The Dragon Review

February 2026

Hello Dragons!

As we hopefully turn the page on winter weather and snow filled mornings, I want to extend warm wishes to all of our learning community for a smooth and productive stretch ahead. With the second semester well underway, it comes with it a renewed sense of focus, opportunity, and forward momentum for all of our students and staff.

We are excited to host Dragon Destinations: A Roadmap to Your Future on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This informative and engaging evening is designed specifically for our Grade 11 students and their families as they begin preparing for life after high school. Attendance is strongly expected for all juniors and their parents/guardians, as this is a critical future planning session. The program will explore all post-secondary pathways, including 2-year / 4-year colleges and universities, the Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS), and military opportunities. There will be workshops and information sessions held throughout the evening on the topics of writing a strong college essay, utilizing SCOIR, understanding the scholarship / financial aid process, and navigating essential timelines. Dragon Destinations is truly a must attend event that will equip our students and families with the knowledge, tools, and confidence needed as they transition into senior year and beyond. We look forward to seeing all of our juniors and their families there.

We encourage our entire school community to come out and support the BTHS PTSA Craft Fair on Saturday, March 14. This special event highlights the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of our extended community and supports the important work of our PTSA. We hope to see many of our Dragon families in attendance.

The New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA) will be administered to all Grade 11 students on Tuesday, March 17 (Mathematics), Wednesday, March 18 (ELA Reading), and Thursday, March 19 (ELA Writing). The NJGPA is a required component of New Jersey’s graduation assessment requirements. All Grade 11 students will report to school at their normal arrival time and proceed directly to their assigned testing locations. Room assignments will be posted outside of the Guidance Suite and shared in Google Classrooms. Non-testing students will follow their regular daily schedule. It is imperative that students take this assessment seriously. We encourage all juniors to come to school well-rested, prepared, and ready to do their very best.

Additionally, Grade 10 students who have pre-registered will take the PSAT 10 on Monday, March 16. Sophomores must have pre-registered for this assessment and should report directly to their assigned testing locations. Testing locations will also be posted outside of Guidance and in Google Classrooms. Please direct any immediate questions to your child’s school counselor. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation in ensuring a smooth and successful testing experience for all students.

As we move further into the second semester, I want to remind all members of the BTHS community of the importance of daily attendance, punctuality, and active engagement in learning. Being present each day truly makes a difference in student growth and achievement. This also includes limiting access to cell phones during instructional time so that students can remain fully engaged in their learning. Our learning organization remains committed to delivering the most effective instruction possible within a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Supporting students on their journey toward success continues to be our top priority.

With Dragon Pride,

David Kasyan, Ed.D.

Principal

Hello Dragons!

Here is an update on what has been happening and what we are looking forward to here on campus at Brick Township High School. We began our second semester on Monday, February 2. The Health and Physical Education Department will be hosting the “Not Even Once” program this semester for students enrolled in Health and Physical Education classes.

Our High School Programming students proudly represented BTHS at the Monmouth University High School Programming Competition on Friday, February 20. The Mock Trial Team competed in the Mayor’s Cup on Thursday, February 26. Also on February 26, BTHS held its annual Battle of the Classes competition, a highly anticipated event where each class competes in a variety of fun and spirited activities.

BTHS will host the Brick Township Public Schools District Arts Festival on Thursday, March 5. This well attended event showcases the incredible artistic talents of students from across the district.

Finally, the PTSA will host its Craft Fair on Saturday, March 14 at 9:00 AM at Brick Township High School. We hope to see many members of our school community there in support of this special event.

Each month we ask students to candidly share their highlights from the past month. Here is a sample of some of the feedback we received from this past month:

"Attending the Elk's Leadership Retreat was a great experience!" ~ Jade H.

"It was great helping the Student Community Connected

Council celebrate Brick's Birthday" ~ Cian F.

"The hockey team just came off an exciting win in the Shore Conference finals. We are hoping to bring that energy to the State Tournament." ~ Brody A.

"I had so much fun at my Senior cheer banquet, celebrating with my teammates." ~ Sabrina G.

Junior Prom and Senior Ball bid packets are now available.

The Junior Prom will be held on Thursday, April 23, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Jumping Brook Country Club. The Senior Ball will take place on Thursday, May 14, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at South Gate Manor.

A brief grade-level meeting was conducted with students to review the components of the bid packet, important deadlines, and behavioral expectations associated with each event. All students in attendance received a bid packet at that time. Any student who still needs a bid packet should report to the Main Office to pick one up.

We are proud to recognize our students who recently participated in the Elks Peer Leadership Conference, where they connected with peers from across New Jersey, built new friendships, and represented our school community with pride. Throughout the conference, students engaged in meaningful leadership activities designed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and self awareness. The experience provided valuable opportunities for personal growth that will have a lasting impact both in and beyond the classroom.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Elks organization for their continued support of student leadership development, and to Joanna for helping make this impactful opportunity possible for our students.

In recognition of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, our School-Based Youth Services Program created an informational bulletin board and hosted a tabling event to raise awareness among students. The initiative provided valuable information on the signs of unhealthy relationships, the characteristics of healthy relationships, and the school and community resources available to support students seeking guidance. As part of the activity, students were invited to complete heart-shaped cards finishing the statement, “Love is…,” sharing their personal reflections and positive messages about what love means to them. These heartfelt responses are proudly displayed outside the School-Based office, reinforcing a school culture grounded in respect, support, and healthy relationships.

Our students recently participated in Justice Jeopardy, an engaging and educational program hosted by the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office. This interactive, game-style competition challenges students to test their knowledge on important topics such as laws, decision-making, consequences, and civic responsibility. Through friendly competition and teamwork, students gained a deeper understanding of how the justice system works and the impact of making positive choices. We are proud of their participation and the thoughtful discussions that took place throughout the event!

As a reminder, every student in the Class of 2026 must complete a financial aid application (FAFSA or NJAFAA) or submit a waiver to graduate. This process is a required step in the graduation process. Families who need support completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are encouraged to take advantage of free assistance offered through Ocean County College’s O.P.E.N. Workshops (“Opening Pathways to Education Now”). These sessions provide step-by-step guidance on completing the FAFSA and understanding the financial aid process. Assistance is available both virtually and in person. More information, including dates and registration details, can be found at this location. Click Here. Register HERE

Regular attendance is essential to our student's success. Being in school each day allows students to engage in meaningful learning, build strong connections with teachers and peers, and stay on track academically and socially. BTHS appreciates everyone's continued partnership in reinforcing the importance of attending school regularly and making every day count. We are looking for stakeholder feedback on attendance viewpoints. Please consider sharing your voice on this school stakeholder survey. BTHS Parent Attendance Survey.

Congratulations to our Students of the Month. Students are nominated by BTHS staff members for outstanding effort in the classroom and positive contributions to our community. Students will be honored with a certificate, gift, and their names will be displayed on the marquee.

Gavin is a dedicated member of the Varsity Ice Hockey Team and also competes on the Varsity Baseball Team. Beyond athletics, he is a proud member of the National Honor Society and an active participant in Peer Leadership, consistently setting a positive example for younger students. Away from school, Gavin gives back to the sport he loves. He volunteers his time coaching young athletes through programs with the Brick Hockey Club, helping develop the next generation of players while serving as a role model both on and off the ice. After graduation, Gavin plans to attend a four-year university where he will major in Finance. When asked about his favorite high school memory, Gavin didn’t hesitate: winning the Dowd Cup in ice hockey alongside teammates he has played with since childhood. Sharing that moment with lifelong friends made the victory even more meaningful.

Gavin is a multi sport athlete who maintains a very high level of academics while taking all AP classes. - Mr. Groschel

Emma is deeply involved in karate, a sport that has shaped her focus, resilience, and leadership skills. Outside of her own training, she generously gives her time as an instructor for younger students, mentoring them, building their confidence, and modeling perseverance both on and off the mat. Looking ahead, Emma has big goals for her future. She hopes to study abroad while pursuing a major in business and marketing, combining her love of learning with a desire to explore new cultures and global opportunities. We are proud of Emma’s commitment to leadership and service, and we are excited to see where her journey takes her next.

It is only day two of class and Emma is off to an amazing start. Not only is she fully engaged in her artistic learning, she is an example of kindness and helpfulness. This is our first semester having a B lunch and Emma was kind enough to explain the bell schedule and operating procedures for B lunch to the class and myself. Emma is an excellent artist, who is interested in pursuing art in the future. I can already tell that Emma is an excellent example of what it means to be a Dragon. She is kind, academically focused and and excellent role model for her peers. - Mrs. Gruber

Eva Smith brings incredible positive energy to our halls each day. She came to Brick with a goal in mind — to compete in our growing girls wrestling program — and she has been a fierce competitor who typically wrestles year-round. After experiencing a significant injury, Eva has shown what true determination looks like. Rather than stepping away, she is motivated to return stronger than ever. She hopes to get back on the mat, and in the future would also love to play tennis and join track.

Eva has continued to make her mark in many other ways. She has become involved in choir, Key Club, and Fashion Club, building friendships and contributing to the Dragon community beyond athletics. A fun fact you might not know: Eva is one of seven children — she has six siblings!

Her advice to other students is simple but powerful: “Make your experience at Brick Township because it is what you make it.” Looking ahead, Eva’s dream is to return to wrestling and one day attend flight school in Hawaii to become a pilot. We are proud of Eva’s resilience, optimism, and willingness to stay involved, and we can’t wait to watch her soar toward her goals.

Eva brings an awesome energy to English class. She completes her work with enthusiasm and dedication, and it is evident that her enthusiasm and energy are infectious when I watch her work with her peers in our small learning communities. As a new Dragon in 2025 (formerly a traveling Mustang for wrestling), she created a vibe in class, making friends fast and helping her peers laugh and learn. What a fantastic addition to our building! - Ms. Melillo-Repko

Mattison Remick is known for being incredibly sweet, motivated, and ready to become even more involved in the Dragon community. Mattison is determined to make the most of her time at Brick. She is excited about the possibility of playing volleyball and hopes to join Student Government in the future. Her focus this year has been challenging herself academically, and she is especially proud of her big accomplishment — taking honors classes. Looking ahead, Mattison’s goals are to continue earning strong grades and attend college after high school. Her message to fellow students is both encouraging and inspiring: “Try your best and never give up. You are capable of anything if you put your mind to it.” We love Mattison’s positive attitude and drive, and we are excited to watch her continue to grow and get involved at Brick.

Matti exemplifies perseverance, accountability, and quiet leadership. Despite balancing significant responsibilities outside of the classroom, she never allows circumstances to compromise the quality of her work. She takes full ownership of her learning, communicates proactively, asks thoughtful questions, and contributes positively to the classroom community. Her kindness, perseverance, and leadership through example make her truly deserving of this recognition. - Mrs. Rahbari

NHS has been participating in a new program, Book Buddies, with some of our elementary schools, Emma Havens Young & Osbornville Elementary, to read books to the Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 2nd Grade classrooms! NHS students visit the classrooms biweekly and read books or participate in activities to strengthen the connections within our community. Both high school and elementary students alike have been enjoying their time together! This will continue through the month of May.

On Friday, Feb. 6, the Ocean County Library staff visited BTHS to meet with freshman English classes to provide an overview of engaging library programs, helpful online resources, and valuable volunteer opportunities. Of course, they also shared current reading favorites in various genres! Students also applied for their very own library cards. Overall, it was an informative session.

LAST CALL!

Students are encouraged to send their poetry, creative writing, memorable photos, and artwork to The Regaler for this year's publication. We have extended our deadline to March 1. Turn up the volume of your voice and don't miss your chance to be heard! Submit works through our Google Classroom. (code shgtudl)

All students have an opportunity to receive extra help during Block 5 in the content areas of Math and English Language Arts. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to have support and guidance from our master teachers. Support is offered daily after school during Block 5 in Room 219.

The Class of 2026 will host its final Double Good Popcorn fundraiser from March 16–20. Please check Google Classroom for the link and sign-up information. Senior Prom will be held on May 14, 2026, at South Gate Manor. The cost of a prom bid is $100 per person. Prom packets are available in the main office, and ticket sales will take place April 13–17. If you have any questions, please see Ms. DePoto or Mrs. Buell. All class updates and information will be in Google Classroom or Instagram. Google Classroom lf4subd / Instagram @bths_classof2026

The Class of 2027 is gearing up for Battle of the Classes on February 26 at BTHS! They have been practicing their dance every day and working hard to beat the Class of 2026. BOTC is going to be the beginning of the fun events for the second half of Junior year and the Junior Prom is right around the corner! Prom packets will be available toward the end of this month, with tickets being sold the week before Spring Break. Keep an ear out for more information through the morning announcements, the Google Classroom, or by seeing Mrs. DeBonis (306) or Ms. Scipione (304).

The Class of 2028 has been hard at work this February! We’re gearing up for Battle of the Classes and building excitement as we prepare to show our school spirit and teamwork. In addition, we’re organizing several upcoming fundraisers to support our class goals. Be sure to keep an eye on our social media pages for Dining to Donate flyers and other ways to support the Class of 2028. We appreciate your continued encouragement and can’t wait for what’s ahead! See Ms. Freedley (Rm 217) or Mrs. Rahbari (Rm 411) with any questions.

The Class of 2029 is officially ready to take on Battle of the Classes on Thursday, February 26, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. in the East Gym. Our freshman class color is RED, and we need everyone’s energy to take down the competition! Students will be decorating the freshman bleachers, performing our class dance, and competing in various activities as we chase that big win! Be sure to wear your red and come ready to cheer.

Spirit Fundraiser at Chick-fil-A (March 11): Join us for a delicious way to support the Class of 2029! Students and families who attend will have a chance to win a Chick-fil-A gift basket. Next Class Meeting (March 11): We will meet in Room 23 to discuss upcoming events and goals. All freshmen are welcome! For updates, follow @bths.classof2029 on Instagram or the BTHS Class of 2029 Parents Facebook page. See Ms. Ianniello (Guidance Office) or Ms. Velez (Rm 23) with any questions.

The School Counseling Department

The Counselors are hosting Scholarship Working Lunches every Thursday during A and C lunches, in the School Counselor offices for the next few months so students can ask questions in regards to scholarship applications. The Scholarship Program has been announced for the Class of 2026. Please view the Scholarship letter for families for more information. Click Here for Access to the BTHS Scholarship Letter for Families.

Families who need support completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are encouraged to take advantage of free assistance offered through Ocean County College’s O.P.E.N. Workshops (“Opening Pathways to Education Now”). These sessions provide step-by-step guidance on completing the FAFSA and understanding the financial aid process. Assistance is available both virtually and in person. More information, including dates and registration details, can be found at this location. Click Here. Register HERE

Counselors are also meeting with sophomores in group settings to introduce career exploration through NJCAN, review scheduling for the upcoming school year, encourage student involvement, and emphasize the importance of academic focus and success. Sophomore Workshop

BTHS will host the March SAT on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The regular registration deadline is Friday, February 27, and the late registration deadline is Tuesday, March 3. Students can take free practice tests on the College Board website. Link to Practice Test.

Hello Dragons!

Every year February is recognized as “American Heart Month,” raising awareness to the importance of heart health, while encouraging all Americans to take preventative measures to reduce their risk of developing heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Understanding your risk for developing heart disease is the first step towards maintaining a healthy heart. Some factors can be changed, and others cannot. You have a high risk if you have high blood pressure, are overweight/obese, have pre-diabetes or diabetes, smoke, do not get enough physical activity, have a family history or early heart disease, have unhealthy eating behaviors, or are older (55 yrs. and over for women and 45 and older for men). You can modify or make gradual changes over time with how physically active you are, making healthier diet choices and quitting smoking (if you are a smoker. In addition, try to get enough sleep each night (8-10 hours of sleep per night for teens) and reduce stress levels by going for a walk or doing things that you love.

1. Diet: The Mayo Clinic references steps to take towards a heart healthy diet, which include portion control, eating a diet rich in fruits/vegetables and whole grains, decrease the amount of unhealthy fats consumed, choose low-fat protein sources (eggs/cheese/salmon), and limit or reduce added salt and sugars.
2. Physical Activity: It is recommended that you have 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Some suggestions from Mayo Clinic are 150 min./wk. Of moderate aerobic exercises, such as brisk walking, 75 min/wk. Of vigorous aerobic activity, such as running, or 2 or more sessions of strength training per a week. For those that have not been active in a while, start by setting small goals and progressing.
3. Sleep: According to the CDC, insufficient sleep has been linked to the development and management of the number of chronic diseases and conditions, which includes type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression. It is suggested that teens get 8 to 10 hours per day and adults get 7 hours or more in 24 hrs.
4. Manage Stress: Many people cope with stress in unhealthy ways, such as overeating, drinking alcohol or smoking. Finding healthy alternatives to help manage stress, such as physical activity, relaxation exercises, or meditation can help lower your heart rate and overall risk of coronary artery disease. Long term stress can affect your heart, nervous system, and hormones to your lungs and gut.

The health offices will continue our Health Screenings on all of our students, which includes height/weight and blood pressures for all students (9th-12th). In addition, scoliosis (9th & 11th), vision (10th), and hearing (11th). Follow-up referrals will be sent home whenever the recordings obtained are out of the normal parameter range. AHA Blood Pressure Categories- English / AHA Blood Pressure Categories- Spanish

Please do not hesitate to bring any important health-related information to the attention of the health office. Students should stay home when not feeling well or developing signs of illness. Any student with asthma, seizures, or serious allergies should have an action plan in the health office.

Please feel free to reach out to either of the school nurses with any questions.

Health Office Contact Information:

• Nurse Amanda Cerracchio - acerracchio@brickschools.org - Ext. 2009
• Nurse Jessica Kopenhafer - jkopenhafer@brickschools.org - Ext. 2037

The School Based Youth Services Program (SBYSP) provides our students year round intervention

and supportive services that are promotive and protective of healthy adolescent development and

well-being. School based staff are valued members of our school community, advocating and

developing for collaborative partnerships with all who share our passion to motivate and empower

our youth. Together we strive to create a safe environment, as well as a place to seek guidance

and mentorship. Here is an update on some recent events:

• In partnership with Mrs. Shevach and BTHS students, the Mental Health Awareness club was started at BTHS. The club will be focused on carrying out various awareness campaigns and events throughout the school year to help students learn more about mental health and support various related causes. Our first event will be held in March, which will be "Coping Skills March Madness", and students will get to vote on a coping skills bracket during their lunches every week to determine the students' favorite coping skill.
• In honor of Black History Month, School based created a bulletin board focused on highlighting impactful and historical African American Women.

Yearbooks are now on sale! Yearbooks can be ordered here.

Senior Parents:

• The back of the yearbook is dedicated to personal messages that you can purchase for your graduate. You can customize your message with photos. Purchase & design your ad here. Ads must be designed by 4/1/2026

Communication associated with upcoming PTSA Meetings is pushed out to members through the Memberhub platform. Our next PTSA Meeting will take place on Monday, March 2 at 1:45 in Room 23. Please consider joining the Brick Township High School PTSA. LINK to Memberhub

David Kasyan, Ed.D.

Assistant Principals

Erin Biancella - Grade 10 & Freshman P-Z

Ryan Hesnan - Grade 12 & Freshman H-O

James Marvin - Grade 11 & Freshman A-G

Athletic Director & Co-Curricular Supervisor

Jason Longo

Supervisor of Guidance

Angela Smith

Guidance Department

Lauren Ianniello - Students: A - Da

Jennie Piwowarczyk - Students: De - I

Kaitlyn Donahue - Students: J - Mo

Dawn Celona - Students: Mu - Sa

Marie Walling - Students: Sc - Z

Lori Roland - Student Assistance Counselor

Child Study Team

Dawn Eberhard

Lorraine Cooper

Christine Velardi

Mike Zuccaro

Website: www.brickschools.org
Location: 346 Chambersbridge Road, Brick Township, NJ, USA
Phone: 732-785-3000
Twitter: @BTHSDragons