The Dragon Review
May 2025
Principal's Announcement
May 2025
It has been a busy month at BTHS as we are quickly approaching the end of the 2024-2025 school year. We kicked off the month of May by recognizing our wonderful BTHS staff for their daily contributions to our school community. Staff were honored and recognized during the first week of the month with Staff Appreciation Week. In support of this week the staff were provided gestures of gratitude each day, which included breakfast sponsored by the PTSA, gift card raffles, and lunch. The SGA, Key Club, and numerous co-curricular clubs got in on the action by showing their appreciation through the distribution of snacks on a traveling Snack Cart. It should also be noted that all of our BTHS students had the opportunity to personally show their appreciation to our staff by participating in a Reverse Dragon Scale ticket program, where students recognized staff for demonstrating our school’s core values. This was a unifying practice that brought students and staff together to recognize the Core Values of Tradition, Pride, Acceptance, Integrity, and Respect.
Attendance continues to be the cornerstone of our success. Regular attendance ensures that students have the opportunity to fully engage in learning experiences, participate in classroom discussions, and build meaningful connections with peers and teachers. As we enter the final weeks of the school year, I urge all students to prioritize and strive to be present each day. Your presence matters, not just for your academic progress, but also for the vibrant learning community that we have cultivated together. Students need to be mindful of their total absences for the school year as well as individual absences from each block as they both have implications associated with potential loss of credit.
The Second Semester will come to a close on Wednesday, June 18. Seniors will take their exams on Friday, June 13. Underclassmen will take their exams on Monday, June 16 and Tuesday, June 17. We will follow an early dismissal schedule on Friday, June 13 through Wednesday, June 18. Please review the schedule below for these identified dates. It is important to note that all Semester Courses will have a final exam. This final exam will count for 10% of the final course grade. Full-Year ten credit courses will take a final exam worth 5% of the final course grade as the previously administered midterm exam counts for the other 5% of the final course grade. Students enrolled in vocational courses will have an opportunity to attend vocational school on each of the five half days. If your vocational courses conflict with a scheduled final exam, this absence will be excused from vocational school as your final exam at BTHS is a priority.
Attention Seniors! Please pay close attention to the following important information.
Graduation is set for Wednesday, June 18 at 2:30 PM. Graduation will take place in the BTHS football stadium. Students will be expected to report at 1:30 PM. A Rain Date of Thursday, June 19 at 10:00 AM has been set if there is inclement weather and the planned graduation ceremony needs to be postponed.
The Senior Picnic will take place on Tuesday, May 27 at Brick Beach 3. Seniors must submit the required paperwork in order to attend this event. It is also required that students take BTPS transportation and follow the presented guidelines.
The BTHS Senior Walk will take place on Wednesday, May 28 at Drum Point Elementary School, Emma Havens Young Elementary School, and Osbornville Elementary School. It is required that the necessary permission slip is submitted to attend.
The Senior Breakfast will be held on Thursday, May 29 at 7:45 in Cafe 3. An announcement will be made during Block 1 on the morning of the Senior Breakfast calling Seniors to the event. Yearbooks will be distributed during this event.
Senior Scholarship & Awards Night, sponsored by our Guidance Department, will take place on Thursday, May 29. The event is held in the BTHS Auditorium beginning at 6:00 PM. Scholarships and awards will be given from local donors and staff members to recognize Senior achievements.
Cap & Gown Distribution and BTHS Device Collection will take place on Monday, June 16 according to the following schedule:
- 8:00 Seniors Last Name A - Da
- 8:30 Seniors Last Name De - I
- 9:00 Seniors Last Name J - Mo
- 9:30 Seniors Last Name Mu - Sa
- 10:00 Seniors Last Name Sc - Z
Graduation Practice will take place on Tuesday, June 17 at 8:00 AM and Wednesday, June 18 at 7:30 AM. It is expected that all graduating seniors are present for these practices as it is essential that all Seniors are aware of the graduation procedures and expectations.
Graduation information will continue to be shared, as needed, through multiple platforms to ensure that all students, parents, and families are aware of the details of the event. Please make sure that your child is a member of the Class of 2025 Google Classroom as important information is regularly shared through this medium. If you have any questions regarding any of the information presented within this message, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s assistant principal and/or school guidance counselor.
Respectfully,
David Kasyan, Ed.D.
Principal
Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony
Wednesday, June 18 at 2:30 PM
School News
School News - Campus Life
Hello Dragons!
Here is an update about what has been happening and what we are looking forward to on campus here at BTHS. Congratulations to all of our Spring Sports Teams as they finish up their regular seasons and move into the postseason! On Friday, May 2 the Brick Football Senior Class took on the Brick PBA in the annual Helping Hands Basketball Fundraiser. The game this year was played in benefit of Maddie Brunas and Coach McNamara. The game was well attended as the Football Senior Class and Students came out to show their support. The Week of May 5 was Staff Appreciation week, the PTSA sponsored the week which included breakfast, lunch, and prizes all week!
On Tuesday May 6, the BTHS Choral Department hosted its annual BTHS Silhouette Singer event. As always all who participated and came out to show support had a great time! On Wednesday May 7, the BTHS/BMHS Air Force Jr. ROTC hosted its annual Blood Drive. The event was well received and a huge success, thank you to all of those students and staff who donated!
The Junior Prom was held on Thursday, May 8 at Jumping Brook Country Club. The BTHS Wall of Fame Dinner was held on Monday, May 12 at the Lobster Shanty. The Event was well attended as BTHS Alumni celebrated their accomplishments with their friends, family, and current BTHS Staff. Also on Monday, May 12 the BTHS Drama Club presented their annual Senior Showcase. The event was very entertaining as the Senior class were able to perform one last time here at BTHS! The Senior Ball was held on Thursday, May 15 at South Gate Manor.
On Wednesday, May 21, BTHS recognized Seniors in the Class of 2025 entering our Armed Forces at the BTPS annual Military Recognition Ceremony. The Unified Sports Kickball game against Brick Memorial High School will be held at BTHS on May 28. Senior Awards Night will be Thursday, May 29 at 6:00 pm in the BTHS Auditorium.
Go Dragons!
May Highlights - Student Voice
"I thought the staff's secret spirit week was cool.
It was fun guessing the theme each day." - Ana C.
"I had such a great time at the junior prom.
I loved the DJ this year." - Olivia S.
"I loved handing out reverse dragon scales and
running the snack cart for teacher appreciation week!" -Bella M.
Wall of Fame - Class of 2025 Inductees
Congratulations to the Brick Township High School Wall of Fame Inductees - Class of 2025. This past month, we were able to celebrate well deserving individuals who were inducted to our school's Wall of Fame at the recent Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This event brought together a group of alumni, family members, friends, and current staff to honor the outstanding accomplishments of our inductees.
The event was highlighted with heartfelt reflections, inspiring stories, and a deep sense of school pride. We congratulate our honored alumni and thank everyone who joined us in celebrating their achievements and lasting contributions to the Brick Township High School legacy.
Congratulations to the Brick Township High School Wall of Fame Inductees - Class of 2025.
- Russ Taintor: 1968 Graduate of BTHS. He was 3 time State Sectional & Group Champion for boys cross country (65', 66' 67'). He was #1 Overall runner in the State of New Jersey in 1967.
- 1967 Boys Cross Country Team: 4 time State Sectional & Group Team titles from 1964 - 1967. The team included Russ Taintor, Dominick Camero, Keith Engle, Kevin McGorty, Paul Iremonger, John Dilley, and Brian Burke.
- Lt. Col. Anthony Beyer: 1965 Graduate of BTHS. In 1971, he went to Vietnam with the 101st Division. He was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross, an Air Medal with Valor, a Bronze Star Medal, 12 Air Medals, and a Meritorious Service Medal among many other decorations.
- Katherine De Tata Mathess: 2004 Graduate of BTHS. Katherine was a three-sport varsity athlete, excelling in soccer, basketball, and track and field. Basketball: Scored 1,368 career; 1st Team All-Ocean County; 1st Team Class A South; retired #22 jersey. Soccer: Scored 43 goals; 28 assists; three-time Class A South All-Conference; 1st Team All-Ocean County; 1st Team All-Shore.
- Steven De Tata: 1993 Graduate of BTHS. Standout football athlete. Steven was a 3-time Varsity MVP (1990-1992). He is the All-Time leader for Career Rushing Yards (3,252) and tied the record for most touchdowns in a one game with 5. In 1991 & 1992 he was named The Star Ledger 1st Team All Group 4 Offense. He was named 3rd Team All State in 1991 and named Second Team All State in 1992. Steven was named two-time WOBM Player of the Year in 1991 and 1992. Steven’s jersey number #29 is retired.
Military Recognition Ceremony
We were honored to celebrate our students and community members committed to serving our country at the Military Recognition Ceremony. With pride and gratitude, we recognized their dedication, courage, and future service. During the ceremony, we recognized 3 BTHS and 5 BMHS students who have committed to joining the military. Their dedication to service is an inspiration to us all. It was a moving tribute to the values of duty, honor, and patriotism. Thank you to all who joined us in this special celebration.
STEM Academy Recognitions our Class of 2025 STEM Seniors
We proudly recognize the incredible accomplishments of our STEM Academy seniors as they present their culminating STEM projects. These innovative and thoughtful capstone experiences represent their high level of dedication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Each project is a testament to your curiosity, perseverance, and passion for the STEM field. Congratulations on this milestone and thank you for setting a high standard of excellence. Your work inspires the next generation of STEM students and reflects the very best of our academy’s mission. We look forward to seeing the impact you will make beyond our walls!
Computer Science Honor Society Induction
We are proud to recognize the exceptional students who were recently inducted into the Computer Science Honor Society. Your dedication to academic excellence, problem-solving, and innovation sets a high standard and inspires those around you. BTHS is proud to recognize your achievements and looks forward to the impact you will make as future leaders in the computer science field. Congratulations!
Senior Showcase: Acting for a Cause
The BTHS Dragon Drama Club presented the Senior Showcase: Acting for a Cause, which offered our Senior Drama students one opportunity to take the stage prior to graduation. It was a great event as our talented seniors took the stage for a powerful evening of performance and purpose during the Senior Showcase: Acting for a Cause. With moving monologues, dynamic scenes, and heartfelt dedication, they supported a local organization by raising $500 for Remi's Heart. It was a night of passion, pride, and purpose—bravo to our senior stars for using their talents to make a difference!
Special Services - Door Decorating Contest
In honor of New Jersey Special Education Week, several classrooms participated in a door decorating contest. With the theme of "Inclusion & Acceptance," students and staff worked together to create visual messages that celebrate diversity and belonging. Congratulations to Mrs. Karu & Mrs. Stapp, Room 405, who won First Place in the contest. Each of the participating classrooms throughout the school offered a reminder that everyone has a place here. Thank you to all who participated and made this celebration truly meaningful!
Fire Poster Contest Winners
A big shoutout to our talented students whose creativity and commitment to safety earned them top honors in the Fire Safety Poster Contest! Your artwork not only impressed the judges but also helped spread an important message to our community. Well done—we’re proud of your achievement and the impact you’re making!
- First Place - Claire Oswald - Ocean County Winner
- Second Place - Kaylah Engelhardt
- Third Place - Sarah Juarez
- Honorable Mention - Don Michael Alcarde
Yearbooks are On Sale
Last chance for yearbooks! Click here to reserve your yearbook before they sell out. All yearbooks will be shipped to BTHS at the end of May. Senior students will be able to pick up their books at the Senior Breakfast. Following the distribution of yearbooks to our Senior class, underclass students will be able to pick them up during their lunch. More details to follow.
Class of 2026 Senior Portraits
Attention 11th grade parents & guardians: Believe it or not, it is time to schedule your student's senior pictures with Prestige Photography – our official senior photographer!
Portrait Session Dates: June 23 & June 26 - Location: BTHS Cafe 1
How to Schedule an Appointment:
Scroll past the 8-digit code field
Enter "Brick, NJ" in the school location field
Select "Brick Township High School"
Enter your student's name
Click "Schedule Your Appointment"
Choose your preferred date and time
Important Details:
ALL students should schedule a session, even if they do not plan on purchasing portraits
Portrait sessions include complimentary photos with:
Tuxedo/ Drape
Cap & gown
Please note: This portrait session is completely free. After selecting a date and time you will be directed to select an optional $25 session that includes a personal outfit. You do not need to select this option. If you keep scrolling you will see the free option.
Email: jpiwowarczyk@brickschools.org with any questions. For any additional questions or help with the scheduling website, please contact Lifetouch Customer Service at 1-800-736-4775 or utilize the Chat function at the bottom right of the website.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026!
Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA)
The BTHS Parent Teacher Student Association is accepting membership for the 2024-2025 school year. Please consider joining the Brick Township High School PTSA. LINK to Memberhub. Meeting dates/times along with other important information is shared directly with members through the PTSA Memberhub platform.
Students of the Month
BTHS Students of the Month - May
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.
Lea Genovese, Grade 9
Lea is a very smart, charismatic and hard working young lady. She comes to class everyday prepared with a smile on her face. She is a pleasure to have in class. - Ms. Velez
Anthony Gagliardi, Grade 10
Anthony is kind, polite, and respectful. He is a conscientious student and a pleasure to have in class. I believe that Anthony deserves this recognition because he always greets you with a smile and he is a hard-working young man. - Mrs. Russell
Jonas Wood, Grade 11
Jonas is a member of the JR ROTC. He is the point person for the recycling of the sneaker campaign. He is doing a tremendous job setting up the collection boxes in each office and putting the word out to the school community. I believe Jonas is a great candidate for Student of the Month! - Mrs. Reddan
Matthew Lipka, Grade 12
First, Matthew is an exemplary student. He has one of the highest grades in my Prob and Stat class. He also shows no signs of "senioritis" and continues to complete his work at a high level. Second, Matthew volunteered to dress up as the Easter Bunny the day before Spring Break to hand out some Easter Eggs to my Grandson (who came to school as part of the Bring Your Child to Work Day). Then Matt asked to walk around the school and distribute eggs to other children. I received many compliments from other staff members about how happy their children were to receive eggs from the Easter bunny. - Mr. Burns
Student of the Month
Lea Genovese
Grade 9
Student of the Month
Anthony Gagliardi
Grade 10
Student of the Month
Jonas Wood
Grade 11
Student of the Month
Matthew Lipka
Grade 12
Dragon of the Month
Nominated by BTHS Staff
Mrs. Margaret Reddan
Staff Member of the Month
Nominated by Students
Mr. Kevin Donnelly
Dragon Spotlight
Staff Member of the Month - Mr. Kevin Donnelly
Athletics & Co-Curricular Updates
The spring sports season is coming to an end. Several of our teams, including baseball, softball, girls lacrosse and tennis are still trying to position themselves for a NJSIAA playoff run. The boys track and field teams have had some record breaking performances this season. Trey Williams set a school record in the 200. The boys 4x100 set a school record and Solomon Brown won a state sectional championship in the Shot put. In tennis, Gabe Walters broke the Boys Tennis Singles Season Wins record with 13 wins and Hunter Bailey and Kyle Kachoogian broke the Boys Tennis Doubles Season Wins with 14 and the Doubles Career Wins Record with 24.
Congratulations to our Student-Athletes
College Commitments Signing Celebration
Adriana Buonacore
Santiago Valencia
Shore Conference Sportsmanship Award Winners
Paula Cobian-Ramos & Christopher Quick
Instructional Spotlight
NHS - Student Highlight - Paula Cobian-Ramos
Mural Course Recognition
Air Force JROTC Field Trip
Our Air Force JROTC cadets recently had the exciting opportunity to attend the Power in the Pines Airshow – STEM Day at McGuire Air Force Base (JBMDL). This experience allowed cadets to engage with cutting-edge aerospace technology, explore career pathways in aviation and the military, and witness awe-inspiring flight demonstrations. The event showcased the connection between STEM education and real-world applications in the Air Force, leaving our cadets inspired and informed. We are proud of our cadets for representing Brick Township High School with pride and professionalism during this memorable and educational experience.
School Literary Magazine - The Regaler
Extra Help Opportunity After School During Block 5
Student Government
BTHS Student Government
Hello Dragons! May is the month we show gratitude for the staff who have helped us on our journey through the school year. This month, students made and hung posters in our cafeterias to show appreciation to our Lunch Heroes for their work in our Food Services Department. During Staff Appreciation Week, SGA members distributed reverse Dragon Scales to students to give to staff members who exemplify our core values of Tradition, Pride, Acceptance, Integrity, and Respect. Teachers could enter their Dragon Scales in a gift auction to win cool prizes. Additionally, SGA, along with the Key Club, organized donations of snacks from our student clubs to distribute to staff members via our Teacher Appreciation Snack Cart. Currently, SGA is preparing for the 2025-26 school year by conducting class elections and interviewing candidates for SGA's next executive board. We will celebrate our outgoing and incoming officers at our final SGA/Principal's Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, May 28. We look forward to seeing you then.
Stay connected and informed about BTHS happenings through SGA (Student Government Association). Join the SGA Google Classroom (q2hav5z) and follow SGA on Twitter and Instagram (@bths_sga). SGA General Membership meetings are open to everyone and take place once a month in Cafe 2. New members are always welcome. Additionally, the Principal's Cabinet meetings will take place on the last Wednesday of each month in Cafe 2. We welcome one representative from each BTHS organization to participate. These meetings are a great opportunity to connect with Dr. Kasyan and collaborate on school-wide initiatives.
Class of 2025
Class of 2026
The Class of 2026 had a successful prom at Jumping Brook Country Club on May 8th. We are moving on to planning for senior year. Look out for upcoming fundraisers. 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 and Instagram: @bths_classof2026
Class of 2027
Class of 2028
It’s hard to believe our freshman year is almost over! As we wrap up the school year, we’re still hard at work planning fun and successful fundraisers—including Dining to Donates and two car washes coming soon! The Class of 2028 Car Wash will be held on July 19 and August 10 at the Exxon on Drum Point road. Thank you to all the parents who have contributed to making this fundraiser a success. If you are willing to donate or provide assistance please find information posted in our Google Classroom. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the class advisors Ms. Freedly (Room 217) at jfreedley@brickschools.org or Mrs. Rahbari (Room 219) at jrahbari@brickschools.org.
Stay In the Know
Guidance Department
Updates from the School Counseling Department
OCC Express Enrollment Day; The School Counseling Department participated in Ocean County College’s Express Enrollment Day on April 30. Students had the opportunity to tour the campus and meet with an advisor to create their schedule for next fall.
Students from BTHS also had the opportunity to attend the Ocean County College Career and Technical Education Program Fair on May 2 to learn about the many post secondary options available at OCC. Students attended a presentation from the business and graphic design department.
AP Testing Administration concluded on May 16. Congratulations to all of our students who worked diligently to prepare for their AP exam(s). Scores will be available in July on Collegeboard.
Senior Scholarship/Award Night will be on Thursday, May 29 at 6:00 pm in the BTHS auditorium. We look forward to celebrating our 12th grade students who will be receiving scholarships and awards.
Military Recognition Day will be held on Wednesday, May 21 to recognize and honor our students from Brick Township High School and Brick Memorial High School who plan to enlist into the military to serve our country. BTHS would like to recognize seniors from the Class of 2025 that are entering the military after graduation.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national observance started in 1949 by Mental Health America to bring attention to the importance of mental wellbeing. Across the country, individuals, schools and organizations step up to raise awareness and help address the challenges faced by people living with mental health conditions. Here is a link from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) where you can learn more about this observance and how you can move mental health forward for yourself and others this month and all year long.
Ocean County has many resources for services in the areas of Mental Health, Addiction, Abuse, Social Services, and more. Mental Health Association of Ocean County. There is also a Food Bank service in Toms River called Fulfill that is providing weekly food pick up for those in need.
Health Office Message
Hello BTHS Community!
Longer days and warmer weather mean people are spending more time outside. The warm weather and increase in daylight hours has the potential to give everyone a much-needed boost in mental health and wellbeing, opportunities for increased physical activity, and increased exposure to sunshine and fresh air. However, with all of these benefits there are also risks. Skin unprotected by sunscreen or UV blocking clothing leaves people at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. According to https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/sunburn/, one bad blistering sunburn in childhood doubles the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Even a mild sunburn increases the risk of developing skin cancer. While people with fair skin are more prone to bad burns, anyone with any skin color can get sunburned.
- Apply sunscreen of at least 30 SPF, even on cloudy days, every two hours.
- As much as possible, keep skin covered with UV blocking clothing and stay in the shade.
- If you do notice your skin getting burned, get out of the sun and increase your fluid intake
Additionally, warmer weather and increased activity also increases the risk of heat related injury and dehydration. Not maintaining adequate hydration, especially when it is warm outside, puts people at risk of passing out, developing heat exhaustion, heat stroke, kidney damage, and even seizures and hypovolemic shock. Getting sunburn increases the risk of dehydration so be sure to use the above-mentioned tips to prevent getting burned.
As always, remember to stay home when you are feeling sick and notify the school nurses with any new diagnosis of asthma, allergy, or seizures. The nurses at BTHS are committed to maintaining a healthy school environment. Please reach out for any additional tips or education that is needed.
Additionally, here are a few friendly reminders from the BTHS Health Office:
Please do not hesitate to bring any important health-related information to the attention of the health offices. Students should stay home when not feeling well or developing signs of illness.
Any student that is diagnosed with asthma, or allergies, please make sure that the health office has a current Asthma/Allergy Action plan for 2024-2025 school year.
Respectfully,
Nurse Bridget Blunda - Ext. 2037
Nurse Amanda Cerracchio - Ext. 2009
School Based Youth Service Program
Wall of Fame
The purpose of the Brick Township High School Wall of Fame, created in 2004, is to promote pride in our school and honor graduates or those affiliated with the school for outstanding achievements or noteworthy service. The Wall of Fame will also preserve the contributions by exceptional individuals to our school’s legacy.
Nominate a deserving graduate for the BTHS Wall of Fame. Nominations for the 2025 class are now closed, however, our nomination link will remain open for future consideration. Here is the Nomination Link.
Follow us on Instagram @bths_walloffame to stay connected.
Brick Township High School
Assistant Principals
Erin Biancella - Grade 12 & Freshman P-Z
Ryan Hesnan - Grade 11 & Freshman H-O
James Marvin - Grade 10 & Freshman A-G
Athletic Director & Co-Curricular Supervisor
Supervisor of Guidance
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
Website: www.brickschools.org
Location: 346 Chambersbridge Road, Brick Township, NJ, USA
Phone: 732-785-3000
Twitter: @BTHSDragons