Lilley School Students Learn Why New Jersey's Cool

Fourth-graders at James W. Lilley Elementary School on Tuesday attended an assembly about New Jersey's history and places to go and things to do in the Garden State.

Phyllis Oppenheimer, from the state Division of Travel and Tourism, presented a slideshow about all the wonderful places to visit in New Jersey. She stressed the importance of tourism in our state to the students, and told the youngsters they should be proud of their state and welcome those who come here to visit.

Students were able to learn about the state's destinations, attractions and historic places.      

The assembly was a "jump off point" for the fourth-graders, who have been focusing on the topic "Celebrate New Jersey" in computer lab and library classes for the past few months. They are in the process of writing essays for a contest, where they research and write articles about New Jersey arts, business, people, science, sports or travel.

Winning essays will be featured on online student newspaper The New Jersey Scoop. The Best of the Best articles will be selected for publication and honored at regional awards events this spring.