ROXBURY TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — Roxbury High School students and community members gathered April 30 to celebrate the completion of a third student-built Habitat for Humanity home, marking a major milestone for the school’s Structural Design & Fabrication program.
The ceremony recognized graduating seniors, honored top student craftsmen and offered the public a first look at the home before it is relocated to its permanent site.
The project, completed in partnership with Greater Middlesex and Morris Habitat for Humanity, has transformed part of the high school campus into a working construction site over the past two years. The home is scheduled to be moved next week to 402 West Dewey Ave., where it will provide affordable housing for a local family.
“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, highlighted the unique nature 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,” Wright said.
The project was supported by donors, grants and industry professionals who provided materials, mentorship and hands-on instruction to students.
During the event, seniors Charley DeRocco, Gabe Farkas, Tyler Forschner, Sammy Landis and Jeff Opalka were recognized with Golden Hammer Awards for their leadership and technical skills.
The ceremony concluded with a tradition inviting attendees to sign wooden beams that will be used in the construction of a fourth student-built home, already in the planning stages.
“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.”
School officials said the program continues to provide students with hands-on experience in construction while preparing them for careers in skilled trades and helping address affordable housing needs in the community.
