The Dragon Review

October 2024

I hope this message finds the BTHS community well. The month of October has offered our staff and students an opportunity to settle into established learning routines. BTHS has been busy this past month kicking off the school year with traditions and events. It has been great to see our students engaged in co-curricular activities that contribute to a well-rounded high school experience. Whether it be in a club, sport, or activity, getting involved at Brick Township High School is something we encourage all of our students to experience as part of their four years at BTHS.

BTHS will continue the tradition of holding a Halloween Costume competition on Thursday, October 31. As a reminder, it is imperative that all costumes are school appropriate. Items inclusive of weapons, weapon-like props, or masks completely covering the face are NOT permitted. Please be mindful of extensive face makeup as we need to be able to identify each student present in our building; students may not be unrecognizable. Clothing choices and attire for this day must continue to meet the district dress code standards.

The First Marking period will close on November 12. As we approach the end of our first grading period, I urge all of our students to strive for excellence. Each of these grading periods play an important role in shaping your child’s high school journey. I am grateful for the ongoing support we receive from our parents and caregivers as we work together to promote a level of ownership within each of our students, recognizing the importance of our educational opportunities.

Parent-Teacher Conferences will take place on November 20; 21; and 22. Students will have an early release from school on these days. Parents will sign up electronically for their desired conference through the Parent Portal. The opportunity to schedule a conference through Parent Portal closes on Wednesday, November 6. Note that Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held in-person, with the option of having a virtual conference according to the distributed schedule timeframe. More detailed information regarding Parent-Teacher Conferences was distributed earlier this month through a blackboard broadcast. This information can also be found in this month’s newsletter.

In closing, I would like to emphasize the importance of our students regularly attending school. We will continue to utilize our nudge letter attendance letter this school year to inform students and parents of their attendance progression throughout the school year. Students will receive a notification nudge letter at the end of each month if their daily absenteeism places them on a trajectory of attaining 18 or more absences by the end of the school year. The threshold of 18 absences or 10% of the school year was selected as this is the qualifying number representing chronic absenteeism. It is my hope that together we can assist one another in prioritizing our daily attendance at school so students are able to make the most of their educational journey. Active participation and dedication to our educational experience will set the stage for future success.

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. On Friday, October 4th, the BTHS Varsity Football team hosted and defeated Jackson Liberty for this year’s Homecoming game. The Homecoming Dance was on Saturday, October 5th from 4 pm - 8pm at Brick Township High School. The event was well attended and the students had a great time. Congratulations to Jude Norman and Adriana Buonacore for winning Homecoming King and Queen.

On Wednesday October 9th, the BTHS Auditorium hosted the Strengthening Our Community Event. The event had panelists from the Brick Police, Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, as well as Brick Public Schools personnel speak about Bullying, Drug Trends, and Student Well-Being. On Friday, October 11th BTHS hosted the annual Italian Folk assembly. The event as always was a great time for everybody in attendance and gave the students an insight into Italian/European culture in the areas of music and dance. Red Ribbon Week will start on Wednesday, October 23rd and this year’s theme is “Life is a Movie, Film Drug Free”, on Thursday, October 24th staff and students will wear Red in support of the nationwide initiative. The Seal of Biliteracy information session will be held on October 22nd.

The annual BTHS SGA Halloween Costume Contest will be held on Thursday, October 31st. SAT testing will take place on Saturday, November 2nd and the ASVAB test will be administered on Monday, November 4th both at BTHS. BTHS will be closed on November 7th and 8th for Fall Break. The BTHS Fall Drama Production Clue will take place on Friday, November 15th and Saturday, November 16th. Marking Period 1 will end on November 12th and all BTHS Parents will have the opportunity to schedule a Parent - Teacher Conference on November 20-22nd. BTHS will operate on a ½ day schedule for students on those dates. Parents will be able to schedule evening conferences on Thursday, November 21st.

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:

"It was fun seeing everyone dressed up at the homecoming dance." -Khloe C.

"Fallfest at Windward Beach was so much fun. There were so many

BTHS clubs represented there." -Jade H.

"The choir had a blast performing at the NJPSA convention in Atlantic City. It felt special

to be the only performance." -Alyson M.

"I really like the Teaching Students to Teach class.

The class is interactive and has a homey feeling." -Jaelin W.

"I had fun playing in our annual pink game to help support the fight against breast cancer." -Erica P.

"The senior girls volleyball players are sad to end the season next week." -Bella M

Brick Township High School has earned the Bronze level Sustainable Jersey for Schools Certification! This recognition highlights our school’s dedication to sustainability, environmental education, and creating a healthier learning environment for all. Achieving this certification involved efforts from our entire school community, who worked together on projects like waste reduction, energy conservation, and eco-friendly initiatives. We are proud of this accomplishment and excited to continue building a more sustainable future. Special recognition to our Green Team Advisor, Ms. Godek-Johnson, who led our school community in this recognition process.

BTHS would like to welcome Nurse Amanda Cerracchio to the Dragon school community. Nurse Cerracchio comes to BTHS with a wealth of experiences in public health, case management, and dialysis. Nurse Cerracchio has expressed her excitement to be a school nurse, more specifically assisting high school students to reach their fullest potential by meeting and supporting their health care needs while at BTHS.

Congratulations to the BTHS Voices of Fire Honors Chorus for their outstanding performance at the NJPSA/FEA Fall Conference in Atlantic City! Their dedication and hard work were truly showcased as they captivated the audience with their exceptional talent and professionalism. The entire school community is proud of their achievement and grateful for the way they represented Brick Township High School on such a distinguished stage. This performance reflects not only their musical skill but also their commitment to excellence. Thank you, Voices of Fire, for bringing pride and recognition to our school!

This past month BTHS proudly celebrated and recognized the Week of Respect. There was an activity and focus each day of the week, establishing our commitment to providing a safe and respectful school environment. In support of the Week of Respect, students were engaged in class discussions, participated in the creation of a Respect Mural, and creation of Kindness Shells to be distributed along Brick Beach. Students and staff were also supported through several student and staff created videos focused on the key elements of the Week of Respect. We encourage everyone to embrace empathy, support one another, and celebrate our diversity, creating a safe and positive environment for all. Let's continue to demonstrate respect every day, making BTHS a place where everyone feels valued and heard.

In conjunction with the Week of Respect, all of our Juniors and Seniors attended an assembly by guest speaker, Stephan Hill, where he focused on a message of resiliency, prevention, and education on the negative consequences associated with poor life choices. The assembly emphasized the critical role that school communities play in fostering safe, supportive environments while empowering students to make positive life choices.

BTHS hosted an Italian Folk Dancing troupe from the Eolie Island of Sicily, Italy on Friday, October 11. This has been a tradition at Brick Township High School for many years. Staff and students who attended the Italian Folk Dance performance had a wonderful experience. The performance was highlighted by lively music, singing, colorful costumes, and authentic cultural expressions. It was a fantastic opportunity for students and staff to immerse themselves in Italian heritage.

Makeup pictures for students in Grades 9, 10, and 11 will be on Tuesday, October 29th in Room 120. Any student who missed the original picture day or is not happy with the original pictures can go to Room 120 at the designated time according to the schedule below. Students will not be called down. Staff can go down anytime. Underclass Makeup Schedule

Pictures should be ordered in advance at www.mylifetouch.com, using Picture Day ID EVTKPJ6JQ.

Every student should get their picture taken, even if they do not plan on purchasing pictures.

Seniors who missed their senior portraits over the summer will have the opportunity to sit for them on November 5th & 6th. Those students should report to the Guidance Office to see Ms. Piwowarcyk to schedule an appointment. Seniors who already took their portraits but want to take them again can schedule by calling 1-800-736-4775.

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

The next PTSA Meeting will be held on Thursday, November 14 at 2:00 in Room 23.

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.

The Brick Township High School Wall of Fame Committee is now accepting nominations for the WOF Class of 2025 Induction Ceremony! Please click the link below to complete our updated WOF application.

BRICK TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL WALL OF FAME NOMINATION FORM

BTHS Students of the Month - October

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.

Kushmanda Bhugra, Grade 9

Kush is a very intelligente and vibrante student. She works hard in all of her classes and upholds all the traits we value as Dragons. She is a great peer leader and role model for her peers. - Ms. Velez

Santiago Castaneda Jimenez, Grade 10

This student is very supportive to others, always respectful and genuine. Santiago also takes the time to go the extra mile in all he does. - Ms. LaFragola

Rashaad Dingle, Grade 11

Rashaad has taken the initiative as the Color Guard Commander for AFJROTC. He schedules practice space for his team and prepares a training plan weekly. Rashaad is one of the most polite and respectful students I have ever met. - Glenn Futrell, MSgt (ret), USAF

Janai Shockley, Grade 12

Janai is a pleasure to have in class. She is a very hard worker and active participant in my 4th Block Algebra 2 class. Janai is also very personable, always asking me how my day is going and assisting me in the class with any help I may need. She was an easy choice for my first post card of the year. - Mr. Burns

Fall Sports are winding down and some of the teams are gearing up for the Coaches Cup championships and the NJSIAA playoffs. Football currently has a record of 3-4 after two close, tough recent losses. The team is looking for a win vs. Southern Regional on senior night to potentially propel them into the playoffs. The boys soccer team is 4-11-1 on the season. The boys are currently competing in the Coaches Cup as they gear up for the NJSIAA playoffs. The girls soccer team is closing out their season this week vs. Long Branch. The team is very young and looking to build off of this season. The team participated in their annual “Pink Game” and walked for breast cancer awareness. The volleyball team has been gaining some steam as the season progresses. The team is getting ready to compete in the state playoffs. The Field Hockey team is currently 6-10 and the #4 seed in the Coaches Cup. The team hopes to finish the season strong with a Coaches Cup championship run! Tennis finished their season with a 6-11 record! Nice season for the Lady Dragons. Boys and girls cross country are competing in the championship portion of the season. Kiera McHugh became the Shore A-South Girls Cross Country Champion in the 5k race. The Brick co-op gymnastics team won the A-South division championship with a record of 9-1. The team is preparing for the postseason!

Congratulations to Kiera McHugh, who secured 1st place at the A-South Championships with an impressive time of 19:22 in the 5K race held at Southern Regional High School on October 10! Kiera continued her outstanding performance at the Ocean County Championships on October 15 at Ocean County Park, where she placed 2nd in the Girls Varsity 5K race with a personal record (PR) of 18:47. In addition, Caitlin McHugh and Emily Demott also made remarkable achievements at the Ocean County Championships. Caitlin placed 3rd in the Freshman 2-mile race with a time of 15:23, and Emily finished 9th with a time of 16:49. Fantastic work by all the athletes!

Brannon McBride, one of our senior NHS members, has been selected as NHS Member of the Month for September! Brannon is an excellent member, someone who always steps up to help out, even if last minute. When it comes to events, he is always early and on time. He excels at interacting with other people and he’s never distracted. Demonstrating important life skills, he always makes sure to set reminders for himself and turn in requirements on time. He’s friendly and fun to be around, with a bright personality! We are proud to have Brannon in the National Honor Society at BTHS.

Students from the Teaching Students to Teach course with Ms. Gough-Robinson building relationships and collaborating towards their common goals.This course is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in education. Throughout the course, students create and deliver lesson plans, observe teachers, learn and debate current issues in education, and gain general experience in the field of teaching.

Want to be featured in our school literary magazine?

Join our Regaler Google Classroom to send your poems, artwork, and cool photos to us. (Code: shgtudl)

Even better, join our staff to be a part of it, where we believe in the power of words and pictures to inspire. We are especially seeking interested freshmen this year!

Contact Mr. Doyle, Mrs. Stansbury, or our Editor-in-Chief, sophomore Inara Napolitano, with questions.

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.

The Classics with Kasyan Book Club will kick off the school year with The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd. The meeting to discuss the first half of the book, which entails Chapters 1 -7 of The Secret Life of Bees will take place after school on Monday, November 4 in the library. The meeting will conclude prior to late bus dismissal. All students are welcome to join. Any student looking to participate should grab a copy of The Secret Life of Bees and start reading. There will be an open dialogue and discussion of the first half of the book (Chapters 1 - 7) at our scheduled meeting, reading the book ahead of the meeting will allow you a better opportunity to add to the conversation.

If you would like to borrow a copy of The Secret Life of Bees, please send an email to our district literacy coach, Ms. Monninger at jmonninger@brickschools.org, and one will be provided. I am looking forward to collaborating and connecting with our student body on Monday, November 4. Start Reading!

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.

Currently, SGA is sponsoring a pumpkin painting contest and looking forward to hosting our annual Halloween Costume Contest on Thursday, October 31st.

The Class of 2025 is off to a great start. Our first fundraiser was a tremendous success and more than 10 students have received free prom bids. Students interested in earning a free prom bid should check our Google Classroom frequently for future events. This month the class of 2025 will be participating in Fall Fest and will begin preparing for Powder Puff scheduled for November 21st. We encourage all Senior class members to follow our instagram page for updates, events and Senior activities as well as our Google Classroom page. If anyone has any questions please feel free to contact us; Mr. Pazmino at cpazmino@brickschools.org or Ms. Vélez at mvelez@brickschools.org

The class of 2026 will be playing against the Class of 2025 in the annual Powder Puff football game on November 21st at 3:00. Our next fundraiser will be a dine to donate at Burger 25 in Brick on November 25th. The flyer will be in Google Classroom and on Instagram. If you have any questions, you can see Ms. DePoto in rooms 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

Instagram @bths_classof2026

The Class of 2027 enjoyed Homecoming Week in October, which culminated in the Homecoming Dance! For November, we are focusing on planning some fundraisers for the winter season. Any students with ideas should come see Ms. Scipione (Room 202) or Mrs. DeBonis (Room 306). We will hold a meeting for planning during the month of November, so keep an eye on the Google Classroom.

The Class of 2028 is excited to introduce our officers for the 2024-2025 school year:

President: Vincent Sanfillippo

Vice President: Chase Stansbury

Secretary: Ella Shedlebower

Treasurer: Aiden Tuazon

The freshman had a great time at the Homecoming Dance and we look forward to a fantastic year ahead! 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

The PSAT NMSQT was administered to juniors on October 9th and October 23rd. Scores will be available between November 7th and November 14th. studentscores.collegeboard.org.

Red Ribbon Week occurs yearly in schools across the United States during the month of October between the 23rd through the 31st. This year's theme is "Life is a Movie, Film Drug Free." The Red Ribbon Campaign began in 1985 after the killing of Drug Enforcement Agent Enrique Camarena; angry parents and youths began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness about the killing and the destruction that drugs cause in communities across America. This week is a special opportunity for teachers to guide students in making healthy choices that can impact their entire lives and set a positive tone. Teachers can use the free resources, videos and curriculum from naturalhigh.org to spark reflection and discussion. Students shared their WHY... their reason for choosing to remain drug free. Students and staff were encouraged to wear RED on Thursday, October 24th to show support in promoting the message behind Red Ribbon Week.

Senior meetings with your Counselor are off to a busy start. Please remind your student to see their Counselor to help with future planning and the College Application Process.

Sophomore students are being trained on Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) during the month of October. The course is instructed by RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery. This is an evidence-based training that teaches teens how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in their friends and peers. Teens who participate in tMHFA will receive a certificate of completion for taking the course and a manual to use during the course that they can take home after the last session.

Representatives from Ocean County College visited BTHS on Thursday, September 26th to present to seniors on “College 101”. Students learned about making a smooth transition from high school to college, post-secondary education options, the college search process and an overview of applying to colleges.

Advanced Placement Testing Payments are due to Guidance by November 1, 2024. Students in these courses will test in May 2025.

The military branches have visited BTHS over the past 2 months. Students should check their school counselor google classroom and morning announcements for updates and information. The ASVAB will be administered at BTHS on November 4th for any student interested in the military. Please contact Mrs. Marie Walling at extension 2054 for more information.

The ASVAB test will be offered at BTHS for Juniors and Seniors on November 17 for any student that want to take the test. This test can be used for Military purposes. See link for details. Click Here for LINK

Hello BTHS Community!

Hello BTHS families and staff! Fall has officially arrived and we are entering the beginning of the season for an increase in respiratory viruses, including RSV and Flu! It is recommended that the optimal time to get your flu vaccine is September and October, with the peak of the season usually lasting from December to February. Some of those individuals that are at higher risk for developing complications from contracting the flu include: being over the age of 65, pregnancy, young children, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

It is important to know the difference in symptoms for a common cold versus the flu, which can include a fever or feeling feverish and/or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue (tiredness). While the flu vaccination is recommended by the CDC, we encourage our students, staff and parents to take some preventative actions in an attempt to keep our community healthy. Prevent the spread of germs by avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Clean high touch surfaces and objects, especially when there is someone ill in the home. Wash your hands often with soap and water. In order to prevent contracting any illness it is important to practice healthy habits including: getting plenty of sleep, maintaining a healthy stress level, staying physically active, staying hydrated, maintaining a nutritious diet, and getting adequate sleep (teens should get 8-10 hrs). Most importantly, stay home when you are sick and away from those individuals that are ill.

Please do not hesitate to contact the health office at BTHS if you would like to speak directly with me to review your child’s immunization status. Best Wishes for a happy, healthy & safe school year ahead!

Respectfully,

Nurse Bridget Blunda & Nurse Amanda Cerracchio

West Nurse Office - Ext. 2037 - Nurse Bridget Blunda

East Nurse Office - Ext. 2009 - Nurse Amanda Cerracchio

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. Here is an update on recent events from SBYSP:

• We worked with the guidance office to facilitate lunch tabling for Week of Respect. School Based staff and some of our Peer Leaders worked with the guidance department and had students fill out sticky notes with what they view as respect or how they show respect/kindness. These were displayed on a bulletin board by the guidance office.
• School Based staff provided professional development training to all school staff on Mental Health in the Classroom. The presentation focused on noticing signs/symptoms of mental health concerns in students, effective ways to respond to and support these students, and how to connect them to resources.
• In honor of Red Ribbon Week, School Based staff worked with Ms. Roland, the Student Assistance Coordinator, to have students write about what their "anti-drug" is and these were displayed in the school to showcase ways students combat drug use.
• The School Based Peer Leadership program will hold its first freshman outreach in October. Upperclassmen students who were selected as Peer Leaders will be working with small groups of freshman students during their gym classes to discuss topics related to adjusting to high school and building positive connections.

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