BCIT Brief
November 2015, Edition #12
Editor: Mrs. Laura Geltch, District Program and Community Coordinator
A Message from your Superintendent
November 2015
Dear BCIT School Community,
On behalf of our Board of Education and the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders, please accept sincere wishes for a Thanksgiving filled with special time with family and friends.
Our staff and students on both campuses are gearing up for Skills USA, meeting as teams, and welcoming new students to this exciting program. Skills USA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together with a mission to empower its members to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible citizens. This committed organization seeks to ensure America has a top-notch skilled workforce. Skills USA serves more than 320,000 high school and college students, and professional members, enrolled in training programs in technical, skilled, and service occupations. Students can compete at the local or state level. State winners go on the national competition in Louisville, Kentucky. Best of luck to our students on both campuses as they prepare to compete in the coming months.
In celebration of National Military Appreciation Month, BCIT students organized a "Support the Troops" donation drive. Personal items are being collected, and will be shipped to military servicemen and women stationed overseas. Thank you to our students and staff for honoring our country's heroes with this worthwhile initiative. And, of course, thank you to our active and retired military personnel for their service to our great nation.
Congratulations to Mr. Paul Morgan of Morgan’s Tire Service in Burlington Township for being recognized as BCIT’s Business Partner of the Year. Mr. Morgan employs a number of BCIT Automotive students and has been a supporter of our schools. Thank you, Mr. Morgan, for your partnership and friendship.
BCIT Medford's Academy for the Performing Arts presents "12 Angry Jurors," with performances on December 11, 12, 17, 18, & 19. Best wishes to the cast and crew! I encourage BCIT School Community members to come out and support the show. Nothing is more rewarding to our students than to perform to a full house.
Thank you for the honor to serve our students and staff.
Superintendent of Schools
A letter from Dr. Nagy, Assistant Superintendent for Special Education, BCSSSD & BCIT
Dear BCIT Community,
Gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving. These are the words of the month for November. We pause to give thanks for the many blessings in our lives, for family, friends, and colleagues, students and military personnel around the world. It is also a time where we remember those among us who are infirmed, and for others, the indelible mark of lost loved ones and students this year and the profound influence they had on our lives. This is true too for the fallen troops whose bravery protected the very freedoms that we many times take for granted. All we have to do is watch the news and see what is happening around the world. We should feel blessed.
Throughout the month, I have been fortunate to visit all campuses and celebrate with students and staff the gift of education, family and opportunities to pay if forward while doing something special for those less fortunate. This is what makes our district so special.
When reading today’s entry of the #1 blogger in the world, author, entrepreneur, marketer and public speaker, Seth Godin, I could not help but be touched by his Thanksgiving Reader, a compilation of various writings on gratitude. One selection captured my attention and highlighted the essence of the season as seen through the eyes of contributor, Melody Beattie:
Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.
It turns what we have into enough, and more.
It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity.
It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into
a friend. It turns problems into gifts, failures into successes, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events.
It can turn an existence into a real life, and disconnected situations into important and beneficial lessons. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chris Nagy
Assistant Superintendent, Special Education
A letter from the BCIT Adult Education Principal, Patrick Cruet
November 2015
Dear BCIT Community Members,
I remain honored, challenged and excited to be part of BCIT Adult Education. The quality of our personal, business and community lives is continually built on a foundation of solid adult education programs. Continued learning allows us to maximize the opportunities of the ever-changing world around us. Lifelong education is in our collective best interest, and BCIT is here for you today, so that you may reach your goals tomorrow. At BCIT Adult Education, you will find a proud community of enthusiastic learners and a staff comprised of dedicated and caring professionals.
BCIT Adult Education has always been about the future—a fact that was never more true than now. For our adult students to prosper, every student must be prepared to perform well in the classroom, in the shop, in the workforce, and in the community. Experts tell us, the vast majority of future employment opportunities will require some postsecondary education. This being said, BCIT may be the place for you. Check out what BCIT Adult Education has to offer. Registration for adult education has opened for the Spring term, which begins in February. Career Exploration events are held twice each month at our Medford and Westampton campuses in both the AM and the PM. This will give you the opportunity to see our course offerings, visit the trade shops and classrooms, and ask any questions you may have about our programs. Check out our web site for more information about the Career Exploration events.
I wish all of you a very happy and healthy Thanksgiving holiday. It seems like just moments ago, that we opened our doors to begin the school year and here we are at the onset of the holiday season.
Remember, BCIT Adult Education continues to offer many courses each semester, in which students have the opportunity to complete a “Career in a Year” or less, in a majority of our programs!
Sincerely,
Patrick Cruet
BCIT Adult Education Principal
BCIT Adult Education Career Exploration Fairs - FREE!
BCIT/BCSSSD Board of Education Policies & Regulations
The following policies and regulations have been approved by the Board of Education. Please review and reference pertinent policies as applicable.
Policies/RegulationsExhibit #3 (These items are available on the website.)
2nd Reading
5756 Transgender Students
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R8505.01 Nutrition and Feeding Safety Protocols (BCSSSD Only)
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R8505.02 Nutrition and Feeding Questionnaire (BCSSSD Only)
5339 Screening for Dyslexia
R2431.5 Athletic Practice Competition Adm Walk Through Process
R3125.2 Substitute Coverage SOP (BCSSSD Only)
1st Reading
8550 Outstanding Food Service Charges
R3224.1 Evaluation Rubric of Principals, Vice Principals and Assistant Principals Revised
3322/4322 Staff Member’s Use of Cellular Telephones
Program Advisory Dinner, BCIT Medford Campus
BCIT Medford hosted the annual Program Advisory Dinner for BCIT staff, industry professionals, students, and special guests. A delicious meal was prepared and served by our Culinary students and Chefs.
BCIT Business Partner of the Year: Mr. Paul Morgan, Morgan's Tire Service
Special Guest Speaker: Ms. Marie Barry, Director of the NJDoE Dept. of Career Readiness
Applying to BCIT is now a snap with InfoSnap!
Dr. Erin Conti
Coordinator of Admissions & Recruiting
Congratulations to BCIT September Students of the Month!
Grade 9 - Brittany Lojewski
Grade 10 - Ashley Meyers
Grade 11 - Maryssa Hodder
Grade 12 - Sam Mineo
BCIT Westampton Campus
Grade 9 - De Anna Alexander
Grade 10 – Evelyn Anderson
Grade 11 – Amani Lizama- McHarris
Grade 12 – Marissa Banks
Angelina Murtaugh- Student/Athlete
Christopher Jones- Most Improved
Electronics at BCIT, by Danielle Hartman
There is a light in the eyes of BCIT Westampton senior Shaleah Serrano, electronics major, as she floats between two groups of students, identifying parts and clarifying instructions. The novices painstakingly begin the task of building the digital multimeter, a tool these visiting engineering students will employ in their coursework. Every few minutes, Shaleah checks with her apprentices to ensure the progression of the task. The whole class is bathed in the process of learning.
Shaleah loves the project-based aspect of electronics. Her pride is evident as she describes her creations, a.m. radios, robots, and multimeters. Her experience has furnished her with the skills needed to lead ventures such as these, marketable skills that grant graduating students an edge over students from other high schools. Shaleah intends to pursue electrical engineering at Rowan University or the University of Bridgeport come September. Friends from college tout her education as above par, noting that students at BCIT are completing the same assignments as institutions of higher learning.
Not all students pursue electronics after completing their tenure in this course. Classmate Ben Wenger, an aspiring writer, explains that electronics instructor Don Vogel is the reason he enlisted in this course. “I explored pre-engineering, but Mr. Vogel wanted me in his shop. That felt good, to be wanted.” Ben knows he can apply the leadership, presentation, and hands-on skills he learned in electronics to any future endeavors, including creative writing.
Mr. Vogel explains that he often sets up collaborations such as these for his class. It results in deeper learning when students know not only how to apply a tool, but how to build it from the ground up. Since his students pursue a variety of careers post-high school, such as aerospace robotics, electrical engineering, electronics, animatronics, and yes, even creative writing, it makes sense to introduce them to diverse tasks and projects. One thing is certain, students exiting Mr. Vogel’s class will be well equipped for anything they pursue.
Student Spotlight: Izaryah Diggs, BCIT Westampton Senior
I had the distinct pleasure of meeting BCIT senior, Ms. Diggs, a Health Occupations student at BCIT Westampton. Izaryah resides in Willingboro, NJ, with her two sisters; one older, who happens to be a BCIT alumni, graduating from BCIT two years ago, and little sister in third grade. Izaryah's older sister was a Health Ocupations major as well, who is currently studying nursing at Wesley College.
Izaryah plans to study science in college, pursuing either a Physical Therapist or Computer Science degree. Her current schools of interest are Boston University, Princeton University, Rutgers University, University of Delaware, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Clarkson, Seton Hall, St. John’s University, and Howard University. Impressive list for an impressive student!
Anyone who knows Izaryah, knows of her love of soccer. She has played soccer since she was seven. "I love the action and the thrill, team work, adrenalin, and love playing in general! I don’t see myself stopping--wherever I end up in college, I plan to continue playing" said Izarhah. Izaryah was awarded the MVP award for varsity soccer and on the BCSL All Stars all four years of high school. Izarhay went on to explain how Coach Christie inspired her, "she pushed me to be better--I didn’t want to disappoint her—she made me strive to be better. Mr. Lawrence helped me, too. We would stay late after practice, practicing my kicks, and the hard work paid off."
When asked why Izaryah chose BCIT, she commented "BCIT offered more opportunities for me. I can do more with my life as a student. I can work as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) while I’m in college. I would not have that opportunity in my public high school." Academics are clearly a priority for Izaryah, as a National Honors Society student, Student of the Month, receiving the Principal's Honor Roll, and multiple High Honor Roll awards, with a GPA of 3.75. Izaryah's favorite subject is math. Izarhah went on to explain, "my favorite teacher is Mr. Kenney, my English Teacher. He is funny, and we respect him because he works us hard and we learn a lot in a fun atmosphere".
Izaryah encourages middle school students to consider BCIT. "I would tell them to think about what they want to do in their life and follow what you believe in. BCIT offers something for everyone and the teachers here really care, said Izaryah."
Photo below: Izaryah's 100 career points for soccer
-Laura Geltch
Skills USA kick-off meeting at BCIT Westampton
BCPDI Workshop Series
October 16, 2015
Presenter: Dr. Djanna Hill
Click HERE for the BCPDI online Workshop Series Brochure
October 16 BCPDI Training: Grace Dearborn presents "Conscious Classroom Management"
Discovery Night brings in record number of visitors on both campuses!
BCIT's Designer Bag Bingo was a huge success!
About 300 players gathered for a night of bingo, fun and prizes as the BCIT Foundation hosted its fourth sold-out Designer Bag Bingo fundraiser. In addition to 16 authentic Coach and Kors bags, the Foundation gave more than 20 Coach and Visa prizes to random winners. The 50-50 game continued to amaze, with a pot that passed the $2,300 mark. The event raised more than $12,000 to support students and staff with education-based technology and post-secondary scholarships. BCIT Foundation plans a repeat in Spring 2016; watch for details at www.bcit.cc/foundation.
Thanks,
Renee Janowicz
Director, BCIT Foundation
TRIBUTE BRICKS make great Birthday, Holiday and Graduation gifts!
Engraved bricks can mark a memory, honor a loved one, or commemorate a special occasion. They are placed within existing walkways near the front entrances of either Medford or Westampton campus, reflecting the legacy of BCIT.
Bricks can be ordered in two sizes, plus a mini replica to keep at home. Details and the order form on are on the web pages of the BCIT Foundation. Orders placed by December 17, 2015, will be installed after the spring thaw.
Let us know if you'd like a personalized certificate to present for an occasion! Call the BCIT Foundation at (609) 267-4226, ext. 8335.
Thank you for your support,
Director, BCIT Foundation
BCIT Westampton Art on Display: Ms. Polizzi's Fundamentals of Art Class
View art in our district main office (November) and Burlington County Human Services Building, Basement Bistro (December).
12 Angry Jurors
Twelve Angry Jurors
Dec. 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 at 7 p.m.
Friday, Dec 11, 2015, 07:00 PM
BCIT (Burlington County Institite of Technology): Medford Campus, Hawkin Road, Medford, NJ, United States
BCIT Medford Fashion Show
Congratulations BCIT Medford's Kiele Cruse!
BCIT Westampton FCCLA students presentation
Learn more about the FCCLA:
FCCLA' s (Family, Career, Community Leaders of America) mission is to promote growth and leadership development through Family and Consumer Sciences education. Focusing on the multiple roles of family member, wage earner and community leader, members develop skills through life through: character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation.
Parent Focus Group with Superintendent, Dr. Christopher Manno
April 2016 - more information to come.
BCIT Summer Camp 2016
Registration for our 2016 BCIT Summer Camp opens February 1, 2016. Register early! Our camps fill up fast.
Camp dates for Summer 2016:
July 11-15
July 18-22
July 25-29
BCIT Summer Camp Comments
"I love this camp and I am coming back next year!"
"Each day was so great! We made so many different foods and they're all so good, and I remember all the recipes!"
Do you have a story to share?
Our students and staff are unique and truly outstanding Burlington County community members. It would be my pleasure to share student, family, and parent stories with our school's community.
Please contact me if you would like to share your story.
Thank you,
Program & Community Coordinator
BCIT
Burlington County Alternative School hosts Parent/Community Network Events
Financial Aid Information Session
http://bcsssd.k12.nj.us/cms/lib07/NJ01000535/Centricity/Domain/281/BCAS.FinancialAid.SUSAN.pdf
Minding Your Mind: Erasing the Stigma of Mental Health Issues
BCIT 2015-2016 School Calendar
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Parent/Student Tips:
How to create a home for homework:
2ndFloor.org Youth Helpline
In NJ, youth have an anonymous and confidential helpline to call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 1-888-222-2228 to speak with someone who will listen attentively and compassionately to any issues you are facing.
ANY CALL, ANY TIME - we are always here and ready to help.
Emergency Closing/Delayed Opening Procedures:
In the event of a campus emergency or inclement weather, staff members will be contacted via email, phone message, and text message. In addition, we will post a Special Alert Message on our website.
Staff Members, Help us Contact You.
Have you moved? Have you changed your phone number or email address? Please make sure to update your information with BCIT Personnel.
Students will be contacted using information stored in Genesis, our electronic student database. Parents should be reminded to ensure their contact information is up-to-date. Any changes should be reported to the main office of the student's school.