second place—Christopher for his recitation of the poem “Reduta Ordona,” and Monika for her deep knowledge of Adam Mickiewicz’s biography and works. Their success was supported and guided by teacher Elżbieta Laskowska.
Ten students graduated this year: Christopher Adamczyk, Aneta Gnap, Małgorzata Frąc, Katarzyna Grzebyk, Karolina Janasek, Patrycja Kasprzak, Victoria Monsul, Małgorzata Puzio, Barbara Skwara, and Diana Wojcik.
The Parent Committee was chaired by Anna Wójcik, whose leadership helped nurture the school community throughout the year.
— 1999/2000
With each passing year, the school continued to grow — both in numbers and spirit. Enrollment reached eighty-four students, and the teaching staff welcomed a new addition: Maria Bagiński, a teacher full of enthusiasm and dedication. The school’s dance group was led by Joanna Czajkowski, continuing the tradition of sharing Polish culture through movement and music. This year’s graduates — Magdalena Bujak, Monika Karazja, and Piotr Riccio — were honored with Parent Committee Awards, presented by Beata Zdeb-Klimeczek, the committee’s chairperson for the year. The school also welcomed a new spiritual guardian, Father Marian Drozd, who offered guidance and support to the growing school community.
— 2000/2001
The school reached a new milestone with ninety-nine students enrolled — a reflection of its steady growth and the trust placed in it by the community. The teaching staff expanded once again, welcoming two new educators: Józefa Marciniak and Grażyna Grodzicka, whose dedication enriched the academic environment. A highlight of the year was a special competition organized by the Central Organization of Polish Supplementary Schools in America, focused on the life and work of Nobel Prize-winning author Władysław Stanisław Reymont. Eighth-grade student Sebastian Firak earned first prize — a remarkable achievement for both him and the school. Seven students graduated this year: Agnieszka Jackowski, Michał Jamroszczyk, Katarzyna Jankowski, Mateusz Maziarz, Sebastian Firak, Mariusz Szafrański, and Michał Zala. As tradition continued, the school year concluded with a joyful trip to Dorney Park, celebrating another year of learning, friendship, and success.
— 2001/2002
This year marked a significant moment for the school’s presence in the Polish-American community. In honor of Constitution Day on May 3rd, the school organized a special program at the Manville Public Library. As part of the celebration, albums and films about Poland were donated to the library, enriching its collection and sharing Polish culture with a wider audience. The year also saw a new group of graduates: Michał Bogdanowicz, Rafał Brożyna, Kamil Kołodziej, Oliver Kaletnicki, Pamela Misztal, Joanna Wilk, and Monika Witek. The Parent Committee was led by Małgorzata Ber, whose support helped guide the school through another successful year.
One of the most meaningful events of the year was the recognition of longtime school director Anna Grochocka. In honor of her outstanding service to Polish education abroad, she was awarded the Medal of the National Education Commission — a prestigious distinction granted by the Ministry of Education in Poland. The medal was presented by Agnieszka Magdziak-Miszewska, Consul General of the Republic of Poland in New York — a proud and emotional moment for the entire school community.
— 2002/2003
New teachers joined the school family this year: Iwona Mosińska, Beata Podobińska, and Joanna Jędraszak, bringing fresh energy and dedication to their classrooms. The students participated in the “Life and Work of Maria Konopnicka” competition, showcasing their knowledge and appreciation of Polish literature. The eighth grade graduated with the following students: Łukasz Bogdanowicz, Marzena Brożyna, Gabriela Firak, Joanna Karausz, Gabriela Kaletnicki, Ewelina Pura, and Ryszard Oziębło. Most of these students successfully passed the Polish Regents exam administered by the Central Organization of Polish Supplementary Schools.
At the end of the year, with heavy hearts, we bid farewell to our longtime spiritual guardian and benefactor, Father Stanisław Walega, who retired after many years of devoted service. The parish is now under the care of Father Leon Aniszczyk, the new pastor, who promised to support the Polish school and assist with its needs. The Parent Committee operated under the leadership of Joanna Siedlecka, continuing the strong tradition of parental involvement and care.
— 2003/2004
The school grew to 125 students, prompting the creation of two new classes. One was a bilingual class, led by Monika Rogowska, designed for children who did not speak Polish at home. The other was an adult class, taught by Lucyna Lis. The teaching staff also welcomed Maria Jerzak and Justyna Gabryszewska, adding fresh passion and expertise. Father Marian Drozd continued to teach religion, nurturing the students’ spiritual growth.
To celebrate Christmas, the students enjoyed a special trip to Lancaster, PA, to see the play The Miracle of Christmas. This year’s graduates included Bartłomiej Bajda, Monika Bar, Adam Grochocki, Damian Herdzik, Sylwia Kołodziej, Angelika Lazur, Monika Oziębło, Jessica Puzio, Mateusz Rybak, Nicole Ślęzak, and Christopher Walczyszyn. Bartłomiej Bajda was honored with a congratulatory letter from the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland in Washington, D.C.
Continuing a tradition begun in the 1993/1994 school year, graduates received awards from Nest 946 of the Polish Falcons of America in the form of U.S. savings bonds, as well as monetary awards from the Parent Committee. The year’s end was filled with emotions as the community said farewell to longtime school director Anna Grochocka and warmly welcomed the new director, Lucyna Lis.
— 2004/2005
The school counted 115 students as the new school year began under the leadership of Lucyna Lis. Krzysztof Ospelt took on the role of chairman of the Parent Committee, bringing fresh energy to the position. The teaching staff was enriched by the addition of Barbara Maciorowska and Zofia Szabla.
This year’s graduates were: Elizabeth Bar, Anna Dziwak, Dorota Has, Karolina Jurkowski, Joanna Karnas, Aleksandra Koj, Dawid Podstawski, Sylwia Pupek, Anna Sośnicki, and Samantha Żołnierczyk.
A special highlight of the year was the celebration of our school’s 20th anniversary, which was attended by important representatives from Polish-American organizations and educational institutions — a proud occasion that honored two decades of dedication to Polish language and culture.
2005-2015
— 2005/2006
The number of students and teachers remained steady this year. The school proudly celebrated its graduates: Aleksander Bar, Alicja Cygan, Damian Kania, Artur Kołodziej, Paweł Maziarz, Kamila Migdał, and Kelly Rybak.
School director Lucyna Lis was honored with the Medal of the National Education Commission, recognizing her outstanding contributions to Polish education. In May, six teachers participated in the 9th Congress of Polish-American Teachers held in Houston, Texas, as part of their professional development. There, they presented two lessons dedicated to the history and activities of the Polish Falcons of America — sharing the spirit and legacy of the Sokol movement with their peers.
— 2006/2007
Enrollment reached 131 students this year. The school proudly celebrated the graduation of: Steven Bar, Marta Beczek, Gabriela Ber, Karol Blicharz, Hanna Has, Michał Jackowski, Camil Karpiński, Ryszard Kłoskowski, Amanda Krol, Catherine Kucharski, Sebastian Laskowski, Catherine Mosiński, Jacek Sosnicki, Adrian Wojas, and Jakub Zadziłko.
Sabina Migdał and Adrian Wojas received congratulatory letters from the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland in Washington, D.C., honoring their achievements. Additionally, two teachers, Maria Kowalczuk and Elżbieta Laskowska, were awarded the Medal of the National Education Commission, recognizing their exceptional contributions to Polish education.
— 2007/2008
This year, the school enrolled 118 students. The graduating class included: Natalie Bogaczewicz, Alison Kalinowski, Aleksandra Kordal, Natalia Lewicki, Alicja Maziarz, Patrick Okurowski, Monika Rynkowski, Monika Siedlecka, Christopher Strzałka, Natalia Urbanowicz, Paweł Zawadka, Julia Zgrzywa, and Konrad Zieliński.
Natalia Lewicki and Klaudia Bunkowski received congratulatory letters from the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland in Washington, D.C., recognizing their achievements. Continuing a cherished tradition, all graduates were awarded $100 US Savings Bonds from the Polish Falcons Nest.
Five teachers participated in methodological and didactic workshops during the 10th Congress of Polish-American Teachers held in Boston, MA, further enriching their professional development.
— 2008/2009
The school enrolled 130 students this year. New classes were created, including a preschool class and a 9th-grade high school class. This expansion required relocating three classes to a new space. Approval was granted to use classrooms in the CCD building of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Manville, NJ.
Due to staff changes, two new teachers were hired: Elżbieta Nowak-Trościaniec and Dorota Surtel.
The graduates of the year were: Karolina Bar, Anette Bielen, Victoria Burczy, Magdalena Christoforu, Artur Domaszewski, Agnieszka Has, Magdalena Kłoskowski, Kacper Kucharski, Michael Popławski, Kamil Siedlecki, Katarzyna Tkaczyk, Martin Wawszkowicz, Magdalena Woźnicki, Diane Zalewski, Sabrina Żołnierczyk, and Sylvia Kuzminski.
— 2009/2010
This year, the school enrolled 140 students. The graduates were: Evelyn Dziedzic, Katarzyna Kurasińska, Aldona Małkińska, Joanna Maziarz, Natalia Mosiński, Ian Pęczak, and Urszula Zadziłko.
New teachers joined the staff: Katarzyna Cieślikowska for the preschool class and Sylwia Steinke for the second year of high school. Additionally, Joanna Maciorowska and Gabriela Ber generously volunteered as support teachers throughout the entire school year.
Two teachers, Marzena Karnas and Grażyna Grodzicka, were honored with the Medal of the National Education Commission for their outstanding contributions. Regina Grodzki, a representative of Nest 946 of the Polish Falcons and the school’s founder, received the Janina Igielska Statuette — a distinguished award recognizing her invaluable service to Polish-American education.
Teacher Elżbieta Laskowska was presented with a diploma marking the completion of a two-year Postgraduate Qualification Program in Teaching Polish as a Foreign Language.
On September 25th, the school joyfully celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Sokoły picnic grounds — a proud milestone marking a quarter-century of dedication to Polish language and culture.
— 2010/2011
The school enrolled 156 students this year. The elementary school graduates were: Cecylia Jabłoński, Wiktoria Lach, Olivia Smutek, Maria Topolski, and Natalia Roszkowska.
This year also marked a historic milestone — the school’s first high school graduates: Natalia Lewicka, Alicja Trościańiec, and Natalia Urbanowicz.
United Poles Federal Credit Union, in partnership with the school, rewarded the best students from each class throughout the school year by awarding monthly $50 Certificates of Achievement.
For the first time, the graduating class participated in a formal prom organized for future Polish school graduates on the East Coast by the Central Organization of Polish Supplementary Schools.
In May, the school held its very first high school final exam (matura). Natalia Lewicka, Alicja Trościańiec, and Natalia Urbanowicz all successfully passed, marking a proud moment for the entire community.
In recognition of her many contributions, teacher and the school’s first director, Anna Grochocka, was presented with the Janina Igielska Statuette — the most prestigious Polish-American award in the field of education.
— 2011/2012
The school’s enrollment grew to 165 students. The Parent Committee was led by Jolanta Maziarz and Barbara Porter, whose dedication strengthened the school community.
Elementary school graduates included: Ewa Ber, Monika Bielen, Veronica Król, Sara Kuzminski, Daniel Laskowski, Sabina Migdał, Natalie Siemienczuk, Alex Siemienczuk, and Michael Topolski.
High school graduates were: Anette Bielen, Victoria Burczy, Katarzyna Tkaczyk, and Diane Zalewski.
This year, the soon-to-be high school graduates enjoyed the traditional Polish-American prom for East Coast Polish schools.
For the first time, the school hosted a Christmas fair on its grounds. The event was a great success, with a popular raffle where every ticket was a winner. The proceeds were dedicated to supporting the school’s needs.
The school also took part in the finale of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity, raising funds to purchase medical equipment for neonatal wards in Polish hospitals — a heartfelt way to connect with and support the broader Polish community.
— 2012/2013
The school enrolled 174 students this year. The Parent Committee continued its dedicated work under the leadership of Jolanta Maziarz and Barbara Porter.
Elementary school graduates included: Natalia Bak, Klaudia Bunkowski, Julia Jerzak, Caroline Karczewski, Jonathan Konopka, Mariusz Matysek, Kacper Niewiadomski, Adrian Nowak, Aleksandra Ospelt, and Elizabeth Popławski.
High school graduates were: Aldona Małkińska, Mateusz Roszkowski, and Ian Pęczak.
The 2012/2013 school year marked a significant milestone in the school’s history. After 27 years, the school relocated from Bound Brook to Manville. Students in grades seven, eight, and high school remained at the CCD building of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Manville, while the younger children began classes in the parish school building of Christ the King.
A second preschool class was established, led by teacher Joanne Małkińska. Following tradition, the graduating class participated in the inter-school prom for Polish schools.
This year also saw the creation of a theater club, led by teacher Anna Grochocka. The club members prepared a nativity play for the school community and the broader Polish-American community, bringing the spirit of the season to life through their performance.
— 2013/2014
This year, the school enrolled 184 students. The elementary school graduates were: Peter Domaszewski, Patricia Kołodziejska, Julia Książek, Juliet Małkowski, Filip Maziarz, Emilia Porter, Magdalena Skalska, Klaudia Smutek, Nicole Smutek, Katherine Strzałka, Bartosz Szewczyk, Ryan Szaja, Adrianna Trzmiel, Patrick Urbanowicz, and Victoria Zaczyński.
The high school graduates included Natalia Roszkowska, Olivia Smutek, and Maria Topolski.
An important event this year was the 13th Congress of Polish-American Teachers, organized in New York by the Central Organization of Polish Supplementary Schools. Nine teachers from the school participated, attending workshops, lectures, and discussions focused on the role of the Polish-American teacher in today’s world.
Once again, the soon-to-be high school graduates enjoyed the traditional prom for Polish schools on the East Coast.
A new teacher, Małgorzata Włodarska, joined the fifth-grade class, while Ewa Ber, a former graduate, generously volunteered as a teacher’s assistant in the youngest class.
The Parent Committee was led by Tomasz Ziółkowski and Ewa Dziuba, continuing their committed work on behalf of the school community.