The Dragon Review

January 2026

Hello Dragons!

I hope all of our dragon families have had a wonderful start to 2026. At BTHS, we have entered the new year with a renewed sense of focus, energy, and commitment to success. Friday, January 30 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 6. As we approach the mid-way point of the school year, students will have an opportunity 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 access 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 entrance. Consistent tardiness may 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 the building practice of putting their cell phones and headphones away upon entering into the classroom. 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 Vampires, Werewolves, and Zombies Oh My!, which was a student staff production. Our school’s culture strengthened as staff and students worked together, under Ms. Ganz’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

With Dragon Pride,

David Kasyan, Ed.D.

Principal

Hello Dragons! Here is an update on recent events and what we are looking forward to on campus at BTHS. We welcomed students back on Monday, January 5, marking the start of a busy and exciting stretch of the school year. Seal of Biliteracy testing took place on January 7, 8, and 9, with nearly 90 students completing assessments in a foreign language. Successful participants have the opportunity to earn a certificate from the state of New Jersey recognizing their achievement as biliterate.

On Friday, January 16, the BTHS Science Department hosted a Science Symposium in the IMC, where students showcased their projects to staff, students, and administrators. As a reminder, please review Dr. Kasyan’s message regarding scheduling, as first-semester final exams will take place on January 28 and 29. BTHS will operate on a half-day schedule on January 28, 29, and 30. The second semester will begin on Monday, February 2.

Looking ahead, the BTHS Mock Trial Team will participate in the Mayor’s Cup competition on February 26. That same day, BTHS will host its annual Battle of the Classes, a highly anticipated event where each class competes in a variety of fun and engaging activities. We encourage everyone to come out and support their class, as this event is always an exciting and memorable experience for our students.

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:

"The science fair was a great event. I loved seeing all the cool projects in the IMC." ~ Olivia D.

"The computer science honor society visited the Senior Center where we helped senior citizens

with their phones, computers, and provided general tech support. It was a lot of fun

and I feel it was really helpful to so many Seniors!" ~ Jade H.

"We really enjoyed the Freshmen Social.

It brought a lot of us together and we had a great time." ~ Stacy L.

"The energy at the basketball game against Pinelands was surreal.

I am so glad they won!" ~ Rowan

"It is so rewarding to be apart of the first division championship team in brick swim history.

Our hard work this season is paying off!" ~ Amber

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.

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

We are excited to share that Brick Township High School will be offering the PSAT 10 to sophomore students on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Registration is now open, and students must sign up in advance to participate. The PSAT 10 is a great opportunity for students to gain early exposure to college-level testing at no cost. Please download and review the attached letter for full details, including registration and testing information. PSAT 10 Parent Information Letter & Sign Up Link

The Computer Science Honor Society, under the leadership of their advisor Mrs. Segreto, recently visited the Brick Community Center as part of a technology outreach initiative, providing valuable support to members of our local community. Students assisted seniors with updating their devices, strengthening cybersecurity practices, and addressing a wide range of technology-related questions and concerns. Following a presentation on general computer basics, students met individual with seniors to support all of their individual technology needs. This experience not only helped bridge the digital divide but also allowed our students to apply their skills in a meaningful, service-oriented setting while building positive connections within the community.

Last week, we proudly hosted a Science Symposium that showcased student research and passion projects from our Biology and Honors Biology classes. The event, facilitated by Mr. Amoroso, provided students with an authentic opportunity to present their work, explain scientific concepts, and engage in meaningful academic dialogue. Teachers brought their classes to the IMC, where attending students interacted with presenters, asked thoughtful questions, and explored a wide range of scientific topics. The symposium highlighted student curiosity, critical thinking, and communication skills, while fostering a collaborative learning environment that celebrated inquiry and innovation.

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.

April Washington, Grade 9

April Washington is a talented and dedicated musician at BTHS. She is a member of the marching band, where she plays the tenor saxophone, and also participates in choir, jazz band, and indoor percussion. April’s dream is to pursue a future in law enforcement or the military, where she hopes to serve and make a difference.

April is an absolute pleasure to have in class. She consistently works hard and completes her work on time. April is a positive influence on the class and helps her peers daily. - Mrs. Matthews

Lillian Tarbox, Grade 10

Lillian Tarbox brings positivity, determination, and heart to BTHS. She has a passion for dance and is an active member of the Unified Sports Program, where she embraces teamwork and inclusion. Lillian’s future goal is to become a NICU nurse, driven by her desire to care for and help others.

Advice to other students: “Go for it. Don’t be scared of taking risks, and don’t let anything hold you back.”

Lillian has improved tremendously this month. Her attendance and commitment show that she is ready to put in the time and hard work for success. In addition, her grades are amazing. She is involved at school and a good friend to all who know her. She is kind, respectful, resilient and on the path to success. -Mrs. Walling

Andres Lorenzo, Grade 11

Andy Lorenzo is an involved and motivated leader within the BTHS community. He currently serves as Class President for the Class of 2027, Treasurer of the Mock Trial Team, and Secretary of Student Government. Andy is also a proud member of the National Honor Society, demonstrating his commitment to both leadership and academics.

Advice to other students: “Take risks, try something new, and get involved in your school—you never know what you’ll discover.”

Andy is conscientious and respectful and goes out of his way to help others. - Mrs. Gaydos

Ryan Paramonte, Grade 12

Ryan Paramonte is a dedicated student-athlete and leader at BTHS. He is a member of the varsity swim team, soccer team, and lacrosse team, and proudly serves as captain of the swim team. Ryan represented Brick Township High School at Boys State, is a member of the Italian Honor Society, and participates in Men’s Choir Inferno. After graduation, Ryan plans to attend a four-year university, where he hopes to study criminology or education.

Advice to other students: “Don’t focus on the big picture—focus on the small things. High school goes by fast, and you don’t want to miss the small stuff.”

Ryan, should be recognized for his perseverance , politeness and commitment on everything he does. - Ms. Cardin

The winter sports season is in full swing at BTHS, and our student-athletes continue to represent the school with skill, determination, and pride across all programs.

The Girls Swim Team is enjoying a historic season, heading into the state tournament with an impressive record of 6-1-1 and earning Co-Champions of the Division honors. This marks the first division title in Brick swim history. The boys swim team also made strides last week, earning their first two wins of the season. A special congratulations goes to junior Ava Aguanno, who was named Ocean County Swimmer of the Meet at the Ocean County Championships on January 11. Ava captured first place in the 200 IM while breaking her own school record (2:10.92), placed first in the 100 backstroke (:57.92), and helped set a new school record in the 200 free relay (1:48.33) alongside Sophia Watts, Rusne Sakavickas, and Isabella Braunsdorf.

The Wrestling Team is currently standing strong with an 8-5 record, while Girls Basketball is preparing for a competitive run in the state tournament. Boys Basketball picked up two key wins last week against New Egypt and Lakewood, building positive momentum. Our Cheerleading Team continues to energize the crowd and support our athletes at both boys and girls games.

Congratulations to the Hockey Team, which clinched the Shore South Division title with a 4-2 win over Southern. The victory was made even more special as Brody Acropolis reached the milestone of 100 career points.

Both Bowling Teams are having strong seasons, with the girls holding an 8-5 record and the boys close behind at 5-8. Additionally, the co-ed bowling team proudly represented BTHS while participating in a Veterans Benefit Tournament at Boonton Lanes hosted by Montville High School.

In Winter Track, our athletes continue to break barriers. The girls 4x400 relay and Sprint Medley Relay teams both shattered school records and qualified for New Balance Nationals. The 4x400 posted a time of 4:05.22—currently ranked 7th in the state—while the Sprint Medley ran 4:17.65, breaking the previous school record by seven seconds and earning second place at the Group 3 Relays. On the boys’ side, the Shot Put Relay Team of Solomon Brown and Martin Marlowe captured gold at the Central Jersey Group III Relays.

Congratulations to all of our winter athletes and coaches for their hard work, teamwork, and continued success. Go Dragons!

Students from Mrs. Jones's Public Speaking class were honored at the VFW Post 8867 on January 19, 2026. They submitted recorded essays to the Voice of Democracy contest on the topic "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country." The first place winner was Robert Scott, second place winner was Mohamad Srouji, and third place winner was Nicholas Esteves.

Want to be featured in our school literary magazine?

The Regaler, our school literary magazine, is looking for material for this year's publication. Turn up the volume on your voice this winter and send us a submission! Let your creativity find its rhythm - be sure to send us your poems, art work, and cool photos by Feb. 12 to be published. Join our Google Classroom to attach your work (code shgtudl). Be heard!

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.

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.

The senior class had a successful fundraiser at Burger 25 this month. We will have another Double Good Popcorn fundraiser in March. 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 excited to start preparing for their Junior year of Battle of the Classes, which will be held after school on February 26 from 3:00 to 5:00. Anyone who is interested in participating should listen to the Morning Announcements and pay attention to the Google Classroom for more information on how to sign up for activities. In addition, the same should go for those who are interested in participating in the dance portion of the event. See Mrs. DeBonis (306) or Ms. Scipione (304) or send an email for questions or more information.

This past month, the Class of 2028 focused on preparing for the upcoming Battle of the Classes competition. We met earlier this month and students used that time to collaborate, share ideas, and begin organizing strategies to represent their class with pride and school spirit. As we move forward, excitement continues to build, and the class is eager to participate and make a strong showing in this highly anticipated event. See Ms. Freedley (Rm 217) or Mrs. Rahbari (Rm 411) with any questions.

Throughout January, the freshman class is selling SaveAround coupon books, featuring a variety of local restaurants, services, and entertainment throughout Ocean and Monmouth counties. Each booklet is $25 and can be purchased from a class officer or class advisor.

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, our class will be selling Hugs & Kisses Candy Grams for $2, which will be delivered in school on February 12.

The freshmen are gearing up to compete against the other grade levels at this year’s Battle of the Classes on Thursday, February 26, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. in the East Gym. Students will decorate our bleachers, perform a class dance, and take part in various activities in hopes of a big WIN! Students interested in participating should see a class officer to sign up. 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 Ocean County Vocational Technical Program application will be available for students to apply on Monday, January 5. Current sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are interested in admission for September 2026 should visit the OCVTS Admissions page: https://www.ocvts.org/admissions. Please see your school counselor for more information. OCVTS Open House is Thursday, February 5, from 6:30-8:30pm! Register and find details here. Undecided seniors? Senior Information Session at the Grunin Performing Arts Academy location at 5pm on February 5.

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.

School counselors are meeting with junior students in group sessions to provide guidance on college and career planning, the college admissions process, standardized testing, college essays, letters of recommendation, SCOIR navigation, vocational and technical pathways, military options, and course selection for next year. Junior Workshop

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 administer the PSAT 10 on Wednesday, March 18. The PSAT 10 is for Grade 10 students who pre-register for the test. The registration window will close on Thursday, February 18. After this date, late registrations cannot be accepted. Sign up now! There is no cost to register or take the test. Here is the link for students to sign up. This information is also posted in the Class of 2028 School Counselor Google Classroom (code: 6akw5yi).

OCC will be at BTHS to assist students with the Dual Enrollment Registration process on Wednesday, February 11. OCC DE Registration Steps

Hello Dragons!

With lower temperatures and longer days, families spend more time indoors with heating systems running. It is especially important to be aware of carbon monoxide (CO) safety. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that is produced by fuel burning combustion often used in furnaces, fireplaces, gas stoves, and vehicles that may be left running in a closed garage. To ensure that your families are kept safe it is important to have working carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home and especially near sleeping areas. Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. If your carbon monoxide detectors start alarming or if you suspect exposure, get out of the house immediately into fresh air and call emergency services.

Winter air is much drier due to cold outdoor temperatures and indoor heating. Dry air can irritate nasal passages, throat and skin. Many people see an increase in frequency of nosebleeds and eczema flare ups. Using a cool mist humidifier and regularly using lotion to keep mucous membranes and skin hydrated is one way to help counteract the effects of dry air.

Preventing and managing nosebleeds in the winter can be a challenge. Increased nose blowing accompanied by the dry air makes nosebleeds much more frequent in the winter months. Using petroleum jelly or Aquaphor or saline nose drops just inside the nostrils help keep noses moisturized. Should a nosebleed occur, sit upright and pinch the soft part of the nose. Do not tip your head backwards. Hard nose blowing should be avoided. Should a nosebleed last more than thirty minutes, it is prudent to seek medical attention.

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.

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.

Communication associated with upcoming PTSA Meetings is pushed out to members through the Memberhub platform. 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

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