MIDDLETOWN, NJ — April 14, 2026 — The stage at Middletown High School North came alive with energy, creativity, and school spirit on Tuesday night as students and teachers teamed up for the highly anticipated “Dancing with the Faculty Dance Challenge.”
Hosted by the Middletown Township Public Schools Performing Arts Dancers under the direction of lead teacher Tara Mahoney, the event featured seven dynamic groups, each pairing faculty members with students to perform choreographed routines set to a variety of popular songs.
The evening opened with Group 1, where Mrs. Pearson, Mrs. Hart, and Mrs. Kirschbaum took the stage alongside student Josh Arroyo, delivering a lively performance to “Work It” that immediately energized the crowd.
Group 2 followed with Mrs. Fielding, Mrs. Torres, and Mrs. Jones, joined by Ava and Paige Marrone, who dazzled the audience with a theatrical routine to “That’s Entertainment.” Their performance blended classic style with modern flair.
In Group 3, Mrs. Smith and Evangelina Passarelli brought confidence and charisma to their routine to “2 Legit 2 Quit,” earning enthusiastic applause for their high-energy moves and stage presence.
Group 4 featured Mrs. Ellsbree alongside Addison Intili and Savvy Finn, who embraced a country-inspired theme with their spirited performance to “Cowboy Attitude.”
Group 5 showcased Mrs. Asterita and Isabella Barega, who captivated the audience with a jazzy and polished routine to “That Jazz,” highlighting strong choreography and expressive performance.
Group 6 brought the funk to the stage as Mrs. Jensen teamed up with Isabelle Agee and Sofia Esteves-Sa for a crowd-pleasing performance of “Uptown Funk.” Their synchronized moves and upbeat energy had the audience clapping along.
Closing out the competition performances, Group 7 featured the MHSN secretarial staff — Mrs. Scala, Mrs. Alaia, Mrs. Wilgus, and Mrs. Yeserski — who, with assistance from Kaylen Sanford and Ilivia Covert, delivered a humorous and relatable routine to “9 to 5.” Their performance drew some of the loudest cheers of the night.
At the conclusion of the event, Group 7 was crowned the overall winner of the competition, earning top honors for their standout performance of “9 to 5.” Their combination of humor, creativity, and strong crowd engagement set them apart in a night full of impressive routines.
The event was judged by Principal Mr. Ferri along with a panel of teachers including Mr. Isherwood, Mrs. Stein, Miss Stripto, Mrs. DiBari, Mr. Ballard, Mrs. Woods, and Ms. Mannino, who evaluated each performance based on creativity, execution, and overall entertainment value.
As a special highlight, the winning group from the 2023–24 event returned to the stage for an encore performance. Mrs. Karol, Ms. Hussey, Mrs. Basmagy, Mrs. Harvey, and Mrs. Kelly reunited for a celebratory routine that showcased their enduring chemistry and talent.
The event not only entertained but also strengthened connections within the school community, bringing together students, teachers, and families for a memorable night of collaboration and fun. Through dance and teamwork, “Dancing with the Faculty” once again proved to be a standout tradition at Middletown High School North.