HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH 2009
JEFFERSON SCHOOL
Kindergarten
Ms. McCrea’s kindergarten class engaged in:
 Social Studies – Families – cooperation, rules, needs/wants.
 Science –Welcomed Spring by beginning our study of plants
 Reading – Letter Sounds w, x, e; Word Blending – en, -eg, - ed, -et Sounding out
C- V – C words; High Frequency words: up, down, who, out, want, we
 Math – Money (Penny, Nickel, Dime) and Time (to the hour)
 Daily implementation of state objectives
 Differentiated instruction for ELL, Special Education and G & T Students
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Mrs. Northrop’s kindergarten class is presently engaged in:
Science—Earth’s Resources
Social Studies- City and Farm Life
Language- High Frequency Words, Robust Vocabulary, Comprehension
Math- Time and Money
Writing- Story writing with illustrations, sharing stories with class, using writing
prompts to write stories
Ms. Rebecca Waldron from N.J.C.U. is a student intern in this class.
First Grade
Mrs. Paglucci's and Mrs. Pereira's first graders watched “Horton Hears a Who.” After
listening to the story and watching the film, the students discussed the similarities and
differences between the two versions. The underlining theme was the same… “A person
is a person no matter how small.” This lesson incorporated the entire current first grade
curriculum; which includes our Reading Theme on neighbors and friends playing an
important part of our lives; our Social Studies Unit 5 discussing meeting people with
different backgrounds; our Science Theme in which we are beginning to discuss Weather;
and in Math, we just started Unit 4 Geometry, Addition and Subtraction to 20. (Perfect
for figuring out all of the people who live in Who-Ville!)
Second Grade
Mrs. Nolan’s second grade celebrated their annual Clifford Day. We have been reading
all of the Clifford books and discussing story structure. Students collaborated on a class
Clifford book. Everyone in the class wore red, wrote letters to the author of the Clifford
books, and completed Clifford word and number puzzles. Students also studied
probability and graphing. Students learned about the plot of a story using the new
Harcourt Storytown program.
Mrs. Korycinski’s second grade students engaged in the following activities during the
month of March:
 Learning about plane shapes.
 Using pattern blocks to increase the understanding of shapes and their
relationships to other geometric figures.
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Learning about probability and working in cooperative learning groups to
improve the understanding of likely and unlikely outcomes.
Learning about fossils and participating in experiments that increased the
understanding of how fossils are formed.
Learning how to compare and contrast different story elements such as characters
and settings.
Third Grade
Mrs. Harte’s and Mrs. Keogh’s students:
 Made collages modeled after a story in our reading books about an artist who
worked on multi-media collages
 Studied all 50 states and capitals for extra credit in Social Studies
 Learned about graphing in Math and surveyed class members to make individual
graphs
 Read books written by Dr. Seuss and members of the class volunteered to read
various stories to the class
Fourth Grade
Mrs. Rotondo’s science classes engaged in making and growing sugar crystals. Sugar
crystals are also known as rock candy since the crystallized sucrose (table sugar)
resembles rock crystals and the students can eat their finished product. Students grew
beautiful colored sugar crystals with sugar, water and food coloring. The project is a
hands-on investigation which enables the students to learn by exploring, observing and
recording daily results. The students were all enthusiastic and engaged throughout the
experiment.
Mrs. Rotondo’s 4th grade science classes also made various types of volcanoes.
Students gave an oral presentation on their specific volcano and engaged in making the
volcano erupt.
Mrs. Rotondo’s math students are focusing on open-ended questions in preparation for
the NJ ASK Test. Students are using critical and higher level thinking skills to answer
open-ended questions.
Mrs. Herrmann’s fourth grade Language Arts classes are focusing on their reading
fluency by participating in Reader’s Theater and reading their fluency cards with
expression. During the month of March, students have also read 4 stories from their
anthology book and small groups enjoyed reading various leveled library books. Reading
skills taught and practiced this month included Narrative Elements, Making Inferences,
Theme, Fact and Opinion and Predicting Outcomes. In preparation for the NJASK 4,
Students are also reinforcing their reading and writing skills by using Study Island and
writing speculative and explanatory writing prompts.
Mrs. Herrmann’s fourth grade Social Studies classes are engaged in learning about the
roles of the three branches of the United States government, the organization of New
Jersey’s state and local governments, and the economy on the national and state levels. In
celebration of National Women’s month, the students were also engaged in learning
about many famous women in American History.
Fifth Grade
Miss Jacobson’s 5th Grade Science classes began to identify the orbits of the earth and
moon. The students concluded the study of Space Exploration. The classes began the
study of land biomes. The students are able to identify characteristics of each of the six
major land biomes in North America. They studied Tropical Rain Forests, Deciduous
Forests, Grasslands, Deserts, Taiga, and the Tundra. The classes broke up into six groups
and outlined the major characteristics of their assigned land biome. Each group presented
their outline and the posters they created. The classes also studied the three types of
water ecosystems. The classes compared the similarities and differences between
saltwater ecosystems, freshwater ecosystems, and estuaries.
Miss Jacobson’s 5th Grade Math classes were introduced to Geometric Figures.
Students were shown geometric manipulatives. Students were taught intersecting lines,
parallel lines, perpendicular lines, acute angles, obtuse angles, and right angles. Students
learned how to identify polygons and to classify polygons as regular and not regular. The
classes learned to draw a circle and identify and measure its parts. They learned to
identify line and rotational symmetry. Students drew lines of symmetry on figures where
the object is symmetrical. Students used the strategy find a pattern to solve word
problems. Students cooperatively wrote their own word problems involving problems.
We are also preparing for the NJ ASK test. Students will work on open-ended word
problems from the Harcourt NJ ASK Test Prep workbook.
Mrs. Applegate’s 5th grade Reading classes continued using the Harcourt Reading
series, Storytown. Students successfully accessed their reading texts from home.
Emphasis was placed on the focus skill of making inferences, author’s purpose and
perspective cause and effects, robust vocabulary, and reading comprehension strategies.
Leveled readers were used by students to reinforce skills from their text. Students
reviewed strategies for Readers Theater and continued to work on lessons related to
Study Island in Reading. The SmartBoard was frequently used to review stories and
workbook pages. Students participated in a Mock Battle of the Books and continued to
read for the Battle of the Books that will be held the first week in April.
Mrs. Applegate’s 5th grade Social Studies classes continued to study English
settlements in America. Emphasis was put on map skills and economic, political, and
religious factors motivating these settlements and relations with Native Americans .In
honor of Women’s History month, students used packets of notable American pioneers
who were and are exemplary of courage and determination in their respective fields, as
well as using the Mini Page from The Record for discussion and analysis. Students also
learned a little of the history of Ireland and studied the Irish flag and folklore, and used
maps to identify different places in both the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland. The
SmartBoard was also used to enhance text assignments.
Mrs. Applegate’s 5th grade writing class continued to work on Study Island lessons and
continued completing activities for the program to achieve more Blue Ribbons. Writing
skills focused on speculative writing., explanatory writing, and persuasive writing.
Students continued to work on grammar activities related to pronouns, adjectives and
verbs. Haikus and Seasonal poetry were created by the students.
Art
Ms. Cronk’s kindergarten art classes welcomed spring by sculpting birds’ nests! Ms.
Cronk’s 1st grade art classes learned about pastel colors and constructed beautiful Springy
collages. Ms. Cronk’s 2nd grade classes studied painter Claude Monet and painted
watercolor masterpieces inspired by the artist. Ms. Cronk’s 3rd grade art classes learned
about Georgia O’Keeffe and painted huge flowers similar to the artist’s work. Ms.
Cronk’s 4th grade art classes collaged beautiful spring time flowers. Ms. Cronk’s 5th grade
art classes studied artist Janet Fish’s piece “Waimea” and created oil pastel still-life
pictures..
English Language Learners
Mrs. Nouravai’s English Language Learners continue to engage in activities designed
to increase robust vocabulary, character analysis and comprehension.
Speech
Mrs. Hale’s students receiving speech and language services have made progress
towards mastery of the goals set forth in their Individual Education Plans (IEPs). Goals
have been addressed in the context of the general curriculum and/or NJCCS when
appropriate.
Music
Mr. Nicolle, our music teacher, reports: All grades viewed the nationally broadcast
"World's Largest Concert" produced by MENC for Music In Our Schools Month, and
received a lapel sticker celebrating the event. Grades 3 and 4 are working on the study of
the recorder, the third grade in their 3rd week of beginning lessons and the 4th in their
3rd week of review and continuation. Grade 5 finished viewing the musical "Hairspray"
and will begin a study on The Beatles shortly. Grade 2 has been working on reading and
writing musical notation.
Grade 1 has been working on creating new lyrics of a song, "The Corner Grocery Store",
finding names of food that have 1 syllable, and rhyming it with a similar word that has
nothing to do with food. Grade K has started working on "High/Low Basketball"
learning how to distinguish the difference between high and low pitches, graduating in
"High/Medium/Low" and later adding Tempos "Fast/Walking/Slow".
Instrumental Music
Mr. Mullen's instrumental music students have been busy preparing for their upcoming
performances. This year the band will be 90 musicians!
Comprehensive Health & Physical Education
Mrs. Robb's gym classes welcomed Joseph Cioffi, a student teacher from William
Paterson University. Mr. Cioffi has been getting acquainted with all the students,
assisting with gym routines, and is beginning a basketball unit for the children.
Mrs. Robb's gym classes participated in Read Across America Day, by performing the
appropriate actions as Mrs. Robb read Stop That Ball.
Mrs. Robb's 3rd, 4th, & 5th grade gym classes have been having a great time performing
various stunts during Kickball/Stuntball games. Stunts included at the bases are: rope
jumping various ways, throwing and catching various balls, standing wooden pins up by
only using one's feet, and performing wall taps.
Mrs. Robb's 1st & 2nd grade gym classes have begun working on Cup Stacking and
Speed Stacking. Plastic cups are built into pyramids of various sizes and then dismantled
with the quickest hands being the winners.
Nurse Doreen Terletzky reports:
 Registration of new students for the 2009-2010 school year. In process of
formulating health charts.
 Conducting screenings-height/weight/vision/audio. Referrals given when
necessary.
 Assisting school dentist, Dr. Varcoe, with dental examinations. All information
documented in health charts. Results sent to parents.
 Determined specific PK students in need of required immunizations. Notification
letter given.
 Revision of Physical Examination Form.
 Registration of new students for present school year.
 Pediculosis screenings-communication with parents.
Basic Skills
Mrs. Osinski’s and Mrs. Young’s reading groups are increasing the use of the new
robust vocabulary words from their reading stories. Students are continuing to use
context clues in the stories increase comprehension and improve critical thinking skills.
Mrs. Osinski’s math classes are learning concepts of measurement, geometry and
number patterns. Each grade level is continuing analyzing story problems.
Mrs. Young will be conducting the “Battle of the Books” competition:
Grade 4 on Friday, April 3rd
Grade 5 on Monday, April 6th
Come and see this exciting program in action at 9:00 a.m. in the All Purpose Room!
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Special Ed
Mrs. Volpe’s Resource Class is successfully achieving the goals and objectives set forth
in each student’s Individual Education Program (IEP). This month our class discussed
Women in History focusing on people such as Harriett Tubman, Ella Fitzgerald, and
Eleanor Roosevelt, as well as, touching upon a number of female Olympic athletes their
struggles as well as their accomplishments. The students were excited to learn about these
women while comparing them to the women of today.
Workshop Attendance
On March 31st the entire staff attended an in-service workshop on Occupational Therapy.
Mrs. Hale completed several online self-study workshops, including a course entitled
Unlocking the Silence: Overview and Treatment of Selective Mutism and one entitled
Retrieval Strategies for Word-finding Difficulties.
Assemblies
Students are preparing for the annual Earth Day program which will take place on
Tuesday April 21st at 11AM.
Student Recognitions
Students of the month demonstrate extra-ordinary effort, cooperation, kindness, a
positive work ethic and learning attitude. North Arlington’s Jefferson School teaching
family is pleased to proclaim the following children as Students of the Month of March
2009: Martyrous Beniamien, Crysta Pietronico, Haley Harrison, Sheyla Ramirez,
Zachary Young, Jennifer Garcia, Adam Evanchick, Alia Elsafy, Fred Sabato, Danica
Krawczyk, Kaitlin DeVivo, Joseph Morales, Sara Lyn Evers, Mariama Drammeh,
Aadarsh Patel, Alexa Paparelli, Theresa D'Errico.
School Accomplishments
The Jefferson School Math-a-Thon raised a total of $3220 which is donated to the St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital. St. Jude’s, founded by the late entertainer Danny
Thomas, is one of the world's premier centers for the research and treatment of pediatric
cancer and other catastrophic childhood diseases. Children from all 50 states and around
the world have come through the doors of St. Jude for treatment, and thousands more
around the world have benefited from the research conducted at St. Jude’s – research that
is shared freely with the global medical community. Kudos to our 3 rd graders for sharing
with others.
Special Programs
Fourth grades interacted in an AAA Map Presentation. It is also noteworthy that 100% of
the fourth grade students participated in the schools recent Battle of the Books BATTLE
OF THE BOOKS is a motivational reading program geared for 4th & 5th graders. The
goal is to encourage and broaden reading interests and to recognize student participants.
The “battle” consists of teams of students responding to a series of questions (based on
the books on a list) in a quiz-show format. Fourth grade parents are invited to attend the
grade 4 Battle at 9AM on April 3rd. The fifth grade battle will be fought at 9AM on April
6th. “Talk About Excitement! The Battle of the Books brings new meaning to reading,”
says Mrs. Hanni Young, program moderator.
Read Across America, now in its twelfth year, focuses on motivating children to read, in
addition to helping them master basic skills. On this day we are mindful of Dr Seuss’
admonition, “You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a
child.” The student teachers at Jefferson School delighted the children with their staged
rendition of CAT IN THE HAT. The women are a part of our professional staff through
May 2009. Ms. Rebecca Waldron (NJCU) is assigned to Mrs. Northrop’s kindergarten,
Ms. Barbara Biondo (Felician) is teaching Ms. Nolan’s 2nd grade, Ms. Jillian Monaghan
(WPU) is assigned to Mrs. Pereira’s 1st grade and Ms. Melissa Callaghan (Felician
College) is working with Mrs. Korycinski’s 2nd grade
Mrs. Applegate reports:
Peer mediations are ongoing for a number of students both in primary and upper grades at
lunchtime.
Student Council
 Began setting up activities for Earth Day
 Had flyers for Baseball Sports Day, as well as making posters
 Made flyers and posters for Animal Pet Drive for the month of April, in which
Student Council members will collect various items and donate to for Animal
Shelters.
Rainbows
 Began a second group of 5th Grade students to meet at lunchtime for remainder of
year
Mrs. Joyce Barker (retired staff member) read to the children for St. Patrick’s Day.
Mr. David Mullen, District Music Teacher discussed melody and played the xylophone
for our class. Mr. Mullen’s son is a student in our Kindergarten.
Women’s Club readers continue to visit our school and read to the children in the various
classes.
MONTH:, MARCH 2009
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: ROOSEVELT
Pre-K
 Mrs. Mack’s Pre-kindergarten students and Mrs. Arena’s first grade
students celebrated Read Across America Day. The first grade students read
their favorite story to the Pre-K students. After hearing the story, children drew a
picture of their favorite part of the story.
 Lindsey Johnstone’s father visited the class bringing the pet goldfish, “Nemo”.
Lindsey and dad told the story of how Nemo was won by Lindsey at a fair.
 Students mixed yellow and blue paint to make green shamrocks this month.
 Mrs. Mack’s Pre-K children have been studying the wind and windy weather and
made kites to fly on windy days during the month of March.
Kindergarten
 Mrs. Malanga’s Kindergarten class is just “ducky” now that Spring is here.
The children read “Five Little Ducks”, a book of the famous rhyme. One group
of children wrote their own version of the rhyme and named it”Five Little Pigs”.
The students also created duck puppets and used our theatre to re-tell the story.
This was tied to math concepts as the students completed subtraction problems
related to the story. The class continued to read several other duck stories to
complete the activity.
 Mrs. DiTommaso’s Kindergartners read “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss and
discussed how reading is fun and should be incorporated into a daily routine.
Under Mrs. Di Tommaso’s supervision the class then made a Dr. Seuss hat which
students wore home. Children wrote rhyming words for cat on the hat and
reviewed these at home.
First Grade
 Mrs. Arena’s first graders celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday and “Read Across
America” by reading to the Mrs. Mack’s Pre-K students.
Second Grade
 Mrs. Phalon’s second grade is using Social Study links on Harcourt School.com.
This enables students to use maps and grids related to their Social Studies
program.
 Two parents, Mrs. Kelly and Mrs. Clifford, visited the class and did a special St.
Patrick’s Day activity with the class which they enjoyed.
 Mr. Medina, a parent, visited the class and discussed his cell phone occupation
with the class. The class enjoyed learning about the various types of cell phones
and their uses.
Third Grade
 Mrs. Giuffre’s third grade class is writing to Pen Pals who are third graders in
Rockaway. This reinforces the form of writing a friendly letter. The students
wrote introductory letters to their new pen pals in the past, now they wrote their
second letters in response to the letters they received. The children are very
enthusiastic and looking forward to continuing the correspondence.
Fourth Grade
 Ms. Jaume’s grade 4 class has taken Read Across America and broadened it to
include Write Across America. Utilizing their Battle of the Books novels, each
student is creating his own book. Each page of the book is dedicated to a
different battle book. As our battle is scheduled to take place on April 21st,
publication of the books is scheduled for the end of April. Differentiated
instruction was used as there were varying degrees of difficulty in how students
could represent the battle books. Students are working imaginatively to make
their books unique and superior.
 Mrs. Crismale’s fourth graders were asked to bring their favorite Dr. Seuss
book to school. Each student read the book they brought to Mrs. DiTommaso’s
kindergarten class. The fourth grade students were placed in groups and read to
each group of kindergarteners. The older students loved reading to the young
children, and the little ones loved listening to the stories. Everyone had a great
time.
 Mrs. Crismale’s fourth grade, during the month of March, has been working
diligently practicing for the NJASK assessment.
Fifth Grade
 Mrs. Badiola’s fifth grade, in preparation for NJASK, has begun expository
writing. The students use an expository writing guideline and tips to frame their
paragraphs. Included in each essay are Robust Vocabulary and transitions and
transitory expressions. Twenty expository essays will be completed before the
statewide assessment.
Art
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Mrs. Cronk’s art classes welcomed spring as they enjoyed the following:
- Kindergarten sculpted birds
- 1st grade learned about pastel colors and constructed springy collages
- 2nd grade studied painter Claude Monet and painted watercolor
masterpieces inspired by the artist
- 3rd grade learned about Georgia O’Keefe and painted huge flowers similar
to the artist’ style
- 4th grade collaged beautiful spring time flowers
- 5th grade studied artist Janet Fish’s , “Waimea”, and created oil pastel stilllife pictures
ESL
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BSI
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Mrs. Stringham’s ESL Kindergarten classes wrote descriptive sentences for
classroom objects. Students brainstormed words for their descriptions using
color, shape, and size categories. The activity culminated with the students
guessing each others’ items based on their written descriptions.
Mrs. Stringham’s ESL Kindergarten students discussed good foods to eat for
breakfast and lunch. Students were given picture and word cards to match and
also grouped the foods they eat for these meals. Collages were then made of
foods they eat for breakfast.
Mrs. Stringham’s fourth grader wrote a friendly letter to a former student and
friend. The student was taught the basic outline of a friendly letter and was
shown various samples. It is hoped the two will become pen pals indefinitely.
Miss Kleber’s BSI students are working to improve their comprehension,
writing and math skills for the NJ ASK assessments. First graders are writing and
illustrating their own spring book.
World Language
 Mrs. Gonzalez fourth grade Spanish class is learning how to identify
common classroom objects in Spanish. The next time they go shopping for
school supplies, they will be able to make a “bilingual” shopping list.
Comprehensive Health & Physical Education
 Mrs. Robb celebrated “Read Across America” by reading the Dr. Seuss
book, “Stop that Ball”. The students acted out many parts of the story and
enjoyed the mystery of the ball that was rolling relentlessly out of control and
through out the town. All students received certificates for participating.
 Mrs. Robb had the children performing many stunts for Kickball/Stunt ball
games. As the children run the bases, they must do some jump roping,
balancing pins with their feet, shoot a basket, etc. at the bases in order to make
it safely “home”. This activity allows for those students who lack in “regular’
kickball skills to compete on an even basis.
 Mrs. Robb has welcomed a student teacher, Joseph Cioffi, from William
Paterson University to the gym program. Mr. Cioffi has been well received
by the students during their gym classes, has settled in extremely quickly and
easily, and, is enjoying his first two weeks in North Arlington.
Nurse
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Mrs. Terletzky reported the following:
- Registration of new students for this year and the 2009-2010 school year.
- Conducting screenings-height/vision/audio. Referrals given when
necessary
- Assisting school dentist, Dr. Varcoe, with dental examinations. All
information documented in health charts. Results sent to parents
(Nurse cont.)
- Determined specific PK students in need of required immunizations.
Notification letter given.
- Revision of Physical Examination Form
- Pediculosis screenings and communication with parents
Computer
 Miss Tokarz’ kindergarten and first grade students have been instructed in
the correct use of the mouse. Miss Tokarz placed a sticker on the appropriate
side of the mouse to use thereby giving the younger children and special needs
students at every level the necessary cue.
 Grades 4 and 5 were instructed in the correct use of insert and open. The
correct use was also demonstrated with pictures in word –processing.
 At all grade levels, students are using Microgram software to review math
skills. This software challenges their skills and increases level of difficulty
according to their ability. They are instructed with skills they are unsure of
and work independently and progress accordingly.
Special Ed
 Mrs. McKenna’s grades 3, 4 & 5 reading classes discussed Women’s
History Month. Using the Weekly Reader as a resource, women’s
achievements were discussed. Each student was then assigned a project using
a Venn diagram to compare and contrast two famous women in American
History.
 Mrs. Whalen’s third and fourth graders:
- have been learning about verbs. Each student listed as many verbs as
possible resulting in very long lists!
- have been studying the American Revolution. As part of their study, they
were able to review a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Of particular
interest to the class were the names of the men who signed the document.
Speech
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Mrs. Hale’s students receiving speech and language services have made
progress towards mastery of the goals set forth in their Individual Education
Plans (IEP’s). Goals have been addressed in the context of the general
curriculum and/or NJCCS when appropriate.
School Accomplishments
Special Programs
 Mrs. Badiola, Roosevelt School fifth grade teacher, was honored by the Bergen
County Executive, Dennis Mc Nerney, the Department of Human Services, Dr.
Valerie Dargan, PhD, and the Commission on the Status of Women, Cynthia
Celentano, ESQ. The Bergen County Freeholders presented Mrs. Badiola with a
Women’s History Month in Bergen County Award, for her part in advancing
environmental educational awareness in the North Arlington elementary schools.
Additionally, Bergen County Sheriff, Leo P. McGuire awarded Mrs. Badiola
commendations for her efforts.
School Accomplishments
 Roosevelt School Student Council, under the supervision of advisor Mrs.
Badiola, has joined Clean Ocean Action’s Caps Recycling Program. This
program, sponsored by Aveda, recycles rigid polypropylene plastic, screw-on lids,
which currently wash up on New Jersey’s extensive shoreline. All readers should
forward their caps to Roosevelt School in paper bags.
Workshop Attendance
 Mrs. Hale completed several online self-study workshops, including a course
entitles “Asperger Syndrome: Strategies for Solving the Social Puzzle.
MONTH: March 2009
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: WASHINGTON
WASHINGTON SCHOOL has been very busy this month. During the month of
March, Washington School students are participating in the St. Jude’s Math-AThon. It is an education-based fundraiser to benefit the St. Jude’s Childrens
Research Hospital. This has become an annual event at Washington School and to
date the students have raised over $43,000. Ms. Pusaver and Mrs. Cutruzzula are
coordinating this year’s Math-A-Thon.
Pre-Kindergarten
Mrs. Johnson’s – Pre-K class
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This month the children have been learning about the letters, Q, R, S and T
and have been doing many activities to help them understand number
concepts. They have been extending knowledge about rhyming, patterns,
sorting and even writing skills in preparation for Kindergarten.
We really had fun on Dr. Seuss’ birthday when we spent the morning with
Mrs. Mielke’s second grade class and worked together with second grade
partners reading Dr. Seuss books and constructing a Cat-in-the-Hat craft
together!
Pre-Kindergarten
Mrs. Luciano’s – Pre-K class
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“ROY G. BIV” helped us learn the colors of the rainbow.
After reading The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day we set up traps in our
classroom to catch a leprechaun. When we arrived the next day we found
our traps set off – he left us a note and some yummy green cookies.
Our Pizza Hut “Book It” program began and will continue to April.
We are observing the life cycle of a butterfly in our classroom. It is a very
exciting experience!
Kindergarten
Mrs. Haag’s – Kindergarten class
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Math – Our class learned about pennies, nickels and dimes. We also learned
how to tell time to the hour.
Reading – We learned the letters, Ee, Vv and Jj. Our sight words included
“we, out, want, who, are, they, she, good”.
Science – We talked about the different places where we find water – like
oceans, lakes, rivers and streams.
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Social Studies – We learned about globes and maps, and we made a “Map
Key”.
Kindergarten
Miss Pusaver’s – Kindergarten class
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Miss Pusaver’s kindergarten is learning about pennies, nickels, and dimes in
Math. In Science, we are learning about land, air, and water. In Reading, we
now know thirty High Frequency Words. We are also learning about how
people do different kinds of work. We welcomed family members to come in
and speak about their jobs to learn more about the kinds of work that they
do. We were also glad that some parents read to us for Read Across
America! In celebration for St. Patrick’s Day, we made leprechaun traps. We
were surprised to see their foot prints and all of the tricks they played on us
the next day!
The Kindergarten has been diligently working on the SmartBoard using
Sesame Street and Curious George learning games.
First Grade
Mrs. Dillon’s – First grade class
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In March, the first grade learned about solid figures and plane shapes in
Math. As St. Patrick’s Day approached, they wrote about why they think
they are so lucky. Many feel they are lucky to have a great family, many
toys, and a great teacher!!! In Science, the students examined three different
types of soil: topsoil, clay soil, and sandy soil. We are learning about poison
prevention (Poison Prevention Week March 15-21).
Second Grade
Ms. Mielke’s - Second grade class
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The children in Ms. Mielke's second grade class were very busy in the month of
March! They wrote about "Three Wishes" in language arts class. They made
posters of classmates in groups of two. When they completed these illustrations they
used adjectives to describe their partners. In math class the children are telling
time using their clocks. They are working very hard on their cursive names in
penmanship class.
Third Grade
Miss Maier’s – Third grade class
Miss Maier’s third grade class is studying:
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Math – To write time to the minute
To tell time in various ways
To use both an analog and digital clock to tell time
To identify the time of day
To write elapsed time
To use a schedule and a calendar
To solve problems by using an appropriate skill such as sequence of events
 Social Studies – Communities and Geograhy
Identify current issues that have a global impact and discuss ways to address
them
Examined the topic of pollution and recycling
Participated in numerous activities to demonstrate ways in which an effective
citizen can influence public policy.
 Science – Earth’s Resources
Identify different kinds of resources: nonrenewable, renewable,
inexhaustible
Focus on conserving and preserving nonrenewable resources
Consider ways to develop new energy resources from inexhaustible resources
Literacy - Theme 3 – As We Grow
Robust Vocabulary
Writing: Business Letters
Focus Skills: Plot, Author’s Purpose - Persuade
Grammar: Possessive nouns, singular and plural nouns, subject and object
pronouns, pronoun-antecedent agreement.
Third Grade
Miss O’Connell’s – Third grade class

Students in Miss O’Connell’s third grade class, and Miss Kenny’s Pre-K
class read short stories about Leprechauns and St. Patrick’s Day in small
groups. After reading the story, children assembled leprechauns along with
pots of gold. As the culminating activity, students followed green leprechaun
footprints to a “pot of gold.” Students celebrated Read Across America and
St. Patrick’s Day in a “green” way!
Fourth Grade
Ms. Verrier’s – Fourth grade class


Writing: Students wrote fictional stories about how they caught
a Leprechaun and found his gold! The students then read their
creative stories to the kindergarten thru 5th grade classes on St. Patty's
Day!!!
Science: Students investigated Breathing Rates- they timed and recorded
their breathing rate after sitting, marching, and running in place. They were
able to draw the conclusion that your body needs more oxygen the harder
your body works!


Social Studies: The students worked with partners cooperatively to create a
Timeline of Events in history and how these events effected NJ. They chose 5
events between 1800 - present day. They used reference sources and the
internet to find pictures related to their events! Their hard work is now
displayed in the hallway outside our classroom.
Reading: students are eagerly reading the selected books for Battle of the
Books!
Fifth Grade
Ms. Lonergan’s – Fifth grade class


My fifth grade class completed their SmartBoard biome projects this month
and will be presenting them to the class.
Theme 5 in our reading series is titled,"Making a Difference." The goals of
this theme were as follows: to use a problem-solving process to identify and
address a community problem and to create and implement a plan for
community service demonstrating an understanding of civic responsibility.
My class has chosen to help collect food for the food pantry at Queen of
Peace, which serves North Arlington families and families in the surrounding
towns regardless of religious affiliation. A pantry worker came and spoke to
my class about the pantry and which nonperishable goods are needed.
Groups were formed, and fliers were created by the students using Microsoft
Word. After approval by Mr.Delaney, the fliers were printed and
distributed by the students. Washington School families have the
opportunity to be generous the entire month of March. It is the hope of the
students to visit the pantry and help stock the shelves at the end of the
month.
Pre-K
Ms. Kenny’s – Pre-K3 class

We read the story, “St. Patrick’s Day Countdown.”

Students counted with one to one correspondence different objects in the
book

Students answered questions about the holiday and learned to talk about St.
Patrick’s Day.

Students of my class met with Miss O’Connell’s third grade class. Students
were placed in small groups and he older students read short stories about
St. Patrick’s Day to the preschool children. After reading the stories, the
students colored leprechauns and pots of gold. The third grade assisted the
younger children with fine motor skills such as cutting. Following this
activity, students followed leprechaun footprints to a pot of gold. We mixed
apple sauce (the gold) with green food coloring (magic potion). Students
worked cooperatively and had fun doing so!
Kindergarten and First Grade
Mrs. Kosiakowski’s – Kindergarten class and First Grade


Mrs. Kosiakowski's class learned how to tell time to the hour and half hour.
We practiced moving the short hour hand and the long minute hand on our
own clocks.
Our class also learned how to count money. We practiced counting by 5's
and 10's and we are really good at counting pennies, nickels and dimes.
Second and Third Grade
Mrs. Cutruzzula’s – Second and Third Grade class

Mrs. Cutruzzula’s class worked with ordered pairs in Math. The students
colored in color-coded ordered pairs to make leprechaun faces for St.
Patrick’s Day!
Fifth Grade
Mrs. Keegan’s – Fifth Grade class

Mrs. Keegan's class celebrated "Read Across America" Day with a reading
comprehension challenge. The class was divided into three teams. All teams
had to read three short stories and answer the comprehension questions in
jeopardy like fashion. The winning team was awarded no homework pass
for the night. The students also wrote some leprechaun tales to celebrate St.
Patrick's Day.
Physical Education
Mrs. Scalia’s – Gym Class

The 3rd, 4th and 5th graders at Washington School recently participated in
“Jump Rope for Heart”. This fund raising event is sponsored by the
American Heart Association in their effort to reduce heart disease, which is
the leading cause of death in our country.

The students developed their jumping routines, accompanied by music and
practiced in their physical education classes. Students learned the
importance of “Heart Health”, community service and cooperative skills in
obtaining their goals. The Washington School community raised $2251.00
for “Jump Rope for Heart”.
MONTH: ____March____
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mathematics
 The students in Miss Thomas’ Algebra and Algebra I classes have been
working on an ongoing activity, “The Problem of the Week”. Every Monday,
when students enter the classroom, they find a new question based on NJASK
standards. They are required to copy the problem down in their classroom
notebook and then spend the week solving it, showing all work. Students receive
up to twenty points for each question and after five weeks, they receive a final
grade and the cycle continues. This gives the students the opportunity to figure
out the problem, help each other out if necessary, and review material that was
previously taught.
 On March 13, Miss Neubauer's classes celebrated Pi Day. Students created
paper chains to represent the first 100 digits of pi, and enjoyed many
different varieties of pie as they worked.
 All of Ms. Maucione’s Math classes were introduced to another project that
involved understanding how to find the markup and discount of items. The
students were given scenarios of shoppers who went to the store and were either
faced with a markup price or discount price. Then, they were responsible for
finding the percent of increase or decrease for each scenario. Once they
completed this exercise, the students broke into pairs. Each group was given four
ads from a newspaper that had discounted items. On a poster board, they had to
tape the ad and show all the work needed to find the percent of decrease.
o Towards the end of the month, the students were introduced to March
Madness. March Madness is a competition held every year by the NCAA
basketball teams. The students will be completing mathematical
operations, as well as keeping track of the teams that have advanced to the
next round and teams that did not. The project was broken into many
sections and this will continue into April.
 Students in Mrs. Califano’s classes practiced using several math problem-solving
strategies. They reviewed the four-step plan of problem-solving:
1. to explore – determine what information is given and what they need to
find
2. plan – select a strategy for solving the problem
a. guess and test
b. use a graph
c. look for a pattern
d. work backwards
e. make an organized list
f. draw a diagram
g. estimate
3. solve-- carry out the plan
4. examine-- does the answer make sense
Problems were solved utilizing various strategies to arrive at an appropriate
answer.
 Mr. Bernstein’s regular Math classes constructed a coordinate grid the length
and width of his room in the media center as part of this marking period’s
Algebra/Pre-Algebra project. The plane has been utilized for two weeks of
activities. Lesson plans that have been executed on the grid include:
o SLIDES
o FINDING PTS. ON A PLANE
o REFLECTIONS
o ROTATIONS
o SLOPE
o Y-INTERCEPT
o X-INTERCEPT
o STANDARD FORM
o Y INTERCEPT FORM
o LINE OF BEST FIT
o TRANFORMATIONS
Language Arts
 Miss Keeler’s 8th grade explored the Sonnets of William Shakespeare. The class
began by successfully defining and identifying the structural elements of this type
of sonnet, specifically regarding quatrains and couplets. The topic of rhyme
scheme was then addressed, as students used interactive Smart Board technology
to view and label several of Shakespeare’s celebrated poems. Once the
mechanics of a working sonnet were understood, the class took on the challenge
of interpreting and paraphrasing the words of the Bard. The students focused on
the rhythm of Shakespeare’s language, focusing primarily on iambic pentameter.
Next, the class worked collaboratively to properly paraphrase the author’s sonnets
line by line. Literary devices such as simile, metaphor, and hyperbole were
carefully considered when interpreting Shakespeare’s poetic messages. Finally,
each student was challenged to create an original sonnet based on Shakespeare’s
perfected style. The extraordinary results are proudly displayed outside Room
301 at the Middle School.
 Ms. Demetroules' Writing class focused on Explanatory writing. Each week
students were given quotes from various individuals and asked to elaborate on
them. Students were able to incorporate personal experiences in this style of
writing.
 Mrs. Kowalczyk's 6th grade Writing classes celebrated Women's History
Month. Using Explanatory Writing, the students interpreted quotes made by
famous women in history. They also worked on a project: "Color My School"
was a persuasive writing prompt in which the students had to write a five
paragraph essay about renovating the NAMS Media Center. Along with their
essay, the students had to make a poster with pictures and color samples with
specific labels for each part of the center.
 To celebrate Read Across America Day, Mrs. Roller's ESL students read some
classic Dr. Seuss books, paying attention to rhyming. They also learned that some
of Dr. Seuss's later books were not just for little kids as the class read, Oh, the
Places You'll Go!
 Mrs. Coughlin’s grade 6 Reading classes wrote their autobiographies. Each
student told their life story in children’s book format, which included drawings
and actual family photos. Once completed, the students took turns reading their
stories to the class.
 Mrs. Helms’ Reading students did a Women’s History Month study. They
learned about the lives of various first ladies who have made a tremendous impact
on our country. The students researched the lives of the women and created their
depiction of her in a portrait. Some First Ladies that were chosen were Martha
Washington, Julia Grant, Rosalynn Carter, Nancy Regan, Abigail Adams, and
Jackie Kennedy to name a few. Biographies and portraits can be viewed in room
307.
 Mrs. Duff’s sixth grade Reading classes read No More Dead Dogs and acting
out some of the scenes from the book. The students enjoyed portraying a
particular character which also assisted them in understanding the conflicts in the
storyline. The students broke up into two categories, “the play geeks” vs. “the
football team”. It makes for some funny dialogue and improvisation.
 Mrs. Boyd's Reading students worked on a literature quilt to celebrate Read
Across America. Students illustrated and described favorite characters, scenes, or
events from best loved literature. These pictures were drawn onto small squares
and afterward put up on the wall to represent a quilt. The "quilt" is hanging
outside of Mrs. Boyd's room for all to see the books her students have read and
enjoyed.
 Mrs. Callahan's 7th and 8th grade Reading classes celebrated "Read Across
America Day" by designing and making movie posters based on their favorite
children's book. Students were encouraged to bring in their favorite book from
home or borrow it from the public library. Next, the students had to decide who
would be "starring" in their movie before making their posters. The movie posters
covered a large range in books including: Green Eggs and Ham, The Cat in the
Hat, Madeleine, Curious George, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and Good
Night, Moon.
World Languages
 Mrs. Marchese’s Spanish classes:
 The sixth graders learned how to describe some of their school and after
school activities. They learned songs and a Spanish dance called "el
merengue".
 The seventh graders made a delicious project for their classmates. They
read a recipe, showed the ingredients, demonstrated how to prepare it, and
gave the class a sample to taste.
 The eighth graders learned all about health, e.g. what it takes to be in good
health and what could happen if one does not take care of his or her
health. They also compared the United States health care to the Spanish
countries' health care and treatments.
 Mrs. McNerney’s Spanish classes read a few selections of literary works.
Students in seventh and eight grades had to translate and analyze the assigned
readings. Seventh grade students read “Fiestas Familiares,” i.e. family parties.
They discussed their favorite family celebrations and compared the way these
celebrations were celebrated in their own homes. Eighth grade students read and
compared “El Espíritu de los Deportes,” i.e. Sports Spirit. They discussed their
favorite sports and the differences in the Hispanic world. Go Soccer!
Social Studies
 Ms. Demetroules' Social Studies classes explored the continent of Europe. We
examined how the contributions of ancient and early modern civilizations helped
shape our lives today. Students took part in a debate comparing early European
explorers to modern day space exploration.
 The students in Mrs. Fisher's classes studied the Holocaust. In order to learn
about prominent figures during this time, each student created a set (10 in all) of
trading cards that featured political and military leaders. Each card had to include
the leader’s birth and death, education and career highlights, as well as a picture
of the leader. The final products were amazing.
 The students in Mr. Wolowitz's Writing class created their very own country.
Along with creating a name for their country, the students had to come up with a
national anthem, a list of at least fifteen rules in which they would govern their
country, how the power would be delegated, and the creation of a flag. When the
students were done, they presented their new countries to the class. Upon the
completion of their presentation, they opened the floor to a question and answer
period similar to a press conference. The flags of their respective countries were
then displayed in Mr. Wolowitz's classroom for all to see.
Science
 Ms. Scerbo’s sixth grade Science classes learned about the skeletal and
muscular systems. Students labeled a skeleton on the SmartBoard and completed
an activity called “Muscle Hustle”. In this activity students used the laptops to
complete an interactive activity that allowed them to use the correct muscles to
ride a bike. It was much harder than it sounds.
 Mrs. Galante’s grade seven Science classes completed their study of volcanoes.
They learned what causes a volcano, types of eruptions, hazards, and how land
can form from cooling lava. After spending many weeks studying and learning
about volcanoes, they were given a project. Some students designed posters, while
others made projects that exploded lava. The projects were displayed in the
hallways for all to see.
 Students in Mr. Haines’ classes completed their respective studies in High
School Biology and High School Chemistry. They exchanged textbooks and have
begun exploring the other science discipline. The students also completed the
writing and research revisions on their ten-page research paper and have been
assigned their final science project to demonstrate and present their research to
their classmates.
Art
 The Art department is getting ready for spring. The students have been busy
creating tissue paper flowers, fashion design to get ready for their upcoming
graduation, and watercolors to celebrate the colors of the season and enjoy the
coming of the new season.
o The 6th graders have been busy learning the ancient art of Origami. They
also worked on painting rocks, as they learned about the Anasazi.
o The seventh graders learned about line designs and how to create a curved
appearance with straight lines.
Comprehensive Health & Physical Education
 The students in Ms. DeBlasio’s gym classes learned how to correctly play
badminton. At first, they were unwilling to learn a new sport but in the end they
greatly enjoyed all it had to offer.
Computers
 The students in Mr.Guanci's Computer Studies learned about Limericks. The
students used the internet to read Limericks and used MS Word to create their
own. They were able to use clip art and copy and paste pictures from the internet
to their poems. They inserted boarders to enhance their poems. They also used
Paint to create a scene from their story and insert from their folders. They printed
the final copy and were hung outside the classroom for St. Patrick's Day.
Guidance
 The Girl Scouts will be in to present their "Uniquely Me" program with the
seventh grade girls. This program enhances self esteem in middle school girls.
Many topics are covered, including good health/hygiene, getting along with
friends and school related issues. The Girl Scouts have been coming to NAMS
for several years now, and the program runs successfully and is enjoyed by all!
Special Ed
 The students in Ms. Tzakis’ class performed a Readers Theatre production of The
Hidden One, a Native American Folktale; they invited Ms. Janczak’s and Mrs.
Clarke’s students to the reading. Readers Theatre helps students read with
intonation and fluency. In honor of St. Patrick’s Day students performed a reading
of The Story Behind St. Patrick’s Day. At the end of the production the students
asked the audience questions about the story. The outcome was successful as
students interacted and learned from one another. In completion of both
performances, the students in Ms. Janczak’s and Mrs. Clarke’s classes had to
draw a picture and write down five to ten facts they remembered from the story.
The results were shared with and graded by the performers from Ms. Tzakis’
class.
Student Recognitions
 Catrin Janczak....................
Joseph Orlando
 Persa Tzakis.......................
Nermine Kacimi
 Grade 6...............................
Jose Ruiz
Edward Lazada
Franchesca Rosario
Dominic Reo
 Grade 7...............................
Vaidehi Pandya
Kyle Connolly
Catherine Correira
Matt Titterington
 Grade 8................................ Badon Delmotte
Mike Baloga
Jennifer Barrera
Andrew Amador
School Accomplishments
 Mr. Haines has been completing the organization and fundraising for the Eighth
grade trip to Boston.
Special Programs
 Thirty five middle school students have been rehearsing with Mr. Haines and
Ms. Keeler to attend next months Shakespeare Day at Mahwah High School.
The middle school students will be joined for the first time by North Arlington
High School students, thanks to a grant that Mr. Haines and Ms. Keeler wrote to
the NAEA to support the cost of the trip and the performing arts.
North Arlington High School
March 2009 Highlights
I.
Curriculum and Instruction and Implementation of Objectives:
English Department

Mrs. Albuquerque’s English IV and English IV Honors students
reviewed the format and guidelines for writing an annotated bibliography
using MLA style and how to compose a list of works cited. Students had
an opportunity to go to the high school media center to properly research
their topics for the thesis paper. All of the seniors finished reading
Oedipus Rex, Night, In Cold Blood and Fahrenheit 451. Seniors
completed four reaction journals for the novels and critically evaluated the
plots and characters. As a culminating activity, the English IV students
engaged in literature circles with specific assigned roles and completed a
project for Oedipus Rex. Students had to review the plot of Sophocles’
play and analyze hyperboles, metaphors, personification, and favorite
quotes. Each of the project’s elements had to be illustrated and ultimately
presented to the class. Rubrics were used to assess the students’ ability to
work cooperatively and collaboratively. English III students finished
reading Lord of the Flies and A Raisin in the Sun. Students completed four
response reading journals for each novel evaluating both the plot and
characters. Juniors read and analyzed act one and act two of Macbeth,
focusing on the following literary terms: aside, soliloquy, comic relief, and
motif. Students were introduced to the guidelines of a formal debate.
Debate groups and topics were assigned to each junior class, and the
format for completing an annotated bibliography using MLA style was
reviewed with all the juniors.

Ms. Augustine’s English I Honors students completed a poetry project,
“My Poetry Book,” in which they had to create ten original poems and
provide a poetry analysis. The students proudly took ownership of their
work and offered wonderful insight by reading their poems out loud in
class. English I students created license plates to represent the
characteristics portrayed in Romeo and Juliet. The students researched
Elizabethan weapons in an effort to enhance a visual representation of the
fight scene. English II students have completed the novel, The Catcher in
the Rye. The students sketched wealthy Roman houses to gain a deeper
understanding of the setting for Julius Caesar. H.S.P.A Prep students
have been working diligently using Study Island. The students have
completed an array of tasks such as the Venn diagram and reading and
analyzing of short stories.

Mrs. Jeannine Burns’ SAT Preview Class, co-taught with Mrs. Elaine
Maresca, continue to work on their vocabulary building, grammar, and
reading skills in the SAT Online course to practice test taking skills as
well as classroom activities which use learned concepts in context.
Students from Jeannine Burns’ third cycle of Visual and Performing
Arts have completed their benchmark exam. Mrs. Jeannine Burns
created a HTML web-based Jeopardy game to help students prepare for
this important test. They are currently preparing for their final
performance project. In English 3 Honors, Mrs. Jeannine Burns has
been using both small and large group literature circles to tackle difficult
poetry of the Romantic and Victorian periods. Additionally, students are
learning to use critical essays to enlighten their own writing. At the
completion of Jane Eyre students have discussed the work of Gilbert and
Gubar’s critical text The Madwoman in the Attic and how these criticisms
correlate with the students’ own opinions. This type of exercise prepares
them for the type of assignment that they will have to accomplish in
college. Lastly, students have begun work on the Junior Debates.
Students in Propaganda of Genocide and Oppression completed
research and oral reports which highlight the background history that has
lead to the recent conflict in Northern Ireland between the Ulster Unionists
and the IRA. Students researched watershed events from the 1800s and
1900s which lead to the buildup of this conflict. Students also spent time
reviewing the conflict that the Arabs and Israelis have had over disputed
territory in Sinai, Gaza, and the West Bank.

Ms. Ingannamorte’s classes began March by participating in Dr.Seuss’s
“Read Across America.” Creative Writing and English III classes read
Oh the Places You’ll Go and then shared their goals and aspirations and
related the places they “will go” after leaving North Arlington High
School. The Creative Writing class explored the format of ballads and
lyrics. Students shared and analyzed their favorite lyrics and music in
poetry circles including contemporary writers such as Sting and Dolly
Parton. Poetry and the social classes were also discussed. English III
classes are continuing their reading of Macbeth making interesting
connections between Macbeth’s tragic flaw and people making headlines
today who have realized their own downfall because of excessive ambition
and greed.

Mrs. Kaufman’s Strategies for Improving Reading class used the online Study Island to improve reading and writing skills. Students were
encouraged to read and respond critically to a variety of works. After
reading the short story “Eveline” by James Joyce, students compared and
contrasted Dublin in 1900 to Dublin today. Students were asked to share
their research with the class. Mrs. Kaufman’s SRA students applied
information gained from several sources on a single topic to foster an
argument for their thesis papers. Mrs. Kaufman’s Pass students worked
on identifying hyperboles, metaphors and personifications, using Oedipus
the King.

Mrs. Nichols’ Journalism students have been working on articles for the
April issue of the Viking Saga. Students are looking forward to applying
their new skills in the next issue of the Viking Saga. English II students
have completed the poetry unit. They have written and presented their
original poetry to the class, implementing the poetic devices they have
learned about.

Mrs. Holly Singler’s , English AP and English IV Honors classes read
After the Fire by Robin Gaby Fisher, a book written about the fire at the
freshmen dormitory at Seton Hall in 2000. The author came to our school
to speak with the students about the writing process. The students also
went to the North Arlington Public Library on January 29, in the evening,
to meet the two young men about whom the book is based. The English
IV classes have finished reading, discussing, and writing about Richard
Wright’s Native Son.

Ms. Turner’s English I classes continue to study Romeo and Juliet. They
have been working hard to learn to decipher the Elizabethan dialogue and
to relate the conflicts in the story to conflicts faced by teenagers today.
Students also participated in an activity where they identified characters
using objects. Each member of the class brought in an object they felt
represented the character they chose and the rest of the class had to guess
who the object represented. The class recently participated in a group
project where they re-enacted their favorite scene from the first three acts.
English II classes have also continued to read their Shakespearean play,
Julius Caesar. They worked in groups to rewrite scenes in a modern
setting which were performed in front of the class. Changing the setting
required them to rewrite the dialogue in a more modern fashion, thus
allowing them to learn grammar in context. English II Honors students
have continued studying modern American Literature. They completed
their study of modern poetry and have begun studying the modern short
story. They studied authors such as Hemingway and Fitzgerald and are
learning how the historical events of the time influenced these and other
writers. They completed group presentations using the SmartBoard that
illustrated the correlation between Modern American Literature and
important events in early 20th century history (i.e. World War I, the
Roaring Twenties, etc.). The class also completed the novel Huckleberry
Finn and wrote a final paper. They have begun reading The Great Gatsby
and will continue to discuss the novel in relation to its time period. All of
Ms. Turner’s English classes have continued to work on their persuasive
writing skills and have continued to prepare for the HSPA using Study
Island. All classes continue to participate in literature circles to promote
cooperative learning.
Social Studies Department

Ms. Ingannamorte’s AP European History class is comparing women’s
and children’s roles in 18th Century society to their roles in today’s
society. It was interesting to compare children’s games as portrayed in
artist Pieter Brueghel, the Elder’s Children’s Games, to the electronic
games children play today. Students are continuing to prepare for May’s
exam.

Ms. Jimenez’s US II classes are comparing the causes and effects of the
Great Depression to the economic crisis of today. Among other activities,
they enjoyed comparing economic political cartoons of the two time
periods. Ms. Jimenez’s PEG classes concluded their study of South Asia
by viewing relevant sections from the film “Gandhi” to help them
appreciate the importance of this historical figure in Indian history. They
enjoyed seeing what life was like under British rule and how Gandhi’s
practice of nonviolence during important events, like the Salt March,
spurred England to grant independence.

Mrs. Kusher’s U.S. History I and U.S. I Honors classes finished their
study of the United States Constitution. As a culminating activity, the
students participated in a Jeopardy review game using the Smart Board.
All U.S. I students are also working on a current events project using news
articles that demonstrate the workings of our three branches of
government. The U.S. Government class viewed an excerpt from a
Constitutional debate posing the question, “Should terror detainees have
the right to habeas corpus?” After viewing the excerpt, students broke
down into groups and debated the issue and then wrote an editorial in
support of their position. Finally, the students presented their editorials to
the class.

Ms. O’Brien’s Sociology classes participated in a simulation involving
social class and M &M’s. Using the candy, Ms. O’Brien divided 100
pieces of candy according to the income distributed in the U.S. among the
various social classes. Students were then divided into social classes.
Each group received the income in M & Ms. For example, the upper
class, or 1% of the class, received 67 pieces of candy. The upper middle
class, or 2 students, shared 48 pieces of candy, etc. This real life
simulation allowed students to recognize that income and class are related,
and that if they were not part of the upper class they would want that 1%
to share their wealth. Mrs. Elaine Maresca from the Math Department
helped Ms. O’Brien break down her classes into percentages and assign
each social class the appropriate amount of candy. Aside from total
physical response techniques, Sociology classes watched Steal a Pencil for
Me, a documentary about a couple who fell in love in a Dutch
concentration camp during World War II. This documentary coincides
with the lessons on genocide and how prejudice and discrimination can
lead to extreme conflict in society. As a follow up activity, students must
write a review about the documentary and what they learned from the
viewing. The A.P. U.S. History class continued to study and analyze
outside information by reading an article about Abraham Lincoln’s
economic policies. Reading outside information allows students to learn
more than what is in their history books and they can potentially use this
information when taking the Advanced Placement Exam in May. The
U.S. History II classes read about Henry Ford and his contribution to the
American automobile industry. Students discovered that Ford paid his
workers well and tried to make his factories efficient by using the
assembly line. Students in the U. S. History II classes read an excerpt
from Langston Hughes’ autobiography titled “When the Negro Was in
Vogue”. Students learned about the Harlem Renaissance and what
Harlem was like in the 1920s. In addition, the classes read an excerpt
from the Scopes’ Monkey Trial from the 1920s. This trial was a national
sensation and it is an example of the clash between religion and science in
the 1920s. Scopes was tried for teaching Darwin’s theory of evolution to
his students, and at the time, teaching this concept was illegal. Students of
the U.S. History II classes also read about Intelligent Design, a scientific
theory that many believe should be taught in public schools. Georgia
O’Keefe was also introduced to the students. They read an article about
her art and her life and then viewed a few paintings from her collection.
The students learned about the differences between realistic and abstract
art and how O’Keefe incorporated both in her paintings. Lastly, the U.S.
History II classes participated in a SmartBoard activity about 1920s
slang. The classes discussed what slang is and some of the slang words
they use. Then students had to figure out the meaning of slang from the
1920s. Expressions like “bees’ knees, all my whiskers, and stuck between
a rock and a hard place” were used by the students in their own sentences.

Ms. Smith’s Sociology classes discussed patterns of ethnic and racial
relationships by comparing and contrasting genocide in the African
nations of Rwanda and Sudan. Students researched the history, events, and
international response of each incident, and read personal accounts of
survivors. Ms. Smith’s US II Honors and US II students used primary
and secondary sources to research the political, economic and social
happenings of 1920’s America. After completing a Roaring 20’s facts
sheet, students were assigned topics, ranging from fashion to the Harlem
Renaissance, to explore. Students created collages and made presentations
to their class. Ms. Smith’s US I students created political cartoons that
represented events or actions that occurred during the administrations of
George Washington, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.
World Languages Department

Mrs. de Diego’s Spanish III and IV classes have been working on the
ser and estar tenses in Spanish. They prepared and presented a role play
situation in the target language by choosing a scenario provided in a list.
Spanish IV classes are learning about professions and occupations in
Spanish. They are learning how to create a resumé in Spanish and they are
currently working on preparing themselves for a job interview that they
will present in class, all done in Spanish. .

Mrs. McKeown’s French I classes developed vocabulary lists using the
internet to explore Galeries Lafayette, France’s most prestigious
department store. Their gift list included price range, monetary exchange,
size, color, etc.
 Mrs. McNerney’s Spanish I classes worked on an oral presentation about
their families. Each student had the opportunity to introduce some family
members to their peers. They had to use all the vocabulary and grammar
learned during this school year to accurately describe their age, favorite
activities, and physical appearance. Each student brought pictures of their
families to share with the entire class. It was a success and a great
opportunity to get to know each other a little bit better. Spanish I
Honors students read a short novel called Ana va a California. In this
story, they encountered some social issues that deal with immigration and
discrimination. Each student had to prepare a list of arguments to defend
two different points of view regarding the issues discussed in the novel.
To further develop their communicative skills, the culminating activity
was a debate on which each team had to defend both positions. The
arguments were very well prepared and properly explained.

The students in Mrs. Murad’s Spanish I classes chose a Spanishspeaking country. They researched the country they chose for an oral
presentation. They had to prepare a poster which included everything they
reported in their presentation. Mrs. Murad’s Spanish III Honors classes
brought in a photo of themselves as a child and a recent photo of
themselves. They pasted the photos on construction paper. Under the
photo of themselves as a child, they had to write what they were like and
what they used to do. Under the recent photo they had to write what they
are like now and what they often do. Mrs. Murad used the SmartBoard
several times in both her Spanish I and Spanish III Honors classes to
review vocabulary and grammar taught during the month.

Ms. Sanabria’s Spanish II Honors and Spanish II students were teamed
up and asked to make posters using the vocabulary about school activities
and school rules. Then the posters had to be presented to the class. The
rules and activities had to be presented in the target language and then
translated to English. During each team’s presentation, the class
completed an objective survey. The result of the survey determined which
team presented with clarity and with visuals that represented each rule and
activity. The winning team was treated to a pizza party. All of the
students did a great job putting the poster together, and it gave the students
a chance to work together to accomplish a common goal. During the last
week of March, students were given the opportunity to be creative in
giving and asking for driving directions. This required students to
demonstrate their understanding with TPR examples, such as, “turn to the
left, or to the right, or to drive straight until you have reached your
destination.” The students created a map and presented the maps to the
class along with a scenario of how to get from one place to another on the
map using driving directions in the target language.
Mathematics

Mrs. Maresca’s Precalculus classes used the TI-89 graphing calculators
to graph polar equations. These equations included cardioids, spirals, and
roses. The students were then challenged to create their own unique
graphs by using transformations and combinations of these equations.
Many interesting graphs were generated by the students.

Mrs. Maresca’s Algebra II classes were introduced to the concept of
inverse functions by using a paper-folding activity. The students graphed
a linear function, reversed the x and y values of the coordinates, graphed
these points, folded the paper so the two graphs matched up, and found
that the fold line, representing the line y = x, was the line of reflection of
the two equations.

Mrs. Maresca’s SAT Preview class is now focusing on concepts in
geometry and measurement. They are reviewing the properties of
quadrilaterals, triangles, and circles. The SAT Online program continues
to be used for review and assessment.

Mr. Dembowski’s Geometry and Geometry Honors classes completed
chapter six and are continuing to work on their projects for the third
marking period. The project for chapter six requires the students to
research a specific quadrilateral and to report how it is used in the world.
The students then take the newly acquired knowledge and create an
advertisement for the quadrilateral they have chosen. The advertisement
is used to promote the quadrilateral being used in some shape or form and
includes at least five facts about that quadrilateral in the advertisement.

Mr. Dembowski’s Algebra I-B classes are finishing chapter eight and
beginning chapter nine on factoring. To review for the benchmark and
chapter test, the algebra classes played review games consisting of
problems in chapter eight. Classmates raced against each other to solve
problems as the rest looked on to find mistakes that could accumulate
points for their team.

Mr. Dembowski’s HSPA Review class has taken the HSPA test. The
class continues to work on HSPA based problems as well as word
problems that involve logical reasoning. The word problems will aid
students to improve problem solving skills and practices.

Mr. Capriola’s Geometry Basic classes completed an activity that
involved the Triangle Inequality Theorem. Students were given three
straws of different lengths and asked to construct as many different
triangles with the straws as possible or identify if the three straws could
form a triangle at all. If it was possible to construct a triangle with the
given lengths the students were then asked to use the Triangle Inequality
Theorem to prove their triangle construction was valid. This activity gave
students a practical understanding of the Triangle Inequality Theorem.

Mr. Capriola’s Algebra I classes completed a real-world project
involving linear equations and predictions. The students were asked to
research and collect data on a particular Olympic event of their choice.
Students were asked to collect the winning times in their event for both
men and women over a period of 75 years. Students were instructed to
create tables and linear graphs for both sets of data. Students were also
responsible for writing an informational report on their chosen event and
give explanations about their data. Finally students had to use their graphs
and data to make a prediction on whether the men’s and women’s times
for their event would ever be the same. The students had to give a written
explanation on how they derived their predictions. This project helped
students understand how linear equations relate to real-world applications.

Mr. Nazi’s AP Calculus students are heavily involved with techniques of
integration and its wide range of applications. They were able to derive the
algebraic formulas of areas of different geometric shapes, including the
area of a circle.

Mr. Nazi’s Statistics students understand the importance of estimation in
decision making. They are able to estimate the population means and
proportion using sample statistics.

Mr. Nazi’s Algebra II-A class finished the chapter on polynomials. They
feel comfortable working with polynomial functions, evaluating
polynomials, factoring polynomials, and performing operations with
polynomials including long and synthetic divisions. They also worked on
solving higher order non linear equations and finding all solutions
including real and imaginary solutions.

After taking the HSPA exam, Mr. Nazi’s HSPA classes have been
practicing sample SAT questions in order to be better prepared for the
May SAT test.

Ms. Meichenbaum’s Algebra I students recently completed a chapter on
systems of equations. Students wrote a study guide for their fellow
students explaining step-by-step how to solve systems of equations using
various methods.

Ms. Meichenbaum’s HSPA students have continued their work on
studyisland.com. The students were also given an exam testing their basic
arithmetic and algebra skills.

Students in Ms. Meichenbaum’s Math Technology classes are currently
completing a unit on trigonometry. Students are learning about using
simplest radical form when solving the Pythagorean Theorem. Students
are currently learning about sine, cosine, and tangent ratios.

Ms. Meichenbaum’s Algebra II Honors students completed the seventh
chapter on logarithms and polynomial functions and are starting to learn
about hyperbolas.

Mr. Zukatus’ Algebra I classes worked with inequalities. Students
learned how to solve inequalities and graph them on a number line.
Students also learned how to solve liner inequalities by graphing and
shading using the coordinate plane.

Mr. Zukatus’ Algebra I-A classes worked with linear equations and
graphing in the coordinate plane. Students learned how to convert
equations from standard form into slope-intercept form, as well as analyze
an equation to see if it is linear. Students also worked with functions and
are now able to identify relations that represent functions.

Mr. Zukatus’ Geometry class has been working with proportions and
similarity between figures. Students have learned how to tell if figures are
similar to one another by looking to see if sides are proportional. Students
have also started working with geometric mean and similar right triangles.

Miss Fash’s Pre-Algebra students have completed their “Sim-Survival”
project and wrote reaction papers on the experience and lesson(s) learned
during the project. Miss Fash’s Algebra 2A students are completing a unit
on Quadratic Functions.

Miss Fash’s Algebra 2B students are completing a unit on Parabolas,
Circles, Ellipses and Hyperbolas.

Miss Fash’s SRA students have completed the SRA process and are
awaiting approval from the county superintendent. They have begun their
“Sim-Survival” project.

The students in Ms. Meichenbaum’s HSPA classes have improved their
scores as a class on studyisland.com.

The students in Mrs. Maresca’s Honors Precalculus class have been
successful in deriving several formulas for using vectors. They have used
these formulas to solve real-world application problems such as work
problems and aeronautical problems.

Students in Mr. Capriola’s Period 10 Geometry Basic class scored
exceedingly well on the recent quiz for the third Marking Period. 16 out of
the 16 students received a score of 90 percent or better. Twelve out of
those 16 students received a perfect score of 100 percent.

Mr. Zukatus’ Algebra I and Algebra I-A classes completed a project
involving finding the error. Students scored exceptionally well overall,
incorporating their writing skills into the projects to explain how they
found the errors.

Mr. Zukatus’ Geometry class completed a project involving proofs in
the coordinate plane. Students worked along with graphing and using
properties of quadrilaterals to prove a figure was a trapezoid.

Mr. Dembowski’s students are actively taking organized notes every day
and are instructed to obtain missing notes from one another for days they
are absent. The students will also be taking a notebook test at the end of
the marking period where they are only allowed to use their notebooks.
Science

Mrs. Abdel-Messih’s Biology class worked individually on the
Scavenger Hunt Web Quest (on-line project) to understand the process of
mitosis and take the on-line quizzes. Students worked in groups and
constructed three dimensional models of different phases of mitosis and
meiosis using the lab materials. They drew them in the lab report to
compare and contrast mitosis and meiosis phases. Also, the students
created a table to compare the chromosome number of different type of
cells in different species.

Mrs. Abdel-Messih’s Honors Biology also completed the online project
mentioned above. The students also created a presentation about the
formation of gametes to explain the difference between spermatogenesis
and oogenesis. The students have worked in pairs to simulate monohybrid
crosses and to determine the expected phenotypes and genotypes for one
trait using coins. The students have worked in pairs to analyze
monohybrid and dihybrid crosses using the corn ears provided in the
laboratory. The students have worked in pairs to construct a three
dimensional model of human chromosomes using the lab materials and to
simulate fertilization and genetic recombination.

Mr. Spaccavento’s Physics 1 Honors classes are involved in an
individual vector laboratory activity and analysis. Students collected data
for three forces and for five forces in equilibrium using a force table.
They were then asked to analyze the data three ways: first, using a scale
diagram, second, using mathematics with a calculator and some right
angle trigonometry, and finally, create an “Excel” spreadsheet to solve this
problem ( and in turn any other similar problem). Students completed
several types of static and dynamic force analysis situations. They also
addressed two dimensional projectile motions in terms of dynamics and
kinematics.

Mr. Necoechea’s Honors Chemistry students have been studying
stoichiometry. They have made extensive use of whiteboarding to
understand various concepts, especially the relatively difficult topics of
limiting reactants.

Mr. Necoechea’s Physical Science students have started the Earth and
Space Science section of the class. They have constructed a timeline of
the Earth’s geological history, and are currently working on a scale model
of the solar system.

Mr. Rapp’s Chemistry classes analyzed drinking water for lead and other
substances. The students became acquainted with some concepts and
terms which are an essential part of Qualitative Analysis. The students
also developed skill in making careful observations.

Mr. Mott’s Biology Honors Class began the study of mitosis and
meiosis. Each student made a mitotic slide of an onion root tip, using
staining methods which would allow them to study the chromosomal
formation, and other process to dividing the DNA in the cell. They also
used mathematical formulas to calculate the time involved in each step
during the process. In addition, to demonstrate an understanding of both
meiosis and mitosis, they simulated the process by use of beads, and
indicated the stages and what was occurring in each. A computer
generated simulation was used to demonstrate the various movements in
eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, and a comparison was made. The
students than used the web to research the processes involved. The
students also simulated a genetic cross with the use of coins to represent
parents. They calculated the results based on 100 and 1800 tosses, and
compared the results of expected (calculated mathematically) and chance
(coin toss). The relationship of chance events and probability was made.

Mr. Mott’s AP Biology performed a lab to demonstrate evolution in a
group. This lab involves the students simulating random mating by
exchanging index cards with indicated traits to form offspring who then
become the next generation’s parental units. The results where then
plugged into the Hardy Weinberg principle. Four different conditions were
simulated, and all where carried out for to generations. A survey of 4
classes was performed for P.T.C. papers, the ratio of tasters to non-tasters
were compared to known data for North America. Justification was
generated for any variations observed. The students than performed a
molecular genetic lab, in this lab they transformed common E.Coli to
Amp. Resistant E.coli. The bacteria were then grown on agar plates
prepared by the students to prove the resulting transformation. The
students then examined DNA by performing an electrophoresis of 3
different types of DNA. Two of the DNA were cut using restriction
enzymes. The resulting gels were measured and the number of nucleotides
in each piece was estimated. The students then collected their own DNA
for study via a cheek cell swap. In addition, the students began genetic
research by selecting fruit flies with specific traits and beginning crosses
for each. The results will be examined next month as the offspring are
separated. They began the breeding of Drosophila to run their genetic lab
with the various strains of drosophila. The results will be analyzed shortly.

Mr. Mott’s Anatomy and Physiology class examined the skeletal
system. A human skeleton was examined and the various bones were
identified. An examination of the effect on the skeleton on other systems
of the body was performed through computer simulations. The students
examined the bone structure. The removal of the calcium from the bone
demonstrated the underlying tissue giving tensile strength to the bones (the
resulting bone was rubbery in behavior.) The types of breaks that can
occur, and the resulting repairs that occur were discussed. The students did
a web search to discover the various diseases that affect the skeletal
system, their symptoms, and treatments. In addition, the structural
formation was examined from embryo to adult via computer simulation.
Lastly the skeletal differences that occur in male and female were
examined. The students colored various plates to aid in the learning of the
bones and joints present in the skeletal system.

Mr. Mott’s Biology Class began the study of mitosis and meiosis. Each
student made a mitotic slide of an onion root tip, using staining methods
which would allow them to study the chromosomal formation, and other
process to dividing the DNA in the cell. They also used mathematical
formulas to calculate the time involved in each step during the process. A
computer generated simulation was used to demonstrate the various
movements in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, and a comparison was
made. In addition to demonstrate an understanding of both meiosis and
mitosis they simulated the process by use of beads, and indicated the
stages and what was occurring in each. The students then did a web
search to research the processes involved.

Ms. Esquetini’s Technology students were visited by a guest speaker
from DeVry University where they were given the opportunity to
explore technology related career paths. The students used a PDA to
create an Avatar (a digital image of themselves) and answer a few
questions. The computer matched their personality to different career
options and the students were then given information about each career
matched.
Business Education

Mrs. Tomko’s and Mr. Kenny’s Computer Applications I classes have
begun the Microsoft Excel unit. They started with “Excel Basics” and
have advanced to the “Changing the Appearance of a Worksheet” lesson.
Students are periodically evaluated on their keyboarding technique and
speed.

Mrs. Tomko’s and Mr. Kenny’s Computer Applications II classes
have begun the Advanced Microsoft Excel unit. They have started with a
review of all the concepts that were covered in Computer Application I.
At this point they have advanced into the area of function formulas.
Project- Students used Microsoft Excel to keep track of the inventory,
sales, revenue, expenses, and profit (income statement) of a record store
for the period of 1 month. Students applied unique formats to their
spreadsheets.

Mrs. Tomko’s Introduction to Business class has begun work on
savings and checking accounts. Internal Training Service material
provided by Kearny Federal Savings Bank is being used as a simulation
for actual checking account record keeping. ATM’s, deposits, check
writing, bank reconciliations, and more are explored with this hands-on
simulation. Kearny Federal has again asked for input on the use of the
simulation and came in for a photo opportunity with the students to use in
the KFSB newsletter and on their website.

Mrs. Tomko’s Personal Finance class is well underway preparing
Federal Forms 1040 EZ and 1040 tax returns with Schedules A and B as
attachments. Students will be able to complete their own individual tax
returns as well as share the material learned with their families.

Mr. Kenny’s Accounting students completed the
Worksheets/Adjustments unit. They have begun the closing process for
the accounting cycle. Writing assignments include essays based on class
discussions related to accounting newspaper/internet articles and
accounting situations where the students are asked to write reports on how
they can correct a problem.

Ms. Rosolen’s Information Management class has been working on
Media Literacy, focusing on thinking critically about the Internet. Topics
include Internet Safety, Privacy, and Hoaxes and Urban Legends.

Ms. Rosolen’s Web Design class completed a web site created using
HTML coding. This “language” is the basis for all web pages and
involves a great deal of concentration on the part of the students. Each
student did a very commendable job on this project. The class websites are
being housed on the District’s Intranet site.
Family and Consumer Science

Mrs. Comer’s Culinary Arts classes are learning about the nutritional
value of pasta and pasta meals. Cost effectiveness was examined along
with the new fortified pastas now widely available. A variety of recipes
included baked macaroni and cheese, angel hair with chicken, and St.
Louis Blues pasta to name a few. Students began grasping the idea of
putting a variety of food groups together to make a well rounded,
economical meal.

Mrs. Comer’s Child Development classes are studying teen pregnancy—
the risks involved as well as prenatal development. Students took part in
the Flour Baby exercise. They were required to take care of and carry a
ten pound bag of flour that was transformed into a “baby.” Their “babies”
were with them at all times for a school week.

Ms. DuJack’s Art classes completed a plaster mask project based on a
Mardi Gras theme. Students molded their masks using their own faces as
the shape and then painted and decorated the masks based on their
research of the Mardi Gras theme.

Mrs. Branco’s Art students used water color paints to create a color
wheel using only the primary colors. They mixed all their secondary and
tertiary colors and then made a creative color wheel. Flowers appear to
have been the most popular choice. The students also created a collage
entitled “what is important to me” using mixed media, including
newspaper, magazines, the Internet, and photographs to create these works
of art.

Mrs. Branco’s Art Cycle students created a work of art based on the
graffiti art of Keith Haring. The students chose a word and created a
drawing using Keith Haring’s techniques to make vibrant, colorful
masterpieces that conveyed their word using figures. They used pencils,
rulers, paper, graphite and sharpie markers.
Art
Music

Mr. Kastner’s Instrumental students worked on developing technical
skills in the key of F concert. Students worked and were tested in major,
minor, harmonic minor, and melodic minor forms of the key as well as
other technical studies.

Ms. Corcoran’s Chorus classes have been studying interval training and
have been learning vocalizations and warm ups to help better their singing
technique.
Physical Education

Physical Education, Grades 9, 10, 11 & 12-- Michele Vespoli, Dan
Farinola, Michele Vespoli, Brianna Ryan
Throughout the month of March students were involved in one of three
activities: Pickle Ball, basketball or weight room. Each side of the gym
was set up for a different activity. The students took a week to play games
and set up seeding for the tournament. A tournament was then played
within the class.
Other classes were actively involved in basketball. Students played on
teams of 2 or 3 depending on class size and interest in the activity. Within
all tournaments, games, and classes, students were reminded of the
importance of the rules, safety, and sportsmanship.
Some students were assigned to the weight room and did a circuit
workout. Students were asked to follow a specific workout plan each day
in order to build muscle. Students were also able to build cardio
endurance by running on the treadmill or using the elliptical or stationary
bikes.
Fitness Fridays were introduced in each class. On Friday, students were
actively involved in a fitness task for the day. During March, students ran
a mile on Fridays. They had the option of running, walking, or a
combination of the two. If a student decided to run the mile, it had to be
less than 8 minutes; walking had to be less than 13 minutes; and a
combination of the two had to be less than 10 minutes.

The Health classes finished covering food, nutrition and how to make
healthy food choices in their lives. Students also studied the risks and
health hazards of Alcohol and Tobacco.

Grade 12 Health students just viewed the Miracle of Life to sum up their
recent lessons on Pregnancy and Child Birth.
Guidance
II.

The counseling staff has been meeting with students individually to
discuss their academic profile and scheduling options for the 2009-2010
school year.

The counseling staff met with Child Study Team to discuss programs for
students with Learning Disabilities.

The SRA process was completed and compiled and ready for delivery to
the County office.
Workshops Attended:

On March 12th, the North Arlington High School Math Department met
with Kathy Cerna and six North Arlington Middle School math teachers
for an in-service day to review the two math departments’ strategies to
improve students’ achievement levels. The group also discussed lessons
and projects that are currently being used in the classroom.

Mrs. Maresca attended a conference on March 20 at Rutgers University,
Busch Campus, in Piscataway, New Jersey. This conference, Good Ideas
in Teaching Precalculus and …, focused on instructional strategies for
making significant differences in student achievement. These strategies
included financial literacy in precalculus, preparing precalculus students
for physics, activities in trigonometry, and using a Smart Board and other
technology for teaching precalculus.

Mr. Capriola attended the workshop Successful Co-Teaching Strategies
on Thursday, March 12, 2009, at the Airport Holiday Inn in Newark, NJ.
The workshop presented various strategies that can be effectively
incorporated by both general and inclusion teachers.

All Ms. Rosolen’s Department Staff participated in the half-day
professional development workshop on March 12, where the proposed
new standards for each area were introduced and discussed. They also
participated in the Cross Curricular workshop on March 31, where Mr.
Kastner did a hands-on introduction to podcasts as part of the
departments’ PLC focus on Differentiation in the Classroom.
III.

Kathy Puorro attended the monthly Bergen County Directors of
Guidance meeting on March 27, 2009. This was hosted by Berkeley
College who presented opportunities for students to attend Berkeley.

Marie Griggs attended a workshop on Data Analysis on March 20, 2009.

Fran Lipsky attended a workshop on March 3, 2009. The title was
Cramming Won’t Help: School Drug Tests.

The Physical Education Department were in-serviced on the new online
grade book on March 12, 2009.

Nancy LoPresti attended the 18th Annual Law Related Conference
sponsored by the New Jersey State Bar Foundation and received updated
information regarding legislation on bullying behavior and public schools.

All Humanities teachers participated in professional development
workshops on March 12th and March 31st facilitated by Nancy LoPresti.
On March 12th, the staff attended three mini-workshops including
SmartBoard activities, benchmark development and data review and
discussion of the NJCCCS revision project. On March 31st, the staff
participated in a training turn-key opportunity involving Literature Circles
– (final presentation by Rose McCawley), Bullying and School Law,
World Cultures, Gender Roles in a global Context and the English
Language Learner in the Classroom.

Jeannine Burns, Mary Murad, and Sharon O’Brien were presenters for
the SmartBoard activities at the last professional development meeting.

Ms. Sharon O’Brien and Mr. John Galante attended the World
Cultures Day workshop on Friday, March 27, 2009, at Montclair
University’s Institute of the Humanities. During the Humanities
Department’s professional development workshops, Ms. O’Brien
facilitated with the Social Studies Department SmartBoard lessons.

Ms. Turner attended a co-teaching workshop on March 12th. This all day
workshop discussed the importance of appropriate co-teaching in an
inclusion classroom and illustrated several successful co-teaching
strategies.
Student Recognition:
IV.

Ten NAHS students from all grades will attend the Teen Arts event under
the category of poetry/creative writing. They are: Robert Gratson,
Johnathan Alkobi, Shantal Prado, Nico Steele, Autumn Turner, Uzma
Azhar, Deana Cardona, Amanda Galatas, Krystina Tracey-Vaughn
and Kimberly Jeffrey.

Mrs. LoPresti selected candidates with teacher support for the Hispanic
Heritage Youth Awards and three final candidates, Vanessa Cardona,
Fausto Freire and Luis Gomez completed the application, which was
forwarded to Washington, DC for evaluation.

Artwork by Ms. DuJack’s and Mrs. Branco’s students is on display in
the school’s main hallway. The artwork of ten students will be featured at
the Bergen County Teen Arts Festival in May.

Mrs. Comer is rewarding students randomly with stars for completing
assignments or being particularly knowledgeable or helpful during class.
This idea came from Ed Agresta’s presentation.

Brianna Sabato will be attending Girls Career Institute at Douglas
College on June 15-18th. The NJ State Federation of Woman’s Clubs of
GFWC sponsors this workshop.

These six students have run the mile for Fitness Friday under 6 minutes:
o Alex Dembowski
5:09
o Bruno Janota
5:30
o Nick Tanelli
5:32
o Ivan Herrera
5:40
o Joseph Valeri
5:40
o Joe McDonough
5:50
Accomplishments:

Mr. Dembowski and Coach Marcantuono successfully ran a t-shirt
fundraiser to support the North Arlington Baseball Team.

Miss Fash and the girls on her Track Team are sponsoring a toy/needs
drive for the Valerie Fund to help children with cancer.

Ms. Rosolen and the Yearbook Staff submitted the final pages of the
yearbook for publication on March 23.

Mr. Kenny and the Student Council were involved in the planning of the
annual “Early Childhood Education Night”. The basis for the event is to
educate parents of young children on what their children should know
before entering school and how they can accomplish this. This event took
place on March 18.
V.
VI.

Ms. Corcoran has been holding evening rehearsals for the cast of Zombie
Prom and after school rehearsals for the cast of Alice in Wonderland in
preparation for the performances in May.

Mrs. Albuquerque successfully completed six graduate credits towards
her Master’s of Science in Education and Learning.

Jeannine Burns and Tracey Turner are practicing for Shakespeare Day
and continue to rehearse for this spring’s musical Zombie Prom.
Special Programs

The Tri-M Music Honor Society held its second induction ceremony on
March 12. Eight students were inducted into the Society after having met
the requirements of musicianship, scholarship, character, leadership, and
service to their school and community. Mr. Bernie LaPorta, our former
Music teacher, was the honorary inductee. Advisors to the Tri-M are Mr.
Kastner and Ms. Corcoran.
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Students in Mrs. Comer’s Child Development class participated in the
Flour Baby exercise where they were required to take care of and carry a
ten pound bag of flour that was transformed into a “baby.” A writing
assignment was completed at the end of the project that included a daily
journal and a summary of their experiences and reactions to being parents.
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Select students from the Tri-M Music Honor Society performed at the
Senior Citizen Center on March 18 under the direction of Mr. Kastner
and Ms. Corcoran.
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Students in 9th Grade Health researched an assigned topic and were
required to teach the class.
Press Releases:
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Kearny Federal Bank representatives came in for a photo opportunity with
the students in Mrs. Tomko’s Introduction to Business class to use in
the KFSB newsletter and on their website. Bank executives gave a brief
talk to the students, highlighting what the bank offers for young adults.
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A press release has been submitted by Ms. DuJack on student Ipek
Ozkaynak’s acceptance into three art schools.
March Athletic Highlights
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Baseball
The team has 33 players signed up and is looking to improve on last year’s
win total of 10. The varsity team has had several solid scrimmages against
QP, East Orange, and Glen Ridge. The boys open up their season on April 1
against Saddle River Day.
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Softball
The softball team has 32 girls signed up this year and is a serious playoff
contender. The team has scrimmaged Belleville, Caldwell, and Leonia. The
team will open up on Thursday, April 2, against Fort Lee.
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Boy’s Track
The Boy’s track team has over 40 participants this year, a 15% increase from
last year’s team. The Track team will open their season on Saturday, April 4,
at the Kearny Relays.
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Girl’s Track
The Girl’s track team has 31 student signed up for the team. The girls open
their season on Tuesday, April 1, at the Secaucus Invitational.
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Golf
The team is made up of 11 athletes this year with Matt Ryan, Tom Gaydos,
Declan Doyle, and Branden Lauer all returning from last year’s squad. The
team has its first match on Wednesday, April 1.
148 total students are participating in spring sports
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Honors/Awards
Ashley Johnson and Matt Priore were named first team All-County Bowlers
for the 2008/2009 season.
Matt Priore was selected to the All North Jersey 1st Team.
The Cheerleaders placed 4th in the AmeriCheer Invitational in Orlando,
Florida, on March 22.