The Dragon Review

January 2025

I hope all of our dragon families have had a wonderful start to 2025. At BTHS, we have entered the new year with a renewed sense of focus, energy, and commitment to success. Friday, January 31, marks the end of our first semester and conclusion of marking period two. Report cards will be available to students and parents through the parent portal on Friday, February 7. Students will have an opportunity, during transition day, to share their perspective and feedback through participation in our school-wide Mid-Year survey. Feedback gathered from this survey will help improve the educational community, learning conditions, and the school’s overall environment. Maintaining a positive school culture is essential to the success of our school. This time of the year offers an opportunity to reflect and reset as each of our actions and interactions contribute to the wellness of our learning organization. It is the responsibility of each member of our school community to positively contribute to our school culture.

Students will be reminded, during morning announcements, of essential school procedures. Students will specifically receive reminders of practices surrounding cell phone usage in the classroom and the importance of not only attending school but arriving on time. These reminders will prepare our learners for a successful second half of the school year. Our school day begins at 7:10 AM. Any students arriving after 7:10 AM are considered late to school. All students arriving late to school, after 7:10 AM, will need to enter through the main office. Consistent tardiness will result in disciplinary action. Additionally, I would like to remind all students of the importance of remaining engaged in classroom instruction. Students must adhere to classroom rules and procedures surrounding cell phone access. Any insubordination surrounding teacher expectations associated with cell phone access and usage will be grounds for teacher referral to administration, resulting in disciplinary action. We want our students at school on time, engaged, and ready to learn.

A highlight of this past month was our Drama Club’s fundraiser in the form of a Winter Production of The Alibis, which was a student staff production. Our school’s culture strengthened as staff and students worked together, under Ms. Best’s direction, to put on a wonderfully successful show. The show was a huge success. Special recognition to all of the staff and students who took part in this performance.

I hope all students are able to take time to reflect on their personal goals, individual progress, and achievements realized during the first half of this school year. Participating in regular reflective practice allows all of us to engage in a process of continuous learning. It is important to remember that there is no one ‘correct’ way of performing this essential practice as it will assist in future planning, personal growth, and improve individual well-being. The easiest way to get started with the practice of reflection is to ask yourself questions on the experience you want to reflect upon.

As we reach the second half of the school year, I would like to thank all of our parents for their continued support of our students. I speak for the entire BTHS faculty and staff, when I say that we will continue to honor and emphasize the value in our partnerships with parents and students as we work together to achieve our goals.

Wishing all of our Dragons a great start to the second semester, continue to demonstrate our core values of tradition, pride, acceptance, integrity, and respect. “Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.” Theodore Roosevelt

Respectfully,

David Kasyan, Ed.D.

Principal

Hello Dragons!

Here is an update about what has been happening and what we are looking forward to on campus here at BTHS. The Seal of Biliteracy testing was held on January 8, 9, and 10 in the BTHS IMC. We had a great turnout so we are hoping for successful results. January 13 was Challenge Day for both BTHS staff and students. The program was a great success as many in the BTHS community participated.

On Thursday, January 16 the BTHS Drama Club held this year’s annual Winter staff and student show. The event was well attended and it was a fun and exciting night to see the BTHS staff members perform alongside students in a humorous light. As Semester 1 comes to an end here at BTHS, there are a few important dates to mark on your calendar. Final Exams will be held on January 29 and 30 and will be a half day for students. January 29 will be exams for Blocks 1 and 3, whereas January 30 will be exams for Blocks 2 and 4. January 31 will also be a half day of school for students as it is the last day of Semester 1 and will follow a regular half day schedule. February 3 will be the first day of Semester 2 at BTHS.

Looking forward to the month of February here are a few important dates to keep note of. Tuesday, February 11 will be the annual Brick and Beyond Event held at Brick Memorial High School. The event will begin at 6pm and it is a great opportunity for students and their family members to see what post secondary schools have to offer along with what clubs and activities that BTHS and BMHS has to offer as well. Battle of the Classes will be held on February 27 at BTHS with a start time of 3pm. This is always a fun and entertaining event for the students and their class advisors.

Go Dragons!

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:

“I’m highly anticipating the near future events at BTHS like the

volleyball tournament and battle of the classes.”-Gavin M.

“I had a blast at the staff play watching my teachers perform!” - Leo M.

“It was very thrilling supporting the boys basketball team in WOBM

holiday classic tournament at Toms River North High School.” -Pavan P.

“I am so happy the boys and girls swim team won

both BTHS vs. BMHS and senior night” - Hannah J.

“I’m excited to hopefully win this months dragon scale prize!” - Chase R.

Brick Township High School has earned the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science A (CSA). Schools honored with an AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award have expanded access to AP computer science courses for female students. BTHS is one of only 237 schools nationwide recognized for improving female representation in AP Computer Science.

BTHS hosted Challenge Day on Monday, January 13th. We had approximately 90 students and 20 staff members and community members participate in this influential day. Challenge Day is an organization that helps young people learn to connect through powerful, life-changing programs in their schools and communities. The day-long, interactive Challenge Day program provides teens and adults with tools to tear down the walls of separation, and inspires participants to live, study, and work in an encouraging environment of acceptance, love, and respect. Using highly interactive and energetic activities, Challenge Day Leaders guide teens on a carefully-designed exploration of the ways people separate from each other, and model tools for creating connection and building community. Challenge Day programs increase self-esteem, help shift dangerous peer pressure to positive peer support, and reduce the acceptability of teasing, oppression, and all forms of violence. Our programs inspire youth and communities to Be the Change they wish to see in the world, and challenge others to do the same.

BTHS staff and students, in collaboration, presented The Alibis. It was a remarkable showcase of talent and dedication by our students and staff. From captivating performances to outstanding behind-the-scenes efforts, the production was a shining example of creativity, collaboration, and passion. We’re so proud of everyone who made this theatrical experience unforgettable. Thank you to all of the BTHS Staff that volunteered their time to work to make this show a success.

The BTHS Performing Arts department hosted Grade 8 students from Lake Riviera Middle School in a Drama Day / Musical Theatre Workshop. Students learned part of a song and dance from Disney's High School Musical. Future Dragons had time to talk with current BTHS students about the course offerings, co-curricular opportunities, and upcoming events. A great time was had by all participants.

Students from Brick Township High School were presented with an award of recognition on January 20 at the VFW in Brick. The students recorded an audio essay in response to the topic "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?" The third place winner was Samaria Hall and the first place winner was Savannah Gross.

The Science department held a Science Symposium at the end of the semester. The annual Science Symposium offers students an opportunity to showcase their research in the fields of biology and anatomy and physiology. Many of the students have been working on their research projects since the start of the semester. Students were eager to share their research and findings with staff and peers.

Yearbooks are on sale now!

Order your Yearbook by Accessing this Link.

The back of the book is dedicated to senior recognition ads. You can include photos and a personalized message to congratulate your senior. Ads must be designed and purchased by 3/15/2025. Click here to purchase and design your Ad.

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.

BTHS Students of the Month - January

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.

Dylan Amato, Grade 9

Dylan goes above and beyond to help anyone. He does it willingly and with a smile. He exemplifies true Dragon pride and tradition. - Mr. Lynch

Kayla Pretty, Grade 10

I would like to nominate Kayla Pretty for Student of the month. Kayla always exhibits positive behavior on a daily basis to not only her peers but to staff as well. She is always looking to help her friends and will always include everyone. A very happy, good-natured student who deserves this recognition. - Mrs. Lucchetti

Kiera McHugh, Grade 11

Kiera is always prepared to participate everyday. She is athletic and plays hard. - Mr. Groschel

I am proud to nominate Kiera McHugh for Student of the Month. Kiera excels both academically and athletically, consistently maintaining an impressive GPA with all grades above 93. As a top cross-country runner, she has not only demonstrated exceptional athletic ability but also serves as an inspiring role model for younger runners and students. Kiera’s dedication, hard work, and leadership set a great example for her peers, making her highly deserving of this recognition. - Mrs. Ianniello

Christian Combs, Grade 12

Christian is a great example of what it means to be a Brick Dragon--Acceptance, Integrity and Respect. He is unfailingly kind and respectful to his peers and me. He is always there with a listening ear, supporting his classmates in their projects, offering advice and helpful suggestions when they need it. It is obvious that he accepts others' differences and treats all with respect. - Mrs. Pavao

Winter Sports at the midseason point. The boys and girls basketball teams are fighting hard to make the postseason tournaments. The girls team is 9-6 overall and 3-1 in the divisions. The team recently celebrated senior captain Riley Nausedas’ 1000th career point achievement!

The boys Basketball team is off to a record of 6-9 overall and 1-3 in the division. The boys have been playing great basketball as of late and they look to build on some mid-season momentum!

The Wrestling team is having a nice season with an overall record of 9-6. The team is 1-1 in the division. The team celebrated Liz Avila on becoming Brick’s all-time winningest girls wrestler!

The boys and girls track teams are in the middle of the competition season. The teams are primed for a big championship season run next month!

Our boys and girls swim teams recently celebrated their senior night swim meet vs. Brick Memorial! The girls are 5-2 and battling for a division title!!! The boys continue to compete and work hard. The boys have record of 2-4-1

The boys and girls bowling teams are rolling right along. The girls are 12-2 overall and 11-2 in the division. The boys are having an up and down year. Their record is 4-9-1 on the season.

The Ice Hockey team continues to battle back to .500. They are 6-6 overall and 3-5 in the Shore South Division.

Our NHS Member of the month for January is Gabriel Walters! Gabe is an excellent member, someone who is consistently dedicated to our NHS chapter. He's always proactive, coming up with thoughtful questions and stays responsive and engaged with everything happening in our chapter. Whether it's checking in to see if there are any events he can participate in or offering help wherever needed, Gabe's eagerness to contribute never goes unnoticed. His reliability, enthusiasm, and positive attitude make him a standout member and a true asset to our group. Gabe sets a great example for others and we're grateful for all his hard work and commitment. Congratulations! Keep up the fantastic work, Gabe!

Can you imagine life without technology? This is a technology driven world and in order to be successful in college and in the workplace (no matter what career) you can’t just be users of technology, you must be creators of it. Computer Science skills are the new basic skill.

Every field has been taken over by software and programming is a valuable skill for any career. There are over 7 million jobs that are non-technical, that now require complex computer Science skills. College students majoring in any of the Sciences, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), and many other majors, will be required to take a programming class in college. Students will be at a disadvantage if they have not had a computer programming course in high school.

New Computer Science jobs are growing at twice the rate of all other jobs. The Bureau of Labor reports that the median salary in May 2023 was over $108,000 – twice the median salary for all other occupations. Student course scheduling for next year will start soon. BTHS is ahead of the curve and offers 5 Computer Science courses. Don’t delay – schedule a course for next year!

COURSES OFFERED AT BTHS:

Entry Level:

• Java: Computer Programming (A MUST for STEM majors and pre-requisite for AP & Additional Topics. Take by junior year if considering AP Computer Science)

• Exploring Computer Science (Python based – great beginner course)

• Computer Programming for Engineers - Honors (STEM & students taking Honors math courses)

Advanced:

• AP Computer Science

• Additional Topics in Computer Programming

For more information, please contact Mrs. Segreto – csegreto@brickschools.org.

The Spanish Honor Society members present cultural presentation once a month. This month Ava A. and Isabella M. presented. Their presentation talked about the tradition held in Spain of eating twelve grapes on New Years Eve. Spaniards sit underneath a table if in the new year they are looking for love. SHS members joined in on the celebration as we counted down and made our twelve wishes for the new year.

We are The Regaler, your school literary magazine, and we believe in sharing the words and images that stir the soul. Last Chance! All submissions for the literary magazine are due by February 15. Send us your creative writing, photos, and artwork - let us publish it all for you! Upload your work to The Regaler's Google Classroom (code: shgtudl) to BE HEARD! Contact Mr. Doyle, Mrs. Stansbury, or our Editor-in-Chief, sophomore Inara Napolitano, with questions.

Multicultural Club president Deaglan C. and vice president Lily R. taught the group about the origin and symbolism of Japanese Cherry Blossom Trees. Afterwards, students had the chance to create their own Cherry Blossom watercolor paintings.

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.

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.

A new year means new goals for SGA: This year's goal is to make Battle of the Classes better than ever! BOTC25 is scheduled for Thursday, February 27 in the East Gym from 3-5 pm. Students who are interested in participating should sign up with their class advisors. If you don't want to participate on the team, you can still cheer your team on as a spectator. Classes will compete in fan favorites like human Hungry-Hippo, tug of war, and the three-legged race, as well as new events like the air mattress relay, and basketball musical chairs. There will also be a spirit week leading up to BOTC25 with a school-wide game of Roshambo (rock, paper, scissors). We can't wait to see you there!

The Class of 2025 has definitely been enjoying their Senior Year. The Class selected their Senior Superlatives which will be featured in the yearbook. Students have been busy ensuring they are preparing for all upcoming events and Senior requirements. Currently, Seniors are preparing to participate in their final Battle of the Classes event and are truly hoping to come out winners. Students are encouraged to continuously check their Google Classroom page for updates and surveys that are crucial for their Senior year. If anyone has questions they should reach out to Ms. Vélez at mvelez@brickschools.org or Mr. Pazmino at cpazmino@brickschools.org

The class of 2026 had a fundraiser at Chipotle on January 15th. They are currently selling Gertrude Hawk chocolate bars 2/$5 until the end of the month. Make sure you buy some chocolate from a participating junior. The junior prom will be on May 8th at Jumping Brook Country Club. Look out for the dates of ticket sales. If you have any questions, you can see Ms. DePoto in room 408, 415 & 411 or Mrs. Buell in 112, 306 & 310. All class updates and information will be in Google Classroom or Instagram. Google Classroom: lf4subd and Instagram: @bths_classof2026

The Class of 2027 is looking forward to BOTC coming up soon! Keep an eye out for meeting times to organize for the event and also for fundraisers. Any meeting information will be posted on the Google Classroom and on the morning announcements. Any questions or ideas please come see Mrs. DeBonis (306) or Ms. Scipione (202).

The Class of 2028 is hard at work planning and fundraising throughout the year. We’re beyond excited for the upcoming Battle of the Classes and can’t wait to represent BTHS with pride. Get ready to see what we’re all about! 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.

Updates from the School Counseling Department

OCC Dual Enrollment Course Registration

• If you plan to take a Dual Enrollment course for Semester 2, Ocean County College will be at BTHS on February 7th to assist with online registration. The Registration Deadline to receive college credits is; March 3, 2025

School Counselors are meeting with the junior class during the months of January and February to discuss post-secondary options, graduation requirements, and scheduling for the 2025-2026 school year.

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 2025. Please view the Scholarship letter for families for more information. Click Here for Access to the BTHS Scholarship Letter for Families.

The Ocean County Vocational Technical Program application is available for current sophomores and juniors; Seniors interested in applying for a post secondary program should go to the website; https://www.ocvts.org/admissions The OCVTS OPEN HOUSE is Thursday, February 6, 2025 6:30-8:30PM at ALL locations. Please see your school counselor for more information.

Brick & Beyond will be hosted at Brick Memorial High School in the Gymnasium on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 from 5pm-7pm. There will be information on high school programs as well as a postsecondary opportunities. More information and details will be provided in the coming weeks.

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.

BTHS is hosting the March SAT on Saturday, March 8th, 2025.

• Register at www.collegeboard.org by February 21st.

Hello BTHS Community!

Health screenings conducted by school nurses are an integral part of student well-being and academic success. The screenings that are conducted by a school nurse serve as a preventative measure in identifying issues that could potentially hinder a student’s learning and overall quality of life. These screenings include blood pressure checks, vision tests, hearing evaluations, and scoliosis checks. Early identification of potential health concerns can ensure timely intervention and treatment. The CDC recommends screenings as early detection of potential impairments in vision and hearing can improve academic performance and reduce behavioral issues linked to frustration or misunderstanding in the classroom (https://www.cdc.gov/school-health-conditions/health-services/index.html). Early detection and treatment of scoliosis can prevent chronic pain and mobility issues later in life.

The Brick Township High School nurses will be conducting health screenings starting February 2, 2025. The following screenings will take place:

• Grade 9: height, weight, blood pressure, scoliosis
• Grade 10: height, weight, blood pressure, vision
• Grade 11: height, weight, blood pressure, scoliosis, hearing
• Grade 12: height, weight, blood pressure

Please reach out to the school nurses with any questions or concerns.

In closing, 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.

Respectfully,

Nurse Bridget Blunda - Ext. 2037

Nurse Amanda Cerracchio - Ext. 2009

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 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. Please reach out to your child's counselor with any questions regarding this program or opportunities for support.

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 WALL OF FAME NOMINATION FORM

Principal

David Kasyan, Ed.D.

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

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