Skip To Main Content

Logo Image

Logo Title

RHS Students Unveil Third Habitat for Humanity Home; Seniors Honored at "Golden Hammer" Celebration

SDF Golden Hammer Recipients 2026
RHS Students Unveil Third Habitat for Humanity Home; Seniors Honored at "Golden Hammer" Celebration

ROXBURY, NJ (May 1, 2026) — On Thursday, April 30, 2026, the Roxbury High School community gathered to celebrate a monumental achievement: the completion of the third student-built home produced by the Structural Design & Fabrication (SDF) program. The event honored graduating seniors, recognized top student craftsmen, and provided the public a first look at the home before it moves to its permanent location.

The project, a partnership with Greater Middlesex and Morris Habitat for Humanity, has transformed the high school parking lot into a high-intensity job site over the past two years. Next week, the home will begin its journey through the streets of Roxbury to its permanent foundation at 402 West Dewey Avenue, where it will provide affordable housing for a local family.

A Milestone for Student Makers

The ceremony, emceed by senior Charlie Bacinsky, featured a roster of speakers including school administrators, local officials, and industry leaders.

“Tonight, we stand before this amazing home which represents our students’ hard work and community spirit,” said Principal Bill Crispino. “These walls have been a classroom for precision, a workshop for problem-solving, and a foundation for future careers. You haven’t just built a structure—you’ve built a bridge between your education and the real world.”

Doug Wright, Chief Construction Officer for Habitat for Humanity, noted the rarity of the program: “I’ve never had my kids come home and say, ‘I built a house.’ This is an opportunity for something that lasts and serves the community. Someday, these students are going to drive their own kids down Dewey Avenue and point to this home.”

 

Industry Support and Real-World Training

The home was made possible through a robust network of donors and guest instructors. Senior Gabe Farkas and student Anthony Rizzo thanked the many partners who provided expertise and materials, including:

  • Donors & Grants: GAF (roofing), NJ Siding and Window, and a $30,000 grant from Explore the Trades and Ferguson.
  • Mentorship: Industry experts from C&C Electrical, George’s Drains, Northeast Fire Protection, B.A. Colella Heating and Cooling, and RAP Painting.
  • Special Mentorship: Mr. John Martin, described by students as the "Master of Residence," was cited for bringing real-world expertise to the classroom daily.

Roxbury High School remains a leader in trade education as the first and only student chapter of the National Association of Home Builders in New Jersey.

 

Honoring Excellence: The Golden Hammer Awards

The evening culminated in the presentation of the coveted Golden Hammer Awards, given to seniors who displayed exceptional leadership and technical skill. The 2026 recipients are:

  • Charley DeRocco
  • Gabe Farkas
  • Tyler Forschner
  • Sammy Landis
  • Jeff Opalka

 

Building for the Future

In a touching conclusion, SDF Teacher Frank Caccavale invited the public to sign 2x4 studs that will be used in the construction of the fourth student-built home, already in the planning stages. This tradition ensures that the community’s well-wishes are literally built into the framework of the next family's home.

“Students, you should take immense pride in what you have accomplished,” said Superintendent Dr. Frank Santora. “The walls you framed will hold family photos. The floors you laid will hear the footsteps of a family. You’ve built a lasting legacy.”

About Roxbury High School Structural Design & Fabrication: The SDF program at Roxbury High School provides students with hands-on, vocational experience by building full-scale residential homes on campus. In partnership with Habitat for Humanity and local trade unions, the program prepares students for careers in architecture, engineering, and the skilled trades while addressing the need for affordable housing in the community.

 

PHOTO ATTACHED (courtesy of Roxbury Schools)

 

 

###