The Dragon Review

April 2023

Hello Dragon Nation!

I hope everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable Spring Break. This past month was highlighted by our Career Day and Brick Hero events, pictures of these events can be found within this edition of The Dragon Review. As we approach warmer weather, I would like to remind all parents and students of our arrival procedures. There should be no traffic in the horseshoe area in front of the building at the start or end of the school day. This is not the location to drop off or pick up your child as the horseshoe driveway is a fire lane and must remain clear. The main office entrance is to only be utilized for drop off / pick up during school hours (7:10 AM - 1:30 PM). Students should be picked up / dropped off at the East Athletics Assistant Principal’s office any time prior to the start of the school day as well as dismissal time frame. Additionally, all students are reminded that our school day begins promptly at 7:10 AM.

It should be noted that the Third Marking Period Report Cards were released for access on Friday, April 21. We have now moved into the fourth and final marking period of the school year. I urge all students to continue to put forth their best effort and finish the year strong.

Looking ahead AP Testing begins on Monday, May 1 and will run through Wednesday, May 10. Students will receive information from their AP teachers and Guidance Counselors for schedule and room assignments. Moreover, on Monday, May 15 through Thursday, May 18 BTHS will be administering the NJSLA - ELA/Math test to students in Grade 9, as well as the NJSLA - Science test to students in Grade 11. To facilitate the test administration, we will be operating on an altered schedule on these days. Specific communication and information regarding these testing dates will be distributed directly to all parents in an upcoming communication blast.

Additionally, I would like to bring the following to the attention of our learning community:

• The Junior Prom will take place on Friday, May 5 from 5 PM to 9 PM at Jumping Brook Country Club.

• Senior Scholarship & Awards Night, sponsored by our Guidance Department, is Thursday, June 1, 2023 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.

• The Senior Ball will take place on Thursday, June 8 from 5PM to 9 PM at Eagle Oaks Country Club.

I would like to conclude by expressing that Staff Appreciation Week begins on May 8. I believe Sidney Hook says it best, “Everyone who remembers his own education remembers teachers, not methods and techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system.” I am extremely grateful for the dedicated staff at BTHS, who fully care and support our students each and every day.

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 month of April is Child Abuse Prevention month and BTHS celebrated this by having The Women’s Club in Brick along with the BTHS Voices planting Pinwheels in front of our campus in support of Child Abuse Prevention month. Spring Break ended this past week and classes are back in session. BTHS will also host in conjunction with the Community Partnership the Senior Citizen Prom on Friday, April 21. This is a great opportunity for our students to work and give back to our senior community for a such a great event. Lake Riviera Middle School will host the Ocean County Prosecutors: Internet Safety, Cyberbullying, and Dangers of Social Media presentation on Wednesday April 26 from 6- 7:30 pm. This is a district wide event, all parents and students from BTHS are encouraged to attend. The Spring Musical, SpongeBob will take place the weekend of April 27- April 29. We are very excited for these upcoming events and it gives BTHS staff, students and our community an opportunity to recognize and celebrate all the wonderful opportunities our students have to make a positive impact here at BTHS.

Looking ahead to the month of May, please keep a few dates in mind. May 2nd, will be Mental Health Awareness day at Brick Township High School. Our School Base program is looking to hold an event that will bring attention to Mental Health so please be on the lookout for further information to come. The Junior Prom will be held at Jumping Brook Country Club on May 5th. Please make sure all paperwork is handed in prior to attendance.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. This past month the VOICES club partnered with the Women's Club of Brick Township to plant pinwheels on the front lawn to bring attention and awareness to supporting happy and healthy childhoods for all children in our community. We are grateful for the partnership and support the Women's Club of Brick offers our school community.

Brick Schools is proud to partner with the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office to offer parents and students throughout the district in Grades 5 - 12 an opportunity to increase awareness of social media trends, internet safety measures, and the adverse effects of cyber bullying. This event has been coordinated in partnership with all elementary and secondary schools and will take place at Lake Riviera Middle School. If you have any questions or are looking for additional resources, please reach out to your child's school counselor.

BTHS recognized Mrs. Bonny DiBernardo at the 2023 Brick Hero Awards. Mrs. DiBernardo is always a positive influence on our students and staff at BTHS. Her work ethic, optimistic attitude and collegiality are just a few of the many qualities that Mrs. DiBernardo brings to Brick Township High School on a daily basis. She regularly says to those she works with, “Whatever you need.”

Throughout her career, Mrs. DiBernardo has worked to support hundreds, if not thousands, of students with various needs. Over the last few years, she has been an asset to students who go out to worksites in the Work-Based Learning Program. When she is not going out to worksites with students, she has been a mainstay in the West Gym helping students who need support in Health and Physical Education.

Mrs. DiBernardo is hero to staff and students at Brick Township High School and we thank her for all she does!

The Guidance Department at BTHS hosted Career Day on March 31st. Thank you to Dawn Celona, the School Counselors and the Brick Chamber of Commerce for organizing and facilitating a wonderful event with professionals from the Brick and Ocean County surrounding areas. This day provided valuable information and real-world interaction between students and professionals. It exposed our students to a variety of career opportunities and helped them to understand the field, as well as the skills and education required for success.

Attention Class of 2023 - PTSA Fundraiser.

Celebrate your Class of 2023 Graduate by displaying a personalized yard sign on your front lawn! Signs are 18” x 24” and display the below graphic. Your senior’s FIRST name will be printed on the single sided sign. A wire stake is also included for easy installation. Click Here for Additional Information.

Congratulations to Dr. Denise Furlong, BTHS ELL teacher, for the publication of her children's book entitled Ben and the Amazing Animal Adventure. Here is a brief synopsis "Our friend Ben is about to go on his first class trip ever! What sorts of adventures will he experience? Ben has severe allergies and is going on a trip to the zoo. Come with Ben as he experiences his own Amazing Animal Adventure."

There will be a read aloud event at Asbury Book Cooperative on Saturday, May 13 @ 11am. Attendees will listen to Ben’s story and do a craft.

The Wall of Fame - Class of 2023 has been announced. On Monday, May 22 the Wall of Fame committee will induct the WOF Class of 2023 composed of Jim Barber, William Darnell, Dr. Stephen Genco, and Dennis Toddings. The event will take place at Villa Vittoria at 6:00 PM. Interested in purchasing a ticket to attend? Click Here. Congratulations to all of the inductees.

Spring sports are in full swing! All teams have put in great effort so far as we hit the mid season mark. BTHS is wishing continued success and good luck to all the participants as they enter the second half of the regular season. The Baseball team is working hard this spring. The boys are playing well and have been competitive in every game! Our softball teams have been playing so well this season! The team is primed or a win or two soon! Boys and Girls Lacrosse teams are fighting hard and picking up some wins along the way! The boys and girls team are off and running. Our Freshman boys and Sophomore girls relay teams took home some hardware at the Rebel Relays! The teams recently competed in the A-South Divisional Meet! The tennis team battled cross-town rival Brick Memorial! The boys golf team and our lone female golfer, recently played in the Ocean County Championships. Lastly, Unified Sports has begun their Spring Season! Enjoy the action shots below.

The BTHS Drama Club presents

The SpongeBob Musical

Friday, April 28 at 6:30

Saturday, April 29 at 1:30

Saturday, April 29 at 6:30

Tickets can be purchased at the door!

The Italian Honor Society, under by Mrs. Cardin-Bussanich advisory, inducted its newest members this past month. The ceremony recognized Dominick DeLeo, Leslie Garcia, Julisa Sanchez Ponce, and Sofia Guiro for their accomplishments within the Italian program of studies. These students are recognized for their achieved excellence in the study of Italian as well as their ability to promote a greater understanding and appreciation for the Italian culture.

BTHS will have four students representing our school in the Congressional Art Show.

• Alexis Froelich - Grade 9 - On Left
• Agnieszka Araya - Grade 12 - Below
• Mikayla Pirozzoli - Grade 12 - Below
• Leslie Pelaez - Grade 12 - Below

Check out some of the sights from our Culinary 1 & Culinary 2 courses. The students in Culinary 1 & Culinary 2, under Mrs. Vetrini's guidance, have been cooking up some delicious recipes. Here is a quick look at some of the final products.

In need of academic support? Looking for a tutor to help you achieve your academic goals? Look no further than to your BTHS National Honor Society. Join the NHS Google Classroom and fill out the tutoring request form to be matched with a tutor. Request tutoring in any subject and an NHS tutor will be happy to help. Google Classroom Code: RRSAFER

The Regaler staff is busy at work preparing this year's edition of the BTHS literary magazine, showcasing Dragon artwork, creative writing, and photography. Our theme this year is the 1980s! So hold onto your parachute pants and stay tuned for its release in late May.

BTHS Students of the Month - April

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.

Leslie Garcia, Grade 12

Leslie not only has developed her English language to proficiency but has passed the test of bi-literacy in Spanish and Italian. She is also being inducted into the Italian Honor Society. All while working full time and attending school. Congratulations for all you do. - Mrs. LaFragola

Summer Mallon, Grade 11

Summer is an amazing student, a peer leader and an active member of our school. She embodies all the characteristics of a dragon and works hard to ensure all her peers feel welcomed. - Ms. Velez

Lily Estelle, Grade 10

Lily has been nominated by Mr. Lynch for her outstanding achievement in Biology Honors.

Julianna Castelluzzo, Grade 9

Julianna is an absolute pleasure to teach in class. She is always seen putting forth her best effort. It is refreshing to see a student present a positive attitude and strong work ethic to each task assigned within the classroom. I am so proud of her success. - Mrs. Shevach

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.

Coming up....

SGA is collaborating with student clubs and organizations to show gratitude for our fabulous BTHS staff during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 8th-12th). Be on the lookout for treats and more! Class officer elections are approaching. Petitions will be available via the SGA Council Google Classroom (xhj3dyp) beginning May 1st. Elections will take place at the end of May.

The Class of 2023 is selling Senior Ball bids at the end of April. Congratulations to all students who worked so hard fundraising to earn themselves money off their bids. Quite a few students even earned up to two free bids! Seniors have been voting for their favorite t-shirt design. The winning design will be featured on the shirts that will be given out to all seniors. Students are preparing for the exciting things to come, including the Senior Week during the week of June 5th! All relevant information will be shared with students through the Google Classroom and Morning Announcements at the school. Any questions about Senior Ball, please feel free to contact one of the advisors, Mrs. Cara DeBonis or Ms. Danielle Scipione.

The Class of 2024 Junior Prom will be on May 5, 2023 from 5-9pm at Jumping Brook Country Club. Our theme is Enchanted Garden and we are so excited to celebrate this special evening with our students! Our Graduation Snack Tent fundraiser will return this year (June 20) and we will be asking for donations for this event in the next few weeks. Students in our class will be asked to volunteer to run this fundraiser at Graduation. Check our Google Classroom (Code: ozvfp3p) for important updates! Please contact your class advisors with any questions.

Mr. Lucchetti flucchetti@brickschools.org

Mrs. Ianniello lianniello@brickschools.org

Contact the Class of 2025 advisors Ms. Velez (mvelez@brickschools.org) or Mr. Pazmino (cpazmino@brickschools.org) with any questions.

The class of 2026 is currently planning for future events and looking into another fundraiser to hold before the end of the year. Make sure to check the Google Classroom, Twitter and Instagram for information and updates. Instagram @bths_classof2026 / Twitter @bthsclassof2026 / Google Classroom lf4subd

Yearbooks are still on sale!

Visit www.visiontech.tv/shop to order your yearbook.

High school only lasts a few years. With a Visiontech print yearbook, your memories live on forever.

Updates from the School Counseling Department

Scholarship News - Last year, the Class of 2022 was awarded over $130,000 in scholarships, presented to 71 graduating seniors by over 100 donor organizations. This year we strive to exceed this goal and need your help! Please view this letter with additional details regarding the Scholarship Program for the Class of 2023. On behalf of the staff and students at Brick Township High School, we are grateful for your consideration of a scholarship.

“One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals” --Jean Vanier

The School Counselors are hosting a scholarship completion workshop every Wednesday until May 10th during A and C Lunch to provide seniors an opportunity to work on and complete their scholarship applications as well as answer any questions.

Ocean County College Express Enrollment Day will take place on Wednesday, April 26th from 9am-1pm. Students planning to attend OCC in the Fall 2023 will be given a tour, meet with advisors to select courses and lunch will be provided.

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office will be presenting a free Information Session on Internet Safety, Cyber Bullying and the Dangers of Social Media to all parents and students in grades 5 through 12 on Wednesday, April 26th at Lake Riviera Middle School in the Multi Purpose Room between 6 and 7:30pm. Brick Schools is proud to partner with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s office to share information on this important topic and we look forward to seeing you and your child at this event. Link to Flyer

This year, our Advanced Placement students and teachers have been working extremely hard to prepare for the College Board AP Exams. Testing begins May 1st and continues until May 10th at BTHS. We are so proud of our students and wish them the best on their exams.

2023 Schedule of testing dates: Link to Schedule

• Advanced Placement courses are a great way to earn college credits while taking a course in High School. Students who earn a certain score on their exam can use the score to get college credits in certain subject areas. The cost of the exam this year was $88 with a reduced cost for students eligible for free and reduced lunch. Students receive an additional 10 points for an AP course added to their final grade for that course, which will be used for calculation of cumulative GPA. If you are interested in more information about the qualifications needed to take an AP course or need more information, please refer to the Program of Studies below or contact your child's Counselor. BTPS Program of Studies

NJSLA Spring 2023 Administration - On Monday, May 15 - Thursday, May 18 Brick Township High School will be administering the NJSLA test to students in Grades 9 (ELA/Math) and Grade 11 (Science) Monday, May 15th and Tuesday, May 16th.

Hello BTHS Community!

There are several important health related messages that are recognized in April, however, our focus for this month will be on Alcohol awareness. It is important that we talk to our children, making them aware of the risks factors associated with alcohol consumption in order to make healthy choices. These conversations are not always easy, therefore the following pointers may be of some assistance:

• Maintain open communication.
• Share family values and clear expectations.
• Show that you care by listening to your child's concerns.
• Offering acceptance and not criticism when needed will often lead to a more positive outcome.

It is important that when starting the conversation with your child that you begin with our family values and expectations, while using age appropriate language and continuing as your child gets older. This allows for there to be open conversation encouraging them to ask any questions they may have. Using everyday events are perfect ways to aid in beginning the conversation. In addition to discussing that underage drinking is illegal and providing facts, ask your child’s view on alcohol and listen carefully, stress good reasons not to drink, and importantly discuss different scenarios on how to handle peer pressure. Helping your child make a plan in case they are put in a situation involving alcohol usage, whether themselves or their peers is very useful. Children that have been educated about prevention are less likely to get in trouble in school, get hurt in a car accident, be a victim of a crime, or have a problem with addiction as an adult.

Knowing the facts is key! Stressing to your child how alcohol affects the brain, the body (including reaction time), and how it can cause problems at home and in school. It is important that our children know that we as parents/guardians are most concerned with their well-being and safety and by keeping the open communication will help in the event they get stuck in a difficult situation and need to reach out regardless of what the consequences maybe later on. Having these conversations will help your child make healthier choices when the time comes.

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 office. Students should stay home when not feeling well or developing signs of illness.
• Notification: If your child has tested positive for COVID-19, please contact Mrs. Carlsson or Mrs. Yarbrough in the health office.

Health Office Contact

West Nurse Office - Mary Carlsson Ext. 2037

East Nurse Office - Tammy Yarbrough 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 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.

The Brick Township High School Wall of Fame Committee accepts nominations throughout the year. Nominations for the 2023 class are closed, however, we will be accepting nominations throughout the school year for candidate consideration for future inductions. Click Here for the BTHS Wall of Fame Nomination Form.

The BTHS Parent Teacher Student Association is accepting membership for the 2022-2023 school year. Please consider joining the Brick Township High School PTSA.

LINK to Memberhub

Principal

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

Janet Maciel

Antoinette Sirico

Christine Velardi

Mike Zuccaro

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