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Bulldog SpotlightCongratulations to Erick Vargas, Amair Buffaloe, Jordan Ricketts, and Joel Ingram, PCTI’s April Athletes of the Month! The student-athletes for the month of April are members of the Boys Spring Track 4x400 Meter Relay Team and include Amair Buffaloe, Joel Ingram, Jordan Ricketts, and Erick Vargas. This fantastic foursome has been making waves in Track and Field for the last two seasons. Their reign of terror started this winter with Indoor Track where they dominated relays and set a new school record in the 4x400 meter race, which won PCTI the Passaic County NJSIAA Group IV State Sectional Championship! Their Winter Track record time of 3:28.39 was pivotal in leading the Bulldogs to a County Championship and is sure to do the same as the team approaches the spring county finals. The 4x400 meter relay team has already taken steps to improve on their record-breaking performance. On opening weekend of the Spring track season, they ran 3:27.08 at the Ridgewood Pawlowski relays and earned a gold medal in the event, which is a significant improvement from their winter time trials. At the Passaic County Relays on April 13, the 4x400 meter relay team again won gold with a time of 3:26.19 and powered the Boys Spring Track team to a big school 2019 county-relay championship. The squad looks to continue their success as the championship season kicks into full gear. We are extremely proud of Amair, Joel, Jordan, and all of their Track and Field teammates and wish the entire program all of the best in the rest of the 2019 season. Ilona MaczkaAs a child, Ilona Maczka spent much of her time watching YouTube videos showcasing the world of beauty. “Makeup, hair, you name it, I’ve always had a passion for styling. I’d even wake up early to do my sister’s makeup before work,” she says. It’s no wonder this young woman from Ringwood chose to enroll in PCTI‘s School of Cosmetology.
Ilona’s hard work in academics has ensured that she ranks in the top thirteen percent of her class with a GPA of 3.92! In fact, she’s challenged herself throughout her high school career by enrolling in countless honors courses and has achieved Principal’s Honor Roll. At PCTI, Ilona serves as Head of Administration for the NJROTC and Secretary of the Executive Committee of ERASE. She is also involved in the School-to-Careers program and works as a Salon Assistant at the Gallery A Salon. When not showcasing full dedication to academics and her job, Ilona volunteers as part of her career area by providing care to senior citizens and participating in events such as Wellness Day. She has earned her New Jersey Department of Cosmetology Permit and will graduate with her Cosmetology Licensure. In addition to these certifications in her program area, Ilona is a certified American Red Cross Lifeguard, as well as First Aid, CPR, and AED certified. When asked about her aspirations for the future, Ilona has decided to pursue a degree in Biology. “I want to become a doctor, but I need to try it out and see if I like it,” she says. Ilona has been accepted to Monmouth University and The College of New Jersey. “Monmouth has a Pre Med program and TCNJ just built their new biology wing, so I’m going to visit both and figure out which one feels like the right choice.” Her greatest assets are her joyous nature and positive attitude, which are contagious. “There’s so much negativity in the world. If I can bring light into situations and help people come together, so that they can be happy, then that’s what I want to do.” One thing’s for certain, Ilona’s incredibly kind and supportive nature will ensure she experiences much success when working with others. Congratulations to this caring and motivated Bulldog! Highlights
Maricela PinaMaricela Pina is a young woman from Passaic whose career area of choice runs in the family. “In Mexico, my grandparents used to own a bakery. They still cook for holidays, even today. My dad passed down everything he learned to me.”
She’s made quite an impact as a member of the School of Culinary Arts. During her high school career, Maricela competed in both ProStart and SkillsUSA competitions. She served as the Team Captain of the Culinary ProStart during her junior year, a time when PCTI took home fourth place in the national competition! Maricela ranks in the top fifteen percent of her class with a GPA of 3.85. During her time at PCTI, she’s been nominated for both Honor Roll and Principal’s Honor Roll and was selected for Circle of Success. She participates in the School-to-Careers program and works at Chez Technique where her main role is preparing seafood. Maricela’s favorite meal to prepare is pan seared duck with butternut squash puree and roasted potato, which consequently, was her ProStart team’s competition dish. During her time at PCTI, Maricela has received certifications from the National Restaurant Association’s Foundation of Restaurant Management and the Culinary Certificate of Participation. She’s also earned the ServSafe Management certification. When it comes to her future, Maricela already has a plan. This bilingual Bulldog is already fluent in Spanish and English and has taken both Chinese and American Sign Language while in high school. She’s also studied Italian, Turkish, and French. “I aim to become an International Executive Chef, so its important that I’m exposed to numerous languages - that way I can fully immerse myself in different cultures.” She’s been accepted to and will attend a four year program at the Culinary Institute of America. Maricela will study food business management with a culinary arts core. Her greatest ambition is to own her own restaurant. When asked about what she’s enjoyed most about her time at PCTI, Maricela says, “I really appreciate being able to get the restaurant experience. Working at Chez Technique has allowed me to fully explore the culinary field. Everything is offered here.” She also adds, “My time management skills have improved immensely. Through competitions and schoolwork, I’ve learned a lot about balance.” Congratulations Maricela! We wish you all the best in your future endeavors! Highlights
View the PDF Sebastian BalcazarSebastian Balcazar is a young man who discovered his passion at a young age. “I’ve always been interested in cars - whether toys or the real thing. I had this dream of building my own one day,” he mentions. It’s no surprise that this Haledon local excels in the School of Automotive Technology. His studies have put an emphasis on Mechanical Engineering, a subject that Sebastian seeks to continue studying post graduation.
Attending PCTI has allowed Sebastian to discover something else that he’s passionate about: the NJROTC. Service on behalf of his nation has greatly influenced this young man’s path in life. In fact, he received the honor of being accepted to attend West Point US Military Academy - an achievement which earned him a full scholarship to the patriotic institution. The accomplishment is well-deserved. Sebastian is an active member of the Drill Team and has been involved in the Ceremonial Color Guard. He’s also held numerous leadership positions within PCTI’s NJROTC, the most recent of which is First Battalion Commanding Officer. He was the recipient of the Cadet Achievement Ribbon as Head Officer of Weapons and was one of five PCTI students to attend the Area 4 Cadet Leadership Training Academy program at the Newport Naval Base in Rhode Island. It’s no surprise that this accomplished Bulldog ranks in the top nine percent of his class with a GPA of 4.01! Sebastian has the potential to graduate with seventeen college credits. He was selected for the National Honor Society, World Language Honor Society (Japanese), and Boys State. Sebastian is also a member of the Boys Golf team and achieved Principal’s Honor Roll during his high school career. The future of this cadet is bright as can be. He’ll study Mechanical Engineering at West Point US Military Academy with the goal of serving as an Engineering Officer in the army. Eventually, Sebastian aims to become a US Army Ranger or a Paratrooper. When asked what PCTI has to offer, Sebastian explained that for him, it was all about the opportunities. “I was able to become more involved in my community. A majority of my accomplishments wouldn’t exist if there wasn’t the opportunity for involvement in PCTI’s NJROTC.” This humble young man’s desire to serve others is an admirable quality. Congratulations, Sebastian! Best of luck in all your future endeavors. We know you’ll work hard and have much success! Highlights
Omar OmarOmar Omar is a young man from Clifton whose career interest focuses on practicality. “I’ve always been fascinated by the endless possibilities presented by Business,” he says. It’s fitting that Omar elected
to study as a member of the School of Business Careers with a concentration in Global Management.
The education focuses on building communication skills on the international scale. “We utilize cooperation to conduct business,” he adds. Omar serves as the Vice President of FBLA and is an active member of the Muslim Student Association. He’s also participated in baseball and fencing. Omar holds a Co-Op position through the School-to-Careers program and works as a Bed Bath & Beyond sales associate for twenty to thirty hours each week. In his free time, he enjoys volunteering at his local religious center, the ISPC and as well as at the PACC. His favorite aspect of volunteerism is teaching young children about religion. Omar ranks in the top fourteen percent of his class with a GPA of 3.9 and has the potential to graduate with twenty-one college credits. This Bulldog, who describes himself as ambitious, elected to enroll in five honors courses and an AP course, many of which occurred in the same year. The result was a lesson well-learned. “I didn’t perform how I wanted to, but that’s okay. I’m dedicated to working hard, especially when it comes to my college education and career.” Perseverance is undoubtedly one of his most admirable qualities. Omar aims to attend a university that offers a three in three program, that is, one that offers an undergraduate degree in three years, followed by a law degree. He will pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. Omar’s reasoning is simple, “It’s more advanced than business and deals with the stock market.” Ultimately, he aims to become a Corporate Lawyer. He’s already been accepted to Rutgers University and is waiting to hear from Fordham University and TCNJ. For this young Bulldog, it’s all about finding his direction in life. “When I first came to PCTI, I didn’t have plans after going to college and receiving a bachelor’s degree. Now, I’m looking years ahead. I’ve really learned to think things through and keep my future in mind.” Omar also had some outstanding advice for his fellow classmates. “Good manners go a long way. It gives people you meet a way to remember you. Plus, you never know what experiences others are going through.” Congratulations Omar, you certainly have your eye on the prize. Your ambition will ensure that you reach all your goals! Highlights
View the PDF Congratulations to Sydney Shannon (Winter Track) and Justyn Hall (Fencing), March’s Athletes of the Month! Sydney Shannon is a four-year varsity letter winner and an overall team captain who: As a senior during the month of March, she helped lead the Lady Bulldogs Winter track team through a very competitive 2018-2019 season. Sydney extended her winter track season to the NJSIAA State Meet of Champions. She finished her season ranked as one of the top female Pole Vaulters in both Passaic County and Northern New Jersey by regularly clearing 11’ in the Pole Vault event. Sydney had 3 major wins this season in the Pole Vault event and took home gold medals at the Big North-Liberty Division Championship Meet, the Passaic County Championship Meet, and the North 1 Group IV State Championship Meet. With her first-place finish at the State Group IV Championship Meet, Sydney earned another trip to the NJSIAA State Meet of Champions. On Sunday February 24th, she finished in 5th place overall. Sydney currently holds the school record in Pole Vault event for both the Indoor Winter Track and Spring Track & Field seasons. As member of the Academy of Medical Arts, Sydney has a current year GPA of 4.076 and ranks in the top 10% of her graduating class. She will continue her academic and athletic career at the Division-1 Level at the University of Rhode Island. We wish to congratulate Sydney and the entire Lady Bulldogs Track team on a solid winter season and we anxiously await further success this spring. Justyn Hall is a second-year varsity letter winner and a boys sabre team captain who: As a senior during the winter season, he helped lead the Boys Bulldogs Fencing team to a six win season with victories over Passaic Valley, Wayne Valley, Indian Hills, Fair Lawn, Butler, and West Milford in this the program’s second overall season. Justyn anchored the boys sabre team, managing an overall season record of 34 wins with only one loss in head-to-head bout experiences. The sabre weapon, known for its aggression and balance of speed, footwork, and technique, was the perfect weapon of choice for Justyn’s skill set. He displayed a desire to excel at his new sport, and managed to again perform well at the prestigious Centrulo Invitational Tournament and at the District 5 NJSIAA State Tournament , which allowed him to make finals and finish in fifth place overall in District 5 Sabre-Weapon. At the PCCA County Championship meet, Justyn secured a 1st Place Gold medal in Sabre and led his 2nd year team to a 2nd place finish in the Passaic County Tournament overall. He is a two-time BPFL first team All-League nomination and a two-time PCCA first team all-county nomination in the Sabre weapon. As member of the School of Engineering and Technology, Justyn has a current year GPA of 3.0 and is looking to continue his academic and athletic career at NJIT. We wish to congratulate Justyn and the entire Boys Bulldog Fencing team for their amazing second season. Emily BurakEmily Burak is a young woman from Clifton who has always had a passion for expressing herself through art. “I grew up around it. My older brother and grandmother are both artists,” she explains. Being that creativity has always played a large role in her life, it’s no wonder that Emily elected to study as a member of PCTI’s Advertising Art & Design program.
Boundless drive has ensured that Emily has been involved in countless community initiatives. She has organized fundraisers for the Oasis Women Shelter, Clifton Cares, St. Peter’s Haven, Shriners Hospital for Children, and Caldwell Food Pantry. She is also a member of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls and has worked as an Arts and Crafts Specialist at Camp Caldwell. Emily is active in the NJROTC where she serves as Head of Deck. Her responsibilities include overseeing classrooms and making sure they are clean and organized. She’s even working on a classroom mural! In addition, Emily is involved in Book Club and SkillsUSA. She was also selected for the World Language Honor Society. Her academic aptitude is second to none. Emily ranks in the top four percent of her class with a GPA of 4.17 and has achieved Principal’s Honor Roll. She has the potential to graduate with nineteen college credits! While attending PCTI, Emily has gained much experience as an artist. Her artwork has been featured in the PCTI calendar, and on school banners. It has also been displayed at “Colour and Whim” in Glenrock, NJ, the Montclair Art Gallery (MSU), and the the Power Art Center (WPUNJ). As a junior, she was commissioned to create a veteran portrait of Pat Burke in honor of Memorial Day. She will also graduate with Adobe certification. After graduation, Emily seeks to attend a university and pursue her dream of becoming an Illustrator and Creative Writer. She has applied to Pratt, Carnegie Melon, William & Mary, Rowan, Drew, and Marist.She’s already been accepted to the University of Hartford and the University of the Arts. When asked what she likes about PCTI, Emily said, “I really enjoy getting to study what I love. I’ve learned so much through the Advertising Art & Design program and was exposed to so many different mediums.” She also has valuable advice for potential future Bulldogs. “If you’re dedicated to what you want to learn and you know what you want to study in the future, then PCTI is the place for you! You’ll definitely be prepared for life after highschool.” Congratulations to a passionate young woman and best of luck in the future! Highlights
Jenna GleasonJenna Gleason has always
thought of teachers as role
models. “I grew up with my
cousins who are in the field
and I really admire what they
do,” she said. This North Haledon local was also involved in
“Safety Town,” a program which
helps Pre-K children transition
to attending kindergarten. Her
experience, combined with emulating the people she looks up
to the most, urged her to enroll
in PCTI’s School of Education
and Human Services.
As part of her program, Jenna works as a Teacher’s Assistant at Head Start and La Vida Too. Her interests, however, extend beyond the world of education. She is a musician, dancer, and artist. Jenna has been dancing since the age of two and is partial to ballet. She plays guitar, piano, bass, and on occasion, the ukulele. Jenna shares a passion for music with her twin sister and the two often perform together. She is heavily involved in the school community. Jenna is a member of Gifted & Talented, Student Council, TI@ti, is a Class Representative, and acts as a PCTI Student Ambassador. She’s also been selected for Rho Kappa Honor Society, World Language Honor Society, and the National Honor Society where she serves as the Recording Secretary. Despite her busy schedule, Jenna ranks in the top six percent of her class with a GPA of 4.09. She has the potential to graduate with seventeen college credits and has achieved Principal’s Honor Roll throughout her entire high school career. In her free time, Jenna volunteers to benefit charitable events. Most recently, she was involved in Tim Tebow’s international “Night to Shine,” which treats special needs high school students to their very own prom. After graduating from high school, Jenna plans to embark on a new educational adventure by studying to become a Physician’s Assistant . She will also pursue a degree in business. Jenna has already been accepted to Montclair State University, William Paterson University, Monmouth University, Seton Hall, and Ramapo College. She also applied to Princeton. When asked what she enjoys most about attending PCTI, Jenna said, “I love my teachers! They really care about you and want to see you succeed.” She also commented on what she’s learned while attending our high school. “I used to be really shy and wait for people to come to me, but that changed specifically with TI@- ti. I’m more comfortable taking the lead and communicating with others. It’s something I’m grateful for.” Congratulations, Jenna! May your dreams be as varied as your interests. We wish you all the best! Highlights
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