The Alternative Press

CALDWELL, NJ - Valentine’s Day took on a double meaning at Grover Cleveland Middle School when the school teachers and staff wore red to celebrate the day and support healthy heart month.

With nearly 700,000 people dying of heart disease in the United States each year, or about 29 percent of all US deaths, the American Heart Association has designated February as American Heart Month.

“Heart disease is a leading cause of death and disability for both men and women,” said school nurse Betty Gakos. “This was a day to both celebrate the holiday and remind ourselves about how important heart health is.”


Front Row Left to Right: Teachers Isabella D’Agostino, Diana Reyes, Katelyn Allison, secretary Barbara Walsh, teachers Marcy Friedman, Susan Nogales, Amanda Keenan, Inez Morrisey, and GCMS principal James Brown

2nd Row: Teachers Maritza Vierra-Ferrer, Ellen Gianakis, Melissa Tauro, Jennifer Rego, Elisabeth Strangeway, Erin Borowski, Annelie Fahlstedt, school nurse Betty Gakos, teachers Arleen Perkins and Noreen Lienhard.

Back Row: Teachers Pat Holden, Sheila Cuccinelli, Jessica Sental, Trevor McLaughlin, Jane Kinkle, Mike Teshkoyan, vice principal Scott Chamberlain, and Computer Network Manager Bill Brophy. Credit: Christine Corliss

For further information:
Grover Cleveland Middle School
36 Academy Road
Caldwell, NJ 07006
973-228-9115
Website