Central Regional students in Life Skills Program benefit from community connections
Program helps 18- to 21-years-olds with special needs prepare for careers
Every day, young adults with special needs in the Central Regional Life Skills Program bake several batches of brownies-- which they affectionately call “Ford” able brownies, named after the Life Skills teacher Abby Ford who helps lead them.
The brownies, which sell for $1 a piece at Central Regional High School, are one way the students in the special needs program develop important skills and prepare for the workforce. "The program helps them connect in the community, which can lead to future jobs," Ford said.
The Central Regional's Life Skills Program, a career-training, work-based learning program for 18- to 21-year-olds with special needs, allows students who have graduated high school to continue developing life skills, learning self-advocacy, and connecting with the community. The program, led by Ford, takes place at a house on the Central Regional campus and uses community based
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"I like learning how to get out in the real world and work and build things"
instruction (CBI) to help the young adults gain valuable experience. One recent graduate of the program works in a Central Regional school cafeteria.
The program brings students out into the community where they work at different businesses, go out to lunch, and learn how to be independent. Students do chores, learn how to take care of finances, make a list, go grocery shopping, and enjoy recreational activities such as bowling.
In fact, skills like this learned through the program helped Gianna Messina, 20 of Barnegat, get a job. "I work part time at Dunkin' Donuts putting croissants and muffins on the trays and in the bins," she said.
In December, the students went holiday shopping so they could purchase gifts for their family and friends, she said.
"The students really enjoy these trips as part of their CBI," Ford said. Recent trips included a hotel in LBI where students folded napkins, cleaned windows, vacuumed, and swept floors in the restaurant area.
On a recent day at the program, students began lunch preparation for the group, sauteing meat for tacos and chopping up tomatoes, lettuce, and onions.
Back in the kitchen, Central Regional Superintendent Michelle CarneyRay-Yoder visited with the students and demonstrated the safe and proper way to cut
vegetables using a chef's knife.
"Life Skills are so important for all of our students," CarneyRay-Yoder said. "I love that our special services program will help our students become thriving and successful members of society."
Down the hall, students put up a load of laundry, while another laminated posters. On the other side of the building, students learned how to balance a checkbook, inputting deposits and checks into a ledger.
The goal of the program is to help the students learn important basic skills that will help them live independently, Ford said.
Many of the students said they enjoy going on the CBI trips. "I like learning how to get out in the real world and work and build things," noted Shane Erickson, 21 of Bayville. "Maybe one day, I could work as a school custodian or a groundskeeper as I really enjoy being outside."
Diego Abbey, 21 of Bayville, said his favorite part of the program is delivering packages in the school district and stocking shelves.
“The program also helps students develop other skills like time management," said Rose Matsil, 20 of Toms River. Matsil is responsible for the program schedule and works to update it on the whiteboard every day.
Central Regional students benefit from humanities academy
Program lets participants take up to six college classes in high school
Central Regional High School students interested in studying humanities can participate in the district's accelerated Humanities Program Academy, an accredited college program.
The program, which started 12 years ago, gives students "an edge" by offering them the chance to take as many as six college classes in the humanities before entering higher education, said Central Regional Assistant Superintendent Doug Corbett.
“It was designed to prepare students for higher education, has elevated the district’s reputation and given students an extraordinary advantage,” Corbett said. Unique among New Jersey schools, the program is widely recognized for fostering academic rigor and cultural literacy in a state already renowned for educational excellence.
Through the academy, Central Regional offers college courses in English, history and psychology, so students can enter college or university with a strong academic foundation.
The program, now accredited and offered through Stockton University, was previously affiliated with Georgian Court University.
Central Regional students can also choose to follow a capstone program. Students begin their journey as freshmen and take specific classes that prepare them to handle the rigor of college coursework and AP courses. As seniors, they take high school courses at Central Regional in the morning and then take courses from Stockton University professors in the afternoons during the fall and spring semesters. Students who successfully complete the program will have earned 24 credits through Stockton. In addition, students can earn almost 30 credits if they choose through embedded course offerings.
Students enrolled in the humanities academy credit the program for helping them jump-start their college and career paths.
ACTING & TV PRODUCTION CLASSES WORK TOGETHER
CRHS students in Megan Rafferty’s acting class and Ken Zinkevich’s TV production class are working together to create a short film to enter in several state competitions.
These include the All-American High School Film Festival and the NJ Young Filmmakers Festival, Mr. Zinkevich said. The group recently placed third in the NJNG “Conserve to Preserve” contest.
The students started the writing process for “Brainrotten” after fall break and finished the screenplay in November, he said. Each of the TV Production students wrote a scene, which was reviewed as a class to refine our voice. Next, the students developed a shot list for the scene they wrote and then put those together to shoot in a logical order for the shooting script. After winter break, the classes were combined so each student can edit their scene.
“Miss Rafferty’s actors are such a game changer, and we
are completing our scenes at a professional speed,” Mr. Zinkevich said. “They are all such great kids to work with and Miss Rafferty has an amazing rapport with them. I hope we get to collaborate more in the future.”
"I think the CRHS Humanities Academy is brilliant and gives talented students a chance to thrive in more rigorous courses," said Sydney Olmeda, a Central Regional senior who plans to study law. "As a CRHS Humanities Academy student, I am receiving college credit for free on Central Regional’s high school campus. This means that once I graduate high school and move on to a university, I have the possibility of graduating a year early due to the credits I am earning, ultimately allowing my family and I to pay less for extended education."
Over 300 students participated in the academy, which earned recognition from the New Jersey Department of Education and accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
The academy’s mission is rooted in enriching student experiences through cultural literacy,
liberal education, and access to the arts and humanities, Corbett said. “It emphasizes the study of the human condition, history, and the broader role of humanity in the world. The program’s vision is equally ambitious, aiming to inspire fearless exploration, creativity, and social consciousness while preparing students for meaningful lives and careers.”
Admission is merit-based and selective, ensuring a community of driven, high-achieving students who exemplify leadership and academic excellence, Corbett said. The academy’s high standards extend beyond academics, as students are expected to be role models in their school and community.
Beginning in ninth grade, students in the academy commit to a rigorous curriculum of Honors and AP courses, culminating in the Senior Capstone experience.
CentralRegionalScores inJosten’sTop5
The Central Regional School District’s video scored in the top 5 nationally with the Jostens Epic Revamp competition.
The TV production class worked on the film which displayed Central’s school spirit and the need for financial support to help with campus renovations. Central Regional was the only New Jersey school district to score in the top five in New Jersey.
CRMS Students Share Love for American Sign Language
Central Regional students enjoy studying American Sign Language and want to share their passion for the language with other students.
On January 17, CRMS American Sign Language first and second marking period students, teacher Jennifer Lozada, who is also the ASL Club Advisor, and CRHS ASL teacher Ashley Cantelme traveled to Ocean Gate Elementary School and Island Heights Elementary School to introduce the ASL program to fifth and sixth grade students.
CRMS students prepared their lessons, complete with visual aids and questions, and provided the Ocean Gate and Island Heights students with a sampling of
CRMS Awards Presented
The middle school peer leaders created a recognition program for students who represent good character. The Central Has Character Award for the second marking period 2 was for the core value of family and citizenship.
The winners are:
For the first marking period, the core value was compassion. The winners are:
7th Grade Lilyanna Galizia
8th Grade Ava Campagnolo
CRMS hosted a student assembly on Friday, Feb. 14 to recognize students in the following categories:
Perfect Behavior-Incident Free since September
Perfect Attendance since September
Earning Honor Roll status
Students had an opportunity to win candy and treats, as well as gift cards. CRMS is very appreciative of the Bayville Elks. The group has provided donations to provide recognition and incentive programs for our students.
7th Grade Lily Mooney 8th Grade Violet Deer
NATIONAL Renaissance Staffulty of the month: Mike Bischoff
This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Mike Bischoff from Central Regional High School in Bayville, NJ. Nominator Susan Keogh wrote:
Mr. Bischoff experienced in one school year what most people would crawl into a deep dark hole waiting for the bad dream to end. He lost his son in a tragic accident and while grieving his loss became paralyzed from the waist down several months later. Our paths never crossed during the school year in the classroom except for passing his classroom in between periods. Mr. Bischoff did not finish the school year and worked hard to navigate life in a wheelchair. What amazes me about Mr. Bischoff was that he fought so hard to get back into the classroom and do what he does very well and teach English to his students. Some accommodations needed to be implemented by Central Regional, which staff and Administration did so eagerly so he could come back to his job and continue to make a difference in the lives of our students. It took resilience, healthy habits, confidence, empathy, healthy relationships and most importantly hope in the future for Mr.
Bischoff to be an example; not only for his coworkers but most importantly our students. He is an example of these traits daily in the classroom or when you see him as you pass his classroom. He shows great strength and is an inspiration to everyone. Today’s kids face so much more than 20 years ago. They need someone to look up to. I am so glad – not only for us his Central family, but for each student that sits in his classroom who is better today than yesterday
SEVENTH GRADERS LAUNCH ROCKETS
CRMS seventh grade science students in Ms. Jessica Soell’s designed and created their own bottle rockets which they launched on Jan. 27.
The students started with a 2-liter bottle and then added weight with nose cones and fins for stability. They also added their own creativity with colors and themes.
The rockets are the culminating project for the class unit on Newton’s laws and kinetic and potential energy. The launches were impressive with the highest rocket reaching 122.5 meters or 401 feet!
ATHLETIC NEWS!
CRHS Girls' Wrestling Update
The Central Regional girls wrestling team has had an incredible season, with a ranking of No.10 in the state after defeating #9 Lakewood in the Feb. 12 poll.
Several of our team members have won individual championships at various tournaments, including Liliana Alicea and Jade Hahn at the Queen of the East Tournament, JayAnna Hahn and Jade Hahn at the Rumble in the Pines, Sophia VanSplinter and Liliana Alicea at the Shore Conference Tournament, and Liliana Alicea at the Golden Eagle Grapple.
The team plans to participate in the individual South Region Tournament and hopes to continue its run to the state championships in Atlantic City from March 6 to March 8, according to Coach Kyle Watson.
“The team has shown resilience and determination throughout the season, battling tough opponents
and proving they belong among the best,” the coach said. “Led by captains, Liliana Alicea and Jade Hahn, the squad has been training rigorously to prepare for the challenges ahead.”
The Central Regional Middle School Wrestling Team had a fun filled and exciting season.
CRMS Wrestler Eddie Figueroa, who won the gold medal at the recent Red Tournament, also took home the Ocean County Championship and the Tri County Championship, the winners of Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex counties. He finished the season undefeated with a 16-0 record.
Coach Willie Jacobs Good said that the team finished the season with 10 wins and 2 losses.
ffulty of the Month
Nichole Gara
HS Assistant Principal & Social Studies Supervisor
Q: Can you describe your role?
A: As an Assistant Principal, I spend a great deal of time on the daily management of the building including arrival and departure supervision, duty assignments, lunch supervision, security drills and student discipline. I am assigned to students with the last names beginning with A through F in grades ninth through 12th. I address attendance, behavior, and pretty much anything else that arises. I review and approve all school fundraisers for clubs, activities, and sports teams. All parking assignments for staff and students are issued through my office. Lastly, I work closely with our building principal to assist in any way I can.
Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?
A: This is my fourth year as an assistant principal at Central Regional High School. Throughout my time here, I supervised the Science, Social Studies, and Music departments. Before becoming an administrator here at CRHS, I was a special education teacher at Hugh J. Boyd Jr. Elementary School for seven years. Prior to that, I lived and taught in North Carolina for about seven years. I received my undergraduate and master’s degrees from Georgian Court University in Lakewood. My education started with the wonderful schools here in Berkeley Township at Clara B. Worth Elementary and then the Central Regional School District, graduating from CRHS in 2003.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?
A: My favorite thing about working at Central Regional is that we are all a big family. Everyone truly cares about each other and does what is best for our
Christina Pepe CRMS Principal's Administrative Assistant
Q: Can you describe your role?
A: I am CRMS Principal Joe Firetto's administrative assistant. I am also the AESOP Coordinator for the middle school staff, making sure when a teacher or staff member calls out that there is coverage in the classroom. I am also responsible for updating and maintaining the middle school social media pages.
Q: How long have you worked in the district, and have you worked in other roles?
A: I have been in the district for 10 years and have worked as the assistant principal's secretary at the middle school.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Central Regional?
A: My favorite part about working at Central Regional is the middle school staff. They are a great team to work with and always willing to help when needed. Having a supportive team makes such a big difference.
students. When someone from our community goes through hardship, everyone rallies together to assist in any way needed. This is part of the reason I came back to work at my alma mater when the opportunity arose. I had a great experience here as a student and I wanted to be part of the culture that shapes the future.
Q: What is the most challenging part of your position?
A: The most challenging, but also the most rewarding part of my position is balancing all the responsibilities while also connecting with students, staff, and parents.
Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?
A: I am a mom of two boys, one is 14 and the other is 4. My husband, Michael, is a physical education teacher at CRHS. He started the Boys Lacrosse Team here a few years ago. I enjoy the beach, boating, skiing, and snowmobiling.
Q: What is the most challenging thing about your position?
A: The most challenging part of my position is making sure the middle school is covered on a daily basis. I start my day at 5:45 a.m. to make sure all classes and staff are covered for the day. Yes, some days are easier than others, but it still is the most challenging part of my role.
Q: Can you share something fun about yourself?
A: I love to read, do puzzles and go to the gym to get a good early morning workout in.
Special Olympics Snowshoe Team
The Golden Eagles Special Olympics Snowshoe Team took to Mountain Creek in style with a spectacular showing at the 2025 SONJ Winter Game on and off the mountain.
Rose Matsil was this year's Opening Ceremony emcee and excited the crowd, announcing all the delegates, special guests, and most importantly signaling the lighting of the torch for the games to begin!
Central competed in the 200-meter snowshoe race and the 100-meter snowshoe sprint. Tripp Corrigan earned a Bronze in the 200M and a Silver in the 100M. Shane Erickson earned Gold for the 200M and Bronze in the 100M. Kellen Hess placed fourth
in both the 200M and the 100M. Thatcher Pero raced for a Bronze in the 200M and a Silver in the 100M. James Nagy flew in the 100M for Gold and Silver in the 200M. Rose Matsil soared for gold in the 200M and earned a fourth place finish in the 100M. That brings Central Regional’s medal count to nine gold, silver, and bronze finishes. Coach Murphy is so proud of all the athletes who competed.
Boys Basketball updates
The six-game showcase had some of the top teams in the Shore Conference and State playing against each other. Thank you to all who made this an incredible day for all involved but more importantly the Jimmy V Foundation!
On Feb. 1, Senior Jaycen Santucci scored his 1500th point in his career. Jaycen is now second all-time in points scored for the basketball team at Central Regional. Way to go Jaycen! The Boys Basketball Team raised $25,003 in the Jimmy Valvano Coaches vs. Cancer Showcase on Jan. 18.