Tech Judo, the grappling team that has been training at High Tech High School three decades, has started a Change.org petition in hopes of saving the program before the calendar turns over to 2026.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“The new Hudson County Schools of Technology (HCST) Superintendent has issued a directive to terminate the postsecondary program of Tech Judo (the open Judo program), for reasons that have not yet been clearly stated,” Tech Judo Head Instructor Salama Salem, wrote in the Change.org description.
“Tech Judo has been an HCST School Board approved program for over 30 years, contributing significant revenue to the school while always operating responsibly and transparently. The integrity of this program would withstand the highest level of public scrutiny.”
The petition received 1,618 verified signatures as of 5:30 p.m. this evening, along with about three dozen testimonials in support of the program.
HCST Superintendent of School Tom Macagnano, who was named to the post in May after serving as the McNair Academic High School principal, explained that are three Judo programs at High Tech.
One is offered to students as part of their curriculum during the instructional day, another is an after school program, while Tech Judo is “a recreational, non-vocational, community program” that is not expected to return next year.
He said that the situation is complicated and involves budgetary, liability, and coding concerns – meaning that it has been deemed a post-secondary program for years despite not meeting this requirements.
Macagnano also disputed that the club team had not been informed about what is happening, as well as emphasizing that the two student programs would remain fully in tact.
“It is vital that the administration fully recognize the importance of this program and understand what its loss would mean to our community,” the petition concludes.
“We must come together to save Tech Judo and ensure it continues to serve students and families for generations to come. Please sign and share this petition to show your support and help save Tech Judo!”
This program is irreplaceable. Anyone any age can join. Many parents do it with their kids and it is open to kids that don’t attend High Tech High. Generations of Hudson County youth have been part of this program. Many of them would probably never have enough money to learn martial arts anywhere else and now it is being taken away from them for seemingly no reason.
Judo is far more than a martial art—it is a comprehensive discipline that instills confidence, respect, focus, and resilience in practitioners of all ages. For children and adults alike, the philosophy and structure of judo provide foundational lessons in character, integrity, and sportsmanship that extend well beyond the mat. These principles help shape strong, responsible individuals who approach challenges with discipline and purpose.
As a former judoka and competitor who has trained with several of the top Senseis in the tri-state area, I can say with complete confidence that Clyde is an exceptional instructor. His deep technical knowledge, refined skill, and proven competitive success make him a phenomenal resource for students at every level. Beyond his achievements as a champion, Clyde brings a wealth of experience, patience, and leadership that uniquely benefits children and supports their growth—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Both of my children learned judo at Tech Judo, and the discipline, structure, and values they gained there have helped them grow into outstanding and contributing members of our community. The impact of a strong judo program is real, lasting, and transformative.
This program represents an invaluable opportunity for our community. Let’s raise our voices, show our support, and help ensure that this outstanding judo program continues to thrive. Your participation and advocacy make a difference—join the conversation and help keep this important initiative alive.