The Dragon Review
January 2023
Principal's Announcement
January 2023
Hello Dragon Nation!
I hope all of our dragon families have had a wonderful start to 2023. At BTHS, we have entered the new year with a renewed sense of focus, energy, and commitment to success. Friday, January 27 marks the end of our first semester and conclusion of marking period two. As a reminder, we will have an early dismissal schedule for students on the following dates: Wednesday, January 25; Thursday, January 26; and Friday, January 27. Students will be dismissed at 11:30 AM on these dates. Semester 1 Final Exams will take place Wednesday, January 25 and Thursday, January 26. Please see the detailed schedule below. Please remember to have your school issued device with you and fully charged on both exam days. Friday, January 27 is the last day of Semester 1 (A day) and will run on a half day schedule for high school students only. Report cards will be available to students and parents through the parent portal on Friday, February 3.
A highlight of this past month was our Drama Club’s fundraiser in the form of a Winter Production of The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon, which was a collaborative staff and student production. Our school’s culture strengthened as staff and students worked together, under Ms. Best’s direction, to put on a wonderfully successful show. Each of the four acts presented a hilarious take on the traditional Brothers Grimm Fairy Tales. As anyone in attendance could attest, this performance was highly entertaining. Special recognition to all of the staff and students who took part in this performance.
I am proud to share that earlier this month we had approximately 40 BTHS seniors pursue their Seal of Biliteracy for their transcript. The Seal of Biliteracy is a NJ Department of Education endorsed commendation for those students who can show proficiency in English and one or more languages. These students sat for an assessment in their target language(s) to determine eligibility and proficiency in Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening. We wish them success!
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
Respectfully,
David Kasyan, Ed.D.
Principal
School News
School News
Hello Dragons!
Here is an update about what has been happening and what we are looking forward to on campus here at BTHS. The fall semester will close out the week of January 23rd with final exams taking place on January 25th & 26th.
The Hockey Team has started the season 12-1-1, as they look to continue to build momentum into the state tournament. This past Friday, the ice hockey team tied Middletown South in a showdown between the 2 top public schools in the Shore Conference. In wrestling, our Girls team had a great showing at this year’s Shore Conference Tournament. Congratulations goes out to Jade Huerta for winning her second consecutive Shore Conference Title as well as Jeyah Tawfik for finishing 2nd and Chelsea Bautista for finishing 4th. Both the Boys and Girls basketball, bowling and swimming programs are continuing to work hard and are improving each week.
Testing for Seal of Biliteracy took place the week of January 9th along with the ASVAB test on January 10, 2023. We had many students test for both assessments and are very proud of their efforts. The BTHS drama winter production, The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon this year also included staff members for the first time! This production took place on January 19, 2023. This was a fantastic performance by both our students and staff. The night was filled with many laughs and outstanding collaboration between our staff and students.
On January 20th BTHS’s Mr. Amoroso and his Marine Biology and Anatomy and Physiology classes presented their Science Symposium. The juniors and seniors will be presenting their semester research projects to all in attendance including Superintendent Dr. Farrell. The students did a phenomenal job with their projects. On February 15th the BTHS and BMHS guidance counselors will be hosting Brick and Beyond at Brick Memorial High School.
AP Computer Science Diversity Award
Brick Township High School has earned the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science A. Schools honored with the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award have expanded girls’ access in AP computer science courses. BTHS was one of 209 school programs recognized across the country with this award. This honor recognizes the outstanding work our school is doing to engage more female students in computer science.
Ocean County Prosecutor's Office visits BTHS
The Ocean County Prosecutor's Office presented to our Ninth and Tenth grade students on the topic of Cyber Security and Internet Safety. The program was facilitated by our school's Anti-Bullying Specialists (ABS), who were in attendance to coordinate and support the presentation with additional information. The ABS for BTHS Ms. Ianniello, Ms. Donahue, and Ms. Roland shared pertinent information regarding their role as Anti-Bullying Specialists. The Brick School District enjoys a positive relationship with the OCPO and understands the importance of schools and the community working collaboratively to positively influence and educate youth.
Brick Township High School Wall of Fame
The Brick Township High School Wall of Fame Committee accepts nominations throughout the year. Nominations for the 2023 class are closed, however, we will be accepting nominations throughout the school year for candidate consideration for future inductions. Click Here for the BTHS Wall of Fame Nomination Form.
Athletics & Co-Curricular Updates
Ice Hockey
Ice Hockey is still on a roll! The team is 12-1 on the year and recently won a huge game vs. divisional rival T.R. East/South to maintain the lead in the South Division.
BTHS Athletics
Follow BTHS Athletics
Twitter: @BTHS_Sports
Instagram: @bths_sports
Wrestling
The Girls’ Shore Conference Wrestling Championships were held this past weekend! Congrats to the Brick Girls Wrestling Team today finishing 5th at the Shore Conference Tournament! Jade Huerta 1st at 165 (repeat champ), Jeyah Tawfik 2nd at 120, Chelsea Bautista 4th at 107, Liz Avila competed at 100!
Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
BTHS Spirit
Dragon Pride!
NAGWS Award
Congratulations to Rian Stainton for being selected as Brick Township High School's NAGWS Award recipient! We are so proud of you! You are an outstanding representative of BTHS!
BTHS Spirit
Dragon Pride!
Pritchet Continues to Shine
Congratulations to senior Mallory Pritchet who was selected to the New Jersey Allstate Symphonic Band. Mallory is the first student to be selected from Brick Township High School since 1995. Mallory will be performing with the Allstate Symphonic Band on February 25th and 26th at the Atlantic City Convention Center and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, in Newark.
Surf Club News
The Surf Club has reopened our store to buy apparel one more time before this upcoming Spring season. Click the link to enter the store: https://bthssurfclub.itemorder.com/shop/home/. We are currently running a clothing drive which is set to take place on March 4th in the BTHS East Parking Lot. For information on what is being accepted at this clothing drive follow @bths_surfclub on instagram for flyers and updates on current and future events we will be running.
The Regaler - BTHS Literary Magazine
Instructional Spotlight
Public Speaking Course - Voice of Democracy
Students in Mrs. Jones's Public Speaking class participated in the VFW's Voice of Democracy audio/essay contest in response to the topic "Why Is the Veteran Important?" On January 16, the first, second, and third place winners were awarded at the VFW post in Brick. Congratulations to the following students: Vincent Lambusta, 3rd place; Isabella Campione, 2nd place; and Anthony Zarrilli, 1st place.
Computer Science Course Offerings
Can you imagine the last couple of years without technology?
This is a technology driven world and in order to be successful in college and in the workplace (no matter what career) you can’t just be users of technology, you must be creators of it. Computer Science skills are the new basic skill. Every field has been taken over by software and programming is a valuable skill for any career. There are over 7 million jobs that are non-technical, that now require complex computer Science skills. College students majoring in any of the Sciences, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), and many other majors, will be required to take a programming class in college. Students will be at a disadvantage if they have not had a computer programming course in high school.
Computer Science is one of the hottest degrees for new college graduates with almost 650,000 jobs going unfilled nationwide. New Computer Science jobs are growing at twice the rate of all other jobs. The Bureau of Labor reports that the median salary in May 2022 was over $108,000 – twice the median salary for all other occupations. Student course scheduling for next year will start soon. BTHS is ahead of the curve and offers 5 Computer Science courses. Don’t delay – schedule a course for next year!
Courses offered at BTHS include Java: Computer Programming, Exploring Computer Science, Computer Programming for Engineers, AP Computer Science, and Additional Topics in Computer Programming. If you are interested in any of the courses listed, please do not hesitate to discuss with your counselor to make a plan as there are prerequisites for enrollment to the advanced computer science courses. For more information, please contact Mrs. Segreto – csegreto@brickschools.org.
Principal's Book Club
The Classics with Kasyan Book Club will continue with our next selection, A List of Cages by Robin Roe. We will spend the next three month's reading this novel, breaking the novel into three sessions.
The meeting to discuss the first third of the book, which entails chapters one through twenty-four of A List of Cages will take place after school on Tuesday, January 31 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 A List of Cages and start reading. There will be an open dialogue and discussion of the first third of the book 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 A List of Cages, 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 Tuesday, January 31. Start Reading!
Students of the Month
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.
Jonathan Clavijo, Grade 9
Jon started off the semester with very little interest or effort in his artwork. He has come so far--always engaged and completing his assignments, showing so much improvement. He is also busy creating shelves for the art display cabinet in the West foyer in his woodworking class. - Mrs. Pavao
Kyle DeTata, Grade 10
Kyle is a wonderful young man. He is mature, polite, respectful and kind to both his classmates and his teachers. Kyle always has a positive attitude and has gone out of his way to help his classmates with difficult math problems. He will walk around the classroom and help anyone in need. I am so proud of all Kyle has achieved this year in Geometry. He is an all star student and an all around all star person! - Mrs. Christiani
Dylan Kiarulff, Grade 11
I have watched Dylan grow over the last three years. He started out in my World History class as a shy 9th grader and has grown into a more confident participant in class discussions and activities. Dylan offers ideas and insight to class topics and discussions. Dylan works well with others and is always respectful to everyone in the classroom. It has been a pleasure watching Dylan grow and mature these last three years. With his awesome personality and work ethic he has a great future ahead of him. - Mrs. Mount
Ever Godoy Elvir, Grade 12
Ever transferred into my class and does exceptional work. He goes above and beyond to help and helps with many special projects. He is a very respectful young man. - Mr. Lynch
Dragon of the Month
Mr. Matthew Opacity
Nominated by BTHS Staff
Staff Member of the Month
Mr. Christopher Capone
Nominated by Students
Dragon Spotlight
Staff Member of the Month - Mr. Capone
Student Government
BTHS Student Government
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.
Planning has begun for this year's epic annual Battle of the Classes 2023. Mark your calendars, because this year's competition among the classes will take place on Thursday, March 2nd in the East Gym. Students who wish to join the battle should see their class advisors.
Class of 2023
The Class of 2023 is gearing up for another fundraiser in the month of February. Back by popular demand, we will be selling Double Good popcorn through our virtual store February 6-10th. Keep up with the Google Classroom to get the virtual code. Top sellers will gain incentives toward a free Senior Ball bid! We are also looking forward to the Battle of the Classes and will be having an interest meeting in room 202 on February 15th right after school. See Mrs. DeBonis (306) or Ms. Scipione (202) with any questions!
Class of 2024
The Class of 2024 is finalizing fundraisers for the spring months and will be looking forward to our Junior Prom on May 5, 2023 at Jumping Brook Country Club! The Class of 2024 would like everyone to stay informed on upcoming events by joining our Google Classroom with code ozvfp3p.
Class of 2025
The Class of 2025 has been recently planning some upcoming events for the remainder of the year including: Dragon Cupid Hunt for February, Dragon Leprechaun Hunt for March, 2nd Annual Yard Games Fundraiser for the Spring, Student/Staff Volleyball Game for the Spring, and so much more. We are also excited to be prepping for and participating in Battle of the Classes this year. We plan on giving a little bit of time to let the Class of 2025 finish up their finals for the first semester and settle into the second semester before hitting the ground running with the above mentioned activities.
Class of 2026
The Class of 2026 store is open again just in time to get your merchandise to represent the class of 2026 in Battle of the Classes. https://bthsclass2026battleoftheclasses.itemorder.com/shop/home/. We look forward to all of the freshmen participating to show class pride and school spirit. Our next fundraiser will be during the month of March. Check our Google Classroom for more information. We look forward to the continued participation from our freshmen class and more successful fundraisers to come. Instagram: @bths_classof2026 Twitter: @bthsclassof2026 Google Classroom: lf4subd
Stay In the Know
Guidance Department
Updates from the School Counseling Department
- OCC Dual Enrollment Course Registration - If you plan to take a Dual Enrollment course for Semester 2, Ocean County College will be at BTHS on February 10th to assist with online registration.
- School Counselors will be meeting with the freshmen class to register for our college and career planning platform, SCOIR and to review graduation requirements and the course selection process for the 2023-2024 school year. They will also be introduced to the Program of Studies.
- The counseling department hosted Sharon Noble, Adult Admissions Representative from OCVTS, for 12th grade students who are considering vocational school options after graduation.
- The Ocean County Vocational Technical Program application is available for current sophomores and juniors; https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQiX21zTSM-7mHk-HhiNxFFRBFOd2NKCHGEXuGI0WDRRVIRA/viewform. Seniors interested in applying for a post secondary program should go to the website; https://www.ocvts.org/admissions. Please see your school counselor for more information.
- Brick & Beyond will be hosted at Brick Memorial High School in the Gymnasium on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 from 5pm-7pm. There will be information on high school programs as well as a postsecondary opportunities. More information and details will be provided in the coming weeks.
- The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office presented to the freshmen and sophomore Health and Physical Education classes. The program focused on Cyber Security and Internet Safety, and provided an opportunity for Lauren Ianniello, Kaitlyn Donahue and Lori Roland to discuss the roles of Anti-Bullying Specialists in the building.
2023-2024 School Year Scheduling
- Your first semester teachers are presently entering their recommendations into the parent portal so you will start to see those in the scheduling tab of Parent Portal.
- Once all of the first semester teacher recommendations are in, our School Counselors will start meeting with each student starting in early February.
- We will be opening the Parent Portal request window on February 8th.
- You can click here for a tutorial on how to enter your courses in the parent portal.
- Guidance counselors will also be visiting students in the Class or 2024, 2025, and 2026 to provide an additional overview of the scheduling process.
- In mid-March the second semester teachers will be finalizing their recommendations. This will be your time to review those recommendations and double check with your school counselor to make sure everything in the parent portal is correct.
- Scheduling is a collaborative process between the student, teachers, counselor, and parents/guardians. It is imperative that we work together to ensure the most appropriate placement. In order to help you in this process please start reviewing our program of studies which is listed under the Brick Memorial home page in the School Resources tab.
School Based Youth Service Program
It has been identified that the top three reasons for a referral this school year have been based on anxiety, depression, and a desire for additional supports within the school. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our School Based staff with a request for assistance.
School Based has supported approximately half of the Freshman class through the SBYSP Peer Leadership program. All Freshman will have an opportunity to participate in the Peer Leadership program by the end of the year. Note that after school on Wednesday, January 25th SBYSP will host its 5th monthly Wellness Workshop in the Reset Room located in the IMC. This workshop is open to all staff and students.
Health Office Message
Hello BTHS Community!
We are currently performing health screenings for 9th and 11th grade, which includes Scoliosis screening. Scoliosis screening is mandated by the state of New Jersey for students ages 10 through 18 years old biannually. Scoliosis is considered a deformity of the spine. A spine with Scoliosis takes on a curve that resembles the letter C or S, normally the spine looks like a letter I. The goal of Scoliosis screening by the school nurse is to detect if there is a potential deformity that may need further evaluation. If your child receives a referral for Scoliosis it just means that they need to follow up with their doctor or orthopedist for further evaluation. Catching and managing Scoliosis early will usually prevent it from progressing to an extreme deformity.
January is ‘Teen Driving Awareness Month’ and there is no better time to discuss such an important topic regarding the health and safety of our teenage children when they are behind the wheel, especially when driving on the roads can be even a little more treacherous during the harsh winter months of January and February. One of the most integral aspects in keeping your child safe starts way before you hand them the keys, as the importance of parental guidance in setting the ground rules for your young driver and in knowing NJ’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program can not be overstated. Remember, familiarizing yourself with the restrictions placed on your teen's license can better assist you in enforcing those laws.
As always if you have any questions or concerns regarding your student’s health while in school or overall, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Wishing you a healthy winter season.
A few friendly reminders from the BTHS Health Office:
- 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.
- Notification: If you suspect that your child has been exposed to COVID-19, please contact Mrs. Carlsson or Mrs. Yarbrough in the health office.
Health Office Contact
West Nurse Office - Mary Carlsson Ext. 2037
East Nurse Office - Tammy Yarbrough Ext. 2009
Join the BTHS - Parent Teacher Student Association
The BTHS Parent Teacher Student Association is accepting membership for the 2022-2023 school year. Please consider joining the Brick Township High School PTSA.
Order Your Yearbook Today
Brick Township High School
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
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
Website: www.brickschools.org
Location: 346 Chambersbridge Road, Brick Township, NJ, USA
Phone: 732-785-3000
Twitter: @BTHSDragons