Middle school families have a new chance to explore specialized public high schools this fall. The Ocean County Vocational Technical School District is hosting admissions information sessions at three academies. Sessions run from October through November, ahead of this year’s application deadline. Every school district is eligible to apply, so no student is excluded by location.
Program at a Glance
- What: Free admissions info sessions for MATES, GPAA, and ALPS
- Who: Middle school students and parents from any district
- When: October through November, with dates set at each campus
- Where: Campuses in Manahawkin and Toms River
- Why attend: Tour the facilities, meet faculty, and receive application materials
These sessions help families weigh a career-focused high school path early. Because admission is competitive, attending an info session first is a smart move.
Three Academies, Three Career Paths
Each academy operates as a full-time public high school with a career focus. Students follow a college-preparatory track while building specialized, career-ready skills. Admission runs through a competitive application process, and students enter in ninth grade.
Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES)
MATES gives students a hands-on path through science, technology, engineering, and math. The program blends rigorous coursework with fieldwork, independent research, and workplace partnerships. Nearly every graduate from the class of 2026 is now attending a top college. Recent alumni are studying engineering, computer science, medicine, and environmental science.
Grunin Performing Arts Academy (GPAA)
GPAA supports students drawn to dance, vocal music, theatre, and audio engineering. Coursework blends artistic training with a full, rigorous academic schedule. Students can also earn dual credit through a partnership with a local community college. Last year, 85 percent of graduates left with an associate degree already in hand. Many alumni continue into law, medicine, business, and therapy fields beyond the arts.
Academy of Law and Public Safety (ALPS)
ALPS prepares students for careers in law enforcement, homeland security, and public safety. The curriculum covers criminal justice alongside current investigative and forensic technology. Students may also earn dual credit while completing certifications like CPR and emergency dispatch. Graduates have gone on to work at more than thirty regional police departments. Others have joined a sheriff’s office, a corrections department, or the military.
How Families Can Attend
Info sessions give families a direct look at each academy before applying. Students can tour classrooms, speak with faculty, and ask detailed questions. Application materials are handed out on-site, so one visit covers the basics. Families are encouraged to pre-register ahead of time to reserve a seat. Bring a list of questions about academics, extracurriculars, and daily schedules. Staff can also explain transportation options for students traveling from other towns. A short visit often answers questions a flyer or website cannot.
Application Deadline Reminder
This year’s application window closes shortly after the final info session. Families should confirm exact dates directly with the district before the deadline passes. Waiting too long can mean missing a seat in a competitive program.
Why Career Academies Matter for the Local Workforce
Local employers benefit when students graduate with career-ready skills already in place. Hiring managers often look for candidates who can apply classroom learning immediately. Career academy graduates enter college or the workforce with real technical experience. That head start benefits both the graduate and the businesses that later hire them. Strong K-12 career pathways also support economic growth across the wider region. A well-prepared workforce keeps skilled talent close to home instead of moving away.
Connecting Career Academies to Long-Term Workforce Goals
Programs like these build practical skills years before graduation. That early exposure to a career path often pays off well beyond high school. Students who explore a field early tend to enter the workforce with clearer goals. This same principle guides the work happening at the Ocean County Career Center.
Our team supports young adults ages 16 to 24 through a dedicated youth career program. That program offers several services, including:
- Work experience and paid internships
- Career training in high-demand fields
- Financial literacy and leadership development
- Mentoring and one-on-one career counseling
Families weighing a career academy now may find these youth services useful later on. Job seekers exploring in-demand fields can also browse current career training options through our learning center. Career academies and workforce programs share a common goal. Both aim to connect students with a clear, sustainable path forward.
Get Involved
Families interested in MATES, GPAA, or ALPS should pre-register for an info session soon. Sessions run through November, and seats tend to fill quickly. For questions about youth career services after high school, reach out directly. Our staff can walk families through training, work experience, and job placement resources.
