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As we welcome the arrival of spring, I want to take a moment to recognize the outstanding efforts of our junior class during this week’s NJGPA administration. Their focus, determination, and work ethic were evident throughout, and I could not be more proud of the way they approached this important assessment. Looking ahead, our 9th grade students will soon begin the NJSLA, and we are confident they will continue this tradition of commitment and perseverance.

I would also like to share a brief reflection on our recent senior trip. It was truly a memorable experience spending seven full days together, and I am incredibly proud of how our seniors conducted themselves while being so far from home. They represented Keyport High School with respect, responsibility, and class at every turn. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this group, and I know they will carry these experiences with them as they approach graduation.

- Mr. Waters

March brings several important assessment opportunities for our students. Please review the dates below to ensure students are prepared and present on their scheduled testing days. These assessments play an important role in measuring student progress and, in some cases, meeting graduation requirements.

Week of March 16: NJGPA-A Testing for 11th Grade Students (Graduation Requirement)
Week of March 23: NJGPA-A Make-Up Testing
March 26: SAT School Day for 11th Grade Students

Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) it is mandated by the NJ Department of Education that we engage with our local stakeholders—parents, guardians, educators, and community members—to comprehensively identify and address the needs of our students. Please take a moment to complete the survey.

Students recently had the opportunity to take their learning outside the classroom during a hands-on lesson focused on the school’s Living Wall. After a brief introduction to the purpose and care of the wall, students headed out to put their knowledge into action.

Once at the Living Wall, students explored the different plants growing in the system and learned how to properly care for them. They practiced watering techniques, searched for the colored indicator dots that help identify plant needs, and tested the soil moisture for the plants marked with yellow indicators. The activity allowed students to see firsthand how plant health is monitored and maintained.

The class also took ownership of the project by helping determine the best watering schedule moving forward. Together, they decided to adjust the watering days from the original Monday/Thursday plan to Tuesdays and Fridays, which better fits their class schedule.

To support their work, the class has been provided with five watering cans and will have access to the presentation used during the lesson so they can review procedures and track the watering schedule. The Living Wall will continue to be monitored to ensure the plants thrive, and students may even have the opportunity to help plant new additions as they arrive.

This engaging lesson gave students the chance to combine science concepts with real-world application, while also taking an active role in caring for a living part of the school environment.

Kindness is so powerful, it can actually improve your health. Research shows that being kind, grateful, and supportive can lower stress, improve mood, and strengthen connections with others (Fryburg, 2021). Ongoing stress can harm your health and lead to unhealthy habits, while positive social connections help protect both your mind and body. Simple acts of kindness, such as helping someone, showing empathy, volunteering, or being kind to yourself, can calm your body, support your immune system, and improve overall well-being. When people feel more connected and less stressed, it creates a healthier and more supportive school community for everyone.

National Library of Medicine

Regular school attendance plays a critical role in student success. National data shows that students who miss 10% or more of the school year, about 18 days, are considered chronically absent, and chronic absenteeism has been linked to lower academic performance and reduced graduation rates. In fact, research shows that students who attend school consistently are significantly more likely to graduate on time and perform better in their courses. Even missing just two days a month can quickly add up and impact learning. At Keyport High School, we encourage students to make attendance a priority, arrive on time, and stay engaged each day. Every class period provides opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow, and being present ensures students get the most out of their high school experience.

Thank you to Kean for hosting the NJACAC College Fair today! The school counseling department was able to take a group on Juniors through the FY2026 Dual Enrollment Grant. It was a great morning.

Keyport High School also provides the SAT School Day for all 11th graders at no cost. Students must be registered in SCOIR to participate.

Our school counselors are here to support both students and families with academic planning as well as social and emotional needs. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Last Names A–L: Mrs. Stacey Oxley – soxley@kpsdschools.org

Last Names M–Z: Ms. Kelley Cheverino – kcheverino@kpsdschools.org

Spring sports season is officially underway at Keyport High School, and our student-athletes are ready to get back on the field and track. This season, Red Raiders will compete in baseball, softball, and track and field, bringing energy, dedication, and school pride to every practice and competition.

Over the coming weeks, our athletes will be working hard to build their skills, support their teammates, and represent Keyport with determination and sportsmanship. We are excited to see what this season has in store and look forward to cheering on our Red Raiders throughout the spring. Go Keyport!

If you have any questions about athletics, please see Mrs. Gross in Room 207 or email keyportathletics@kpsdschools.org. Students should also remember that if they are injured at any point during the season, it is important to report the injury and check in with Ms. Kelly O’Donnell as soon as possible so proper care and clearance procedures can be followed. We look forward to a safe and successful spring season for all of our athletes.