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Mrs. LaPlaca has been in the hearts and minds of the Boonton High School faculty and students since being diagnosed with biliary cancer in March.
On Saturday, May 13, Mrs. LaPlaca, a business teacher, also was on the chests, backs and wrists of the school community – in the form of T-shirts, bracelets and ribbons – when a fundraiser was held during Bombers boys and girls lacrosse games.
Emerald green – worn by people to show their support for those with bile duct cancer – was the color of the day, not the traditional red and black. T-shirts and ribbons were prominent, letting Mrs. LaPlaca, the AVID and mock trial coordinator as well as senior class advisor, know everyone is aware of her battle and will stand by her.
“I am overwhelmed by the student and staff generosity and compassion,”Mrs. LaPlaca said. “I am extremely appreciative for all of their efforts. I think this gesture was an indication of how we may be a small school but we are a school full of heart.”
The day before the games, the T-shirts, which sold out quickly, were visible in the halls and classrooms. Snacks and beverages were sold at the concession stand on Saturday and donations, in excess of $4,000, were made. Bridget Giordano, a senior, made bracelets featuring green beads.
“Mrs. LaPlaca is a well-loved teacher who has been a support to many as an educator, a mentor, a mother figure and a friend,” said Mrs. McBride, who organized the fundraiser with Mrs. Faessinger. “As she fights biliary cancer, others want to provide the same support she’s offered them throughout the years at BHS.
“Through the fundraiser, we hope to ease some of Mrs. LaPlaca’s burden of medical bills and caring for her family while undergoing chemotherapy treatments.”
Giordano had the privilege of being in Mrs. LaPlaca’s class and was part of mock trials.
“Mrs. LaPlaca has taught me so much and is such a positive light in the Boonton High School community,” Giordano said. “I am so grateful to have been her student.”
Nick Scaltro, also a member of the BHS Class of 2023, had Mrs. LaPlaca for business law as a junior and was grateful for the guidance he received from her.
“Mrs. LaPlaca has helped me a ton,” said Scaltro. “I had her class the year my dad passed and she really helped me through a rough time. She would give me space when I needed it and comfort when needed. Senior year, she really helped me with applying to college and scholarships.”
That constant willingness to assist and guide has endeared Mrs. LaPlaca to those in the building and beyond. She always has time for everyone.
No matter what the outcomes of the lacrosse games on May 13, the day was a major success. Victories by both lacrosse squads made everything even better as the girls edged High Point, 7-6, and the boys defeated West Orange, 14-1.
Elizabeth Zanca highlighted the girls’ win with a hat trick. Ashley Suplicki and Sierra Medina had two goals apiece. Goalie Tayla Szmak finished with eight saves.
For the boys, Gavin Gaetano recorded five goals and Nick Scaltro contributed four goals and three assists. Cody Larsen did a fine job in goal, posting 10 saves.
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