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Inside This Issue:

East News

Seniors of the Month

Sports Highlights

Guidance News

Winter Features

Teacher of the Year By: Ashley Davidson

Mrs. O’Donnell was selected Teacher of the Year for

the 2014-2015 school year. She has been a psychology teacher

for more than 20 years. She started teaching at High School

North after graduating from Kean University in 1994. Mrs.

O’Donnell taught at High School North until 1999. She then

made the decision to start teaching at High School East.

Mrs. O’Donnell was inspired to become a teacher by

her high school history teacher, Mr. Frank Kaysan. He made

his class one that all his students looked forward to attending.

Mrs. O’Donnell loved high school and she “wants to pass that

along to all her students.” She feels that they are “some of the

best years of one’s life, if you take the time to enjoy it.” Her

role models are her former history teacher, Mr. Kaysan and

fellow co-worker Mrs. Janis Tulp, who is her mentor in psy-

chology.

Her favorite aspect of East is the people in the school.

“I am surrounded by an amazing staff, a fabulous administra-

tion, and some pretty great kids,” Mrs. O’Donnell said.

Mrs. O’Donnell is a very involved teacher. She has

contributed much of her career, not only to teaching, but coach-

ing and being a class advisor. She was the head cheerleading

coach at East from 1996-2004. She remained on the coaching

staff for two more years as an assistant coach and mentor to the

incoming coaches. The East co-ed cheer team won the 1997

and 1998 State and National Championships. Mrs. O’Donnell

has also been the Class Advisor for the Class of 2003, Class of

2004, and the Class of 2014. Mrs. O’Donnell has been the co-

advisor of Student Activities with Mr. Dispoto for the past five

years. Her favorite quote is, “The future belongs to those who

believe in the beauty of their dreams”-Eleanor Roosevelt.

The Teacher of the Year is chosen by many people.

The former Teachers of the Year met with administration to

discuss potential nominees. Considerations were also taken

from students and parents. “I honestly can’t think of a better

person to be the High School East 2014-2015 Teacher of the

Year. Mrs. O’Donnell is kind, positive, and so involved in all

aspects of the school,” English teacher Mrs. Daniel said.

“Mrs. O’Donnell is a warm and bubbly person. She is

the social liaison and head of the Climate Committee. She al-

ways goes above and beyond and always makes High School

East a place where the staff and students want to attend. She is

always organizing things to make East a positive place to be,”

Mr. Thomas said.

Congratulations Mrs. O’Donnell, a very deserving

teacher!

Character Education:

Responsibility By: Cheyenne Lord

Character education has gained a new emphasis

at High School East in order to raise awareness of one’s

own actions and increase the safety of the Raider commu-

nity. Throughout the month of January, the school focused

on the “character pillar” of responsibility. According to

Principal Mr. Thomas, teenagers of this generation do

have responsibility, but they still have to learn to be better.

A lot of the problems at East result from poor behavior

and peer-on-peer trouble. Character education will make

students more accountable for their actions. “I want stu-

dents to understand their responsibility in achieving their

own success,” Mr. Thomas said.

To support the students in January, teachers were

encouraged to include responsibility in their daily lesson

plans. A sample lesson plan was given out, and a major

component was getting students to think about what re-

sponsibility meant to them. Many students said it was

keeping up with homework on top of other activities.

When asked what made her feel responsible, senior Mei

Ling Wang said she worked her hardest staying on top of

her college priority checklist. Junior Kristen Henry, former

Dance Club Captain, said it was “being trusted enough to

be put in charge of something.” These are just some of the

things students related to responsibility.

Mr. Thomas recognizes “Respectful Raiders” in

his weekly newsletters, along with a picture outside the

main office. He believes that good character will help stu-

dents become more aware and add to their success in life.

Following responsibility, the next “pillar” focus was re-

spect. “Teachers don’t get the respect they deserve,” Mr.

Thomas said. “The goal of this is to change the mentality

of the entire school.”

The Raider Readout

PARCC Testing to Begin By: Kasey Appignani and Cheyenne Lord

What is the PARCC? The PARCC, which is short for

Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Ca-

reers, is a group of eight states voluntarily working together

with schools in the District of Columbia to create a common

exam for grades K-12. The Partnership is joined with the Com-

mon Core State Standards, and its testing will show if children

are college and career ready. According to parcconline.org, the

states involved with PARCC collectively educate 20 million

students.

While Common Core provides a guideline for think-

ing, the primary goal of this test is to get a good score. PARCC

testing will take place in two sessions, one in March and the

other spanning from April to May. The test is two hours long

and administered by last names alphabetically. Students are

scheduled according to the classes they take.

Mrs. SantaMaria, the Guidance Coordinator here at

East, is one of many involved in the PARCC testing nation-

wide. She has worked with many teachers and NJEA members

to change the state’s curriculum to fit Common Core. This is

the first year the PARCC test is being given to all schools, and

it is a learning experience for everyone. “It’s hard to say what

could happen,” Mrs. SantaMaria said. “Depending on how this

year goes, you never know.”

How to Succeed in Business

Without Really Trying By: Drew Williams

This year’s school play is, How to Succeed in Business

Without Really Trying. The show, put on by the Eastside Theater

Company is based on a book from 1952, which was eventually

made into a Broadway show.

The play is directed by English and Theater Arts Teach-

er, Mrs. Reimertz, and it will be her first year directing a show

here at Toms River East. “It’s going very well. There are lots of

talent on both the cast and crew side,” Mrs. Reimertz said, "I have

many supportive faculty members, which I’m grateful for. The

administration has been very supportive as well, especially Mr.

Thomas.”

According to Mrs. Reimertz, the plot of the play, whose

main theme is “a battle of the sexes and finding out whether hard

work or manipulation is better” is centered on a character named

J. Pierremont Finch, who is played by senior Joe Chowanec.

Finch is a window washer whose ultimate goal is to rise to the

very top of the business world. To do so, he applies for a job at

“The Worldwide Wicket Company” and follows the guidelines

given to him in the book he reads called How to Succeed in Busi-

ness Without Really Trying. Finch encounters conflict and some

struggle as he attempts to rise on the corporate food chain in this

musical comedy.

“This show is like no other. I feel like it’s coming along

very well,” Chowanec said. “It’s also been an amazing experience

to be playing this part and every single person in the show is in-

credibly talented.”

First year director Mrs. Reimertz, along with her talented

cast, look to top an impressive performance last year by the

Eastside Theater Company. There will be three showings of the

play on March 26, 27, and 28, in the auditorium at High School

East. The tickets are $7 per show.

Mr. Cartnick:

Education Professional of the Year By: Ashley Davidson

Mr. Cartnick was selected as the Education Professional

of the Year. He is a social worker for High School East. Mr.

Cartnick has been a social worker for 18 years and seven of those

were in the Toms River School District here at East. He attended

Fairfield University in Connecticut for his undergraduate degree

and New York University for his Masters. Initially, Mr. Cartnick

wanted to work in a lab, but he decided to become a social work-

er. A little known clinician who taught at Fairfield, Dr. Leo Fay,

inspired him to become a social worker.

Mr. Cartnick’s favorite aspect of East is “the family like

atmosphere” between the staff and the students in the building.

Along with being a social worker here at East, he used to coach

ice hockey here as well. His favorite quote is, “Parent the child

you have, not the child you wish you had.”

“Mr. Cartnick is very competent in school law and mak-

ing sure our school provides support for the students and fami-

lies,” Mr. Thomas said.

Congratulations Mr. Cartnick!

PARCC Schedule:

PARCC Week 1: English I-March 2, 3, & 4

Algebra I-March 5 & 6

PARCC Week 2: English II-March 9, 10, & 11

Geometry-March 12 & 13

PARCC Week 3: English III-March 16, 17, & 18

Algebra II- March 19 & 20

January-February Edition 2015

East News Briefs By: Haylie Montemurno & Giazmin Rosales

The Weight Room will be open Monday through Friday from 2

to 4 p.m. Option 2 students must sign in and out with Mr. Demp-

sey.

Need a little help with your college entrance essays? Having

difficulty with that research paper? Or would you just like anoth-

er set of eyes to proofread your assignments? The Writing Center

provides tutors to help with all types of writing assignments. The

Writing Center is now open every Tuesday and Thursday after

school in W25. Ask your English teacher for further details.

The Spanish Honor Society is selling Birthday Grams for only

$5. You get a balloon, a personalized card, lollipop, and are

wished a very happy birthday on the morning announcements. So

give your friends a special surprise on their birthday! Order

forms can be picked up outside Mrs. Mika’s room, S22.

The History Club trip to Medieval Times was held on Sunday,

February 22.

In order to raise awareness for families at HSE affected by can-

cer, The Guidance Department will be selling “Raiders Fight

Cancer” bracelets for $1 each. Proceeds will support cancer

awareness. They are also available in the school store. (Please see

Mrs. Weinberger). Please help support this great cause.

Attention all East students. We are looking for leaders with prob-

lem solving communication skills to work with our teachers and

parents to improve school outcomes related to student attend-

ance, behavior, and overall school climate. We are holding indi-

vidual committee meetings at the end of February and would love

to have you involved. Interested? Check out the flyer in your

teacher’s classroom or stop in the Main Office for further details.

How will you survive the bitter cold this winter? Join the Raiders

Classic Readers Club, of course! The launch meeting was held on

Wednesday, February 18, after school in W24. See Ms. Morgan

for more details. Don’t miss out on the next meeting!

The Dodgeball Tournament will be held on March 25, 2015.

Listen to the announcements for more information.

Relay for Life By: Caitlyn Dickinson

Student Council News Briefs By: Amanda Dietrich

General: The Color Run will be held on April 26, 2015. There will

be a new event to replace the prom fashion show, as well as a Battle

of the Classes.

Freshman: The Class of 2018 is selling faculty shirts and neon t-

shirts for $10 each. A Buffalo Wild Wings fundraiser will be an-

nounced.

Sophomore: The Class of 2017 organized the Winter Formal this

year, Winter Glow. The Dodge Ball Tournament will be held on

March 25.

Junior: Class shirt forms are now available. There will be bagging at

ShopRite on March 1, a Chipotle fundraiser on March 24, and a

snack stand night at Blue Claws on May 24. The Junior Prom, which

will be held on May 16, has an “Endless Twilight” theme.

Senior: A Battle of the Schools at Chipotle and its date will be an-

nounced. Senior Prom favors and the prom’s theme have been cho-

sen, and senior apparel will be available soon. Mr. TRE will be held

on May 7, 2015.

Stay tuned for more Student Council information.

One of the major events through the American Cancer Socie-

ty is Relay for Life. Different communities come together for a night

of fun, celebrating a closer step to a cancer free world. In preparation

for this, teams come up with ideas to fundraise for the organization.

Many of our students might be unaware of this, but Toms River has

our own Relay for Life and this year we are celebrating 20 years of

participating. This year’s event’s theme is all about board games.

may be a Twister , but

SORRY cancer, WE’RE IN IT

TO WIN IT!

This event will be held on Friday, May 29, through Saturday,

May 30, at Toms River High School North. The committee is looking

for teams to sign up and help fundraise for the cause. You can visit

RelayForLife.org/TomsRiverNJ to register your team. For more infor-

mation, come join us at our next committee meeting on Thursday,

March 5, at 7:00 p.m. at Toms River High School South’s Library.

This year the high schools will also have a friendly competition for

which school comes out and shows the most support at Relay for Life.

Come out and remind our sister schools that the Raiders truly rule the

river! “Let’s finish this fight and tell cancer, GAME OVER.”

I F E L

The Raider Readout

Guidance News By: Nicholas D’Arcy

Winter Formal By: Haylie Montemurno

-Attention students!

SAT - March 14, 2015-Registration deadline was Feb-

ruary 13, 2015 www.collegeboard.org.

ACT - April 18, 2015-Registration deadline is March

13, 2015 www.actstudent.org.

Any junior who did not attend the Junior College Night

can pick up a packet filled with college and financial

aid information. See your Guidance Counselor.

College Workshops for juniors will begin in the Spring.

Environmental News By: Cheyenne Lord

The Winter Formal was held on Saturday, January 24,

2015, and was organized by the Class of 2017. Bids to attend the

dance were sold January 8 through January 21, and they were $35

for a single bid and $70 for a double bid.

This year, the theme was “Winter Glow”. Ryan Subers

from Starlight Entertainment was the DJ and provided great mu-

sic. Luigi's Catering supplied a variety of Italian food such as

stuffed shells and Chicken Francaise. Any interested teacher

could volunteer to chaperone the dance. The teacher volunteers

also voted on the winners of the Winter Formal King and Queen.

This year, Kevin Brown was voted king and Gianna

Kistner was voted queen. Class of 2017 Advisor, Mrs. Fazzini

said, "My hope is that it was a great night for everyone filled with

good food, good music, and glow in the dark fun."

Marissa Pascual, a sophomore at High School East said.

"Winter Formal was totally awesome! It was the best school

dance I have ever been to!"

The Raiders’ Environmental and

Compost Club had several exciting events

after winter break. On Saturday, February

7, RECC members took a trip to the Ad-

venture Aquarium in Camden. Highlights

of the trip included the “Dinosaurs of the

Deep” exhibit, the Hippo Haven, and

aquarium favorites such as the sharks and penguins. It was

also the time of year to break out the rain barrels. Raiders

met on Thursday, January 22, to get started on painting a

barrel. Painting continued the following week, and the rain

barrels will be seen later this winter in the cafeteria.

Heart Month By: Elizabeth Naecker and Harley Zaraza

February is the time to

raise awareness for heart disease.

At East, students and staff partici-

pate in a fundraiser called Hoops

for Heart. This includes a basketball competition which stu-

dents can participate in if they donate $1. Students who do not

want to participate in the basketball competition are welcome

to donate money anyway. This year, the Hoops for Heart co-

ordinator, Mr. Goodman, set a goal to raise more than $1,200

over the two days in which the fundraiser was held. During all

periods, the fundraiser was held in the gym on February 19

and 20. Mr. Goodman had hoped to get more kids involved

in what he calls "an excellent fundraiser for a great cause."

Over the course of the two days, the fundraiser raised just

under $900.

Heart month is very important to many people, but it

especially means a lot to Mrs. O'Donnell. In 2008, Mrs.

O'Donnell's son, Carney, was born with pulmonary arteriove-

nous malformation, which is a congenital heart defect. Only

about a dozen babies have been born with this rare heart dis-

ease, and none of them had survived, yet. As soon as Carney

was born, surgery began. The doctors were successful and 10

days later Carney was able to go home with his family. Mrs.

O'Donnell calls her son a "miracle baby," which describes

him perfectly as he was the first child known to survive this

heart disease.

“We had great student participation this year. Many

kids were involved, as well as both the boys and girls basket-

ball teams. It was a great success and I think everyone for

their participation and support,” coordinator Mr. Goodman

said.

http://www.collegeboard.org

http://www.actstudent.org


Homeroom Attendance By: Umberto Verace and Drew Williams

East has seen many changes this school year

since Principal Mr. Thomas took over. “I’m always

looking to see what I can make better,” Mr. Thomas

said. Among the many changes that have been made for

the benefit of East is the new traffic flow pattern for

parents dropping their children off and students that

come to park in the lots. The new pattern, which the

Toms River Police Department helped create, has the

incoming drivers go all the way around the loop of the

parking lot, instead of cutting through the middle. This

makes for a higher volume drop-off all at once and it

also makes it quicker to get off the East campus.

This new system of traffic flow has proved

effective as the amount of lates to school have de-

creased. Prior to the new traffic pattern, there were as

many as 170 lates on days with bad weather or in-

creased traffic and an average of 70 lates per day. Most

of these lates came between the times of 7:15 a.m. and

7:25 a.m. Since the start of the new system, these num-

bers have dropped to as low as five lates per day. This

new system has proven extremely effective since its

implementation. “Students have been getting up earlier

and taking initiative to get to school on time,” Mr.

Thomas said.

East’s attendance officer, Mrs. Koskowski,

has also recognized the vastly improved attendance at

the school. Compared to last year, she said that there

were 89 fewer lates this January compared to Decem-

ber after the implementation of the new traffic pattern

and 532 fewer lates this January than last January. “I

think the overall attendance incentives are exciting this

year,” Mrs. Koskowski said. “Whether it be the perfect

attendance certificates, your name on the posters

throughout the building, Wawa gift cards… there’s

something to look forward to every month.”

Mr. Thomas has stated that his goal now is to

work on senior class lates as he continues to aim to

improve attendance. He has given out gift cards and

listed students with perfect attendance to help promote

the idea of coming to school every day. About 75% of

discipline at High School East is attendance related, so

the goal should be to get to school on time and show

up. Initiative between staff and students has helped

improve attendance records quickly, and the staff at

East hopes for it to get even better.

Presidents’ Day is a holiday in which most people are una-

ware of its origin. Presidents’ Day was originally a holiday honoring

George Washington, and was called George Washington Day. The

holiday was initially on February 22, Washington’s birthday. This day

was first celebrated in the early 1800s, but was not deemed a federal

holiday until 1885. The reason the holiday is today known as Presi-

dents’ Day was because in the late 1960s, Congress created the Uni-

form Monday Holiday Act (which switched a few holidays onto a

Monday) and George Washington Day was one of them. It was decid-

ed that George Washington Day would be on the third Monday of

February every year. While the holiday was still called George Wash-

ington Day, people started to shift more to Presidents’ Day and even-

tually led to what it is today: a day to honor all Presidents of America

and to be a patriotic holiday.

Source: http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/presidents-day

Presidents’ Day By: Edward Wolf

Boys Winter Track By: Elizabeth Naecker

The Boys Winter Track team had a successful season. "I love

the team and how everyone bonds together," senior captain Juancarlos

Martinez said. They have been placing in multiple meets. They are suc-

ceeding as a team and the team members are achieving great accomplish-

ments. "The hardest thing about track is going out there every day and

pushing yourself," junior Dan Gilligan said. All their hard work and ef-

fort is paying off and it has shown the entire season. As a team, they fin-

ished third at the Ocean County Championships. "They have all been

competing at such a high level," Head Coach Mr. Trumble said. The

team wouldn't be where they are without their incredible coaches and the

team truly values their coaches. It is clearly visible that this hardworking

team appreciates all, on and off the track. "The lessons that you get from

the coaches; they don't just teach you how to run track, they teach you

how to get through life," junior captain Claudio Yambao said.

There have been many personal accomplishments and wins

made by the team this season. Brothers Dan and Jake Gilligan, finished

second at the Group III State Relays in the shot put. Dan's personal goal

this year is to beat the junior record in the shot that his dad set back

when he was in high school. Raider Readout staff member Brandon

Burdge placed first in the Freshmen Novice Championships and threw a

personal best of 43 feet. There have also been many other personal ac-

complishments for members of this team including Captain Juancarlos

Martinez, junior Dylan Savulich, senior Sam Lamberti, and many others.

"Track teaches you how to keep going even when it's hard," junior Dylan

Savulich said. All their hard work and dedication showed. This was a

season to remember for the boy’s winter track team.

The Raider Readout

Larisa Kavetsky By: Amanda Dietrich

Randy Spillane By: Edward Wolf

January Seniors of the Month

Q: What teachers have influenced you the most?

A: All of them have influenced me, especially here in high

school. Mr. Peck has influenced me the most because he taught

me that some confidence is necessary for success.

Q: Do you have any advice for the underclassmen?

A: Don’t get caught calling teachers by their first names in front

of Mr. Malagiere.

Q: Where are you planning on going to college?

A: I guess we’ll see…hopefully Johns Hopkins, Muhlenberg Col-

lege, or Ursinus College.

Q: What do you plan on majoring in?

A: I want to major in neuroscience and pre-med.

Q: What is your favorite aspect about East?

A: My favorite part is how close I have become with teachers. I

feel like I can go to them for anything. They really care about us

and do all they can to ensure our success.

Q: What outside activities are you involved in?

A: I am a Russian school teacher and I attend Russian camp. I

take piano lessons, volunteer with Children’s Specialized Hospi-

tal, and participate in my church choir.

Q: Who has been your greatest influence?

A: God is my greatest influence. Also, my grandmother, my par-

ents, and my two priests for teaching me everything I know and

strive to be.

Randy is a hardworking and respectful Raider. Randy is a

part of NHS, TEAM, Spanish Honor Society, the school

baseball team, and a Writing Center tutor. Outside of East,

Randy is involved in travel baseball and is an instructor for

third grade basketball.

Q: What teacher has influenced you the most?

A: It’s difficult to pick because I feel that all of my teachers have

always been extremely helpful to me.


A: If you are ever unsure of any topic you’re learning in school,

don’t be afraid to ask questions. Even if you think it’s silly, the

rest of the class might have the same.


A: I would like to go to Vassar.


A: I'm undecided as of now, which is why I’d like to attend a

liberal arts school.


A: The collaborative environment teachers are able to create

amongst students.

Q: Who has been your greatest influences?

A: My parents and brother.

Q: What are your plans for your future?

A: Attend a four-year university and then graduate school.

Q: If you could switch lives with anyone, living or dead, who

would it be?

A: I would switch lives with Morgan Freeman (only for a day) to

see if I really can narrate every single movie.

Q: What is your favorite television show?

A: The Big Bang Theory.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Congratulations to the Seniors of the Month!

Larisa is involved in Interact and Key Club, Eastside Theater

Company, NHS, Tri-M (Music NHS), Medical Club, Math

League, Academic Challenge Team, and Master/Festival Choir.

She is also a Class of 2015 Student Council Representative and a

Writing Center tutor. “I can do all things through Christ who

strengthens me,” Philippians 4:13.


February Seniors of the Month

Ryan Wasilick By: Erika Pedersen

Molly Holt By: Morgan Hoopengardner

Ryan is a hardworking Raider. He is a part of Spanish National Hon-

or Society, Ambassadors, Raider sports, and Math League. Outside

of school, Ryan is involved in skiing, hunting, and baseball. “In or-

der to succeed, your desire for success has to be greater than your

fear for failure.”

Q: Why do you think you were chosen for Senior of the Month?

A: I believe I was chosen because of my outstanding work ethic

alongside my dedication to improve the school’s atmosphere.

Q: What qualities should the Senior of the Month have?

A: Some qualities he or she should have are a good work ethic, ded-

ication, productivity, honesty, and intuition.

Q: What teacher has influenced you the most? Why?

A: It is unfair to decide which teacher was most influential, they all

played their own role in my life.


A: Surround yourself with people who only want the best for you.


A: I am undecided as I am currently waiting to hear from some

schools.


A: I plan on majoring in computer science with a minor in business.


A: The teaching staff-they really know how to arbitrate a positive

climate throughout the school.

Q: Who have been your greatest influences?

A: My grandfather. Each time we converse, there is always a lesson

to be learned and I always walk away refined.

Q: What are your plans for your future?

A: I’m hopeful to land a job as a programmer after earning a degree

in computer science, and to ultimately start my own software engi-

neering company.

Q: Why do you think you were chosen for Senior of the

Month?

A: I am very involved in school activities and have various

leadership roles.

Q: What qualities should the Senior of the Month have?

A: Hardworking, dedicated, and a good representation of High

School East.

Q: What teacher has influenced you the most? Why?

A: Mrs. DeLucci has influenced me the most because I had

her as a teacher for four years. She legitimately cares about her

students inside and outside of the classroom and teaches us so

much more than music. She has shown me that even when

you're going through a hard time in life you should never lose

your sense of humor.


A: Take the classes you want to take. Success in high school

isn't defined by your GPA; it is about getting the most you

possibly can out of it. Don't give up on your passions just be-

cause it is a CP class because those are the classes you will get

the most out of because you truly want to be there.


A: I am planning on majoring in social work or psychology.


A: My favorite aspect about East is the teachers. I think they

really care about their students succeeding in school and in

life.

Molly is involved in the Raider Photography Club, Eastside

Theater Company, TEAM, Lead and Seed, the History Club, the

tennis team, Student Council, and the Academic Challenge

Team. “If you're not scared, you're not taking a chance. If

you're not taking a chance then what the hell are you doing?"

-Ted Mosby, How I Met Your Mother

Congratulations to the Seniors of the Month!

The Raider Readout

The Raider Ski Club has gone on

two trips this year, and these trips were not to be missed!

The first was to Mount Snow, Vermont, February 6-8. The

second was to Belleayre Mountain in upstate NY, on Feb-

ruary 22. Students got the chance to experience the out-

doors as an East family, sharing a lodge on the overnight

trip to Mount Snow. The lodge for this trip was at the

Kitzhof Inn, and provided students with a game room,

family room, and Jacuzzi. Each trip, 48 students and five

teachers went to ski and snowboard. One of the advisors,

Ms. Morrissey, says she loves the trips: “It's really nice to

be able to provide students to escape to the great outdoors

and enjoy a great sport with their friends.”

Ski Club By: Amanda Dietrich

Boys Swimming Success By: Morgan Hoopengardner

The Raider boys swim team has been doing exceptionally

well this season. Coach Mr. Cerbone and Assistant Coach Ms.

Francis are having a successful season. Their record overall is 4-5

and several swimmers have made the State Tournament.

There are a total of 17 boys on the team including the four

captains, seniors Daniel Betts, Michael Moran, Joshua Petrecca,

and Eric Samaniego. The boys finished fifth at the Ocean County

meet and ninth at Shore Conference meet. The team also made the

State Team Tournament. The 200 Free Relay consisted of senior

Daniel Betts, sophomore Griffin Hayles, sophomore Pat Jagielski,

and senior Eric Samaniego. Both Daniel Betts and Pat Jagielski

won events at the County meet.

Coaches and teammates share the same attitude toward

this sport. Coach Cerbone loves “being able to give back to a sport

that gave me so much.” The team practices five days a week and

completes about 5,000 yards a day in the pool. “The coaches en-

courage me to try harder and push me to my limit,” Senior Captain

Eric Samaniego said. It is evident that these 17 boys have formed a

solid bond. “I’m definitely going to miss all the younger guys on

the team who I have become so close to over the past few years,

some of them are close friends of mine so not being there with

them next year will be a little weird,” senior captain Mike Moran

said.

The Raider Boys Swimming Team 2014-2015

Character Education:

February Means “Respect”

“More people would learn from their mistakes if they

weren’t so busy denying them.” -Flava Flav.

“Chop your own wood and it will warm you twice.”

-McLovin

“I respect myself and insist upon respect from eve-

ryone else and because I do, I then respect everyone

too.” -Maya Angelou

Raider Ski Club

“If you want to be respected, respect others first.”

-Ralph Waldo Emerson


J. Reed Ricotta is a junior at High School East, and he has recent-

ly been accepted into two of the All-South Jersey Honors Bands. He holds

the position of first chair in their symphonic band and is a member of their

orchestra. Ricotta, who has been playing the trumpet for eight years, is the

brass section leader in the marching band, first chair in wind ensemble,

and lead trumpet in the school's jazz band. According to Ms. Sanford, one

of Toms River East’s band directors, “acceptance into the All-South Jer-

sey Honors Band is an excellent achievement.” She also added that “the

All-South Jersey ensembles select only the best musicians from the South

Jersey area.”

Reed cites his parents as his strongest supporters, crediting their

support for his love of music as well as their encouragement for him to

practice and to be the best musician he can be. His greatest musical influ-

ences are Ms. Oz, his private tutor, as well as band directors Mr. Figueroa

and Ms. Sanford. He says his parents are also musical influences, due to

them exposing him to "a wide variety of music at a young age.”

Some former East students who have also been accepted into the

All-South Jersey Honors Band are Justin Romano, who graduated in 2014,

as well as Andrew Ibacache, Isabelle Ingato, and Adrianna Slomicz, who

all graduated in 2013.

All-South Jersey Honors By: Erika Pedersen

It’s concert season again. The

chorus put on an amazing winter

show this year, and the band’s

performance was held on Thurs-

day, February 12.

The highlight of an art student’s academic year seems to always be the smiles

on these kids’ faces. Raider artists did a fantastic job creating the elementary

students’ “monsters,” as well as other projects.

While everyone hears about the hard work-

ers in NHS and other academic honors societies,

there are other students in the school who often go

unrecognized. These students help bring the fantastic

murals that paint our walls, as well as the musical

abilities that control C-wing. The Music and the Art

Honors Societies have been invisible for too long.

On behalf of the Raider community, we thank them

for taking time to better the school in their own

unique way.

Special congratulations to the 2015 induc-

tees into Tri-M and NAHS!

Shout-out to Artistic Talents By: Cheyenne Lord

Mr. Cicalese By: Giazmin Rosales

Q: How do you feel that you were chosen as class advi-

sor?

A: To be honest, I wasn't exactly chosen...never expect

to win a bet with Mr. Cerbone.

Q: What fundraising have you done so far?

A: Dodgeball, Jelly Bean Paintball, the Mid-School Day

Petting Zoo Ho Down, Taunt the Tiger,

Winter Formal 2015, Lakeside Whale, and Dolphin

Watch and, of course, The Gourmet Lollipop Bazaar.

Q: Which fundraiser was most memorable?

A: Taunt the Tiger most definitely. It further strength-

ened my faith in Toms River's emergency response ser-

vices.

Q: What do you expect to do for the next upcoming

fundraiser?

A: Summer Prom 2015 for the upcoming freshman

class. The theme is American Horror Story.

Q: Do you believe the fundraisers are successful?

A: All near-fatal injuries aside, yes, absolutely.

Q: Is there anything you would do differently?

A: The ASPCA has legally voiced its dissatisfaction

with Taunt the Tiger, so we're going to focus our energy

on fundraisers with 100% less animal cruelty.

Q: Do you like being the Sophomore Class Advisor?

A: I’m not a sophomore; I teach here.

Q: Any other comments you want to be mentioned?

A: Help control the pet population, have your pets

spayed and neutered.

Q: If you could anywhere on vacation right now, where

would you go?

A: Italy. Just sitting in Cirque Terre over-looking the beauti-

ful blue water.

Q: If you could have any special power, what would you

have?

A: The ability to make time stop.

Q: What is your favorite pizza topping?

A: Margarita, buffalo chicken, or veggie.

Q: What is best class you took in high school?

A: A toss-up between AP Biology with Ms. Penna and Span-

ish V with Sra. Burnett.

Q: What is your absolute favorite food?

A: Pizza and pasta. I'm Italian. It's in my genes.

Q: What are your top three movies?

A: Grease, Pitch Perfect, and Troop Beverly Hills.

Q: Where is your favorite place to visit?

A: Disney World.

Q: When is your due date for your second baby?

A: March 4, 2015.

Q: Are you having a boy or a girl?

A: It's a surprise!

The Raider Readout

Mrs. Fazzini By: Shannon Young


By: Caitlyn Dickinson & Julia Harrold

Daniel Betts “Dan Betts is a team leader on the pool

deck and off. He is one of my senior cap-

tains and top swimmers on the team. Dan

is the top point earner of the team and a

leader. He is someone that the younger

swimmers look up to and follow his good

example. Dan has been a member of the

National YMCA swim team for the past

three years. He will also be returning to the state meet for TR

East,” Coach Cerbone said.

Alex Kaminsky Senior Alex Kaminsky has been a team

captain of the Raider girls swim team for the past

two years and on the team for all four years of her

high school career. Alex is the ultimate teammate

who always puts the team first, and has a high aca-

demic average while being involved in many clubs

such as Ambassadors, Interact, Spanish Club, and the

Writing Center. “It has been a pleasure to coach Alex

for the past four years,” Coach Scallon said.

JANUARY

FEBRUARY By: Kasey Appignani & Ciara Byrnes

Dan Gilligan “As a junior, Dan

ranks among the elite throwers

of New Jersey. He is an excel-

lent captain and leader. Dan is

always willing to help every-

one on the team,” Coach Trumble said.

Kaitlin Lister “Kaitlin is an outstand-

ing player, teammate, and leader.

She has led our team to four

straight victories averaging over

16 points per game, as well as

leading the team in rebounds,

assists, and steals. She leads by example and plays the game

the way it is supposed to be played,” Coach Cohen said.

Congratulations to all Raider winter sports on a great season!

In the Next Issue:

-Seniors of the Month

-East News

-Guidance News

-Spring Sports

-Spring Features

-Prom Season

The Raider Readout 2014-2015

February 20-March 20

By: Skylar Dillon

The Raider Readout

Editors-in-Chief: Erika Pedersen and Drew Williams

Co-Editor-in-Chief: Ashley Davidson

News Editor: Haylie Montemurno

Sports Editor: Nick D’Arcy

Co-Sports Editor: Amanda Dietrich

Feature Editor: Morgan Hoopengardner

Co-Feature Editor: Shannon Young

Layout Editors: Caitlyn Dickinson and Cheyenne Lord

Reporters:

Kasey Appignani Julia Harrold

Brandon Burdge Elizabeth Naecker

Ciara Byrne Giazmin Rosales

Dominique Condello Umberto Verace

Avrey DelValle Edward Wolf

Skylar Dillon Harley Zaraza

By: Haylie Montemurno & Erika Pedersen

As the winter months progress, a ma-jor concern is staying healthy. There are many ways to prevent getting sick, whether it be the common cold or something more serious, such as the flu. Physical Education teacher, Mrs. Brush, who also runs the Well-ness Center here at East, provided some helpful tips to staying healthy during these cold months. Eat healthy foods such as fruits and veg-

etables. Wash your hands before you eat and

wash your hands frequently throughout the day.

Look into taking a multi-vitamin. Try to get more sleep. Increase exercise and stay active.

When times get hectic, you should look to your friends and family

for support. 2015 is the perfect time to try new things, so try to get

out of your comfort zone- things look bright. While things are

going your way, keep working hard and persevering through hard

and stressful times. All your hard work will pay off in good ways.

Source: dailyhoroscope.com

*All results were randomly voted on by High School East

students.*

During the cold months of winter, it’s easy to let boredom take over. What makes winter so gloomy? Many people say it’s too cold to have fun. It also gets dark way too early, and flu season is at its peak. Here are some ways to beat the winter blues:

Drink hot cocoa with friends. Have a movie marathon. Exercise. Take naps. Take part in winter sports (skiing, sledding, or

snowboarding). Take up a new hobby.

Don’t let winter bring you down! Stay warm and make the best of these cold months. Spring is just around the corner!

By: Amanda Dietrich & Harley Zaraza

teacher of the year character education: responsibility · teacher of the year by: ... she started...

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