The Walnut Street Wildcats learned about Irish Folk Dancing with Kerry Boyle. Kerry is involved with the Irish Dance School - Emerald Isle Academy. She has been dancing for about 18 years since she was three years old. There are six levels of Irish dance and Kerry has made it to the final level, which is called Open.
Kerry’s message to the Wildcats was, “Irish dance or any dance is a great way to grow and make friends. It does not matter how old you are to start dancing. You don’t even have to be Irish!" (3/20/23)
In honor of Pi Day—which was yesterday, 3.14—students throughout the district participated in pi-related math activities and games. At Intermediate South, for example, students enjoyed circular foods such as pizza pie and cookies, while measuring the circumference of circles. Always a fun and delicious day to learn! (3/15/23)
Mrs. Naecker's class at East Dover Elementary received a mini-grant from the Alpha Delta Kappa-Lambda Chapter. They were able to purchase individual totem poles that represented their family's history, culture, and individual interests following their studies within the social studies and CKLA curriculum. (3/9/23)
The Youth Career Pathways-based Project SPEAR-IT program at High School South continues its amazing work. Students in that course—which, under the tutelage of Tim O’Leary, teaches hands-on career and technical work from construction to electrical to plumbing—recently finished the first phase of its 40-planter order for the Toms River Field of Dreams. SPEAR-IT students completed all aspects of the project from the initial design, material list, measuring, cutting, assembly and, today, the loading of the transport truck. The entire program is taking a trip to FOD March 24 to complete the assembly and help fill them with more than 300 bags of dirt. This is hands-on experience that not only teaches, but makes a difference in our community. Nice. Work. (3/7/23)
Intermediate South recently hosted a party in celebration of the school’s Hispanic Heritage Club and their hard work related to a successful Valentine’s Day fundraiser. Taco Town provided the food, which was described as “amazing.” (2/28/23)
Congratulations to High School East teacher Candice Schultz for being named a Teacher Who Rocks by WJRZ. A HSE educator for 17 years, Candice is “caring, passionate and enthusiastic about teaching and helping children,” according to Principal Erin Anders. “She mentors, coaches and is always present for students in need. Her colleagues can rely on her to be dependable and helpful.” The announcement is being made 100.1 WJRZ and 95.9 WRAT Feb. 24. (2/24/23)
Photo by Allison Goodwin of High School East's 2023 Winter Concert, held Feb. 16. More on Instagram. (2/17/23)
Congratulations to Nora, a 4th grade student at Cedar Grove Elementary, who was nominated by her teacher, Tracy Hanson, to be recognized by the Patch in the online news platform's search for area star students. Nora was selected and highlighted by the Patch based on her excellent academic work, kindness towards her peers, and involvement in extra-curricular activities, which includes Girl Scouts and playing ice hockey. Way to go, Nora! (2/15/23)
Mrs. Black, North Dover's Teacher of the Year, helped kick off the school's participation in The Great Kindness Challenge by buzzing through the school and reminding everyone to "bee" kind. (1/23/23)
Volunteers from the High School East Hispanic Heritage Club worked as translators during Cedar Grove Elementary School's report card conferences. According to Principal Stacey Monetti, "These student volunteers helped us strengthen our partnerships with our ESL families. The feedback from teachers and families was overwhelmingly positive." (1/13/23)
Students in High School South’s Business Academy and High School North’s FBLA had the opportunity to network with members of the local community at the Greater Toms River Chamber of Commerce’s (GTRCC) Member Connect Event this morning. Thanks to the GTRCC and its members, students were able to converse with and learn from true business professionals, an invaluable experience. (1/13/23)
High School East's Hispanic Heritage Club recently visited Walnut Street Elementary School. The high school students taught Walnut's newly formed Hispanic Heritage Club about Three Kings Day. They read a book, sang holiday songs, and completed an activity together. Thank you to Sra. Rodriguez and the Hispanic Heritage Club! (1/9/23)
Superintendent Citta, standing next to Buddy the Elf, visited Mr. Cicala's class at Hooper Avenue Elementary. He wished everyone a safe and enjoyable winter break and happy holidays! (12/23/22)
North Dover teacher Mrs. Black greeted students in a very festive costume on the last day before winter break. (12/23/22)
Fourth grade enrichment students at South Toms River Elementary researched natural disasters. In addition to their research, they each selected a book from the I Survive book series and created a 3D scene from the book. The students also created a poster of survival tips for their natural disaster which included a slogan and a mascot. (12/23/22)
Ms. Oz and her orchestra students won Intermediate East’s holiday door-decorating contest. It probably didn’t hurt that the door at C-101 featured school administrators (as well as teachers within the music department); nevertheless, a job well done! (12/21/22)
New Jersey Technical Students Association (NJTSA) leadership teams from Toms River Regional Schools participated in tabletop challenges at NJIT this week thanks to Perkins grant funding and other career and technical education (CTE) support and initiatives. (12/20/22)
High School South senior Jacob Ritacco achieved a perfect 800 score on the math portion of his SAT, and was recently named an AP Scholar with Honor as a result of his AP exam scores. Jacob is ranked in the top six percent of his senior class, and is actively involved in the school’s Math League, golf team, Alliance for Sustainability, T.E.A.M., and Spanish Honor Society. Way to go, Jacob! Photo by High School South's Olivia Lucas (12/20/22)
Mrs. Bowes, a third grade teacher at Washington Street School, applied and won the Alpha Delta Kappa Lambda Chapter mini grant. Her class definitely loves the flexible seating options they can now choose from when completing their work. (12/16/22)
Congratulations are in order for High School South’s Jack Harjes (left) and Ahava Walpola (center), for making the All South Jersey Band for 4th chair Bb clarinet and 5th chair trumpet, respectively, as well as for Mary Antonowicz, for making 4th chair cello in the All South Jersey Orchestra. Way to go! (12/12/22)
High School South’s German Club took a cultural trip to the Christmas Village in Philadelphia Dec. 8. The village contains a German-style Christmas market, complete with food and craft vendors designed to mimic the classic Weihnachtsmärkte popular in Germany during the holiday season. Students were able to shop for gifts, eat traditional foods like Bratwurst, Spätzle, and Kartoffelpuffer, and had the chance to go ice skating and ride a carousel and Ferris wheel. (12/8/22)
East Dover Elementary's Winter Jam concert ended with a Jingle Bells sing-a-long, featuring the dulcet tones of Principal Matt Gray. (12/8/22)
High School South spirit leaders, from left to right, Gianna Schenck, Kaitlyn Gonzalez, Morgan Adams, and Kim Austin went holiday shopping recently to pick up gifts for kiddos currently at Children’s Specialized Hospital in Toms River. Funding for the effort was provided by a grant from Toms River Education Association. (12/6/22)
Project SPEAR-IT is on the move. District leaders, reps from United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, and folks from Ocean County Vocational and Technical visited me today at High School South to discuss the popular program, its new three-year funding commitment, and plans to expand to High School North next year. From left to right: Gary MacDonald, OCVTS; Director of Student Services John Green; UWMOC CEO Lori-Ann McLane; Kevin Dineen, OCVTS; UWMOC’s Christine Jagerburger; High School North Principal Ed Keller; Supervisor of Educational Technology Tiffany Lucey; High School South Principal Kevin Raylman; Director of 6-12 Curriculum Adrienne Gold; and, “seated” virtually in a custom-made-by-SPEAR-IT-students chair, teacher Tim O’Leary and UWMOC’s Kaarina Romero. (12/5/22)
Pine Beach Elementary School hosted a Title One Family Night Nov. 17. Families enjoyed a feast of food and several Thanksgiving-themed activities. (11/29/22)
Stockings For Soldiers: Karen Rodgers, paraprofessional at the Early Learning Center, partnered with Hooper Avenue Elementary to make holiday cards for veterans. The cards will accompany the 500 stockings that are being sent overseas as a part of the Stockings For Soldiers initiative. (11/21/22)
TR United, the student leadership cohort which works alongside the Toms River Police Department, continued its work today. In the High School North media center, hand-selected students from all secondary schools ranging from sixth grade to high school seniors collaborated on activities and led discussions centered on leadership, mental health, and community activism, and received mentorship from Ms. Dee of the Youth Advocacy Program. They also received their T-shirts. (11/3/22)
High School South Supervisor Heather Pentifallo has been selected as the district’s Secondary Team Member Employee of the Month. “Heather has embraced her new role as HSS supervisor with a positive and passionate commitment to support student success,” said Assistant Superintendent Patrick Thomas. “I enjoy having conversations with Heather about her vision to better support our process to improve our math outcomes, not only at South, but throughout the district. She brings a wealth of knowledge and uncanny ability to ensure the process of growth is tangible and effective. Thank you, Heather, for all you do; you are truly respected and appreciated. Keep up the great work!” (10/31/22)
North Dover Elementary is getting ready for Halloween, with a few staff members trying to blend into the crowd. From left to right, ESL teacher Mrs. Black, music teacher Ms. Kaye, Principal Colleen McGrath, and Title 1 teacher Mrs. McGreevey ask, “Where’s Waldo?” (10/28/22)
Intermediate South Principal Paul Gluck and SRO Sean Langan presented Beachwood Police Chief Glen DeMarco, Officer Manganiello, and Ace with a check for $500, funds raised through the school's Vest-A-Cop campaign held last month. Intermediate South expressed gratitude for its relationship with the BPD and their commitment to the school community. (10/28/22)
High School South science teacher Gianna Marano prepares to transform bacteria by exposing them to a plasmid carrying a jellyfish gene during the New Jersey Science Convention held Oct. 18-19. Marano and several TRRS staff members presented on various scientific projects during the two-day convention. (10/20/22)
As part of School Violence Awareness Week, Toms River Police Department’s Sergeant Mooney visited fifth graders at West Dover Elementary School to discuss how to keep schools safe. The school expressed its appreciation for the safety officers across the district who work every day to keep schools safe and secure. (10/21/22)
High School South’s senior week began with a tribute to senior citizens, and students dressed the part. (10/17/22)
From a High School East teacher and band ambassador: “We are incredibly lucky to have Mr. Strohmetz as one of our directors! Home games mean marching the halls and playing outside after school, and today he helped out with percussion. He brings so much to the program!” (10/14/22)
As part of Fire Prevention Week, members of the Pine Beach Volunteer Fire Company met with kindergarten through second grade classes at Pine Beach School to talk about fire safety. This assembly reinforced fire safety lessons in health class. In turn, the students of Pine Beach Elementary are participating in a fill-the-boot fundraiser to help the local fire department raise money for a needed communication system. (10/14/22)
Ocean County Commissioner Barbara "Bobbi" Jo Crea was a guest speaker in the Political & Legal Education class at High School North. She currently serves as Chairwoman of Human Services and Social Services and shared her experiences in government as an elected official with the class. Before being sworn in as an Ocean County commissioner in January 2022, she served the Township of Little Egg Harbor for many years as a committeewoman and mayor. (10/11/22)
Gotta support the team: The Intermediate South girls volleyball team showed up in support of High School South Oct. 10, when the Lady Indians faced off against Southern. (10/11/22)
The spotlight shone on Luke Barber and his High School East teammates during their camouflage-themed game Sept. 23, a victory over Barnegat. Photo by HSE student Sam Impens. (10/4/22)
School spirit was on full display during High School South’s back-to-school night Sept. 29, as spirit leaders—seen here with Assistant Superintendent Pat Thomas and HSS Principal Kevin Raylman—welcomed parents and families. (9/30/22)
It was a warm welcome for Intermediate South parents and families during Visit the School Night, as they were greeted with the soothing sounds and smiling faces of the school’s orchestra. (9/29/22)
Health and Physical Education Supervisor Debbie Schwartz has been named the Secondary Level Team’s Employee of the Month for September 2022. She was selected for her positive mindset and efforts to embrace the new secondary instructional model, including working alongside Intermediate North Principal Lynn Fronzak on the school’s first Ignite Session to creatively provide meaningful professional development to staff. Debbie’s connections with Intermediate North teachers have them feeling more comfortable and knowledgeable about the resources at their disposal. “Debbie, I wanted to thank you for all you are doing and am proud to recognize you for this honor,” said Assistant Superintendent Pat Thomas. (9/27/22)
At Washington Street Elementary School, fourth graders met and were eager to work with the school’s social worker, Ms. DeSantis, and of course therapy dog Oakley. (9/23/22)
Susan George-Horn’s class at Intermediate South spent time creatively learning about lab safety through an outdoor scavenger hunt. Learning and having fun while doing it is the name of the game. (99/22/22)
Congratulations to High School South senior Angelina Devivi, who won first place in second singles at the Ocean County Tennis Tournament. (9/21/22)
At the Pines Manor in Edison Sept. 18, High School North teacher Lucy DeRiggi had the honor of being awarded NJSIAA/NJSOA “Gymnastics Official of the Year” for 2020-2021. Congratulations, Mrs. DeRiggi! (9/19/22)
The Early Learning Center held professional development for its staff Sept. 1, and the room was all smiles as the ELC looks forward to seeing the district's youngest learners starting next week. (9/2/22)
The High School East marching band invited parents to join them on the field during a recent practice. They are looking forward to starting the new competition season! (8/22/22)
Congratulations to Intermediate East teacher, Melissa Malland, who has been published in the book, Women Who Dream, which has a strong focus on mental health. (8/16/22)
Toms River Regional Schools' annual administrative retreat at the Beachwood Community Center July 28 included the optimal team-building activity- a cornhole tournament on the water. (8/1/22)
One of the district’s summer enrichment classes includes a course run by Intermediate East teacher Michelle Le Fevre called "Our Canine and Feline Friends." The purpose of the course is to teach students the responsibilities that come along with owning a companion animal. This week, Paul Alloco and his dog Brandy from Beau's K-9 Academy visited the class to teach students the importance of training your dog and answer questions. (7/27/22)
The High School South girls softball team was honored at the July 20, 2022 board meeting on the heels of its Ocean County Championship; A-South title; and for boasting the A-South Coach of the Year in Thomas Malek. Congratulations to all! (7/21/22)
The Staples store in Toms River continued its ongoing support of Toms River Regional Schools with a hefty donation of 13 cases filled with 1,000 small boxes of ready-made school supplies for district students. Thank you, Staples! (7/18/22)
Intermediate East teacher Angela Germano (left) and East Dover Supervisor JoAnn Nocera held a book signing in Asbury Park July 8. Each educator is a published author, with more projects on the horizon. Congratulations! (7/11/22)