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DUI Lawyers in Rahway, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.
- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Rahway, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Rahway, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Rahway, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com
The DUI Lawyers in Rahway, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:
DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Rahway, NJ.
DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.
DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike The Merchants Drovers Tavern Museum near Rahway, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.
Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Rahway, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.
Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.
Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
It doesn't take a graduate from Param Institute of Education in Rahway, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.
Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Rahway, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near Thomas Edison National Historical Park in Rahway, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.
Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.
1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Rahway, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.
2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.
3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
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DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Rahway, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
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Latest News in Rahway, NJ
Rahway's Franklin Elementary School Hosts 6th Grade Dance
Ashley Shanleyhttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/rahway/sections/education/articles/rahway-s-franklin-elementary-school-hosts-6th-grade-dance
RAHWAY, NJ — Franklin School was thrilled to host its annual 6th grade dance, a sophisticated "Promotion Soirée" themed event that celebrated the culmination of a successful school year and the students' advancement to the next grade level.This highly anticipated event provided a wonderful opportunity for 6th graders to gather, socialize, and enjoy a memorable night with their classmates as they prepared for new academic adventures.The "Promotion Soiree" th...
RAHWAY, NJ — Franklin School was thrilled to host its annual 6th grade dance, a sophisticated "Promotion Soirée" themed event that celebrated the culmination of a successful school year and the students' advancement to the next grade level.
This highly anticipated event provided a wonderful opportunity for 6th graders to gather, socialize, and enjoy a memorable night with their classmates as they prepared for new academic adventures.
The "Promotion Soiree" theme set a refined yet festive atmosphere, complete with tasteful decorations, engaging music, and ample space for students to enjoy themselves.
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"We were incredibly proud of our 6th graders and all they accomplished this year," said Franklin Principal Dr. Patrick Holness. “The 6th grade dance, with its ‘Promotion Soirée’ theme, was a truly special occasion. It offered a sophisticated and exciting environment for students to celebrate their hard work, their friendships, and their readiness for what comes next. It was a fantastic way to honor their achievements and send them off to their next chapter."
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Rahway's Franklin School Celebrates March's Shining Stars!
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/rahway/sections/education/articles/rahway-s-franklin-school-celebrates-march-s-shining-stars
EducationFranklin School's Student of the Month Initiative.Photo Credit: Rahway Public SchoolsFranklin Elementary School.Photo Credit: Rahway Public SchoolsFranklin School's Student of the Month Initiative.Photo Credit: Rahway Public SchoolsPreviousNextGetting your Trinity Audio player ready......
Franklin School's Student of the Month Initiative.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Franklin Elementary School.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Franklin School's Student of the Month Initiative.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
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By Ashley Shanley
Published March 29, 2025 at 11:06 AM
RAHWAY, NJ — Franklin School's Academic Success Committee proudly continued its Student of the Month initiative, recognizing the remarkable achievements of students in March. The program reinforces the importance of academic and social development, while fostering strong family connections.
Each class nominated a student who excelled in five key areas:
The March celebration featured a heartwarming morning assembly, where proud parents witnessed the presentation of official certificates, commemorative photographs, and a delicious celebratory treat.
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Dr. Patrick Holness, Franklin's principal, stated, “We are incredibly proud of our March Students of the Month. We believe this recognition will inspire all our students to strive for excellence and continue to grow both inside and outside the classroom.”
This program continues to be a great success, and the school looks forward to continuing to celebrate the students each month.
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Six Rahway HS Football Players Sign College Contracts
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/rahway/sections/rahway-sports/articles/six-rahway-hs-football-players-sign-college-contracts
Rahway SportsKevin Taylor with his family and coaches.Photo Credit: David BrighouseHead Coach Brian Russo congratulates Kevin Taylor, who will attend Pace University in the fall.Photo Credit: David BrighouseAssistant Coach Michael Kuchar saying a few words about his players.Photo Credit: David BrighouseKevin Taylor signing with his family.Photo Credit: David BrighouseCoach Russ...
Kevin Taylor with his family and coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Head Coach Brian Russo congratulates Kevin Taylor, who will attend Pace University in the fall.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Assistant Coach Michael Kuchar saying a few words about his players.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Kevin Taylor signing with his family.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Coach Russo speaking to his players.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Donea Fish with his family.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Donea Fish with his coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Malachi Lowe with his family.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Malachi Lowe signing as his coaches look on.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Daniel Davidson signing his college contract.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Daniel Davidson with his coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Kicker Anthony Lopez signs as his family looks on.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Anthony Lopez and his coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Imir Bearfield with his mother, signing his contract.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Imir Bearfield with his coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Left to right: Daniel Davidson, Imir Bearfield, and Donea Fish.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Daniel Davidson, Imir Bearfield, and Donea Fish with their coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Malachi Lowe, left, and Anthony Lopez, right.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Malachi Lowe, Anthony Lopez, and their coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Members of the football team attended the signing in support of their teammates.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
Kevin Taylor with his family and coaches.Photo Credit: David Brighouse
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By David Brighouse
Published May 8, 2025 at 9:04 AM
Last updated May 8, 2025 at 9:04 AM
RAHWAY, NJ — Six Rahway High School (RHS) seniors signed college contracts last night, in the library of the high school. Head Coach Brian Russo called the gathering the largest number of Rahway football players signing contracts in a single year that he could recall.
In addition to the six seniors, the event was attended by family members, other members of the football team, Coach Russo, and Assistant Coach Michael Kuchar.
Both Russo and Kuchar offered a few words of inspiration and support, expressing their pride in and appreciation for the six seniors.
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The Rahway seniors, with the positions they play and the colleges they will attend, are:
Kevin Taylor, headed to Pace University next year, said, “I'm really excited for this next chapter in life, and I'm super motivated to represent Rahway.”
Anthony Lopez, Rahway's star kicker, on his way to Kean University in the fall, added, “Two great kickers came before me. I'm honored to keep the kicking tradition going, and it will continue.”
Congratulations to the six seniors, their families, coaches, and the entire Rahway High School football team!
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Rahway Academy Students Explore New Jersey State Museum
Kristina Pettihttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/rahway/sections/education/articles/rahway-academy-students-explore-new-jersey-state-museum
EducationRahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public SchoolsRahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public SchoolsRahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public SchoolsRahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public S...
Rahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Rahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Rahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Rahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Rahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Rahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
Rahway Academy trip to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.Photo Credit: Rahway Public Schools
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RAHWAY, NJ — On Tuesday, March 11, a group of select 8th-grade students embarked on an educational journey to the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton. The day trip offered students a chance to engage with the rich history, art, and science collections housed within the museum, providing a tangible connection to classroom learning.
The day started with an adventure through space to explore our planet in a unique way within the museum's state-of-the-art planetarium. The captivating show, Dynamic Earth, narrated by Liam Neeson, was an immersive experience. The students learned more about the complex forces that govern our planet and the interconnectedness of Earth's systems through this experience.
Later on, the students had the chance to explore the museum's archaeology collections and view some of the nearly 4,000 objects representing the Lenape and other North American indigenous groups. Students were educated about tools, clothing, and other items that offer a glimpse into the daily lives and cultural practices of Native Americans through a guided tour.
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Additionally, the Lenape Pottery in the Archaeological Record workshop provided a unique opportunity to learn directly about the ancient art of Lenape pottery. This hands-on experience involved examining pottery shards and piecing pottery together. The students had to work collaboratively to try and reconstruct broken pottery, much like real archaeologists. This activity helped them understand the challenges and the insights gained from studying these artifacts.
Students also learned about the process of how materials are obtained, prepared, formed, and then fired to make the pottery. They were then given the opportunity to make their own pottery using modeling clay. They followed along with the instructor’s directions step-by-step to create a lifelike representation of Lenape pottery.
Groups that were not on the guided tour were taking the time to explore the remaining exhibits of the museum. A favorite exhibit of the students was Written in the Rocks: Fossil Tales of New Jersey. This long-term exhibition showcases incredible fossils and tells the story of how life on Earth has evolved. Students encountered the state's first known carnivorous dinosaur, the Dryptosaurus, and marveled at a life-sized cast of the Hadrosaurus foulkii, New Jersey's state dinosaur, as well as a massive Mosasaurus maximus, a prehistoric marine reptile.
Overall, the trip was a success, and the students enriched their knowledge of the history of our great state.
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Rahway Academy Cricut Club: Crafting, Creativity, and Community
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/rahway/sections/education/articles/rahway-academy-cricut-club-crafting-creativity-and-community
EducationStaff superlative winners show off the shirts that the club made for them!Photo Credit: Kristina PettiPizza Party for the Club in April as a thank you for the transportation department hats.Photo Credit: Kristina PettiAshlynn and Dayana are weeding vinyl for the Madison Mentor shirts.Photo Credit: Kristina PettiWyatt shows off the mug with a design that he just drew using infusib...
Staff superlative winners show off the shirts that the club made for them!Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Pizza Party for the Club in April as a thank you for the transportation department hats.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Ashlynn and Dayana are weeding vinyl for the Madison Mentor shirts.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Wyatt shows off the mug with a design that he just drew using infusible Cricut markers.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Madison Mentors wear their custom shirts from Cricut Club.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Dayana is using the hat press to apply the vinyl to the hat.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
A hat made for the transportation department.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Alexa and Sanaa use a hand press to iron on the Rahway Antlers #39 logo.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Ashlyn sets up the Cricut Autopress to put the design on the shirt.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Eddy and Marina are showing off the hats they designed for themselves.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Ms. Kristina Petti with her new shirt!Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Elise and Madison working on the Turtle Back Zoo shirts.Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
Staff superlative winners show off the shirts that the club made for them!Photo Credit: Kristina Petti
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By Kristina Petti
Published April 26, 2025 at 7:45 PM
RAHWAY, NJ — A hub of innovation and artistic expression is quietly flourishing within the walls of the Rahway 7th and 8th Grade Academy. The Cricut Club was brought to life with the vision of Ms. Kristina Petti, teacher and Rahway alumni, and the support of Academy principal Ms. Isabel Colon. The club includes a vibrant collective of students who have been hard at work this past year, transforming digital designs into tangible creations and fostering a strong sense of community through the power of crafting.
For those unfamiliar, a Cricut is a versatile cutting machine that can precisely cut a wide array of materials, including paper, vinyl, and much more. Along with the cutting machine, Ms. Petti also utilizes her other personal machines: a Cricut Autopress, a hat press, and a Cricut Mug Press that were Christmas gifts to Ms. Petti by her classroom paraprofessional, Ms. Patricia Petracca, in hopes that the club could benefit from the equipment. The Rahway Academy Cricut Club has embraced this technology to bring a diverse range of projects to life.
The club kicked off the school year with many members who are also members of the Rahway Antlers #39. Elise, Alexa, Sanaa, and Madison were the first regulars in the club and worked on three different projects together before the sports season started and the play rehearsals began. Their first project was to work on creating custom print-to-cut vinyl logos to put on the club’s tie-dyed shirts. Then they cut, weeded, and pressed the shirts for the Rahway Academy students and staff of Ms. Avah Macknowsky’s class, who went on the trip to the Elks Friendship Day at Turtle Back Zoo.
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Finally, in October, the students made the shirts for a Breast Cancer Awareness month fundraiser for the Rahway Antlers #39. They created these shirts after school, which were then sold to members of the Elks. The proceeds went towards supporting the Rahway Antlers' purchase of a banner for parades, specifically the NJ State Elks Convention Parade in Wildwood, NJ in June.
The club's philanthropy was recently highlighted through their support of the Rahway Academy school play. Ms. Petti and Ms. Jennifer Villao collaborated on a design for shirts to recognize the dedication of the staff who contributed to the production. This thoughtful gesture underscored the club's commitment to acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of others within the school community. The club produced around 40 shirts, several of which went to reward the supporting staff members. All remaining shirts were sold as a fundraiser for next year’s play during the performances.
This was not the first project that included a collaboration with Ms. Villao. In March, Ms. Villao approached the club about making the shirts for the staff superlative winners for the yearbook photos. The students worked carefully on bringing a vibrant and detailed design to life to honor these fabulous faculty members. Ms. Villao had previously been the main person designing and creating the shirts for the play and staff superlatives, but this year she enjoyed the opportunity to partner with the club to have the students bring her designs to life.
The Cricut Club's reputation for quality and creativity has also garnered attention beyond the Rahway Academy. Ms. Doris Jones, the vice principal of Madison Elementary School, approached the club in January with an exciting proposition: to create "Madison Mentors" shirts. In a collaborative effort, Ms. Jones and Ms. Petti worked together to finalize the design, and the Cricut Club members enthusiastically took on the project, producing tangible symbols of mentorship for the neighboring elementary school. The positive impact of these shirts has already been felt, and M. Jones expressed her sincere gratitude to the club for their excellent work with a pizza lunch during their meeting.
Furthermore, the Cricut Club has extended its creative touch to supporting the unsung heroes of the district – the transportation department. When Ms. Cathleen Kozick approached Ms. Petti about the idea of celebrating the department employees, she responded, “Of course, we can come up with a great design to show our gratitude for their hard work!”
After the design was approved, the club immediately started cutting, weeding, and pressing red vinyl for their first ever batch of hats. This thoughtful gesture has been met with immense appreciation, culminating in a well-deserved pizza party as a thank you to the Cricut Club members.
Beyond these specific initiatives, the Cricut Club has forged a strong partnership with the Rahway Academy Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) to bolster school fundraising efforts. Their collaboration proved fruitful with a successful sweatshirt sale during the winter months, providing cozy Rahway Academy spirit wear. Building on this success, the partnership continues into the spring with a sale of Rahway Academy t-shirts, further demonstrating the club's commitment to contributing to the school's financial well-being. Ordering for the shirts has ended; however, there will be shirts to buy on the spot in the PTO school store starting May 5 for $20 each. The PTO collaboration has been such a vital opportunity for the club to raise funds for personal projects. From the sweatshirt fundraiser proceeds, the club purchased infusible ink markers, more vinyl, and even mugs to use in the mug press.
The Rahway Academy Cricut Club, under the guidance of Ms. Kristina Petti, is more than just a crafting club. It's a dynamic hub where creativity meets community engagement, where students learn valuable skills while making a tangible difference. From expressing gratitude to school staff and supporting neighboring schools and organizations to partnering with the PTO for fundraising, the club's projects this year underscore their commitment to both artistic expression and community betterment. With their innovative spirit and collaborative approach, the Rahway Academy Cricut Club is undoubtedly leaving a lasting and colorful mark on the Rahway Academy and beyond.
There are several students who deserve special recognition. Eighth grader Dayana has been a regular since October and has even donated lunchtime to help finish projects when needed. Eddy is a recent addition to our club, starting in February, and is a huge help with our projects, especially weeding vinyl. Other members of the club who have contributed to our projects include Marina, Sofia, Ashlyn, Wyatt, and Erick.
Ms. Petti remarked, “The year is not over yet! I know that many students were not able to attend over the past several months due to play rehearsals, but you can come to any meeting and learn the skills quickly. I even have students in the club who are so independent with the machines and process that they teach newcomers. We meet on Mondays, 3-4:30 pm. We welcome anyone who would like to come this Monday, April 28, and help with the production of the Rahway Academy shirts! We can’t wait to see what this club will do next year!"
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