New Jersey Teacher Takes Leap to Secure Votes for Sussex Tech Athletic Improvements

Neil Trimper, a culinary arts instructor at Sussex County Technical School, leaped from an altitude of 14,500 feet at Sussex County Airport to garner support for the school’s entry in T-Mobile’s Friday Night 5G Lights competition. This initiative is seen by supporters as a potential path to significant upgrades to the school’s athletic facilities.

As one of ten schools vying for the East Region’s $250,000 prize, Sussex County Technical School’s success would also position them for a chance to secure a $1 million renovation of their football field, according to the school’s football board.

Trimper, affectionately called “Chef T” by students, made the jump on Sunday, outfitted in T-Mobile pink and using a coordinating parachute. He shared that a text invitation to jump came just two weeks prior, and upon consulting his students, they encouraged him to take the plunge.

Supporters emphasize the urgency of the campaign, highlighting that the school’s athletic facilities are outdated and in dire need of improvement, particularly the absence of field lighting. “We do not have the greatest fields. We have no lights. Other schools have lights, and we miss that Friday night experience,” Trimper noted.

Parent Kristy Pinand expressed the necessity of votes in the competitive landscape, stating, “We now have a one in 10 shot of winning $250,000 and then progressing to the million dollar field renovation. We are neck-and-neck with another school. Right now, we’re sitting in number two, so we need votes.” Sussex Tech has already accrued $30,000 within the contest and stands as the lone Tri-State area finalist still competing.

Voting is accessible once a day until October 25. Visit the provided link to cast your vote.