GCIT Weekly Newsletter

I would like to share an important update with our school community. I have been informed by the Superintendent that my contract will not be renewed for the 2026–2027 school year. As a result, I will conclude my service as Principal of GCIT on June 30, 2026.

I was told that the reason for my non-renewal is “performance.” After 24 years in education, including 15 years as an administrator, it is difficult to believe that after more than two decades of exemplary performance, I somehow became ineffective overnight. For 22 of my 24 years in education, I received exemplary evaluations; only my last two years at GCIT were different. While I respectfully disagree with this characterization, I remain proud of the work we have accomplished together as a school community.

Over the past two years, I have faced challenges that included serious concerns regarding due process, fairness, and professional treatment. Despite this, I remained steadfast in my commitment to our students, staff, and families—because leadership is not tested when things are easy. Leadership is tested when adversity demands resilience.

Throughout my 3 years at GCIT, I have received countless emails, cards, and messages from students, staff, and parents expressing appreciation, encouragement, and support. Those messages have meant more than I can fully express. They are a powerful reminder that leadership is not measured solely by paperwork or narratives—it is measured by impact, relationships, trust, and the lives we touch every day.

Serving as Principal of GCIT has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. I want to sincerely thank our entire school community for giving me three of the best years of my life. I will carry with me every memory of our students, every meaningful conversation with parents, and every interaction with our dedicated staff. Because of your commitment to GCIT, you made my work not only possible, but deeply fulfilling—and for that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Together, we have worked to make GCIT the best high school in the county—a place where students are challenged, supported, and prepared for their future. That success is a direct reflection of the passion, talent, and dedication of this community.

I am deeply grateful for your partnership, your trust, and your unwavering support. While my time at GCIT is coming to a close, my commitment to educational leadership and to helping students reach their full potential remains as strong as ever.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you.

Our GCIT seniors came together for a joyful and meaningful Career and College Decision Day, celebrating the exciting paths they will take after graduation. Dressed proudly in their college and career gear, students shared their plans, took photos with classmates, and embraced this special milestone together.

The energy in the room was filled with pride, excitement, and anticipation for what lies ahead. Seniors had the opportunity to connect with one another, reflect on their journeys, and celebrate the many accomplishments that have brought them to this moment.

A special thank you to our School-Based Youth Services team for providing snacks and helping make the event even more enjoyable for our students. We would also like to extend a huge thank you to Mr. Bates for assisting Dr. Girard in planning this wonderful celebration for our seniors. It was also wonderful to see teachers, counselors, and administrators joining in to support and congratulate our seniors, offering encouragement and well wishes for their future endeavors.

We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026 and all they have achieved. We look forward to seeing the many ways they will continue to grow, lead, and succeed beyond GCIT.

Congratulations, seniors—your future is bright!

Below is a list of events for the next few weeks of school! Please review this list and make sure you are aware and prepared for the upcoming events.

Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 6:00pm – Senior Awards Ceremony

• West Gymnasium – Students will be notified individually if they are receiving an award. Only students receiving awards are to attend the award ceremony.

Friday, May 29, 2026, Pre-Prom Assembly – West Gymnasium

• All seniors are required to attend the Pre-Prom assembly at 8:15am. If you do not attend, you will not be permitted to attend the Prom.

Friday, May 29, 2026, at 7:00pm – 11:00pm - Senior Prom

• Location – The Grove at Centerton, 1022 Almond Rd, Pittsgrove, NJ

Tuesday, June 2, 2026 – FAFSA sign off form and ALL Senior Exit information is due

• Emails have been sent to parents to complete this paperwork. Please contact your school counselor if you have any questions. This is a New Jersey High School Graduation requirement.

Sunday, June 7, 2026, through Thursday, June 11, 2026 – Senior Trip – Disney World

• If you are a senior and you do not attend the senior trip, you are required to attend school.

Thursday, June 12, 2026, and Monday, June 15, 2026, 8:30am – 2:00pm – Senior laptop return

• Please bring your laptop and charger to return. More directions for your laptop return will be sent later.

Monday, June 15, 2026 – 8:30am – 10:00am - Cap, Gown and Graduation Ticket distribution

• 400 Cafeteria

Mandatory Graduation Practice 8:30am to 11:00am each day

• Tuesday, June 16, 2026 - GCIT campus – all students report to the 400 cafeteria
• Wednesday, June 17, 2026 - RCSJ campus – all students report to the Quad
• Thursday, June 18, 2026 - RCSJ campus - all students report to the Quad

Graduation Ceremony – Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 6:00 pm

• The ceremony will be held at Rowan College South Jersey (RCSJ) on the Quad outside of the Eugene J. McCaffrey College Center https://www.rcsj.edu/Visit-site/Gloucester-site/Documents/RCSJ_Gloucester-Campus-Map.pdf
• Students must report to Rowan College South Jersey (RCSJ) in the Education and Humanities Center no later than 5:00pm
• Each student will be issued 6 tickets for the ceremony.
• Any guests requiring special seating accommodations should contact the school by email kcarelli@gcecnj.org or by phone at 856-468-1445, ext. 2519.
• In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held in the RCSJ Gymnasium. Only 2 INDOOR tickets per graduate will be issued.
• Guests who are unable to attend will be able to log in and watch the ceremony live via the internet. The log on site will be emailed closer to the graduation date.

Mr. Peifer’s college level PE class recently had the opportunity to host two guest instructors focused on health, wellness, and lifelong fitness. On Monday, Emily from Club Pilates led students through a Pilates workout, and on Wednesday, Krista from Laughing Buddha Hot Yoga led students through a yoga and mindfulness practices.

Mr. Peifer also invited Ms. Lindsey’s PE classes and Mrs. Stahl’s dancers to participate in the sessions. Students were able to experience different styles of exercise and wellness activities that they can continue long after high school. The goal of these experiences is to expose students to the different ways they can stay active while also supporting both their physical and mental wellbeing. By introducing students to alternative fitness options available in their communities, the classes helped encourage healthy lifestyle habits that can last a lifetime.

Written by Ms. Lindsey

On Saturday, May 9th, Senior Digital Media student Rae Courtright had the opportunity to shadow Video Production Teacher, Ms. Vasapollo during 93.3 WMMR's annual MMRBQ Concert event at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion.

Ms. Vasapollo works with Beasley Media Group, parent company of WMMR, as a Remote Audio Engineer on live radio broadcasts that take place outside of the studio. During her visit, Rae got a behind the scenes tour of how a remote broadcast is set-up, ran, and monitored. She had the opportunity to sit behind the audio board to hear what the on-air talent, producers, and engineers experience during the broadcast. Rae will be attending Rowan University this Fall and plans to obtain her B.A in Radio, TV, and Film.

Written by Lisa Vasapollo

The students of our sophomore Computer Science Academy recently traded keyboards for shopping carts during an exciting educational trip to Micro Center. Working in teams, students explored the world of custom-built computers by designing complete PC systems tailored to specific needs and budgets.

Each group was challenged to create either a budget-friendly student PC, a high-performance gaming rig, or a powerful video editing workstation, all while staying under a strict spending limit. Students researched processors, graphics cards, RAM, storage, cooling systems, and peripherals to build the best possible setup without breaking the bank.

The experience gave students hands-on exposure to real-world computer hardware, budgeting, and problem-solving skills while demonstrating how technology choices impact performance for different users. From balancing price-to-performance ratios to debating NVIDIA versus AMD like seasoned tech analysts, our students embraced the challenge with creativity and enthusiasm.

Written by Dr. Campbell

The juniors of our Computer Science Academy recently stepped into the world of digital investigations during an eye-opening visit to the Philadelphia Cyber Forensics Lab. Students explored how technology and law intersect as they learned about the role of cyber investigators in solving crimes and recovering digital evidence.

One of the highlights of the trip was learning about the process of reverse engineering cell phones to recover deleted data. Students were introduced to the specialized tools and techniques forensic analysts use to extract information from damaged or locked devices during criminal investigations.

Written by Mr. Favat

The FCCLA Awards Ceremony was a wonderful celebration of our students’ hard work, dedication, and accomplishments throughout the year. Students were recognized for their outstanding performances both locally and at the State FCCLA competitions. We also proudly honored the students who qualified to compete at the National FCCLA Competition in Washington, D.C. this July, where they received their official FCCLA red jackets in recognition of this incredible achievement. The senior members of FCCLA were also given their graduation cords and recognized during the ceremony.

A special thank you goes out to our dedicated FCCLA advisors — Chef Mizia, Chef Oberfrank, Chef Clark, Chef Yost, Mrs. Arnold, Mrs. Sima, Mr. Hill, Chef Tatarglia, Chef Johnson, and Chef

Viscusi-Trotter— for their guidance, encouragement, and commitment to student success. We also extend our immense gratitude to the parents and families whose continued support helps make these opportunities possible for our students. Thanks to Mr. Bates for his assistance during the awards ceremony.

Congratulations to all of our FCCLA members on an outstanding year!

These students held an A average for four years in Fitness for life. They participate in an organized sport/athletic activity for GCIT or in their community. They also received 2 teacher recommendations to be accepted.

During the breakfast each student wrote a thank you card to their fitness mentor to thank them for inspiring them to live a healthy and active lifestyle!

Let's congratulate these students!

• Hailey Schmidt
• Serena Smith
• Miabella Wilkers
• Ingrid Giannone
• Melanie Steward
• AShlynn Manga
• Nycole Wilson
• Tamara Stweart
• Mayson McIntyre
• Michael White
• Michael Stanwood
• Ian Malgapo
• Brooke Jones
• Evan Libucki
• Ava Herbst
• Lily Fleming
• Margaret Duer
• Riley McShane
• Lauren Beaver
• Marina Hoagland
• Ethan Morris

Written by Ms. Rhea

This has been a very busy week for School Based Youth Services. We started off with supporting our student ambassadors of Morgan's Message at the softball game on Monday. You did a great job and the support was amazing. May is Mental Health Awareness month so get out there and show your support!

On Thursday we had two big trips. One heading to DC and the other to the Cape May Zoo. The DC trip was stellar as always. The students did a great job and we walked A TON! Thank you students for being respectful in so many areas and just being the great GCIT students you are. Daniel took some amazing shots, thank you, they look great!

Later that Day Mr. Ruiz and Mrs. Clark took the students to Pride at the Cape May Zoo. Always a great time and our students thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

On May 28th we will be attending Wharton State Park for a nice hike. All are welcome and permission slips are located in the School Based Suite. Thank you for the support and you are always welcome to reach out with any concerns or questions.

Written by Dr. Jacob

This week, we were excited to hold our PTO Executive Board elections and welcome a new team of dedicated parent leaders who will continue to support and strengthen the GCIT community. A strong PTO plays a vital role in bringing together families, staff, and students, and we are grateful for the commitment of those who step forward to serve.

Please join us in congratulating and welcoming our new PTO Executive Board:

• President – Leigha Doran
• Vice President – Tracy Crous
• Communications Officer – Jacqueline Chambers
• Secretary – Danielle Via
• Treasurer – Open

At this time, the Treasurer position remains open. If any staff member or parent is interested in serving in this role, we warmly encourage you to get involved. A background in accounting is preferred, but not required. This is a meaningful opportunity to make a direct impact on our school community. Please reach out to the PTO at 302-249-3555 for more information.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our outgoing Pioneer PTO Executive Board for their dedication and service over the past two years: Danielle D'Aquila, January Teti, Christina Moys, Tarin Hunt, Alicia Thorp, Kathleen Wilson, and Glen Moore. Their time, energy, and unwavering commitment have helped strengthen our school community in countless ways, and their contributions will have a lasting impact on GCIT.

We look forward to the continued partnership between our PTO and school community. When families and schools work together, we create stronger experiences and greater opportunities for our students—and that is something worth celebrating.

Lisa Vasapollo

This person has taken to this position with professionalism, yet a revived vigor and enthusiasm that is felt through the students and within their work. She has taken what has been established for quite some time, and has adapted her own touch and experiences to set up this program to thrive. She has a great attitude, always willing to assist anywhere she can, and is a fantastic addition to our Cheetah family.

Kelsey Bagelmann

This staff member is always incredibly helpful and creative when it comes to lesson planning and activities. If I ever have a question or need an idea for an activity their creativity is second to none when making fun, engaging, and sometimes very silly, ways for the students to approach a topic for our shared prep. It's always a pleasure to work with them and I hope I'll get to again next year with the same course!

This staff member is consistently positive and works hard to meet the needs of each of her students creatively and with enthusiasm. Her dedication to her students shows each day in the passion she pours into crafting unique and engaging lessons. If more of the staff had the vigor and passion of this educator, GCIT, nay, the WORLD, would be a significantly more wonderful place - and have a great fashion sense.

Courtney Colón

Courtney brings genuine kindness to every interaction and thoughtfully listens to all perspectives. As both an artist and dedicated educator, she has infused new life into our program; I haven’t enjoyed teaching this much in a long time. Her impact is felt daily in the culture she helps creates and the inspiration she brings to our students.

Dr. Sybil Girard

This month, I would like to recognize someone who has not been formally acknowledged before. Over the past three years that I have known her, Dr. Girard has been a true role model of effective leadership. She has never missed a week of the school newsletter, consistently highlighting every achievement and milestone across GCIT. Beyond communication, Dr. Girard has been personally present at every school event since I began working here, demonstrating genuine commitment and support. Dr. Girard has created a culture that fosters growth for both staff and students. She approaches every challenge with a calm, thoughtful, and solution-focused mindset, and she is always willing to step in when needed. Through her leadership, students are given opportunities to celebrate not only their achievements but also their cultures. Most importantly, Dr. Girard has built a system where both staff and students feel supported in a family-like environment—one that encourages collaboration, pride, and higher productivity. Her impact on GCIT is felt every day, and her leadership continues to inspire our entire community.

We would like to take a moment to recognize and thank Dr. Girard for everything she does for our school. Her leadership goes far beyond daily responsibilities, she creates an environment where both staff and students feel supported, valued, and inspired to do their best.

Dr. Girard’s dedication, patience, and steady guidance make a lasting difference in our school community. Whether it’s the way she listens, encourages growth, or steps in when support is needed most, her impact does not go unnoticed. She sets the tone for a positive and collaborative culture, and that influences every classroom and every person in our building.

We want to thank Dr. Girard for the countless hours, the thoughtful decisions, and the genuine care she shows each day. It truly means a lot to work in a place led by someone who is so committed to making our school a great place to teach and learn.

Our GCIT community is heartbroken by the recent tragedy affecting one of our families with the loss of their young son. During this incredibly difficult time, we extend our deepest condolences, love, and support to the family.

In the spirit of coming together as a school community, the family has shared an opportunity for those who wish to show their support through a T-shirt fundraiser. While no gesture can ease their loss, this is one way we can come together to show our love and support and remind them that they are not alone.

Please see the flyer below for more information. Thank you, as always, for the compassion and care you continue to show one another.

The Cosmetology Club will be hosting The Mommy-and-Me-Tea Party on Saturday May 16, from 10am to 12pm in the 100 commons at GCIT. Daddy’s and dudes are welcome too! We are expecting special guests ( RUMI and Buzz Lightyear) to come and have a fun dance party. We will also have raffles for 2 American Girl Dolls, a ride on Excavator, and a $100 Shoprite gift card. There will be face painting, braiding, hair tinsel, Glitter gel, coloring, games, and crafts. We will be serving delicious treats too! Fun for all!

All proceeds will go to CHOP Cardiac Center. We are Honoring an alumni student Samantha Martin, who has made fundraising special to the GCIT family. So, bring all the little ones for a day of fun and to contribute to a great cause! For additional information contact Mrs. Mancini ex 2606.

For tickets and information:

GCIT Presents: Mommy and Me Tea Party

Thank you for your support!

Written by Mrs. Mancini

All students and staff are required to wear their GCIT lanyard and ID around their neck every day.

• Students must have their ID visible and on their GCIT lanyard before entering the building.

Wearing your GCIT ID helps ensure the safety and security of our school community. Please make sure to have it with you each day!

We would like to remind all students to follow the GCIT Dress Code Policy every day. Maintaining a respectful and appropriate learning environment helps everyone stay focused and successful.

Please keep the following guidelines in mind when getting ready for school:

• 👖 Bottoms (pants, skirts, shorts) must be fingertip length – be sure to check before leaving home.

• 👚 Stomachs must be covered – crop tops that expose the midriff are not permitted.

• 👕 Shirt straps must be at least two fingers wide – spaghetti straps are not allowed.

• 💤 No pajamas are permitted during the school day.

• No flipflops

📘 For more information, please review the full Dress Code Policy in the Parent/Student Handbook (page 13), available on the GCIT Website.

Let’s work together to make sure GCIT continues to be a professional and welcoming place for all!

• May 16 - Doll and Me Par Tea
• May 19 - 20 - Dance Senior Pieces
• May 22 - 12:15 pm Student Dismissal
• May 25 - School Closed - Memorial Day
• May 26 - GCIT Live
• May 27 - Senior Awards Ceremony: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
• May 29 - 12:15 pm Student Dismissal
• May 29 - Senior Prom at The Grove
• June 2 - Junior Trip to Hersey Park
• June 4 - Drama Academy Awards
• June 6 - SAT
• June 7 - 11 - Senior Trip to Disney in Orlando
• June 16 - 18 12:15 pm Student Dismissal
• June 18 - Last Day for Students (Tentative Graduation Day)
• June 22 - Last Day for Instructional Staff