Sparta Celebrates Rising Stars

Sparta High School Earns Rising Star Recognition

by Emily Molbury

May 15, 2026

Two graduating seniors from Sparta High School’s musical theater program, Caiden Loyer and Emily Molbury, have each earned nominations for the prestigious Rising Star Awards presented by Paper Mill Playhouse.

The Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards is an annual statewide program in New Jersey that celebrates excellence in high school musical theater. Often considered New Jersey’s equivalent of the Tony Awards, the program recognizes outstanding artistry, dedication, and collaboration in student productions. During Sparta High School’s production of Grease, judges from the Rising Star Awards panel attended performances throughout the run to evaluate and nominate standout achievements.

In the production, Caiden Loyer took on the iconic leading role of Danny Zuko, delivering a performance that earned him a nomination for Outstanding Performance in a Male-Identified Leading Role. Expressing his gratitude, Caiden said, “I am beyond honored and excited to be nominated for a Rising Star Award for Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role for playing Danny Zuko in Sparta High School’s production of Grease. I am incredibly grateful for this recognition and for everyone who helped me along the way. I could not have done it without the amazing director team, as well as the endless support from my friends and family. Theater has always been such a huge passion of mine, and I’m so excited to continue that journey in the Fall of 2026 at Rider University studying Musical Theater.” 

Emily Molbury, who portrayed Rizzo in a female supporting role, received a nomination for Outstanding Solo Performance (Digital Submission). Molbury shared her excitement about the recognition, stating, “I am so extremely grateful to be nominated for this award. I never expected it, especially since this was my first year participating in the musical, but I am beyond excited. Being recognized for Grease means so much to me because the show was incredibly special, and I truly miss performing it every day. I can’t wait to attend the awards ceremony alongside so many talented nominees.”

Sparta High School is incredibly proud of Caiden and Emily for their hard work, talent, and dedication. Their nominations are a testament to their commitment and the strength of the school’s musical theater program.

​​Hoover Named Starting Quarterback for North-South Football Classic

​​Hoover Named Starting Quarterback for North-South Football Classic

By Jenna Flake

April 23, 2026

Sparta High School senior Shane Hoover has earned one of the highest honors in New Jersey high school football: selection as the starting quarterback for the 2026 North-South Football Classic.

He was selected to play in the Phil Simms North-South All-Star Football Classic, which will take place on June 20th at TCNJ. He was one of only 90 players from across the state chosen to participate in this prestigious game. From that group, just 40 athletes were selected to receive a school visit that included interviews and special recognition. During this visit, he was honored with an award from the NJ Army National Guard, recognizing his embodiment of the core values of duty, determination, and dedication.

Hoover’s selection caps off a remarkable high school career at Sparta. By the end of this season, he will graduate as the program’s all-time leader in both passing yards and touchdown passes—an achievement that reflects years of dedication, consistency, and high-level performance.

According to Coach Marchiano, “Throughout his time at Sparta High School, Hoover has been known not just for his strong arm and football IQ, but also for his poise under pressure and ability to elevate those around him.” Coaches and teammates alike have praised his work ethic and commitment to the program. Reflecting on the people who shaped his journey, Hoover expressed deep gratitude, saying, “I’m grateful for the coaches, teammates and family members who helped shape me to the man I am today. In particular, I’d like to give the biggest thank you to Coach Marchiano for trusting me each Friday Night to lead the team. Week 5 of my sophomore year (first varsity start) he didn’t just hand me the position, he gave me the responsibility and a belief that I hadn’t even seen in myself at the time. That decision pushed me to grow up fast and to lead the right way. I am forever grateful for Coach Marchiano.” 

While football has been a defining part of his high school experience, Hoover’s athletic journey is far from over. Next year, he will attend Seton Hall University, where he will continue his career as a member of the baseball team.

Hoover’s accomplishments have left a lasting mark on Sparta athletics, and his selection to the North-South Football Classic serves as a fitting tribute to his hard work and success. As he prepares to take the field one final time in a Sparta uniform, the community celebrates both his achievements and the bright future ahead.

Flag Football Kickoff

Flag Football Kickoff

April 2, 2026

by The Oracle Staff/ Alyssa Ciaburri

On Wednesday, April 1, Sparta High School made history as the varsity flag football team

played in its first ever game against Pope John, and it definitely lived up to the hype.

Senior players include Alyssa Ciaburri, Alex Maresca, Millie Dobbs, Mica Azcona,

Alyssa Wainwright, Kayla Johnson, Charlotte Codjoe, Ava Barone, Samantha Vasquez,

Brielle Norris, Tegan Sherlock, and Peyton Jarvis, Leah Guilino, and Alex Radcliffe. 

From the start, both teams came out strong, bringing energy and excitement to the field.

Sparta showed great teamwork on both offense and defense, with players stepping up

in big moments and keeping the game close the entire time. The sidelines were full of

support, and the crowd created an electric atmosphere

for such an important game.

"On offense, it is a little harder to get a pass off, but on defense - we got the quarterback

as fast as we could and pulled a lot of flags." - Alyssa Ciaburri

After a competitive back and forth battle, the game ended in a tie.

While there was no official winner, it was still a huge moment for Sparta and a great

way to kick off the program’s first season. This game was about more than the score.

It marked the beginning of something new. Sparta’s varsity flag football team is

officially here, and this is just the beginning.

Broadway Comes to SHS Stage

Broadway Comes to SHS Stage

April 2, 2026

by Jenna Flake

(photos courtesy of G. Muth/J. Flake/J. Hamilton)

Students spent weeks preparing for their performance on "Broadway Night" on Tuesday, March 31, and it showed. The night featured a mix of solos, duets, and full group numbers, all inspired by popular Broadway shows. Each act brought its own energy to the stage, and the audience responded with constant support and applause.

More than just a performance, the night had a strong sense of purpose. Between songs, it was clear that each song offered a deep connection to the students’ favorite stage productions. 

All proceeds from the concert will go toward the Mark Inga Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded at the Spring Choir Concert on May 20 and will support students in the music program, helping to keep his memory alive in a lasting way.

Broadway Night was not only a showcase of talent, but also a reminder of how music can bring people together and create something meaningful.

SQUAD GOALS

SQUAD GOALS: PDP Builds Leadership Skills

by Grace Miller

March 30, 2026

On the morning of March 27—the last Friday before Sparta High School’s spring break—Peer Development members gathered in the MRC during extended homeroom for an engaging and inspiring overview of Dr. Lazzara’s SQUAD presentation.

Designed to strengthen leadership skills, the session will directly support students as they prepare for the upcoming 8th Grade Trip in June, where they will help welcome incoming students through leadership and team-building activities.

The presentation focused on several key ideas: identifying your SQUAD, or trusted group of peers; understanding both internal and external growth; and finding ways to enhance both academic and social experiences in a positive way. Students actively took notes throughout the session and, as a meaningful conclusion, wrote and delivered letters to individuals in their lives who have made a significant impact on them.

Grease is the WORD!

Sparta High School Presents Grease

March 11, 2026

by Jenna Flake 

Sparta High School is bringing the energy of the 1950s to the stage with its upcoming production of Grease. The popular musical, known for its catchy songs, fun characters, and exciting dance numbers, tells the story of life at Rydell High and the friendships that make high school unforgettable.

The show follows the summer romance of Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski, who are surprised to find themselves attending the same school after their summer together. At Rydell High, they reconnect while dealing with the pressures of fitting in, friendships, and teenage life. Along the way, audiences will meet the T-Birds and the Pink Ladies, whose personalities and humor help make Grease one of the most loved musicals of all time.

The cast features Caiden Loyer as Danny Zuko and Jenna Flake as Sandy Dumbrowski. Logan Scarpa plays Kenickie, while Emily Molbury takes on the role of Betty Rizzo. Other cast members include Sienna Pellicani as Marty, Hayden Denmead as Doody, Anneliese Hernandez as Frenchy, Jake Hamilton as Roger, Marley Lane as Jan, and Brady Schwarz as Sonny La Tierri. Devynn Dilkes plays Patty Simcox, Brendan Coombs plays Eugene Florczyk, and Leia Lovett appears as Miss Lynch. Thomas Fossett performs as Vince Fontaine and Teen Angel, with Michael Iudica as Johnny Casino and Sofia Manjorin as Cha-Cha DiGregorio. The production also features a large student ensemble, pit orchestra, and tech crew who help bring the show to life.

The production is directed by Mrs. DeLuccia, with Ms Lucas serving as assistant director and choreographer. The creative team also includes Mrs. Tafuri as technical director, Mr. Lopez as pit director, and Mrs. Lopez as vocal director. Supporting the show behind the scenes are Mr. Aldo Sanchez as audio coordinator, Mr. Kyle Neuwirth as lighting coordinator, Mr. Mike Franek leading set construction, and Ms Scott as business coordinator.

Performances will take place on Friday, March 13 at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14 at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, March 15 at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased here:
https://cur8.com/schedule/item/23455/369798?event=136279&date=369798

Sparta High School invites students, families, and community members to come out and support the cast and crew. With great music, energetic dancing, and a lot of school spirit, Grease is sure to be a fun show for everyone.

Sparta Students Excel at DECA State Competition; Several Advance to Nationals

Sparta Students Excel at DECA State Competition; Several Advance to Nationals

March 6, 2026

By the Oracle Staff w/contributions from SHS DECA

Sparta High School students delivered an outstanding performance at the DECA State Career Development Conference held this week in Atlantic City. Competing against students from across New Jersey, members of the Sparta DECA chapter showcased their business knowledge, leadership skills, and innovative thinking. Their success earned several students the opportunity to represent Sparta High School at the DECA International Career Development Conference, which will take place at the end of April.

The following students earned top honors and will advance to the national competition:

• Lauren Goff – Innovation Business Plan

• Brady Flannery – Start Up Business Plan

• Alyssa Ciaburri – Integrated Marketing Campaign / NJ State Community Service Project

• Ava Sehring and Ava Cerrito – Stock Market Game Winners

• Lauren Wittkowski and Alexia Hill – Finalists, Project Management Business Solutions and recipients of the Thrive Academy Leadership Award

• Adri Dolinski and Ella Rozynski – Gold Certification Achievement for School Based Enterprise

In addition to the students’ accomplishments, Mrs. Chiappini, Sparta High School’s DECA advisor, was recognized for her years of dedication and leadership with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Her commitment to mentoring students and building a strong DECA program has helped prepare countless students for careers in business, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.

The Sparta High School community is proud of these students for their hard work and achievements. As they prepare for the national stage later this spring, they will represent their school and community among the top DECA competitors from around the world.

Congratulations to all of Sparta’s DECA competitors for an incredible showing at the state conference, and best of luck to those advancing to Nationals in April.