John C. Demps was named principal in 1976. Drainage renovations were completed in 1980, improving swampy conditions on campus which had been prone to flooding. In 1986, BCHS received a $24,500 federal grant and implemented a campaign to restore the school's image and spirit. The buildings received a fresh coat of paint, and parents, students and staff re-discovered the words to the fight song thanks to Mary Ann Frey, a teacher who was a 1968 graduate. In January 1987, Barbara Paonessa became the first woman (and longest-serving) principal until May 2003. An Army Junior ROTC program was established in 1988.