St. Mary Academy in Manahawkin, formerly known as All Saints Regional Catholic School, has named Lizanne Coyne as their new principal before the official name change in July.

All Saints Regional Catholic School in Manahawkin which has provided education to students for more than 20-years announced back in December that they will move away from being a regional school and will re-open in July as St. Mary Academy under the administration of St. Mary's Parish in Barnegat.

Since 1997, ASRCS has been supported by St. Mary Parish, as well as St. Pius X Parish in Forked River, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Whiting, St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Long Beach Island and St. Theresa Parish in Little Egg Harbor.

Monsignor Ken Tuzeneu who is also pastor of St. Mary's made the announcement of Coyne as principal during an informational meeting for parents on April 8.

Coyne comes to St. Mary from St. Joseph’s School (Oradell, NJ) where she has served as Assistant Principal.

She has held several positions in the educational field, including Head of School, Assistant Headmaster, and Dean of Students.

Coyne has several advanced degrees: a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Ramapo College, a Masters of Education in Curriculum Design and Teaching from Columbia University-Teachers College, and a Masters of Education in Athletic Administration from Norwich University.

She also holds her New Jersey principal and supervisors certifications, as well as passed the exam and internship necessary for a superintendent’s license.

“With more than 26 years of experience in the field, we are thrilled to have such a seasoned educator and school leader accept this position,” Monsignor Tuzeneu said. “Ms. Coyne’s ability to inspire students to achieve their highest academic potential, her eagerness to bring out the best in the teaching staff, and her enthusiasm for fostering a faith-centered community made her the perfect fit.”

Coyne received a full athletic scholarship to Providence College as an undergraduate and captained its NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Team.

She is also a two-time inductee in the Ramapo High School (Franklin Lakes) Athletic Hall of Fame and until recently, she was a director and co-owner of GOALS Soccer Camp, one of the largest all-girls soccer camps on the east coast.

Passionate about soccer, Coyne contributed to several publications including The Young Athlete: A Sport Doctor Complete Guide for Parents by Jordan Metzl.

“From its strong focus on STEM education to its warm family-centered atmosphere, St. Mary Academy is a special place," Coyne said. "I can’t wait to be a part of it. I’m excited to meet all of the students and families and continue the high-achieving work of its educators and staff.”

Her appointment will become effective on July 1, 2019 when All Saints Regional Catholic School will officially make the transition to St. Mary Academy.

During the meeting, Monsignor Tuzeneu also announced the school’s new colors, navy and silver and mascot, the St. Mary Knights.

The new colors and mascot were voted on by the student body, who even had the opportunity to write-in their suggestions.

“There’s an energy amongst our students and families for the opportunities our new parish school model offers,” Monsignor Tuzeneu said. “We can’t wait for everyone to see the wonderful changes that are coming when we open this fall as St. Mary Academy. We hope the community comes and visits to see for themselves Southern Ocean County’s premier Catholic school.”

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