Sagerer’s Design is a Warped Winner

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From graphic design class assignment to contest winner…

That was the case for Boonton High School’s Charles Sagerer, a highly creative senior.

After learning how to warp and distort images in Photoshop, Sagerer used those skills to aid him in producing a cover for the 2024 Morris County Courthouse Manual. His design took first place, an honor that delighted him.

“Funnily enough, I was actually out of school the day that it was announced,” Sagerer said. “While I was resting to feel better, I got a text from my friend that I had gotten first place. I was absolutely in shock and could not believe what I had read. The next day when I returned to school, we had a proper celebration in class for my achievement and I felt very honored.

“It still doesn’t feel real that my name and design will be seen by so many. Having that much exposure is a bit overwhelming, but I would be lying if I didn’t say that it made me very happy!”

On Wednesday, Feb. 28, a ceremony was held at the Morris County Clerk’s Office to recognize Sagerer and his winning design.

Sagerer employed the warp technique to make the American flag into a border. He then added the Morris County Courthouse. In the top left of his design, Sagerer colored the third star yellow to signify that New Jersey was the third state admitted to the Union. The bottom left features a graph that shows where Morris County is located in New Jersey.

The first few months of the year have been memorable for Sagerer, who played Danny, the lead role, in the Boonton High School production of “Grease.” He said that joining the BHS Drama Club was one of the best decisions he ever made.

“I really wish that I had joined earlier,” he said of the drama club. “The connections I made and fun I had performing in the show are unparalleled. Due to the fact I was new to something like this, I went into it with extreme stage fright.

“It was very difficult for me to get over this fear, but thanks to those in the show and the wonderful directors, I was able to get over this fear, and the show went perfectly!”

Sagerer also is a member of the National Honor Society and PLC and is vice president of the broadcasting club.

“Charlie’s design skills are amazing,” said Ms. Demirors, Sagerer’s technology teacher. “We’re thrilled his entry has placed first in the 2024 Morris County Clerk’s Manual Contest. His creativity stands out, and his victory makes us really proud. He’s got a knack for turning ideas into stunning designs, and it’s clear he’s destined for great things in the design world.”

His college plans are still in the works. Sagerer intends to major in music industry with a focus on production.

“I am a musical person and love to write and produce my own songs so I want to pursue this in college,” he said.