May 27, 2026 -- What better way to kick off Memorial Day weekend than with some friendly competition amongst co-workers?

That's just what took place last Friday at Silver Bay Elementary School when staff members from all departments in the building - grade-level teachers, paraprofessionals, related service providers, CST members, and support staff - joined forces to play "Capture the Seagulls."

Staff members created teams, played solo, and even formed alliances in this fun staff bonding activity.  The goal was to capture as many hidden seagulls by the end of the school day.

District Behavior Analyst Sarah Strazzella, who was also the event's organizer, said, "The challenge quickly became a schoolwide event filled with strategy, stealth missions, laughs, and friendly competition." She continued, "Staff members coordinated distraction plans, relocated nests, formed temporary alliances, and fully embraced the fun throughout the day."

Ultimately, the winning team was Prestige Worldwide (below, left), which was made up of Guidance Counselor Mr. Caponetto and Intervention & Gifted Education Teacher Mrs. Langan. They captured 35 seagulls to win the grand prize of a Jersey Mike’s Catering Box generously donated by Jersey Mike’s Subs – Fischer Blvd., Toms River.

In addition to the game, staff also participated in raffles throughout the day, with 24 prizes awarded thanks to support from local businesses!  Breakfast was provided by TR Big Store Dunkin’/Baskin Robbins on Bananier Dr. in Toms River and was a huge hit with staff before the game started.  Other sponsors included, Turning Point, Target, Prestige Car Wash, Ocean County YMCA, Good Hair Daze, Jersey Shore Mermaids, East Coast Escape Room, Fabricated For You Craft Store, Kuts at the Kingdom, Cordi’s Italian Gourmet, Silver Bay Bagels, Maruca’s Pizza, Monster Mini Golf- Eatontown, Klee’s Bar & Grill, Fantasy Island Amusement Park, She Shells Sweets, Brooklyn Bistro, and Seastreak Ferry.

According to Strazzella, "Staff feedback throughout the day was overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing how much fun they had and how nice it was to see so much laughter, teamwork, and positive interaction throughout the building."  Job well done!