Transformational Leadership
When Dr. Sforza first took the helm, Becton Regional was a strong community high school. Today, it is recognized as a High Performing District by the State of New Jersey, a hub of innovation and creativity in a diverse environment, and a model for how to grow opportunities while staying true to equity, student voice, and community pride.
Through consistent and forward-thinking leadership, he has:
- Doubled student enrollment in less than a decade, from 470 students to nearly 865, while maintaining the close-knit family culture of a regional school.
- Welcomed Maywood students in 2020–2021, cementing a historic regional partnership that broadened opportunity for generations to come.
- Guided the district through the pandemic with one of the state’s strongest in-person instruction responses, earning recognition at both the state and national level.
- Hired nearly 40 new highly effective new teachers and staff that have added tremendous value to the Becton Regional school culture and community.
Academic & Programmatic Innovation
Dr. Sforza has championed new programs that redefine what high school can be. Under his leadership, Becton Regional has:
- Launched dozens of new clubs and activities, empowering every student to find their place.
- Expanded STEM pathways, from robotics to engineering, with courses like Introduction to Engineering set to launch in Fall 2026.
Built one of the most robust dual enrollment and AP programs in the state, ensuring students graduate with college credits and career readiness.
- Created a flagship internship program, turning hallways into launchpads for real-world careers.
- Expanded the music and performing arts program, including new guitar, piano, and American Pop Music courses, while also growing a record-setting marching band and theater program.
- Introduced innovative wellness and nutrition initiatives, including the From Scratch Lunch Program, aligning student health with academic performance.
- Launched dozens of exploratory, enrichment, and specialized career-focused course offerings.
Facilities & Innovation on a Budget
For Dr. Sforza, innovation isn’t limited to the classroom. He has spearheaded bold solutions to reimagine facilities and enhance learning environments:
- Transformed outdated student bathrooms into modern, vibrant spaces using intelligent tools and in-house trades talent, saving the district nearly 90% of traditional renovation costs.
- Designed and oversaw the creation of outdoor wellness spaces, upgraded labs, and renovated classrooms.
- Led state-of-the-art expansions, including a professional broadcasting studio and an expanded music wing—all reflecting a belief that facilities should inspire pride and excellence.
- Successfully spearheaded the acquisition of a new auxiliary building expanding the footprint of Becton Regional High School’s campus.
As George Bernard Shaw once said, “People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.” Dr. Sforza embodies this spirit, ensuring Becton builds creatively, responsibly, and always with students in mind.
Whole Child, Whole Community
Beyond academics, Dr. Sforza has built a positive school culture centered on respect, equity, and celebration:
- Established initiatives like Kindness Awards, Military Signing Day, and diverse extracurricular opportunities, recognizing students not just for achievements, but for character and service.
- Expanded mental health and counseling services, addressing the needs of today’s learners with compassion and care.
- Built a climate of trusting and belonging, where every student is seen as capable of greatness.
Research & Thought Leadership
Dr. Sforza bridges research and practice. His academic work on creativity, critical thinking, and curriculum design has been published nationally and presented at prestigious conferences including UCEA, AERA, and NCPEA. He also co-authored a book chapter with Teachers College Press, Columbia University, and has continued to integrate his research into Becton’s evolving instructional model.
Looking Ahead
The 2025–2026 school year represents the next chapter of Becton’s transformation. With upcoming milestones like the Special Education Transition Program (18–21), expanded STEM offerings, Khan Academy Partnership, international travel for language and cultural immersion, and sustained growth in the arts and athletics, the district is poised to soar even higher.
Dr. Sforza often reminds his community: “To always go the extra inch in everything you do. For Becton, those inches have now spanned miles of success over time” and “The grass isn’t always greener on the other side—it’s greener where you water it.” Together, with students, staff, families, and trustees, he continues to always go the extra inch, watering, nurturing, and growing Becton Regional into a thriving, future-ready model district.
