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February 6th, 2026

From the Principal's Desk
As we approach the midway point of the third marking period at Keyport High School, I would like to take a moment to recognize several recent highlights and share some important upcoming events with our families.
We recently concluded our KHS Drama production of Rent, under the direction of Mrs. Cowen, and it was truly fantastic. Our student performers delivered outstanding performances, supported by an incredible crew whose work with sets, sound, and lighting helped bring the show to life. The production showcased the talent, dedication, and hard work of our students and was a wonderful example of the creativity and pride that exists throughout our school community.
Our seniors returned from their Senior Class Trip, a seven-day Carnival Cruise that included stops at three locations in the Bahamas. I am incredibly proud of how our students represented Keyport High School throughout the trip. They received many compliments for their behavior, respectfulness, and maturity, and they served as excellent ambassadors for our school. This was an amazing opportunity for our seniors put together by the class advisors, Mr. Keelen and Mrs. Chamberlin.
Looking ahead, the spring athletic season is set to begin, and we are excited to see our student-athletes back in competition. We also want to remind families that our 11th grade students will soon be participating in both the NJGPA and the SAT. Additional information and reminders will be shared with families as testing dates approach to ensure students are well prepared.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Keyport High School. We look forward to a strong and successful spring together.
Michael WatersPrincipal, Keyport High School
March brings several important assessment opportunities for our students. Please review the dates below to ensure students are prepared and present on their scheduled testing days. These assessments play an important role in measuring student progress and, in some cases, meeting graduation requirements.
March 4–12: ACCESS Testing for Multilingual Learners
Week of March 16: NJGPA-A Testing for 11th Grade Students (Graduation Requirement)
Week of March 23: NJGPA-A Make-Up Testing
March 26: SAT School Day for 11th Grade Students
Small Acts of Kindness = Big Health Benefits 🩷
Kindness is so powerful, it can actually improve your health. Research shows that being kind, grateful, and supportive can lower stress, improve mood, and strengthen connections with others (Fryburg, 2021). Ongoing stress can harm your health and lead to unhealthy habits, while positive social connections help protect both your mind and body. Simple acts of kindness, such as helping someone, showing empathy, volunteering, or being kind to yourself, can calm your body, support your immune system, and improve overall well-being. When people feel more connected and less stressed, it creates a healthier and more supportive school community for everyone.
Regular attendance is key to student success at Keyport High School. Being present each day helps students stay connected to their learning, participate in classroom experiences, and build strong habits for the future. We appreciate our families’ partnership in ensuring students arrive on time, ready to learn, and prepared to make the most of every school day.
On March 10th, our 11th-grade students will travel to Kean University to attend the NJACAC Regional College Fair. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to explore a wide range of colleges and speak directly with admissions representatives. A completed permission slip is required for all students in order to attend.
Keyport High School also provides the SAT School Day for all 11th graders at no cost. Students must be registered in SCOIR to participate.
Our school counselors are here to support both students and families with academic planning as well as social and emotional needs. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Last Names A–L: Mrs. Stacey Oxley – soxley@kpsdschools.org
Last Names M–Z: Ms. Kelley Cheverino – kcheverino@kpsdschools.org
As we wrap up a successful winter athletic season, we celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of our student-athletes and coaches while looking ahead to an exciting spring season beginning March 9th. This winter brought many memorable moments, including Kai Arrington reaching the incredible milestone of 1,000 career points in basketball, a testament to his hard work and commitment to the program. On the wrestling mat, Peter Marroquin earned an impressive second-place finish at Districts and now advances to Regionals, continuing Keyport’s proud wrestling tradition. We also proudly recognize Coach Al Smith for 30 years of dedicated service to Keyport Wrestling. Coach Smith has built a lasting legacy through his leadership, mentorship, and commitment to generations of student-athletes. Congratulations to all of our winter athletes and coaches on a great season, and we look forward to seeing our spring teams in action when practices begin on March 9th.
If you have any questions about athletics, please see Mrs. Gross in Room 207 or email nicolegross@kpsdschools.org. Students should also remember that if they are injured at any point during the season, it is important to report the injury and check in with Ms. Kelly O’Donnell as soon as possible so proper care and clearance procedures can be followed. We look forward to a safe and successful spring season for all of our athletes.