FTMHS NewsFLASH
October 2021
Calendar Information...
Tentative October Events:
October 1:
- Class Dues; please give $15 to your class advisor. Spirit Week t-shirts need to be ordered ASAP.
October 2:
- Band Competition at Shawnee High School.
October 5:
- Start Strong Assessments for ELA Grades 9 and 10.
October 6:
- Start Strong Assessments for Math--Algebra 1 and 2; Geometry.
- Color Guard Practice from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Band Booster Meeting at 7 p.m. in the Media Center.
- Faculty Meeting in the Atrium at 2:20 p.m.
October 7:
- Progress Reports.
- Start Strong Assessments for Science.
October 8:
- Cap/Gown Measurements during the lunch periods.
October 9:
- Band Competition in Sayreville.
October 11:
- Columbus Day--School Closed.
October 12:
- Spirit Week begins..."Life is Sweet at FHS."
- "Candies of the Seasons Day."
- Class Banners Due.
- Homecoming Court Presentation Video during homeroom.
- Take the 2021 Challenge--Bring in 3 to 4 Non-Perishable Food Items or Hygiene Items. There will be boxes in the front of the school to collect the items.
- Band Booster Meeting in the Media Center at 7 p.m.
October 13:
- "Skittles Day " -- Class Colors.
- Seniors: Green
- Juniors: Orange
- Sophomores: Red
- Freshmen: Purple
- Stunt Games Outdoors--PM Assembly.
- Pumpkin Decorating Contest--2:30 p.m. to 3:20 p.m.
- Color Guard Practice from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
October 14:
- "Now and Later Day."
- Sweetarts 60's: Seniors
- Sour Patch 70's: Juniors
- Extra Gum 80's: Sophomores
- Nerds 90's: Freshmen
- Class Kahoot Competition at 6:30 p.m. (virtual).
October 15:
- "Bubble Gum Day."
- Wear your favorite Florence or sports team jersey.
- Outdoor Pep Rally--PM Assembly.
- Homecoming Football Game at 6 p.m.; Crowning of Homecoming King and Queen.
October 16:
- Homecoming Dance; 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Courtyard.
October 19:
- Financial Aid Workshop; Presented by Dionne Hallback from TCNJ, at 6 p.m.
October 20:
- PLC Meeting at 2:20 p.m. in the Media Center.
- Color Guard Practice from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
October 22:
- Senior Class Trip Payment No. 2 to Mrs. Pereda in E109 or Mr. Pereda in the Gym.
October 24:
- Regional 7A Championships at Toms River North High School.
October 25:
- ScIP Meeting at 2:20 p.m. in the Media Center.
- Board of Education Meeting at 7 p.m. -- High School Atrium.
October 26:
- PSAT's starting at 7:40 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; Extended time to 12:30 p.m.
October 27:
- Color Guard Practice from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
October 28:
- Underclassmen Make-Up Day for Pictures; 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Media Center.
October 30:
- Marching Band--New Jersey States Championship at Cherokee High School.
October 31:
- Marching Band--ACC's Atlantic Coast Championship at Central Dauphin High School in Harrisburg, PA.
IMPORTANT HEALTH & SAFETY REMINDERS TO KEEP OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY SAFE THIS SCHOOL YEAR
Please DO NOT send your child to school if he/she is feeling sick.
Please DO NOT send a child to school who is showing signs of COVID-19. Families will be required to pick up their child and provide either a negative test result or quarantine for 10 days.
At least two of the following symptoms: fever, chills, rigors (shivers), myalgia (muscle aches), headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, congestion or runny nose; OR
At least one of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, a new loss of smell, a new loss of taste.
Unvaccinated siblings of a student who has symptoms and meets COVID-19 Exclusion Criteria should be excluded from school until the symptomatic individual receives a negative test result. If the symptomatic individual tests positive, the sibling will need to quarantine.
Please DO NOT send a child to school if you are awaiting the test results of a COVID-19 test due to symptoms or close contact. The District will NOT accept at-home tests to confirm a child is negative for COVID-19. If you are asked to provide a negative test result, it will need to be a laboratory-confirmed test, either rapid or PCR.
We appreciate your assistance as we look to reduce the spread of the virus to maintain in-person instruction. If you have any questions please contact the building administration.
General Reminders:
- Arrival to School: Please arrive at school between 7:25 a.m. and 7:35 a.m. When your car stops in front of the school, you may not be right in front of the door. Students need to get out of their car at that location and walk to the front door. Do not stay in your car until you reach the front door. We want to keep the cars moving at all times. Parents/guardians should not be dropping off or picking up students in the Main Parking Lot in front of the school. You must stay in the car lineup when dropping off your child. Never pull out and try to pass over cars in the lineup after you have dropped your child off--wait patiently in line for movement. When picking up your child after school, go to the student parking lot for pick up.
- Chromebooks: Insurance to cover Chromebooks costs $35. Checks/Money Orders can be made payable to FTMHS. Never send in CASH for any type of school payments.
- Entering the School: Students will be entering the building through the front main doors. Immediately upon entering, you may pick up a "breakfast" bag and then go directly to your HR/Period 1 class.
- Feel Sick: If you feel ill during the school day, please have your teacher give you a pass to go get checked out by our school nurse, Mrs. Emery. If you are not feeling well when you get up in the morning, please stay home. Remember to wash your hands frequently
- Parking for Students: Please park in the student parking lot adjacent to the Football Stadium. Please drive 5 mph in the parking lot area.
- Student Lunches: There will be 2, 3, or 4 students assigned per lunch table. Limited outside seating is available in the courtyard. Students will have assigned seating at the lunch tables—this is needed for contact tracing purposes. Breakfast/Lunch will be provided free to all students.
- Water Fountains: The fountains will be on—students are encouraged to bring their own water bottle and use the fountains as refill stations.
Start Strong Assessments
This year, the New Jersey Department of Education is requiring school districts to administer Start Strong Assessments. As you know, due to COVID-19, the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments were not administered during the 20-21 SY. According to the NJDOE, the Start Strong assessments in the fall of 2021 will “satisfy the federal statewide assessment requirement to administer general assessments in English language arts (ELA), mathematics, and science for the 2020-2021 school year. This flexibility shall apply only to the 2020- 2021 school year.” So, these assessments are being administered, in part, because the NJSLA was not administered last year.
The NJDOE also believes that the Start Strong Assessments will provide teachers, students, parents, and schools with meaningful data at the beginning of the school year. The State’s goal is for this data to complement the data that our teachers are collecting, so that we may best educate our students.
Here’s a breakdown of the Start Strong Assessments:
Grade 9 English Language Arts Assessment (test is based upon 8th grade ELA standards)
Grade 10 English Language Arts Assessment (test is based upon 9th grade ELA standards)
Algebra 1 Assessment (test is based upon 8th grade standards for Algebra)
Geometry Assessment (test is based upon 8th grade standards for Geometry)
Algebra 2 Assessment (test is based upon Algebra 1 standards)
Grade 9 Science Assessment (test is based upon Science standards for grades 6 - 8)
Grade 12 Science Assessment (test is based upon Science standards for grades 9 - 12)
As you can see, in some cases, the tests are specific to a grade level. In other cases, the tests are specific to a course. All of these assessments are digital, and students are entitled to take as many as 60 minutes to submit their best work.
We are planning to administer the Start Strong Assessments on October 5th, October 6th, and October 7th. We will be testing our:
9th and 10th-grade students in English Language Arts on Tuesday, October 5.
Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 students on Wednesday, October 6.
9th and 12th-grade students in Science on Thursday, October 7.
All students who are scheduled to test on 10/5, 10/6, and/or 10/7 must arrive at school at the regularly scheduled time. Testing will begin promptly at 7:40 a.m.
Students who do not have a test to take on one or more of the dates above may arrive at school at 8:52 a.m. Unfortunately, we will not be able to provide additional bus runs at this time. As a result, students must arrange their own transportation to school if they plan on arriving at the later time of 8:52 a.m.
Please click on the following link for more information regarding the Start Strong Assessments: https://bit.ly/2XswU4j
Please never hesitate to contact me for any reason.
Sincerely,
John Cogan
Principal, FTMHS
Start Strong Assessment--Special Schedule
Start Strong Assessments
Special Guest Visits Florence High School
Welcome--Curtis Thompson!
Please Welcome to the Florence Township School District...
New Business Administrator
Starting December 1, 2021
PSATs--Tuesday, October 26, 2021
We will be administering the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) to all of our 10th and 11th grade students on Tuesday, October 26th.
The PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT. The PSAT/NMSQT measures critical reading skills, math problem‐solving skills and writing skills. In addition, it provides 11th grade students with an opportunity to enter NMSC scholarship programs, and it gives all participants the opportunity to gain access to college and career planning tools.
All 10th and 11th grade students must arrive at the regular time to take the PSAT. Testing will begin promptly at 7:40 a.m. We will have a delayed opening for our 9th and 12th grade students, and they will be permitted to arrive to school at 11:31 a.m. (as 1st period will begin at 11:35 a.m.). Unfortunately, we will not be able to provide additional bus runs at this time. As a result, 9th and 12th grade students must arrange their own transportation to school if they plan on arriving at 11:31 a.m.
Character Education Program
Every month at least one student – from each grade level – will be recognized for the fine job he/she has done in bringing the word of the month to life. These students are nominated by our school staff. The Character Education “Word of the Month” for October is Respect. We will communicate the rest of our character education traits to you over the course of the school year.
Let’s work together to get our students to focus on why each trait matters! We need all of our students to see that they can help others through their positive words and actions.
Character Education Program--"Word of the Month" for September was "Friendliness."
Daniel Bates, Izayah Cross, John Paul Dunphy, Melissa Jones,
Gabriella LeVach, Mikayla Maschke, Geovana Mitchell, Apria Mount, Danielle Petrillo, Parminder Singh, Grace Sullivan, Donavan Testa, Andrew Ulisse, Nah’va Young and Jannatul Zenith.
Chosen to Receive Special Recognition!
"Friendliness" -- Character Education (September)
Thanks to our Parents Organization -- Izayah Cross, Danielle Petrillo, Parminder Singh and
Andrew Ulisse were chosen to receive $5 Wawa gift cards for doing such an excellent job!
Izayah Cross
- "Izayah has been very kind and welcoming to the new students in the class. Izayah has a friendly personality and is a very kind person to everyone he meets."
(Nominated by: Ms. Paiva)
Danielle Petrillo
- "Danielle smiles even though it can't be seen with a mask. She talks with lots of people and is really nice to them."
(Nominated by: Mr. DuBrul)
Parminder Singh
- "Parminder is one of the friendliest students I have met. He is kind and considerate to all, but especially to our new students. He always starts his day with me by asking how I am doing."
(Nominated by: Ms. Diaz)
Andrew Ulisse
- "Andrew initiates conversations with those around him and shows a genuine interest in what they have to say. Andrew is always happy and positive and passes those good vibes to the people he surrounds himself with."
(Nominated by: Mrs. Pereda)
Genesis Parent Portal (http://bit.ly/2hqH935)
Progress Reports--October 7, 2021
Progress Reports will be available after 2 p.m. in Genesis on October 7. To view your child’s progress report, simply log in to Genesis (https://parents.genesisedu.com/florence) and click on the “Grading” tab at the top of the window.
Also, please feel free to log in to Genesis at any time to see how your child is progressing in his or her courses. Checking Genesis frequently will enable you to see clearly how your child is performing throughout the school year.
If you are having trouble logging in or needing your email and password reset, please contact your child’s counselor as soon as possible.
Academic Achievement Program
This is a wonderful program! We will once again be challenging our students to settle for nothing less than their best. We want to see our students succeed, and we will be communicating to them that we want them to set their sights on earning a GPA of at least a 3.0 (or a “B” average) with no “D” or “F” grades in any course for each marking period of the school year. Please join us in challenging your child to be content with nothing less than his or her best effort!
Students who earned at least a 3.0 (with no “D’s” or “F’s”) will be recognized at the end of the 1st marking period.
Principal’s Academic List
We’ve added this program based upon the feedback we received from students, staff, and parents. We have students who are hungry to show what they can do, and we’re eager to recognize them!
Lunch Menu for the Month of October
Parent Organization
Our next FTMHS Parent Organization meeting will be held on Monday, October 25th at 6 p.m in the HS Media Center.
We are an active parent group that meets regularly to discuss and plan ideas and events as well as support the well-being of our students, staff, and administration as needed. The FTMHSPO participates in fundraising, spirit events for the students, Prom Fashion Show, Breakfast with Santa & the Grinch, teacher grants, teacher appreciation lunches and dinners, and more.
Join & Share Your Ideas
- We are always looking for new ideas and welcome ALL FTMHS parents to join! No membership fees are required! To sign up and receive regular information please complete the following form -- https://forms.gle/ALmC5WSganPWM7aT8 .
- We are looking for parents to join our committees -- Fundraising & Student events. Please contact us to get involved at ftmhspo@gmail.com.
Upcoming Fundraisers
- We are selling WaWa shortie coupons to kick off the year for $5 each. Order online and they will be delivered to your house/student. Order here -- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1imB4uZ--EuLexiQEF_zZBO4QIAe6BhHJk9CkSIslR-Y/edit?ts=612e1525
- We have 5 large Florence house flags left. Order here -- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfIDVqtO0m9rL_Ox3YVSUJbHjLgt1v8G5fmCWkZa4CEtVXI3g/viewform
"Everyday Life and Career Skills" -- Mrs. Covaci
Vision Board
Theater Performance Class--Mr. Donovan
Nothing is scripted, and everything is made up on the spot, so it leads to lots of fun!
Theater Performance Class--Equity: "Identity"--Mr. Donovan
In Theater Performance class, we also ask ourselves-- "Do you see yourself - whatever way in which you identify - in the forms of entertainment you consume?
We spoke about the importance of representation in theater, movies and television - where it is lacking, and some examples of an attempt to make strides on this front.
Financial Literacy Class--Ms. Omelczuk
Students each contributed to the "wall."
Ecology of NJ Class--Mr. DuBrul
Science--Ms. Paiva
They have done projects to show the transfer of pollen to stigmas and have learned why seeds grow into flowers and fruits!
Dance--Mr. Breen
The Ballroom dance class has started learning the basic Waltz step. Students have been doing a great job in class!
ESL Class--Ms. Diaz
Students will complete a research project focused on one specific Spanish speaking country or Hispanic person who contributed to our current American society.
Students are also reading "Eleven" by Sandra Cisneros with reflections on the similarities between their experiences and that of the main character.
After School Clubs for the 2021-2022 School Year:
Clubs/Activities
Black and Latinx Student Union
Class of 2022--Seniors
Class of 2023--Juniors
Class of 2024--Sophomores
Class of 2025--Freshmen
Computer Science Club
Cultural Awareness for Everyone
Debate Team
Environmental Club
Game Club
Interact
Marching Band Director
Marching Band--Front Line
National Honor Society
No Place for Hate Club
Newspaper Club
Robotics Club
Science League Competitions
Special Olympics
Spring Musical
Student Council
Yearbook
Art Club
The Art Club is open to any student with an interest in art, design, or creativity! The art club will meet in Mrs. Holmstedt’s room--F108, from 2:10 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Meetings are scheduled for September 23, October 5, October 19, November 2, November 16, November 30, and December 14!
Advisor: Mrs. Holmstedt
Black & Latinx Student Union
The Black and Latinx Student Union is back! We have an excited group ready to take on the school year. Our first meeting was full of energy and enthusiasm. We are still welcoming new and returning members.
COME JOIN THE BLACK AND LATINX STUDENT UNION!!!!
This club was created to address the needs of our Black and Latinx students at Florence Township Memorial High School. This club is open to ALL but will be focusing on the unique challenges faced by our students from the Black and Latinx communities.
This club will provide an opportunity for students to support each other emotionally, receive the academic support that they need, serve the community, and build their post-high school marketability for college, technical school, the military or the workforce.
Our goal is to have fun and provide a positive experience in a safe space, while at the same time building and preparing our young people for the world.
This club will focus on:
*Social Support
*Academic Assistance
*Emotional Support
*Field Trips
*Mentorship
*Leadership Training
*Focus on community-police relations
*Community Service
* Mental Health
*Physical Health and Fitness
*Relationships with teachers, administration, and staff
*Post High-School Plans
Advisor: Mr. McEnnis
Class of 2022 (SENIORS)
Class of 2022
President: Lana Duke
Vice President: Cassaundra Alicea
Treasurer: Zaria Harewood
Secretary: Jaskiran Mangat
Historian: Samara Lakhan
Co-Advisors: Mrs. Leanne Pereda and Mr. Cesar Pereda
The second payment of $450.00 for the Senior Class Trip is due on October 22. Every student going on the trip should have purchased the trip insurance.
Class dues ($15) are due by October 1 to guarantee a t-shirt for Spirit Week. Please hand your check or money order to Mrs. Pereda (E109) or Mr. Pereda (Gym) in an envelope with your name and t-shirt size on it.
We are getting ready for Spirit Week, so be on the lookout for a signup sheet for our special activities.
Advisors: Mrs. Pereda and Mr. Pereda
Class of 2023 (JUNIORS)
President: Sarah Olatubosun
Vice President: Abigail Anthony
Secretary: Abimbola Obayanju
Treasurer: Mikayla Maschke
Historian: Sydney Slotkin
Junior Class dues are DUE!
Dues can be paid to Mrs. Holmstedt in room F108. Dues are $15 and can be paid with a money order or check made payable to FTMHS Class of 2023. Please put your check or money order in an envelope clearly printed with your first and last name and t-shirt size.
No cash will be accepted! Dues must be paid NO LATER THAN OCTOBER 1!
Advisors: Mrs. Holmstedt and Mr. Flynn
Class of 2024 (SOPHOMORES)
Class of 2024 Officers
President: John Paul Dunphy
Vice President: Matthew Barton
Secretary: Madelynn Hoch
Treasurer: Kaycee Carnival
Historian: Radika Dhar
Advisors: Mrs. Mary Byrne and Mr. Joseph Varga
Sophomores are preparing for Spirit Week and to win the various competitions again like we did last year. We are also planning a class fundraiser so we can begin raising money for our various junior and senior year events and trips.
Class of 2025 (FRESHMEN)
Class of 2025 Officers (This information is not available at this time.)
President:
Vice President:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Historian:
The class of 2025 is looking for class officers!
If you are interested in running for a class officer position for 2021-2022, please email
Mr. Senni with the position that you want to run for by October 1.
Voting will take place the following week!
Advisors: Ms. Paiva and Mr. Senni
Computer Science Club
We had our opening meeting for the Computer Science Club. We have two big projects that we are going to focus on. The first is building a webpage to help local businesses get their names out.
The second is to begin working on a high school television studio to record and show off some of the happenings in our school for the community.
Advisor: Mr. Roberson
Cultural Awareness for Everyone Club (CAFE)
The CAFE Club kicked off its first meeting on September 21.
If you are interested in cultural diversity and spreading cultural awareness, please join us in C100 from 2:10 p.m. to 3 p.m.
In October, we will focus our efforts on the Latino culture in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Local community festivals and events will be advertised, like this one in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Advisor: Ms. Diaz
Debate Team
"Do you know that our high school sponsors a competitive debate team? The FTMHS Debate Team competes in the South Jersey Debate League. Last year, our varsity team won third place in the league tournament.
If you enjoy winning arguments, discussing ideas, or researching, please consider joining our team! We compete from December through February, taking the bus after school on Wednesdays to join in the fun and friendly competitions.
Our first meeting was on Tuesday, 28 September at 2:20 in Room D110.
Advisor: Mrs. Hughes
Environmental Club
The Environmental Club will begin in October. We will do a virtual trip on a Pine Barrens stream and club members will learn about wetland ecology.
Advisor: Mr. DuBrul
Game Club
The Game Club is getting ready to get rolling. Video game tournaments, board games, card games, just name your poison.
We will be meeting after school in room D108. There will be a "Late Bus" available, so make sure you fill out the Late Bus permission slip.
Look for some google form surveys to determine meeting times. Your input is paramount. Join the GAME CLUB google class: https://classroom.google.com/c/MTA4MTY3NzA4Njla?cjc=ooo5rym
Advisors: Mr. Weatherbee and Mr. Senni
Interact Club
The 2021-2022 Interact Officers are:
President: Logan Trayner
Vice President: Hazal Akkaya
Secretary: Burne Das
Treasurer: Preet Singh
Sergeant at Arms: Declan Yasick
Publicity Chair: Sarah Olatubosun
Interact Club members participated in community service projects throughout the summer including work with the Florence United Methodist Church and the Sticker Shock program.
The club hosted its first meeting of the year on Thursday, September 30. Members will be required to complete 40 hours of service during the 2021-2022 school year.
The group is currently collecting 500 pounds of plastic for a third bench from the Trex company.
Advisor: Ms. Georgie Rodan
Marching Band
The Marching Band has been working tirelessly on completing their 2021 competition field show, Little Shop of Horrors. This season they will perform at all home and away football games as well as compete at the following competitions:
Saturday, 9/18-Williamstown High School
Saturday, 9/25-Pitman High School
Saturday, 10/2-Shawnee High School
Saturday, 10/9-Sayreville High School
Sunday, 10/24-Region 7A Championships
Saturday, 10/30-NJ State Championships
Sunday, 10/31-Atlantic Coast Championships
Music Director: Mrs. Croley
The "Marching Flashes" placed THIRD at their competition at Pitman High School. Each week they compete--their scores go up!!!!!
We are proud of you!
Musical Production
National Honor Society
National Honor Society kicked off its first meeting on September 23. Members were welcomed back and fundraising/community service ideas were discussed.
NHS members will be participating in the scarecrow decorating contest sponsored by the Roebling Historical Society. The NHS Tutor Center will start in October.
Advisors: Ms. Diaz and Mr. Weatherbee
Newspaper
The Newspaper Club is looking forward to a new school year! We are off to a good start so far and we are working hard to meet our first publication deadline in November. This year we plan to work with the Computer Science club to create a TV Station.
New members are always welcome! We are looking for broadcasters, writers, journalists, photographers, and digital editors for our website.
Mrs. Covaci lcovaci@florence.k12.nj.us
Mrs. Petosa mpetosa@florence.k12.nj.us
Website link: https://florencesentinel.wordpress.com/
Follow us on Twitter @FTSD_Newspaper.
Advisors: Mrs. Covaci and Mrs. Petosa
No Place for Hate
No Place For Hate
This month NPFH is recruiting new members and brainstorming ways to get involved in the community. We will be organizing our schedule of events for the coming months.
Advisor: Ms. Levine
Pit Orchestra
Pit Orchestra is an extra-curricular activity consisting of instrumental music students who perform for the Spring Musical.
The Pit Orchestra meets at a variety of rehearsal times designated by the director and provides all the music necessary for the stage performers.
Robotics Club
We are hoping to get our Robotics club started with some coding and drone flying. Using some smaller robots we are hoping to learn how coding works and see how robots read our codes. The big project that is starting to take shape is the creation of E-sports team for FHS!!
We will keep you updated as the students are preparing to represent our school on the virtual playing field.
Advisor: Mr. Roberson
Student Council
Student Council
President: Cassaundra Alicea
Vice President: Sarah Olatubosun
Secretary: Maiyah McDuffie
Treasurer: Bella Obayanju
BOE Rep.: John Paul Dunphy
Historians: Jaskiran Mangat and Gabrielle Fleming
Executive Members: Finley Charles, Zaria Harewood and Mikayla Maschke
Student Council kicked off the 2021-2022 school year with an orientation for Freshman and Sophomore students on August 19. Students spoke about student life at FHS and gave tours of the high school building.
The Student Council executive board is also planning many school-wide events for Spirit Week 2021. These activities will include dress-up day, a class banner competition, an outdoor stunt games event and a virtual trivia activity.
Our theme for the week is "Life is Sweet at FHS!"
Advisor: Ms. Georgie Rodan
Yearbook
The yearbook is welcoming all students that are interested in joining our staff! Come design this year's book with us! Meetings will be held in Mrs. Holmstedt's room F108 from 2:10 p.m. to 3 p.m. on September 30, October 14, October 28, November 11, November 18, December 2, and December 16.
2021-2022 yearbooks are on sale NOW!
Yearbooks cost $70, are hardcover and full color! Go to the high school website and order from the link under the parent resources tab or use the link below!
Shout out to your student and purchase a yearbook ad today! Click the link below!
Advisors: Mrs. Eckart and Mrs. Holmstedt
From the Desk of Mr. Lamaestra (SAC) Student Assistance Counselor...
In October, schools across the state are required to designate the first and third weeks of October as Week of Respect and School Violence Awareness Week respectively.
Schools are also encouraged to celebrate Red Ribbon Week devoted to alcohol and drug awareness. As in the past, we have scheduled many activities throughout the month to highlight these important initiatives. We will be sending out emails, newsletters, links, tweets and other communications during the month to keep you informed and involved.
The Development of GOOD CHARACTER ...
...is not an isolated skill to be taught in one area of a child’s life. It is an effort of home, school, and community to instill in our young people good values. The development of good character touches our personal development, it impacts our success with academic development in learning and good character is essential in the workforce to be successful in our careers.
The following is an excerpt from an article entitled “Why Character Matters” by Thomas Lickona
The Content of Our Character
In his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, Martin Luther King, Jr. said he dreamed of the day when all Americans "will be judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."
The content of good character is a virtue. Virtues – such as honesty, justice, courage and compassion are dispositions to behave in a morally good way. They are affirmed by societies and religions around the world. Virtues transcend time and culture. Justice and kindness, for example, will always and everywhere be virtues, regardless of how many people exhibit them.
Important Resources:
If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed about COVID-19, or just want to talk to someone, the following resources are available:
2nd Floor Youth Hotline of New Jersey: 888-222-2228
PerformCare/Mobile Response: 877-652-7624
Camden County Crisis Intervention - Twin Oaks: 856-428-HELP (4357)
New Jersey Mental Health Warm Line (Mental Health Resources): 877-294-4357
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
Counseling Support Services:
I'm available for consultation, support, counseling and referral services including:
Academic
Family Alcohol/Drug Use
Technology Dependence
Anxiety and Depression
Divorce
Behavior Management
Other Mental Health Concerns
I'm also available for consultation, support, and referral services even during these days of virtual learning. Please contact me via email to make the appropriate arrangements.
Contact Information:
Please contact Mr. Lamaestra, Student Assistance Coordinator, at the high school at (609)499-4620 x 4225 or email me at jlamaestra@florence.k12.nj.us
Counseling Office News
The high school counselors, Mrs. Sebastian and Mr. Varga, invite you to visit the updated Counseling Department website which is accessible from the high school main page or by clicking here. There you will find useful information and links for academic support, mental health resources, college planning and research, post-secondary financial aid, etc.
Seniors
Senior Class College Packets can be found in 12th grade English Google classrooms, the Class of 2022 Google classroom, and on our counseling department website. This PDF packet contains a wealth of information about the college application process. Seniors have a few tasks to do in their Naviance Student accounts, such as requesting recommendation letters and completing the Student Brag Sheet and Scholarship Application. The counselors will be visiting senior English classes and meeting with seniors individually to talk with them about post-high school planning.
Colleges Visiting FTMHS
Any senior can meet with any of these college reps to learn about their programs, admissions process, housing, financial aid, etc. You must get a pass ahead of time from Mrs. Gola in the Counseling Office for the day and the time of the visit. Meetings will take place in the Career Room in the Counseling Office. Here are the upcoming dates and times:
9/27/21 9 am Shippensburg University
9/28/21 8 am Immaculata University
10/1/21 11 am Widener University
10/4/21 9 am Monmouth University
10/20/21 12 pm Stockton University
10/21/21 10 am Temple University
11/2/21 11 am Holy Family University
11/17/21 9:30 am Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC)
College Fair
The 47th Annual BCSCA College Fair at RCBC-Mt. Laurel Campus. October 28, 2021, at 6 p.m. Over 60 colleges will be represented. More info and RSVP here: https://www.rcbc.edu/events/47th-annual-bcsca-college-fair
RCBC Open House
RCBC Open House on October 16th 10am to 1pm. A great event for juniors, seniors, and their parents or guardians! https://rcbc.edu/events/fall-2021-open-house
College and Trade School Visitations
Students who are researching colleges may be able to do a virtual tour from the college’s website or from virtual tour sites such as https://www.youvisit.com/collegesearch/.
BCIT Adult Education is a great, local trade school that is taxpayer-funded. Visit their website www.bcit.cc/AdultEdu and click on Registration to learn about their various programs.
College Admissions Testing
The SAT and ACT have undergone significant changes due to COVID-19. Please visit their official websites for the most current information. More than 1,600 four-year colleges and universities are now test-optional for this admissions cycle in response to the effects of the pandemic. Check a particular college’s Admissions Office site for their admissions requirements and testing information before you register for a test.
College Financial Aid Information
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2022-23 school year will open on October 1, 2021. You will need information from the parent’s and student’s 2020 tax returns. Visit fafsa.gov to get started.
If you are applying to any New Jersey schools, you can find your state financial aid information on the HESAA website in your NJFAMS account which can be found under the Students tab. https://www.hesaa.org/Pages/Default.aspx
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority or HESAA has valuable resources for college and career planning and financial assistance. One important ebooklet is the Student Loan Guide. Here is the link to several of their publications and ebooklets: http://www.hesaa.org/Pages/HESAAPublications.aspx
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
All college-bound student-athletes should explore the NCAA eligibility qualifications early in their high school careers. Please visit the following websites for more information: www.eligibilitycenter.org and www.2point3.org
College Cost Calculator: What does college really cost?
Colleges are required to have a college cost calculator (aka net price calculator) available on their websites. Please check them out when researching colleges.
College Scorecard:
Updated for 2021: Compare colleges and get information on fields of study, salary after graduation, costs, debt load after graduation, etc. It provides clear, accessible, and reliable national data. collegescorecard.ed.gov
Feeling Overwhelmed?
If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed about COVID-19 (or anything else) and want to talk to someone, the following resources are available:
2nd Floor Youth Hotline of New Jersey: 888-222-2228
PerformCare/Mobile Response: 877-652-7624
Camden County Crisis Intervention - Twin Oaks: 856-428-HELP (4357)
New Jersey Mental Health Warm Line (Mental Health Resources): 877-294-4357
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255.
For emergencies: call 911
Counselors: Mrs. Sebastian and Mr. Varga
School Nurse
If your child is sick or has been exposed to a confirmed Covid-19 positive, please keep them home and notify us.
We will direct you towards the next steps. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to call me. Please see attached link for the most recent Covid-19 information.
New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub
The COVID-19 Information Hub is now online. The New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub provides New Jerseyans with the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 and the State's response, including information about services such as food assistance and small business assistance.
Visit the COVID-19 Information Hub.
Nurse: Mrs. Emery
FLASHES SPIRIT-WEAR FOR SALE
Get your 2021 Flashes Spirit-Wear NOW!
Available by ordering online below or sold at all home games!
Click here to order FLORENCE FOOTBALL OR GENERIC FLASHES SPIRIT-WEAR:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBJ7MilNzqMCCuKfEGCoAoE4C8LiVYrkt9Pyw4NdrfgXBY8g/viewform
Click here to order FLORENCE CHEER SPIRIT-WEAR:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeycXm7RnX7r6woC3RhowOJ7qHbR9o2ToZQBmuIssGXajs1yQ/viewform
YARD SIGNS FOR SALE
Show your love and order a Florence Flashes personalized sports yard sign for your athlete. The Florence High School Football & Cheer Parent Pit Club is selling individualized signs (for all local sports) as well as Florence Fan supporter signs. All signs are double-sided and come with a stake.
Orders are due by October 1st. To order and for more detailed information click here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeC08_yOVG8a4lps6E5pYPPloUDN9kxGeEtMJK1QG5FN3B1tw/viewform
Athletic Department--Contact Information:
Updates and Overview:
We are approaching the halfway point of our seasons. Many of our athletes are experiencing successes within their own season.
Please make it a point to come out to the events below to support our great sports programs.
Senior Night Dates:
Girls Soccer: October 7 at 6 p.m.
Football/Band/Cheer: October 8 at 7 p.m.
Volleyball: October 15 at 5:15 p.m.
Field Hockey: October 16 at 11 a.m.
Boys Soccer: October 22 at 5 p.m.
Don’t miss out on our Homecoming Game on Friday, October 15, at 6 p.m. vs Burlington City High School.
Freddy Flash:
If you are interested in being our school mascot, “Freddy Flash.” Please email the Athletic Director at kkaminskas@florence.k12.nj.us to express your interest. Thank you.
Fall Sports Records and Rankings
Boy’s Soccer:
Boys soccer record (6-1)
Currently tied for 1st in their division
In the top 2 for Central Jersey Group 1
@FTSD_BoysSoccer
Cheerleading:
Is getting ready for senior nights and Homecoming
They are making signs and banners to support all of our seniors.
They will be cheering in their first home game on October 8 at 7 p.m.
Girl's Soccer:
Girls soccer record (2-8)
Currently in 6th place in their division.
In the top 6 for Central Jersey Group 1.
@FTSD_grlsSoccer
Field Hockey:
Field Hockey record (8-1).
Currently in 1st place in their division.
In the top 5 for North Jersey Group 1.
@FTSDFieldHockey
Volleyball:
Volleyball record (7-0).
Currently in 1st place in their division.
In the top 4 for South Jersey Group 1.
@FTSD_Volleyball.
Football:
Football record (0-2)
Currently in 5th place in their division
@FTSD_football
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Contact Information:
Kyle Kaminskas, Athletic Director/Assistant Principal --Extension 4150
Carly Jones, AD Secretary (609)-499-4620, Extension 4149
Drew Andrews, Athletic Trainer--Extension 4154.
John Cogan, Principal--Extension 4202.
Maria E. Sadar, Vice Principal--Extension 4204.
Also, make sure to follow us for up-to-date Athletic information on our Facebook page @FlorenceAthletics and our Twitter Account @FTSD_athletics. Any indoor sporting event will be streamed on our Youtube page @ FTSD Athletics.
Visit the Florence Athletic Schedule Website for game dates, times, locations, and any changes due to weather.
GO FLASHES!
Florence Township Memorial High School
Website: www.florence.k12.nj.us
Location: 1050 Cedar Lane, Florence, NJ, 08016
Phone: (609) 499-4620
Twitter: @FTSD_HS