CENTRAL THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE
On Nov. 25, the Central Regional Thanksgiving Food Drive made the holiday extra special for many needy area families.
"The district’s Key Club volunteers served 60 families with the many donations collected from Central students and their families and staffulty," said Central Regional Superintendent Dr. Michelle CarneyRayYoder. More than 80 turkeys and sides for Thanksgiving baskets were collected and members of the high school’s National Honor Society assembled the baskets, which were then donated to the families.
• December 17
HS Band and Chorus Winter Concert
• December 23 Winter Break Starts
• January 6 School Resumes
• January 17-18 Alice in Wonderland
Central Regional #WE R CR Staffulty of the Month
Click here to nominate a staffulty member for CRSD’s Staffulty of the Month!
Click here to nominate a staffulty member for the National Jostens Renaissance Staffulty of the Month Award!
Newsletter Submissions
If you would like to share some information or a story for the Golden Eagle Gazette such as a newsworthy event, an innovative lesson in your classroom, club news, etc., please email Allison Freeman at afreeman@laura-bishop.com.
Students Selected for All Shore Chorus
Six Central Regional High School students were selected for the New Jersey All Shore Chorus!
The students are:
Seniors: Bri McNamee, Alyssa Ely, Megan Gallas
Juniors: Brooke Norton, Lucas Haug, Kait Gentilcore
The chorus is composed of the best high school singers in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
The Central Regional High School Drama Club presented “A Night on Broadway” November 15-17 in the high school auditorium.
Q: What is your favorite memory from CRSD?
New Feature: Alumni Spotlight
Please enjoy our new section focusing on a Central Regional alumnus. This month we are featuring Island Heights Borough Mayor E. Stephen Doyle , who graduated CRHS in 1977 and was named a Central Regional Distinguished Alumni in 2000. His photo is still featured on the wall outside the gymnasium.
A: I enjoyed football games when we were really good and heading to the State Championship. I also really liked simply being with my friends and going for walks around Central. I remember one Earth Day we walked to school from Island Heights.
Q: What did you enjoy most about the Central experience?
A: We were on split sessions, so you had no down time. I remember I liked the constant mental challenge of one class after another.
Q: Who was your favorite teacher and why?
A: In middle school it was Ms. Fischer. She was tough and cared about the students.
In high school it was Mrs. King and Mr. Walters. They were an incredible combo of teachers in humanities.
Q: Do you come back to visit?
A: I have. I attended a career day a few years back and we donated musical instruments and tuxedos for the orchestra.
Q: Did you feel your years at Central inspired you to pursue your career?
A: Being on split sessions allowed me to work early. I had a job at 15 and haven’t stopped since.
Q: What is your most proud accomplishment?
A: Being COO of a Fortune 100 company is pretty good, but being a proud Dad is my greatest accomplishment. I was a career chief financial officer at Prudential, COO at Aetna aand Corporate President of Aetna of the banking division.
Q: Where did you attend college/ university?
A: Stockton University, Fairleigh Dickinson University and Yale University.
Q: Can you tell us anything interesting about yourself?
A: I was President and I am on the Board of the U.S. Chess Federation, an honorary member of FIDE, the International Chess Federation, and founder of the U.S. Chess Hall of Fame and its Museum as well as the World Chess Hall of Fame. I am also CEO of the U.S. Chess Trust, one of the oldest sports charities in the country. In addition, I am the founder of the Barnegat Bay Sailing Foundation and advisor and past trustee of the John F. Peto Studio Museum.
Q: What town did you live in when you attended Central?
A: I lived in Island Heights then and now.
Q: Did you have children who attended Central?
A: My children went to school in North Jersey but always spent
VISIT GREECE IN 2026!
Have you ever dreamed of being transported in time? Are you looking for an adventure filled with history and culture?
Why not join Miss DeSaro and Mr. Torsiello as they lead an exciting tour to Greece during the summer of 2026? The itinerary includes Athens and the Islands. Visit the birthplace of democracy and philosophy.
Cruise the Aegean Sea to explore the islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Rhodes. Dine on an assortment of Greek dishes while taking in the beauty of the islands and the famous, whitewashed architecture. Get your passport ready for the trip of a lifetime! Click here to learn more about the tour or contact Miss DeSaro at ddesaro@centralreg.k12.nj.us and Mr. Torsiello at dtorsiello@centralreg.k12.nj.us.
Central Regional Students Enjoy Spain Trip
This past summer, 12 Central Regional students and one alumnus enjoyed an educational tour through Spain with group leader Danielle DeSaro and chaperone Dan Torsiello.
The 11-day tour, called Experience Spain, kicked off with a six-hour layover exploring Lisbon, Portugal before the group traveled to Granada where students were transported in time as they visited the Alhambra, the palace and fortress of the Moors. Afterwards, the students competed in a “city challenge” scavenger hunt.
En route to Seville, the group stopped at Basilippo olive farm to learn about the production of olive oil and partook in a taste test. Once in Seville, the travelers relaxed on a river cruise, dined on tapas, explored the Plaza de Espana, visited the Seville Cathedral and climbed the tower for a breathtaking view of the city. On the last day in Seville, the students put on their dancing shoes for a traditional flamenco dance lesson and ended the evening with a flamenco show.
Next, the group set off for Madrid and stopped to visit the remarkable and impressive Great MosqueCathedral of Cordoba which dates to the late 8th century. Once in Madrid, DeSaro could not contain her excitement as she had lived and studied there her junior year at New York University. Travelers escaped the week-long heat wave by visiting the
Prado Museum and La Reina Sofia where DeSaro taught them about Picasso’s famous mural, La Guernica. Famous landmarks, such as the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel and Palacio Real were enjoyed by all.
The final destination of the tour was Barcelona where travelers walked the famous Las Ramblas and visited Gaudi’s Park Güell. On the last day, travelers were able to visit the inside of Gaudi’s famous cathedral- La Sagrada Familia. The tour ended with a relaxing day at a popular beach resort, Blanes. Relaxing on the beach and swimming in the Balearic Sea was a perfect ending to an unforgettable and memorable trip!
CRMS Science Club Fun
The members of the Middle School Science Club have been conducting some fun experiments and challenges during its recent meetings, according to advisor and seventh grade science teacher Jessica Soell.
For the club’s October meeting, students experimented with glow sticks, determining if they would glow better in hot or cold water. For the November meeting, the students were challenged to make the tallest towers from cranberries and toothpicks. At the December meeting, the students created borax crystal snowflakes.
The club meets once per month in room 226 and all students are welcome.
Spanish Classes Enjoy Learning About Spanish Culture
On Nov. 25, students in Danielle DeSaro’s period 1 and period 2 Spanish classes learned about Spain firsthand from two guest speakers: former 2018 Central Regional exchange student Pablo de la Cuesta and his friend Quique Iglesias. In 2018, Pablo’s time as an exchange student at Central left a lasting impression on him. While they were visiting for the week in November, Pablo’s host sister, Jaylynn Franco, planned for Pablo and Quique to visit and talk about Spanish culture, traditions, and
The guest speakers emphasized the importance of learning a second language. Both shared how knowing English had personally helped them. Pablo is studying to be a plastic surgeon and Quique is studying business and marketing. In their spare time, they travel internationally to represent the Spanish hip-hop group, Kronikals. Students practiced their Spanish and enjoyed asking questions about Spain. Some students even had fun learning some new dance moves!
Students of the Month honored by Board of Education
At Central Regional Middle School, Principal Joe Firetto recognizes the school’s top students each month through the Student of the Month program.
“With the help of our assistant principals and informal dialogue with classroom teachers, students are identified and selected for Students of the Month,” Firetto said.
In addition to checking on the student's academics, Firetto said that they look at the individual's character, service, leadership and then consider if the student is a positive role model, participate in activities, do volunteer work etc.
September
Declan Collins
Lily Mooney
Leah VanHise
Joseph Veltri
October
Ethan Hronich
Paige Villano
Andrew Kulchinsky
Thea Mitchell
November
Grace DeLorme
Nico Pasqualini
Madeline Gall
Matthew McGarry
Central Regional High School also recognizes its top students using similar criteria, according to High School Principal Angello Mazzuca.
September
Sophia Acevedo
Luca Aliseo
Braylon Corbino
Leah DiCillo
Nicole Kangas
Sam Rezai
Aidan Graham
Sydney Olmeda
October
Daisy Ramirez-Torres
Joseph Urcinole
Bianca Guadagno
Grayson Sinnett
Morris Maze
Jaycey Cousins
Dylan Konfederak
Farrah Abouellsaad
High School GOLDEN EAGLE Awards
"The Golden Eagle award is for Seniors who excel in all aspects of our school community," said Central Regional High School Principal Angello Mazzuca. There are multiple elements that go into the selection process including academics, attendance, and extra-curricular activities. “We do not officially rank students, but the Golden Eagle award winners are typically at the top of their graduating class,” he said. “If a student was a member was a member of the Humanities Academy, DMA or Fine Art Academy, an officer in a club, captain of a sports team etc., that also helps.”
November
Addison Frulio
Rowan Harmon
Alaina Cottrell
Cijier Yates
Tori Rapolla
Kaden Stout
Jack Davis
Lena Banks
October
September
Ava Schmidhauser
Riley Billhimer
Athena Rodenbaugh
November
Samantha Demarco
Kareem McGrath
Central Reg. Middle School Leadership Training
The Central Middle School Peer Leaders learned ways to make a positive difference in their school community at a special leadership training program led by Dr. Frank Rudnesky.
During the program on Dec. 10, students literally “created a web of compliments” as they threw a ball of yarn around a circle and gave each student who caught the ball a compliment. These ranged from “I love your smile” to “I really like your new haircut.”
The goal is to create a more positive environment in the middle school with the peer leaders leading the way, offering compliments to
The five domains of Fired Up Student Leadership are: 1. Self management, organization 2. Communication, listening
Critical thinking, problem solving and team building
Character, service
Passion
other students to make their days a bit brighter.
“The compliments will show how we are all connected,” Rudnesky told the students. “I want each of you to give five compliments a day to make this a friendlier school. You will make a positive difference.
“If you change one person’s trajectory in a positive way, you can change the world,” he added.
Rudnesky also shared a slide show to students explaining the five domains of Fired Up Student Leadership.
The students participated in a team building, candy cane, relay race at the end of the program. They started the day by getting to school early and welcoming students getting off the buses with encouraging signs.
Rudnesky of Fired Up Student Leadership offers an inspirational leadership training program to about 50 middle school peer leaders each month. CRHS students in the Renaissance Peer Leaders assisted with the program.
“I learned that complimenting someone can make their day better,” said Serenity Deverane, a peer leader in the eighth grade.
“I learned that doing a small thing can impact someone greatly,” added Paige Grant, a peer leader in the eighth grade.
Central Clubs Receive Donations
On Dec. 4, Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee Chairman Michael Blandina, and member John Giavatto presented National Honor Society Advisor Ashley Mazzuca, and World Language Club Advisor Danielle DeSaro with donations for their clubs.
The donations were a thank you as volunteers from both the National Honor Society and World Language HS clubs carried banners in this year's Columbus Day Parade in Seaside Heights. Both clubs generously paid it forward and donated the funds to the Key Club's Garnet and Gold Giving Tree. Happy Holidays!
Peer Leaders Make A Difference
The Central Regional Middle School Peer Leaders traveled to H&M Potter School in Berkeley Township in November to read books to preschool children as part of the “Fall into Reading” program.
Tis the season for giving, especially on Giving CRSD is thankful for the generous donation of a basketball tree to our district from Lori and Paul Santucci. Our students are looking forward to putting them to use on the court!
Key GarnetClub & Gold Tree
This month Key Club members worked to assemble holiday gift packages for over 130 CR students in need of some extra cheer!
This project is funded by Key Club fundraising efforts, contributions from other CR clubs and activities, as well as staff donations for the annual Key Club Week of Jeans leading up to winter break.
This is the club's biggest project and we are so happy to be able to spread some joy for the holidays!
Congratulations to cheerleader Sydney Olmeda on being named a 2025 Nfinity All American First Team Selection. She exemplifies excellence in academics, athletics, and community outreach. Sydney is an ambassador for Central Regional, the Nfinity brand, and t he sport she loves. She will be recognized at the All-American banquet, receive an Nfinity backpack, a Nfinity All-American jacket and other gifts
“Sydney exemplifies the student athlete,” said Cheerleading Coa ch Coral Caiola. “She maintains a standard of excellence in all areas of her school performance, academically as well as athletically. Sydney is an outstanding candidate who can contribute many skills to the All-American Cheer team.”
As Captain of the CRHS Cheer team, Sydney has shown leadership and a team player attitude, the coach said. “She strives to exc el, and she utilizes constructive criticism to enhance her performance, shows compassion toward her peers and is not intimidated by new challenges. She demonstrates the character and qualities befitting a Varsity Cheer Captain.”
We would also like to congratulate Addison Nolan on her selection to represent Central Regional at the NJSIAA National Girls & Women's Sports Day on January 12, 2025, at Rutgers University.
“Addison Nolan is a four-year letter winner and a captain for our girls' basketball program at Central Regional,” said Girls’ Basketball Coach Dan Torsiello. “She is an exemplary young woman who encourages her teammates with positive words, leads others by giving her maximum effort every time, and always strives to improve in the classroom.”
The celebratory event will be hosted by Rutgers University on J an. 12, at Jersey Mike's Arena and will feature a Rutgers women's basketball game vs. Nebraska at 2 p.m. Addison and the other nominees will be recognized during halftime. The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association will also provide a certificate and small gift to each attendee.
CRMS Band and Chorus Winter Concert
The Middle School Band and Chorus presented their annual winter concert on Dec. 10 in the high school auditorium.
The chorus performed a few fun winter songs: “Carol of the Bells,” “Sleigh Ride,” and “Winter Wonderland,” the latter which was
also accompanied by the CRMS jazz band. The jazz band also played “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Party Rock Anthem.”
The CRMS Concert Band impressed the audience by performing more than 10 songs including “Chanukah O Chanukah,” “The Nutcracker,” and “Cartoon Christmas.”
The concert ended with “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge. “In unity there is strength but like a family we have to work hard and come together,” said band director Ree Shivers. “So, to finish out the concert we would like to leave you with this ending note that in CRMS band we are all family no matter what.”
Art Class Visit from Margi Wright
Students in Mrs. Barrett’s Fiber and Craft class enjoyed a creative visit from Margi Wright, a fiber artist. Margi donates her time each year to bring a unique experience to Fiber Arts students. As a special project, they created small woven mugrugs and printed them with natural dyes.
HS Drama Class Enjoy Theater Trip
Students in the high school’s Introduction to acting and drama class taught by Ms. Megan Rafferty recently enjoyed a student matinee performance of “A Christmas Carol” at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey in Madison. The students also participated in a Q&A session with the show’s actors and production staff.
CRHS JROTC Veterans Day Appreciation Ceremony
On Nov. 10, the Central Regional Golden Eagle Battalion collaborated with Girl Scout Troop 278, led by Cadet Sergeant First Class Kayla Garces, honored the Bayville New Jersey’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9503.
The battalion and girl scouts hosted a thank you ceremony and breakfast for the veterans. The event began with a flag ceremony led by Cadet First Sergeant Gabriella Gonzalez, and the posting of the official colors by Cadets Second Lieutenant Anna Pitts, Second Lieutenant Shane Stagg, First Sergeant Juliana Gonzalez, and Master Sergeant Katilyn Ely.
The ceremony concluded with speeches made by Cadet leaders who thanked the Veterans for the brave sacrifices made defending our freedom and way of life. The event ended with the Cadets and Girl Scouts eating and celebrating with the veterans. The Battalion is grateful to Girl Scout Troop 278, which led the preparation and serving of breakfast.
Jenn Haines
High School Marine Science and Environmental Science Teacher
Advisor for Astronomy Club, O.C.E.A.N. Club and the Paws and Claws Club
Jenn was recently named Central Regional High School’s Governor’s Teacher of the Year! Way to go!
Jaime Cestare Middle School Math Teacher
Advisor of Middle School Peer Leaders
Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?
A: I’ve been in the district for 21 years. I originally taught eighth grade in the Middle School and then moved to the High School, but I’ve always been a Science Teacher.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?
A: I love interacting with the students, especially when I see them out of the classroom on field trips and during club activities. They are continually inspiring and motivating me to be a better teacher and a better person.
Q: What is the most challenging thing about your position?
A: It is difficult when you have a student
who is struggling, and you reach out to their home and you cannot always count on the home as a resource for the student. Kids need support and sometimes they need more than all the help teachers can give them. It frustrates and saddens me when that happens.
Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?
A: Well, my dad was in the first graduating class of Central, which I never realized until I started working here. Also, I am afraid of heights, so I went skydiving by myself to get over my fear. I did it and did I get over that fear? … Nope!
Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?
A: This is my 21st year teaching at Central. I have taught math in high school and middle school.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?
A: I have the best colleagues! Working at Central makes you part of a family.
Q: What is the most challenging thing about your position?
A: The most challenging thing about my job is balancing home and work. I strive to always give 100% and be present when I am at home but also when I am at work. My children and my students deserve my best effort every day.
Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?
A: I enjoy doing puzzles and playing board games with my children. I am also a Giants fan (but not so proud of that these days).