The Dragon Review
October 2023
Principal's Announcement
October 2023
Hello Dragon Nation!
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 Tuesday, 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, we need to be able to identify students present in our building. Clothing choices and attire for this day must continue to meet the district dress code standards.
The First Marking period will close on November 10. 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 received 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 15, November 16, and November 17. 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 Friday, November 3. Note that Parent-Teacher Conferences will be offered virtually, with the option of having an in-person conference according to the distributed schedule timeframe. Parent-Teacher Conference Notification Letter.
In closing, I would like to emphasize the importance of our students regularly attending school. This school year, we are utilizing a nudge attendance letter 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
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 Homecoming Dance on September 30 was a great event. Many students and staff were there to celebrate the beginning of the new school year. Congratulations go out to Ivan Cintron and Kiley Groschel for being elected Homecoming King and Queen. The Not Even Once Program presentations took place last month in the IMC. The program was a huge hit with staff and students. Student leadership and self confidence were highlighted during this event. Also, the Italian Folk Group Presentation took place on Friday, October 6 in the auditorium. This was an entertaining event that celebrated aspects of Italian culture with music, and dancing.
The fall NJGPA was administered on October 10 - October 13. The PSAT was administered on Wednesday, October 18, which had a large number of students participate in taking the exam. Progress Reports were released on Parent Portal on October 13. Taking a look ahead, BTHS Challenge Day will be Tuesday, October 24. The Ocean County College HyFlex program presentation will be Thursday, October 26. This is a great opportunity for students to earn college credit towards their degrees. The annual SGA Halloween Costume Contest will be held on Tuesday, October 31, students will need a pass from their teacher to participate. The first marking period will end on November 10. The annual BTHS Powder Puff Game will be held on Thursday, November 16.
October Highlights - Student Voice
"A highlight of this month was my class trip to the Grounds for Sculpture." ~ Marlen
"The band won Regional Championships and got promoted to Open Class!" ~ Hayden
"I like the cafeteria renovations." ~ Brianna
"The energy and excitement at the Brick vs. Brick game was great." ~ Hannah
"The field trip at the Grounds for Sculpture. It was enjoyable to photograph." ~ Vanessa
"A highlight for me this month was getting my Senior portrait." ~ Ana
BTHS Students - OCC Credits - HyFlex Course Availability
Attending parents and students learned about the HyFlex Program, the HyFlex Courses that the high schools will be offering, the benefits of enrolling in a HyFlex class, the cost, eligibility criteria and how to sign up for a class. Representatives from both Brick Township High School and Ocean County College were available to answer questions. This is a great opportunity for your high school students to excel academically and prepare for their future. We are happy to provide access to the evening's presentation. HyFlex Program Information Session. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child's counselor.
Dragon Post - Postcards
Challenge Day Event
Week of Respect
Beginning with the first Monday in October of each year, schools across the United States observe The Week of Respect. The week affords an opportunity for districts and schools to focus instructional efforts and programs geared toward the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) as they work toward creating environments that are welcoming and supportive places for all to learn. This year, the ABS Specialists collaborated with Darla Novick and her students who painted seashells with positive messages and words of encouragement and inspiration. The students then took the shells to Brick Beach for people to "find" them to instill a sense of kindness within our community.
School Pictures - Makeup Information for All Students
Makeup Senior Portraits will be November 7th & 8th in room 225. Students who already had their portraits taken but are not happy with them, must schedule a makeup session by calling 1-800-736-4775.
Students who have not yet taken any senior portraits can schedule their session by going to www.prestigeportraits.com and searching the city and state, then selecting Brick Township High School, and then typing in their name and selecting an appointment day and time.
Makeup pictures for underclass students will be November 14th in room 225. Students will not be called down, and can go at their designated time according to this schedule. Pictures should be ordered in advance at www.mylifetouch.com. Use Picture Day ID EVT8Z8WPC.
Every student should get their portraits taken, even if they do not plan on purchasing them. Email jpiwowarczyk@brickschools.org with any questions.
Yearbook Information
Attention Brick Township High School - Yearbooks are on sale Now!
See the graphic below for ordering information.
Click Here to Order your BTHS Yearbook
Senior Parents
The back of the yearbook is dedicated to Senior Recognition Ads, where you can create a personal message to celebrate your senior and add pictures. Click here to purchase and design an ad! Save $10 when you order before December 1st.
Stockings for Soldiers
The Mayor's Student Advisory has kicked off its annual 'Stockings for Soldiers" drive. Attached is a list of items that we are collecting to help support the efforts of our local American Legion. (LINK) All items can be dropped off in the box found in the main office no later than Wednesday, November 8th. Contributing to this cause will help to fill Stockings for Soldiers and show our appreciation and support for our soldiers and K-9s. Thank you!
Join the BTHS - Parent Teacher Student Association
The BTHS Parent Teacher Student Association is accepting membership for the 2023-2024 school year. Please consider joining the Brick Township High School PTSA.
Students of the Month
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.
Jhon Yllahuaman, Grade 9
Jhon has achieved very good grades and is an exceptional athlete on the soccer team, In Environmental Science Jhon seeks to work with me one on one a lot in class on assignments and projects. - Mr. Lynch
Ryan Miller, Grade 10
Ryan is just a great young man, who at all times is doing the right thing. Whether it is being prepared for class, participating in class, or helping other students as well as teachers. Above all Ryan is a respectful young man and deserves to be recognized! - Mr. Smyth
Amanda Santos, Grade 11
Amanda is always prepared for PE and always demonstrates good sportsmanship. - Mr. Groschel
Connor Locklin, Grade 12
Connor is a young man that is very unassuming and could easily be overlooked because of his quiet nature. He has been polite, kind and helpful to his peers and adults in school. Connor took the lead in several group activities the first week of school, and offered to do things for the classroom on his own time. He has been patient and eager to assist with some of the MD students in our class. Connor is a shining example of what we strive to have our students be and exudes integrity, respect, and acceptance. - Mrs. Novick
I would like to nominate Connor, because he has shown me in this short period of time what compassion and kindness really means. He is a perfect Dragon role model in school and out in the community. - Mrs. Casha
Dragon of the Month
Mrs. Courtney Gough-Robinson
Nominated by BTHS Staff
Staff Member of the Month
Mrs. Alayna Rahbari
Nominated by Students
Dragon Spotlight
Staff Member of the Month - Mrs. Alayna Rahbari
Athletics & Co-Curricular Updates
The Fall Sports season is coming to an end. All teams have competed and played hard throughout the season. The Brick Township High School Athletic Department is proud of the effort that all of our student athletes have put forward this Fall. The Varsity Football team ended regular season play against cross town rival Brick Memorial. The game was well attended. BTHS couldn't be prouder of the performance on the field. The team now has to look forward to their NJSIAA consolation game against Steinert High School School.
The Varsity Girls Soccer team held their Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Game on October 19 against Red Bank Regional High School. The Girls won 3-2 in an overtime victory where Senior Goalkeeper, Trinity Maloney, recorded her 500th Career Save. Boys and Girls Soccer both made the NJSIAA playoffs and will travel to play their round one game this week!
The Girls Volleyball program also had an individual celebrate a career milestone. Clair Ashe reached her 100th Career Kill this past month, congratulations Clair! Girls Volleyball made the NJSIAA playoffs and once again, they drew rival Brick Memorial in the first round!
Good luck to all the Cross Country runners this week at the Future 7 race on Thursday and State Sectionals on Saturday! Congrats to K McHugh on her personal best time of 19:49 at Shore Conference placing 28 in the girls Varsity Cross Country 5K race
The BTHS Marching Band hosted their annual Dragon Music Fest on October 6 at Veterans Memorial Middle School. The event had great participation and was a huge success for the program. On Sunday, October 22, the Marching Dragons competed in their Region Championships against 10 other marching bands. This championship event is the culmination of all their hard work, dedication, and love of the performing arts, and an annual event that is very important to the students and their families. BTHS is proud to announce that the BTHS Marching Dragons earned the title of 2023 Region Champions! In addition to this achievement, the band scored well enough to be promoted from their current classification of 2-A to 2-Open for the 2024 season. In short, they demonstrated abilities characteristic of the circuit's more competitive class, and have earned a promotion to compete in that class next season. There's still one more chance to catch the Marching Dragons locally. Saturday October 28, the Marching Dragons will compete in State Championships at Toms River East High School. They go on at 1:00 pm and their award ceremony is at 2:30 pm.
Instructional Spotlight
Congratulations - CyberStart America Challenge Qualifier!
Thuat “Tommy” Tran is a junior who qualified as a scholar during last year’s CyberStart America
Challenge, which is a national online Cyber Security challenge open to all high school students. The students who qualified as scholars were all awarded a scholarship for the Global Information Assurance Certification program (GIAC), which was a $3,000 value. Tommy completed the program over the summer and passed the test to earn certification in GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies. Tommy is currently continuing his computer science studies in Mrs. Segreto’s AP Computer Science course and he is an active member of the BTHS Computer Club. Congratulations to Tommy on a job well done!
Harry Potter, History, & Literary Criticism Course
Principal's Book Club
The Classics with Kasyan Book Club will continue with Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer. The meeting will focus on the second third of the book, which includes Chapters 8 - 14. The meeting will take place after school on Tuesday, November 28 in the library and will conclude prior to late bus dismissal. All students are welcome to join. Any student looking to participate should grab a copy of Into the Wild and start reading. There will be an open dialogue and discussion of the second third of the book (Chapters 8 - 14) 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 Into the Wild, 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, November 28. Start Reading!
School Literary Magazine - The Regaler
Want to be featured in our school lit mag? Join our Google Classroom for The Regaler (code = shgtudl) to send your poems, doodles, and cool photos to us. 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, senior Emily Kozemchak, with questions.
Extra Help Opportunity After School During Block 5
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.
This month SGA is sponsoring a PINK spirit day on Monday, October 30th, a pumpkin painting contest for classes, clubs, and teams, and our annual Halloween Costume Contest on Tuesday, October 31st. Additionally, SGA will once again be sponsoring a booth at Brick Recreation's Fallfest at Windward Beach on October 28th.
Finally, congratulations to the newly elected freshman class officers. Let's go BTHS Class of 2027!
Class of 2024
Our class will participate in our second round of the Double Good Popcorn fundraiser from Monday, November 27-Friday, December 1. Due to our success in the first round, we are giving seniors an opportunity to reduce the price of their Senior Ball Bid or Senior Trip cost (Grad Night @ Great Adventure on June 7) ! We will be hosting this fundraising opportunity 2 more times so please take advantage of lowering the cost of your senior activities. Members of the Class of 2024 should join our Google Classroom with code ozvfp3p. Please reach out to Mr. Lucchetti flucchetti@brickschools.org in room 205 or Mrs. Ianniello lianniello@brickschools.org in guidance with any questions!
Save the Dates
Powder Puff: Thursday, November 16; Pizza after school followed by the game at 5pm
Senior Ball: May 23 at South Gate Manor in Freehold, NJ 5-9pm
Grad Night @ Great Adventure: June 7
Class of 2025
The Class of 2025 has hit the ground running with getting ready for our Junior Prom on May 16th, 2024. Our venue and DJ have been secured and we are now looking to raise additional funds to offset the costs. Some of the different fundraising events that the Class of 2025 will be doing during the months of October and November are as follows: Selling Halloween Boo Grams to students and staff to spread some holiday spirit, participating in Brick's Fall Fest at Windward Beach on October 28th, and selling Dragon Donation Dots throughout the month of November. We are also gearing up to compete against the Class of 2024 at our annual Powder Puff game scheduled for November 16th. Stay tuned for game results in our November class update. Please reach out to Mr. Pazmino cpazmino@brickschools.org in Room 300 or Ms. Velez mvelez@brickschools.org in Room 23 with any questions.
Class of 2026
The Class of 2026 did well with the clothing fundraiser and all orders have been delivered. We are excited to start planning for the junior prom next year. The next fundraiser will be announced in Google Classroom. Make sure to check Instagram, Twitter and Google Classroom for information and updates. Instagram @bths_classof2026 ~ Twitter @bthsclassof2026 ~ Google Classroom lf4subd
Class of 2027
The Class of 2027 had a great time participating in Homecoming Week and attending the dance at BTHS! There was an unbelievable showing of students to help with the banner and setting up and we're so excited for the activities that are on this horizon for this year. There will be a posting on Google Classroom soon for purchasing of "merch" for the class. Any students looking to get involved in future events can contact Mrs. DeBonis (room 306) or Ms. Scipione (room 202). Thank you!
Stay In the Know
Guidance Department
Updates from the School Counseling Department
The PSAT NMSQT was administered to juniors on October 4-6 and October 18. Scores will be available on November 6 and November 16. studentscores.collegeboard.org.
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.
Representatives from Ocean County College will be at BTHS on Wednesday, November 1st to present to seniors on “College 101”. Students will learn about making a smooth transition from high school to college. Included in the presentation will be 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, 2023. Students in these courses will test in May 2024.
All of 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 20, 2023 for any student interested in the military. Please contact Mrs. Marie Walling at extension 2054 for more information.
If you are a family in need of assistance for the Holiday Season, BTHS Giving Dragons may be able to help. Please contact Mrs. Marie Walling for more information.
SAT Opportunity at BTHS
School Based Youth Service Program
- SBYSP facilitated a Friday SEL Lesson on 10/13 in Sherri Ryan's classes about Emotions. It was Halloween Bingo-themed and involved having the students identify and talk about all different emotions.
- SBYSP worked with Mrs. Farnsworth's English II classes on Tuesday 10/17 to present on Adolescent Mental Health. This information was used by the students in tandem with them reading The Catcher in the Rye to complete a class assignment focused on mental health.
- During Red Ribbon Week, SBYSP intern Jessie will facilitate an activity "Be Kind to Your Mind", which involves having students share and discuss ways to positively treat their brain/mental health. The students will be writing their answers on brain templates and they will be displayed outside of School Based.
- On Wednesday 10/25, our Peer Leadership program will be engaging in the first Freshmen Outreach of the year. Our upperclassmen Peer Leaders will be engaging with the freshmen students during their gym classes to help them build connections and transition into high school.
- In our GSA club, SBYSP staff have been working with the students on building discussions around LGBTQ+ History Month. A form based on gathering positivity and support for LGBTQ+ students was sent out to staff and responses will be anonymously shared with GSA students.
Health Office Message
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. The flu vaccine will not protect you against COVID-19. 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 Covid-19 and the flu usually share a lot of the same symptoms the main differences are usually diarrhea (more frequent in children with flu, but can occur in any age with COVID-19) and shortness in breath (related with Covid-19) source: Healthline: Symptoms for Covid-19, flu, common cold, and allergies
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.
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 your child has tested positive for the Flu or COVID-19, please contact Mrs. Yarbrough in the health office.
Health Office Contact- Nurse Tammy Yarbrough
- West Nurse Office - Ext. 2037
- East Nurse Office - Ext. 2009
Brick Township High School Wall of Fame
The Brick Township High School Wall of Fame Committee accepts nominations throughout the year. All submitted nominations will be considered for our next induction, which will take place in the Spring of 2025. Click Here for the BTHS Wall of Fame Nomination Form.
Brick Township High School
Assistant Principals
Erin Biancella - Grade 11 & Freshman P-Z
Ryan Hesnan - Grade 10 & Freshman H-O
James Marvin - Grade 12 & Freshman A-G
Athletic Director & Co-Curricular Supervisor
Supervisor of Guidance
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