North Arlington High School
September

Mrs. Albuquerque’s Journalism students were introduced to the origins
of newspapers and mass media. Students reviewed the current code of
ethics followed by the U.S. Society of Professional Journalists and
successfully composed their own Class Code of Ethics to abide by
throughout this school year. Mrs. Albuquerque’s English IV Honors
students evaluated the cultural, social and literary elements associated with
Neoclassical Drama. In addition, students utilized the internet in order to
further research world news and events that occurred during the
neoclassical period and completed a project synthesizing the most
significant differences and similarities with modern life and literature.
Mrs. Albuquerque’s English III Honors students were introduced to the
Anglo-Saxon period. Students evaluated the cultural, social and literary
components of the Anglo-Saxons, specifically the characteristics of an
epic and epic hero. As a result, students used online resources for
researching contemporary individuals worldwide who have been
considered heroes by others in society, and presented their findings to the
class. Mrs. Albuquerque’s English IV students were introduced to the
aspects of Modern Drama, realism and naturalism. They evaluated the
cultural, social and literary elements of 19th century society in northern
Europe. Students had an opportunity to demonstrate their technology and
research skills by using the internet to gather data relevant to 19th century
customs, lifestyle and literary achievements of any country in the world.
Finally, students presented their projects to the class.

Mrs. Burns began the school year with her students, but delivered her
baby, a boy, Stanley Ambrose Burns on September 12, 2009. Ms.
Augustine, who is quite familiar with our district and students, has
returned to serve as her replacement during Ms. Burns’ maternity leave.

Mrs. Hughes’ English I , English I Honors and English II students
completed summer reading tests. They have been introduced to the formal
essay vs. the informal essay format and have begun their short story units.
Mrs. Hughes’ HSPA class has been pre-testing and is currently utilizing
Study Island and writing using picture prompts.

Ms. Turner’s English I classes worked on their writing skills by writing
about an event from their summer using the third-person point of view.
The classes have also been given their first novel of the year, which they
will be reading independently so that they can participate in bi-weekly
literature circles. Ms. Turner’s English IV Honors classes have begun
studying neo-classical drama focusing on Moliere’s Tartuffe. They will
also be spending class time writing and peer editing college essays. The
class was also given the novel, A Separate Peace, and will be discussing
the major themes using Literature Circles. Ms. Turner’s Visual and
Performing Arts class has been studying the history of Drama. Pairs of
students chose an aspect of Drama to research and presented a report and a
poster on the subject they chose.

Ms. Ingannamorte’s English II classes introduced themselves through
character sketches. Her Creative Writing class is busy interviewing a
subject to be highlighted in an original magazine article. They enjoyed
comparing Time and People magazines from the 1970’s to recent
publications.

Mrs. Singer’s AP English class is writing an original novel. It has
fictional characters who attend an exaggerated North Arlington High
School. Her English IV classes are studying A Doll’s House by Henrik
Ibsen and acting out parts of it in class. Holly Singler’s English III class
has started studying British literature by examining and discussing
Beowulf.

Mrs. Kaufman’s Strategies for Successful Reading Class used the New
Century Integrated Instruction Program to develop a customized program
for every student, based on their diagnostic assessment results. This
prescribed learning program consists of lessons specifically selected to
build on the individual’s strengths and remedy any diagnosed weaknesses.

Mr. Galante’s US I classes wrote an essay entitled “What it Means to be
an American”. After writing the essay the classes viewed a CD by
Disney “America’s Heart and Soul” reinforcing the themes of freedom and
individuality (diversity). Mr. Galante’s US II classes created charts on
the pros and cons of living in an industrial area in the 21st century and
compared/contrasted life during the US Industrial Revolution of the mid19th century. Mr. Galante’s PEG class created timelines of World
History, maps of Africa, and flags of Africa. The PEG students also
participated in a SMARTBOARD Power point review presentation on
maps and globes.

Mrs. Kusher’s U.S. History II students learned about the hardships of
building the transcontinental railroad and the origin of time zones as they
related to the railroads. The US II Honors students read an excerpt from
Stephen Crane’s “The Bride Comes to Yellow Sky” and then created
postcards to a friend describing their experiences riding on America’s first
railroads. Mrs. Kusher’s U.S. History I Honors are studying the time
period of the Native Americans. Students worked in groups and
completed research on the Native Americans of South and Central
America. U.S. History I and II students in Mrs. Kusher’s classes
celebrated “Constitution Day” on September 17th. The students read over
10 amazing facts about the Constitution. It was learned that on the very
first national Thanksgiving (1789), President Washington wanted the
country to give “thanks” for the Constitution!

In Mrs. O’Brien-Romer’s PEG classes, students studied map projections
and geographic terms. In addition, the students celebrated Constitution
Day by learning 10 Fast Facts about the Constitution and taking a citizen’s
test. In Mrs. O’Brien-Romer’s Sociology classes students learned about
the importance of perspective and looked at pictures that could be viewed
two different ways. The students then learned about the three different
sociological perspectives that will continue to be a theme throughout the
year. In Mrs. O’Brien-Romer’s Advanced Placement U.S. History
class students learned how to write responses to document based
questions. These questions appear on the College Board exam the
students will take in May 2010.

Ms. Smith’s Sociology classes learned about the contributions of the
major pioneers of sociology by writing research papers and presenting
their findings to the class. Ms. Smith’s Economics students created
productions possibility curves to show efficiency, growth and cost to
better understand how a country’s production possibilities depend on its
available resources and technology. Ms. Smith’s PEG Honors students
created lists of items used in their everyday lives that were examples of
cultural diffusion and described each item, telling which culture it came
from. Ms. Smith’s AP European History students read selections from
Castiglione’s The Book of the Courtier and wrote an essay describing his
description of the ideal “Renaissance Man.” Students included their
interpretation of today’s “Renaissance Man.”

Mrs. de Diego’s Spanish II classes have been reviewing Spanish I
material. They worked on describing themselves and others and they drew
a person based on a written description. When all the students finished,
their drawings were posted on the blackboard and the descriptions were
read by the teacher so the students would match the description to the
drawing. Mrs. de Diego’s Spanish III classes have been working on the
present tense. They were able to create a dictionary–like definition in
Spanish of a given verb and have their classmates guess the infinitive.
Mrs. de Diego’s Spanish IV classes have been working on the present
and preterit tenses in Spanish. The class worked together as a group to
create an oral story based on a picture prompt. Every student had to add
something to the story and it worked really well for an oral practice.

Mrs. Murad’s Spanish II Honors class researched the life of the Cuban
author/poet, José Martí. They had to memorize and recite to the class four
stanzas of his famous “Versos Sencillos”.

Ms. Sanabria’s Spanish I students used newly learned vocabulary on
greetings, leave-takings, asking how someone is doing or feeling; asking
and talking about the weather, and they were challenged to have a one to
two minute conversation using this vocabulary. Ms. Sanabria’s Spanish I
Honors students read the novella, “El Viaje de su Vida” as a literature
circle. This novel sparked interest because it was mysterious, intriguing
and fun to read. Ms. Sanabria’s Spanish II students discussed Hispanic
Heritage month. Students examined and discussed why there was a month
dedicated to celebrating the independence of among others, Chile, and
several other Latin American countries. Students walked away with a
better understanding of Hispanic Heritage.

Mrs. McKeown’s French I classes began class by completing a personal
survey of learning and personality preferences. Questions were designed
to help the teacher be aware of the best ways to teach all students.

Mrs. Maresca’s SAT Preview classes have begun working on the SAT
Online Course. The students have completed their first full-length pretest, which will be used to diagnose their strengths and weaknesses so a
“plan of action” for the course can be designed.

Mrs. Maresca’s Algebra II students have completed their first writing
assignment in which they had to complete a “multi-step” problem, similar
to the open-ended questions on the HSPA.

Mrs. Maresca’s Precalculus classes were introduced to four methods of
modeling functions, namely by an equation, table of values, x- and yintercepts, and graphing. During a group activity the students were
presented with cards containing one of the representations and had to find
the other students with the matching functions.

Miss Fash’s Math Tech Classes are utilizing the Wikispaces web site to
collaborate on projects and assignments. Students are currently
completing a project where they must create a multi-step problem, post it
to their wikispace and other groups will submit their responses to the
problem.

Mr. Dembowski’s Geometry Honors class have completed Chapter one
and used hands on activities to demonstrate the new concepts of geometry.
Students created their own nets in class and used scissors to cut them out
and construct them. The cutting and paper folding demonstrated how a 2d figure can be transformed into a 3-d figure. Students started with simple
cubes and then were encouraged to try more challenging prisms and
pyramids.

Mr. Dembowski’s Algebra II-B class reviewed material previously
learned and are moving forward by starting chapter six. The class is
actively participating and asking excellent questions that extend beyond
the lesson to understand the topics.

Mr. Dembowski’s HSPA Review class is effectively using Study Island
to review HSPA questions. All students are testing well and trying a
variety of different topics on the test site to gain a well balanced
understanding of the different questions that will be posed on the HSPA.

Mr. Dembowski’s Geometry Basic classes are completing chapter one
and using many different techniques to learn the new concepts of math.
Students used paper and scissors, to construct and demonstrate intersecting
planes. They also created their own cartoons to further their
understanding of conditional statements and how they can apply it to real
life situations. Compasses and rulers were also used to demonstrate how to
use different geometric tools.

Mr. Nazi’s AP Calculus class finished reviewing all necessary prerequisites for
AP Calculus and started the concept of the analysis of limits using both the
graphical and the algebraic approaches.

Mr. Nazi’s QBasic class worked with binary numbers. They are very
comfortable with the base 2 system. They now realize that in this world there are
“10” types of people, ones that understand binary and ones that don’t.

Mr. Nazi’s Algebra II H class finished reviewing multiple topics from Algebra
I and are ready to explore more sophisticated topics in Algebra II.

Mr. Nazi’s HSPA classes are preparing for the New Jersey HSPA Test in
mathematics. They continuously practice multiple choice, short constructed
response, and open ended questions. They are preparing for the October HSPA
exam.

Mr. Zukatus’ HSPA class took a practice HSPA in order for students to
understand material they will see on the actual test. Students have also
been working on StudyIsland.com to preview a new way to study and
learn math.

Mr. Zukatus’ Geometry classes worked on foundations of geometry.
Students have been introduced to the concept of a postulate, as well as
basic constructions within the field of geometry.

Mr. Zukatus’ Statistics classes worked with basic concepts of statistics.
Students can identify different sample types, know different ways to
complete random samples and are able to identify various problems that
can occur during different experiments.

Ms. Khalil’s QBasic students related programming to mathematics as
they used different algorithms to create various mathematical programs.

Ms. Khalil’s Algebra II-A students learned about solving linear equations
using properties of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Students were also given a Problem of the Week in which they use
transition words in a paragraph to solve any given problem.

Ms. Khalil’s Algebra I-B students learned how to solve inequalities using
properties of addition, subtraction, division and multiplication. Students
were also given a Problem of the Week in which they used transition
words in a paragraph to solve any given problem.

Ms. Samko’s Algebra I-A class is currently midway through chapter 1;
students are learning and recalling concepts and procedures related to
verbal versus algebraic expressions, evaluating expressions, the order of
operations, solving open sentences (both equations and inequalities) given
a set of replacement values, and set notation.

Ms. Samko’s Algebra I-B class is currently midway through chapter 6;
students are learning and recalling concepts and procedures related to
solving algebraic equations and inequalities by addition and subtraction,
solving algebraic equations and inequalities by multiplication and
division, solving multi-step algebraic equations and inequalities, solving
compound inequalities, graphing solutions to inequalities, and set notation.

Mr. Capriola’s Algebra I classes completed several assignments
involving the Orders of Operations without the use of calculators. This
method allowed students the opportunity to review and reinforce the basic
mathematical operations that are important elements for their success in
both these subjects.

Mr. Capriola’s Geometry Basic classes completed an activity that
involved geometric constructions. Students were presented with a compass
and a straightedge and instructed to draw the geometric building blocks
(point, line, ray, segment, and plane) with only the using these two tools.
This exercise helped give students a better understanding of how
geometric tools are applied to the concepts of geometry.
Business Education

Mrs. Tomko’s and Mr. Kenny’s Computer Applications students have
reviewed the parts of the computer and are moving through the keys on
the keyboard.

Mrs. Tomko’s and Mr. Kenny’s Advanced Computer Applications
students have begun the unit on Access. Students are progressing well and
have completed two original projects to support their book work.

Mrs. Tomko’s Introduction to Business students are getting down to the
basics of business before we can spin off into some other interesting areas.
Large group of students makes for great discussions!

Mrs. Tomko’s Wall Street students are starting off with the history of the
market and moving through how transactions are made.

Mr. Kenny’s Accounting students have started working with the
accounting equation and business activities that change this equation. The
Accounting Careers unit has been completed. This included an
Accounting Careers project in which the students had to find various
accounting jobs using local newspapers and Internet sites.

Ms. Rosolen’s Multimedia class is currently learning how to retouch
digital images in PhotoShop Elements.
Family & Consumer Science

Mrs. Comer’s Culinary Arts classes are working on safety and sanitation
in the kitchen in preparation of working in the food’s laboratory.
Measuring techniques, ingredient collection and protocol was the focus
this month. They are also creating informational Safety/Sanitation
Brochures using a reliable Internet source as their resource. This is a
writing assignment that fits in with the district’s goals and objectives.
Additionally, this project was introduced utilizing the Smart Board which
is another district goal.

Mrs. Comer’s Child Development classes are preparing for the opening
of nursery school. How children learn, what should be taught, and why
we study child development was this month’s primary focus.
Art

Mrs. Branco’s Art Studio students have been working on texture
drawings. Using the elements of line, texture, shape and color, the
students have created very vibrant energetic works of art that jump off the
page and show their observational skills as indicated in the art standards.

Mrs. Branco’s Visual Art students started out the year doing a line
project to create the image of volume on the paper. They outlined their
hand, old fashioned turkey style, and using line to define the volume of
their hand, they created very interesting drawings.

Ms. DuJack’s Art Exploratory classes are completing drawing exercises
that reinforce the elements of art (texture and value).

Ms. DuJack’s Art Studio classes are completing more advanced version
of projects including crushed can, demonstrating value in color and
advanced textures.

Ms. DuJack’s Independent Art students have begun color mixing for
acrylic paintings.
Music

Mr. Kastner’s and Ms. Corcoran’s music classes have been working on
the basics of developing musical techniques on the instruments and in
choral work. The Band has performed at the Pep Rally and Back to
School Night, and is performing a modified field show during football
games.
Science
 Mr. Spaccavento’s Physics 1 Honors students are busy filling their
toolboxes with the tools needed to study Physics. They are reviewing
techniques and completing activities in graphing, dimensional analysis,
scientific notation and significant figures. Youngsters have learned to use
“Graphical Analysis” software package to analyze data. They have
completed several data analysis activities and also given white-board
presentations to the class. Laboratory activities will be documented in
their group’s lab notebook. Emphasis has been on training students’ to
think like a scientist.

Mr. Spaccavento’s Physics 2 students are exploring heat, its effects on
matter and how heat is transferred between materials. Laboratory activities
involving specific heat, heat of fusion, thermal expansion and thermal
conductivity were completed.

Mrs. Esquetini’s Technology Lab students in the Architectural Design
Module have finished their plan, section and elevation sketches of various
items in the classroom. They are now working on their site plan of North
Arlington High School.

Mr. Rapp’s Chemistry students completed units on laboratory safety
and signed an agreement form whereby they will practice safety in the lab.
Students also completed units on elements in the periodic table, measuring
out solid and liquid chemicals in the lab and determined the density and
metal composition of old and new pennies.

Mrs. Abdel Messih’s Biology Students have identified many safety items
in the laboratory, discussed many critical situations that may happen
during any given experiment. Also, students have identified the compound
light microscope parts and have learned how to use it and how to prepare
different slides, such as a small letter, a piece of thread, cork cells, and
starch grains. Students learned how to practice the scientific method to
solve problems through investigating the effect of exertion on pulse rate.

Mrs. Abdel Messih’s Honors Biology Students learned to better utilize
the school’s data base to search efficiently for scholarly links for science
related information. Students used this new navigation knowledge to
investigate the structure of the human circulatory system.

Mrs. Abdel Messih’s Study Island classes have worked on the pretest
and scientific investigation assignments.

Ms. Rosen’s Biology Class utilized lab safety after becoming
knowledgeable in safety procedures. They learned the steps of the
scientific method. They are currently becoming familiar with the how to
use a light microscope and about the different types of microscopes and
the functions of each type.

Ms. Rosen’s Environmental Science classes have discussed why it is
important to learn environmental science and what they expect to learn in
the class. They have aided in raising awareness for recycling through the
collection and organization of discarded paper in the school.

Ms. Rosen’s Anatomy and Physiology class learned the many different
types of medical imaging techniques that are available today. The students
learned the proper anatomical positioning terms used to describe the
human body.

Mr. Mott’s Biology Honors class performed a safety lab in which they
mapped out the room and planned out emergency procedures for various
accidents. They then identified safe and unsafe practices, made decisions
on what to do in the case of given emergencies and finally determined
how to avoid the emergencies that were listed.

Mr. Mott’s AP Biology class examined the theory of evolution, and the
various individuals who had theories on both evolution and creationism
(intelligent design). The students performed a lab identifying various
fossils and putting them in chronological order. They then examined some
of the variations over time of three different species and related this to
possible climatic changes. They also designed and built a variety of 3dimensional models of carbon based organic compounds. They examined
the various types of bonds that could be present.

Mr. Mott’s Anatomy and Physiology class examined the basic accepted
anatomical position of the body for review as well as the correct regional
nomenclature. Students practiced identifying part using this nomenclature.
A review of the various body systems and organization was begun. The
basics of both negative and positive feedback systems were examined.

Mr. Mott’s Biology students also began the year by the class performed a
safety lab in which they mapped out the room and planned out emergency
procedures for various accidents. They then identified safe and unsafe
practices, made decisions on what to do in the case of given emergencies
and finally determined how to avoid the emergencies that were listed.

Mr. Necoechea’s Physical Science students have been studying motion
at constant speed, and motion under the application of an external force.
The constant speed activities included the analysis of flash photographs of
a dry-ice puck; students were required to measure the distance, plot the
distance-time data, and calculate the average speed. Labs in which force
was important included a projectile motion lab in which air resistance
could be turned on or off to determine its effect. A major effort is
underway to make the activities more experientially relevant.

Mr. Necoechea’s Honors Chemistry students are studying the
mathematical background necessary for all aspects of the course, including
unit conversions, significant figures, scientific notation, and basic algebra
skills. Most class time so far has been dedicated to white boarding. The
students have also performed an experiment on scientific measurements in
which they applied error analysis to their results.
II.
Workshops Attended:

The entire NAHS staff attended a Professional Development, “Creating
Champions and Developing Excellence in All Your Students.” This
workshop was presented on September 1, 2009 at North Arlington High
School. The presenter was Mr. Ed Agresta, who addressed techniques for
developing peak performance in the classroom and in life.

Mr. Galante attended a workshop with Dr. Stringham on Professional
Development presented by the BCEA at the Fiesta on September 22, 2009.
New information was presented on PD for school and local PDC’s.

Ms. Ingannamorte attended a workshop, “Assessment Techniques:
Assessing for Student Learning,” on July 9, 2009, at the Sussex County
College, RTC-TCNJ. The main focus of this course was on using
assessment to support teachers in examining the effectiveness of their own
practices. A wide range of assessment tools were implemented through a
hands on approach.

Mrs. LoPresti, Mr. Abu-Hakmeh and Mr. Spaccavento attended the
first of a series of three professional seminars examining teaching and
learning strategies for the school of the 21st century. This includes an indepth look at teaching students using the technology found in our global
society. Professional development opportunities for teachers will be
created to meet this initiative.

Mr. Abu-Hakmeh attended a workshop at Kean University on July 20,
2009. The workshop was the first phase of the PDA series of workshops to
continue research and training to implement the required changes for
“Creating 21st Century NJ Schools”. Ideas for whole school reform and
updates on NJCCCS revisions were discussed during the workshop.

Mrs. Maresca, Ms. Fash, Ms. Samko, and Ms. Khalil attended an
orientation workshop for “Mentors and Mentees”, presented by Mrs. Mary
Jane Parke, on September 3. This workshop outlined the responsibilities
of the mentors and gave the mentors an opportunity to share some of their
experiences with the new teachers.

Miss Fash attended a workshop at NJEA headquarters on Smart Boards
for Algebra. At this workshop, Smart Technologies presented ideas for
Smart Board Lessons related to math and uses of “Student Responders”.
.

Miss Fash attended a workshop at Ridgewood High School during the
summer pertaining to the NJ initiatives for the 21st Century Classroom. At
this workshop, Alan November spoke of NJ goals for utilizing Web 2.0
tools and incorporating them into the new, revised curriculum.

Ms. DuJack attended the Blood Borne Pathogens workshop on September
5th, which provided an overview of blood borne diseases, risks and safety
hazards of handling possible contaminants.

Mr. Spaccavento attended a workshop on July 15th sponsored by the
NJDOE titled “21st Century Schools.” Follow up sessions are planned.

Mr. Spaccavento attended the AAPT Summer Meeting at the University
of Michigan from July 25th to July 30, 2009. Along with fulfilling his
responsibilities as NJ State Section Representative to the AAPT and
serving on three AAPT committees, he also attended numerous programs
including a workshop on the Physics of Toys, the lecture demonstration
show, and many other relevant programs.

Mr. Spaccavento attended the PAN (Physics of Atomic Nuclei) workshop
at Michigan State University from August 1st – August 7th. The program
was run by JINA, the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics. PAN is an
outreach program for educators at the National Superconducting Cyclotron
Laboratory (NSCL)—one of the world's leading nuclear physics
laboratories located on the campus of MSU. He has returned with many
new and innovative ideas to share with his students.

Mr. Spaccavento attended a NJAAPT Executive Board Meeting at
Rutgers on Monday, September 1, 2009.

Mr. Spaccavento attended a NJPSA workshop on September 21st titled
“Supervisors as Agents of Change”. The focus of the workshop was on
the implementation of the new subject area standards and the philosophy
behind the changes. Future follow up sessions are scheduled.

Mr. Spaccavento attended a NJSELA (NJ Science Education Leadership
Association) meeting on Friday, September 25th at the Meadowlands
Environmental Center in Lyndhurst.

Mr. Mott attended at invitation from the state, the end of year Biology
Prompt Development Workshop on Monday and Tuesday Sept. 23 and 24.
The workshop was held in Robbinsville, New Jersey where the
headquarters of Measurement Incorporated is located. The Department of
Education discussed the importance of this work, and Mr. Mott then
developed one of several prompts for review. Mr. Mott was also asked to
review other various prompts and make suggestions and comments for
improvement.
.
III.
IV.

Mrs. Abdel Messih attended a workshop on August 12, at Ridgewood
High School called “Students as Digital Learners in 21st Century Learning
Environments”. The workshop was presented by Alan November and
discussion included information about the impact of the Internet and new
technologies for students. The effects of various lifestyles and learning
preferences as well as their implications for preparing students to become
21st century thinkers, workers and leaders was also a central theme.

Science Department Teachers attended the Blood Borne Pathogens and
Right to Know workshops on 9/5/09 from 1-3 PM.
Student Recognition:

Students in Mr. Capriola’s Period 5 Algebra I class scored exceedingly
well on the initial quiz of the First Marking Period. 13 out of the 16
students received a score of 90 percent or better. And 6 out of those 13
students received a score of 100. Students were extremely proud of this
accomplishment.

Student artwork is being displayed in the main hallway for all to enjoy!

Oliver Stringham was selected as this year’s Drum Major for the North
Arlington High School Band. He has already demonstrated excellent
leadership skills during Band Camp, band rehearsals, and band
performances.

Oliver Stringham and Tom Gaydos spent five weeks this summer
working in the Physics Department at Rutgers University through the
QuarkNet program. Mr. Spaccavento is the lead teacher for the Rutgers
QuarkNet center which helped to make this opportunity possible.
Accomplishments:

Ms. Sanabria was offered the position of sophomore class advisor.

Mrs. Maresca, advisor of the National Honor Society, has informed the
students who are eligible to be nominated for the 2009-2010 school year.
There are 33 juniors and seniors eligible this year to be considered for
selection. The students will be submitting their essays and information
packets, which will be evaluated by a committee of five Faculty Council
members.

The Music Program has grown significantly in the past several years. At
this time, the Chorus has over 75 members and the Band 50 members.
This number represents approximately one quarter of the school’s
population participating in the program

Students in Ms. Ryan’s freshman health successfully completed the life
calculator and wrote an essay including all of the suggestions they plan to
follow in order to live longer, happier lives.

Mr. Spaccavento was highlighted in the Arbor Scientific “CoolStuff”
September 2009 newsletter to science teachers. The Article focuses on an
activity he devised involving inflatable globes and the scaling of our solar
system and beyond. The article can be seen at the website listed below:
http://www.arborsci.com/CoolStuff/NewCoolStuff_Articles/cool40.aspx

V.
Mr. Mott was recognized at a DOE workshop for his ability to explain
what a prompt truly is, and in assisting in the training of other teachers
in the writing of prompts for the state end of year Biology testing
program.
Special Programs:

Mrs. de Diego’s Spanish II students have been working on Personality
and Physical descriptions and were very successful while playing the
Guess Who game completely in Spanish. Spanish III students were able
to provide a hint to another classmate to help him/her guess an infinitive
from the chapter. Spanish IV students were able to compose a folk tale or
nursery story in Spanish.

Mrs. McKeown’s French IV classes will be using their summer reading to
begin speaking and writing about the elements of fiction.

SADD held its first general meeting introducing officers and welcoming
new members

Mr. Dembowski has been working with Ms. Amelung and the junior
class to plan fundraisers and events for the 2009/2010 year.

Mr. Dembowski and Mr. Abu-Hakmeh have been working hard with the
soccer team every day and had summer double sessions in hopes of having
a successful year.

Students in Ms. Samko’s Algebra I-A class were split into two teams for
a review game. Each student received a chance to try a problem on the
board. Like in the popular television show Who Wants to be a
Millionaire?, the students received opportunities to ask for help. The
student completing a problem could pass to another teammate, ask a
teammate for help, ask his/her whole team for help, ask Ms. Rappo for
help or ask Ms. Samko for help. Each team could only use each
opportunity once. The students on the winning team will be able to omit
any question they choose off of the upcoming chapter 1 test.

Over half of Mr. Kenny’s Accounting students are participating in the
Middle College program in which they are eligible to attain 3 college
credits if they meet certain standards.

The Child Development classes are preparing for the Nursery School
Orientation on October 5, 2009 and both first and second year students are
cleaning and setting up the nursery school for the children’s arrival.

Mr. Spaccavento along with his assistant coaches Chrissy Costello and
Karen Smith conducted their annual Girls Basketball camp for two weeks
this summer from June 23rd to July 3rd.

Mr. Necoechea has initiated an Astronomy / Space Science club. They
have held several meetings already this year and have plans for evening
telescope viewings and model rocket launches for the months ahead.

Science Department teachers will pilot a “Standard Lab Report Rubric”
that will be used in all courses in the high school and eventually passed on
to the Middle School.
Physical Education Department

Brianna Ryan. Freshman Health –. We will be having the students
watch a “Dangers of Tanning” video to show them what exactly happens
when you go into a tanning bed or into the sun without sun protection on
your skin. We will discuss the types of diseases that can come from the
sun on your unprotected skin. Students will also be using an innovative
life calculator on the internet in order to visually see what age they will
live to if they continue to live the life style they are living now. This
website also offers suggestions and different ways to change your life for
the better and exactly how many years, if the suggestions are followed,
will add to your life.

Dan Farinola. Sophomore Driver Education- In driver education students
will be watching different videos about the dangers and risks of drinking
while driving, as well as text messaging while driving to show the students
the actual dangers of these activities.

Michele Vespoli. Freshman Health –We will be having the students
watch a “Dangers of Tanning” video to show them exactly what happens
when you go into a tanning bed or into the sun without sun protection on
your skin. We will discuss the types of diseases that can come from the
sun on your unprotected skin.

Paul Marcantuono. Senior Health – To introduce sex education in senior
health, we start the beginning of the marking period with educational
activities and an overview of important terminology to help the students
feel comfortable with sensitive topics in the family life curriculum.
Students learn quickly that appropriate terminology and respect is critical
to the successful atmosphere in the classroom. Lectures, videos and
cooperative learning are all utilized in this course.

As a Department: During classes this year we have begun to do new
styles of warm-ups everyday. We warm up as an entire gym, not just each
class on their own. We are also trying to vary the type of exercises
everyday; running, static stretching or active warm ups. During the
student activity time, we have introduced a new tennis unit. Students will
be working on specific skills used in tennis which will then lead up to
game and tournament play where students will practice their skills.
We have also decided to change fitness Fridays. Fitness Friday will now
be celebrated each Monday to increase momentum and class participation.
Students will participate in running to increase stamina and weight
training to increase strength on Fitness Mondays. When there are three
classes in the gym, students will rotate between activities to give everyone
an equal opportunity to participate.
MONTH: ____September_____
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mathematics
 Miss Neubauer's Math classes worked with prime and composite numbers. To
review the concept, the class played a game. Everyone stood in a circle and
students took turns identifying each number.
 Miss Maucione’s students were exposed to the different careers that involve
mathematics. Students were asked to pick a career that was of interest to them
and then researched the math that is needed for that career. The students then
shared their findings with the class. The results fascinated them and opened their
eyes to the importance of math.
o In class, the students learned about properties, equations, ordered pairs,
relations, expressions and integers.
o The students also began their math journals. These journals consist of
math problems that help prepare students for the NJ ASK test. These
word problems are completed in their journal and then reviewed as a class.
 Miss Mezzina’s students began the year by writing algebraic expressions and
equations, as well as using the order of operations. The students then explored the
Commutative, Associative, Distributive, and Equality properties. These
properties were used in class to simplify and evaluate numerical and algebraic
expressions.
o In addition, the students engaged in the “Collecting, Interpreting, and
Displaying Data” project. They used sampling to collect data about a
specific topic. Then, the students analyzed their data by displaying it in a
frequency table, line graph, and bar graph. The project was hand- made
and computer generated.
 Mrs. Califano’s students were directed to solve worksheets that involved logical
progression from given statements to find the unknown. They had to select and
develop a system or mode of reasoning and methods of proof. For example:
given four players, four football positions, and five opening clues, students had to
conclude WHO played WHAT position. They used a prepared matrix to organize
their thoughts and conclusions.
 Mrs. Macari's Math classes started the new school year with a hands-on
approach: seeking the importance of steps and procedures. The students
recognized the importance of following directions through watching Mrs.
Macari mess up a fluff and jelly sandwich. Mrs. Macari had three steps to follow
which she did; however the steps were so poor, she made a mess everywhere! The
students worked in pairs to figure out the steps that were involved in making a
fluff and jelly sandwich. Then, they answered questions in their math journals
based on the importance of following directions not only in math, but in daily
activities.
Language Arts
 Mrs. Duff’s students received classroom novels to read independently. All
students were directed to create a playbill about their book. The focus in the
playbill book report were based on content, knowledge, comprehension and
application, which are all categories of the thinking process according to Bloom's
Taxonomy. Upon completion, the book reports will then be graded and displayed
in the classroom.
 Mrs. Boyd’s seventh grade began this year introducing themselves to the class
with a personality bag. Each student brought in five objects to help describe
his/her personalities and interests. This year's class has some dancers, some coin
collectors and even a few Red Sox fans. The new school year also started with
summer reading activities. Along with a test, students had the opportunity to work
with partners to discuss and write about the story elements.
 Miss Keeler’s 8th Grade Reading class began the school year by exploring the
genre of historical fiction with The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George
Speare. Activities in character development, identifying literary devices, and
vocabulary enhancement, allowed the class to actively participate in reading while
simultaneously studying the origin and growth of Colonial America. To
culminate the unit, the class completed a cooperative project focusing on the
Salem Witch Trials, which beautifully integrated the Language Arts and Social
Studies curricula.
 Express Yourself! Ms. Demetroules’ 6th Grade Writing class has been working
with descriptive writing during the month of September. They were asked to
describe a topic they are experts on: themselves! To the class, each student
described their likes, dislikes, and hopes for the future. It was a great activity to
become better acquainted as a class!
 Mrs. Callahan's 6th and 8th grade Reading classes focused on their summer
reading books. Each book was reviewed and skills, such as genre, setting, plot,
theme, foreshadowing and character traits and goals, were discussed. At the
conclusion of the review for each book, students were tested on said book.
 Mrs. Callahan's 7th grade Writing class began their unit on descriptive
writing. The students were encouraged to "bury dead words" and
incorporate higher level, vivid vocabulary into their writing.
 Mr. Haines’ Writing class worked on vocabulary utilizing the New York Times.
They reviewed narrative, persuasive and descriptive writing techniques. They
began the development of interview questions and techniques for class
presentations.
 Mrs. Helms’ eighth grade began reading the S.E. Hinton novel, The Outsiders.
The students in the class discussed their opinion of what is an “outsider”. They
also discussed social classes and the effects of being stereotyped. Finally,
students realized that although teenagers are a part of different social classes, they
really aren’t that much different.
 Welcome back to school! And they're off...Mrs. Kowalczyk's Writing 6 classes
have already been busy with many different assignments. During the first week
of school, the students did two "Getting to Know You" projects. The first one
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was an Auto Bio Poem which allows the students to get to know one another.
The second one was an Acrostic Poem using their first names. Both projects will
be on display in the Media Center on Back to School Night for their parents to
see.
As an introduction to descriptive writing, Mrs. Coughlin’s 8th grade Writing
classes wrote cinquain poems. The students chose a noun as line one and for the
remaining lines they had to complete a format which tells about their topic in a
descriptive manner. The classes chose some very interesting topics including:
emotions, sports, and events. A lot of effort was displayed in this assignment and
everyone shared their poems.
Mrs. Roller's ESL students read "The Gardener," a story set in the Depression,
which was written in letter form. They followed up by writing their own
narratives in letter form.
World Languages
 Mrs. Marchese’s sixth graders learned a song for the months of the year, as well
as "Head, Shoulders..." They picked out their Spanish names and learned some
adjectives to describe themselves.
 The seventh and eighth graders researched some facts about Mexico in
celebration of Hispanic Heritage month. They also described themselves
and wrote about themselves in a short booklet titled "YO."
Social Studies
 Searching for Satellites! Ms. Demetroules’s 6th grade Social Studies classes
explored the topic of navigation during the month of September. They reviewed
things such as: Latitude and Longitude, GPS Tracking Devices, and hemisphere.
Ask your 6th grader the Latitude and Longitude of North Arlington!
 Mrs. Fisher's students created pamphlets on early man. The pamphlet explained
how early man used either fire, tools, and/or animals. Each pamphlet included
four illustrations for the way the item(s) were used. A brief description also was
included. The pamphlets were both educational and creative.
 Mr. Barber's 8th grade Social Studies class looked at the events of September
11, 2001. On the 8th anniversary of that tragic day, the classes were asked to tell
the story of what they remember from that day. Even though most of the students
were only five years old at the time, they could still talk about the day in great
detail.
 In a more positive event later in the month, the classes also looked at
famous explorers of the Americas and were asked to be one. The classes
were split into groups and tried to convince King Barber why their
expedition should be given the money to find new lands around the world
in his name.
Science
 Mrs. Rinzivillo’s students learned about the scientific method and laboratory
safety. The students participated in a lab in which they had to practice proper
safety procedures and used their knowledge of the scientific method. They
created three airplanes made of different types of paper and flew them. They next
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Art
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measured the distance and charted their results. Finally, all of the students
completed their first lab report.
Mrs. Galante’s Grade 7 Science classes started a weather unit. The students
learned weather terms, not just from studying their vocabulary words, but from
watching and listening to the weather channel. The students heard the daily
weather report each day from the internet using the Smart board. They also were
taught the different weather tools and their uses. The students illustrated, labeled,
and explained each tool for a class project. They did an excellent job on the
assignment, and some of their drawings are displayed in the hallway outside the
classroom.
Mr. Haines 8th grade Science classes conducted experiments so they could begin
to understand how to measure and determine the speed of an object. The students
solved problems through the use of calculations to determine a theoretical design
project of building a basketball court at the school within the limitations of space
and allowing for the greatest margin of safety in the design. They also researched
women in science beginning with Rachael Carson, the Greek Alphabet as it
relates to science and mathematics, as well as the philosophy of Rene Descartes as
it relates to our ability to think and being human.
o The students designed a series of classroom and laboratory safety posters
to demonstrate their understanding of laboratory safety and enhance the
classroom appearance.
Mrs. Branco’s Art classes:
o The 6th grade started out the year doing the classic upside down drawing
project. They looked at three classic works upside down and drew them
upside down. This allowed them to use the art element of line and the
right side of their brain to work. They also explored the element of color
and the color wheel by creating blended color projects. This particular
project also used the element of shape. They used the color wheel,
primary, tertiary and secondary colors for this project, now the students
are onto form and mobiles.
o The 7th grade started out learning about the element of space. They did
shapes falling, geometric and amorphic. They also drew a city street using
the element of space and linear perspective. This project allowed the
students to explore the element of line, space, color and shape all in one.
o The 8th grade studied slideshows with contemporary artists and their
influence in the world of art today. They learned that art is a business and
how competitive it is. The students then did one another project. They
used the information they learned from Dr. Randy Pausch, “Do you want
to be a Tigger or an Eeyore?” and created cartoons with positive
messages. This cross curricular activity allowed the students to explore
different adjectives to describe themselves and their cartoon character in a
positive light. Also, the project reviewed their lessons in line, color, shape
and rhythm.
Music

Mr. Nicolle began instrumental lesson this month. The two bands were arranged
with schedules to meet during lunch and after school.
Comprehensive Health & Physical Education
 September was a great month for students in Physical Education at the middle
school. The students began the year with some fun cardiovascular games that
focused on teamwork, leadership and mutual respect. Then the students began the
much anticipated flag football unit! They worked on learning the rules of the
game, along with the major skills associated with it.
Computers
 Mr. Guanci’s sixth grade students watched an Internet Safety video on the Smart
Board. The video gave the students safety tips on how to be aware of predators
on the internet and how to report any problems they might incur when using their
computers at home or in school. The video also warned students about posting
blogs and/or pictures on any social networking sites. In addition, the site
discussed cyber bullying and texting. Upon the completion of the video, the
students finally understood that once they post or text something it can never be
deleted.
Special Ed
 In honor of Citizenship Day, the students in Ms. Tzakis’ History class studied the
U.S. Citizenship Test. They even made a list of questions that were posted on the
bulletin board outside the classroom. They also challenged the school to test
themselves and see if they could pass the Citizenship Test.
 Mrs. D. Brown’s 6th grade Reading Literature class has been reading the book,
Soaring Summer by Ann Richards. The story follows Esther and Phillip Lee on
their summer adventure. Esther is a teenage girl forced to spend the summer with
her younger brother Phillip. They travel to the mountains to stay with their cousin
Martin, who works at a wildlife research center. The trio discovered that
someone has been illegally trapping animals. The class enjoyed the story and
can't wait to see how it ends.
 Students in Mrs. C. Brown’s 8th grade Science class completed a project known
as “Staying Afloat.” The project asked the students to construct a boat that can
carry a cargo and float on the surface of water. Each boat was made of metal and
supported a cargo of 50 pennies or more. Throughout this project, students had an
opportunity to experiment with different material and design shapes. They
recorded their experiments and results in a design log that tracked successes and
failures. At the end of the project, students analyzed their observations and
experiments, summarized the design they chose, and demonstrated their
individual boat to the class.
Student Recognitions
 Catrin Brown....................
 Persa Tzakis.......................
 Grade 6...............................
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Anna Krasner
Zhen Tao Wu
Rebecca Agrelo
Ryan Mullins
Hannah Hermann
Jessica Gallon
Grade 7............................... Joseph Armout
Nina Givens
Jonathan Santiago
Matt Barbosa
Grade 8................................ Anthony Muriale
Cara Beth Tillou
Kaitlyn Bartlett
Yarema Hryvnak
Special Programs
 Preliminary preparations began for the 8th grade class trip.
 Mr. Haines is writing two proposals for the continued funding of the Shakespeare
Club for NAMS and NAHS to compete in Shakespeare competition and for the
funding of a North Arlington School District to host Shakespeare Day.
MONTH: SEPTEMBER 2009
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: JEFFERSON SCHOOL
Kindergarten
 Ms. McCrea’s kindergarten class engaged in the following curricula activities:
o Social Studies – topics included school helpers/rules, fire safety and
seasons (fall)
o Science – our senses
o Reading – “Getting to Know You” Theme: completed Kindergarten
Assessment (Pre-test). Through literature, centers and activities discussed
colors, counting, letters and our name. Letter sounds /m/s/r. High
Frequency words – I, a
o Math – positional words – top, middle, bottom, left, right, over, under, in,
out. Sorting/Classifying by color, size, shape and type. Determining the
sorting rule.

Mrs Northrop’s kindergarten class engaged in the following curricula
activities:
o Completed kindergarten pre-test in language and math
o Social Studies--- responsibility, following rules
o Science----- animals
o Math-----sorting and classifying
o Language--- letters m,s,t, high frequency words I,a
First Grade
Mrs. Pereira & Mrs. Paglucci's first grade classes took a trip to the
Meadowlands Environmental Center. The program attended was entitled “Story of the
Sun.” We followed Emile Egret on his journey from his evening roost just outside the
“big city” to his daytime feeding grounds in the salt marshes of the Meadowlands and
back again. Through an interactive, multimedia story-telling experience, students tracked
the sun on its apparent path across the sky and understood the important role this
apparent motion plays in the lifecycles of plants and animals. This program tied into the
Science curriculum; exploring nature and the lifecycles of plants and animals. This
program was also designed to promote skills for working together and instill an
appreciation for reading. “Story of the Sun” was designed to meet the New Jersey Core
Curriculum Content Standards.
Second Grade
Mrs. Nolan's second grade class began the school year by learning strategies for
addition and subtraction. They practiced basic number facts. The students read several
stories in Storytown, practiced comprehension strategies, and learned about several
genres. They also studied different types of land and water habitats. Students began the
year in math reviewing basic addition and subtraction strategies and number facts. In
science, they began by learning about living things.
Ms. Palermo’s second grade class began the new school year reviewing addition
and subtraction in Math. Our first writing assignment was titled “My Best Friend”. We
also learned about the four kinds of Land Habitats and the plants and animals that live in
each one.
Third Grade
Mrs. Keogh’s and Ms. Tokarz’ third grades engaged in the following areas of
study:
 Math- Students worked independently and with a partner to complete a Problem
Solving Booklet with NJASK3 problems they solved for homework
 Math- Students played the Odd/Even Game in class and for homework
 Social Studies- Students used a map to color the continents and label the oceans
 Science- Students used a tally sheet and recorded how many times their finger
pointed to water on a beach ball of the globe
 Science- Students colored a Water Whirl to show percentages of different types of
water in the world
 Character Education- Students viewed “Making Choices” and “Disrespect,
Rudeness, and Teasing” videos. They wrote about the later.
 Additionally, the third grade classes took the Benchmark Reading test which
included reading, phonics, and word recognition. It also included an oral reading
test which was administered individually to each child. Smartboard technologies
are integrated into daily lessons and students are learning the nuances of Study
Island
Fourth Grade
 Mrs. Rotondo’s fourth grade students engaged in a writing assignment entitled
“The Best Part of Fourth Grade” in which they shared positive aspects of 4th grade
and their goals for the year. Each student created an Acrostic Name Poem
identifying the positive qualities about him/herself. All fourth grade students
have begun to utilize Study Island in Math and Science as a preparation tool for
the NJ ASK Test.
 Mrs. Rotondo’s fourth grade math classes began focusing on lessons in weekly
logic and processing information in word problems as a problem solving strategy.
They are continuing to integrate Smartboard technology into daily math lessons
and activities.
 Mrs. Rotondo’s fourth grade science classes built a model backbone. Students
investigated that animals are classified into two very large groups, vertebrates
(backbone) and invertebrates (no backbone). The backbone of an animal protects
the spinal cord and helps support the body whereas animals without a backbone
do not have this protection. They also classified and observed plants and parts of
plants. Students investigated a stem, or stalk, of celery to help infer what the main
role of stems is. Students observed celery in food coloring every 15 minutes for
an hour and recorded their observations.

Mrs.Rotondo also evaluated and graphed all fourth grade math and science
assessments for purposes of adequate yearly progress (AYP).
Fourth Grade
 Mrs. Herrmann’s fourth grade language arts classes are actively engaged in
reading their weekly stories on line using the Smart board and Harcourt e-book
technology. Students are also learning about different genres and focusing on
character development. In addition, the students are thrilled about using the lap
tops to work with Study Island to enhance their reading and writing skills.

Mrs. Herrmann’s fourth grade social studies classes are learning about New
Jersey’s land and its early people. Topics that students are covering include New
Jersey’s natural regions, major cities, climate, and natural resources. Students
have also engaged in discussion about urban sprawl, and have been busy locating
places on a map using latitude and longitude lines.
Fifth Grade
 Miss Jacobson’s fifth grade science classes began to study plant and animal
cells. The students drew and labeled all parts of the cells. The students
completed an investigation using micro-slides to examine in close detail, plant
and animal cells.
 The students analyzed and learned about the roles of the circulatory, respiratory,
digestive, and excretory systems. The students completed an investigation to
understand how muscles cause movement. They worked with a partner and
measured their arm and leg muscles with a tape measure.
 Miss Jacobson’s fifth grade math classes reviewed how to find the place value
of whole numbers. Students independently compared and ordered numbers from
greatest to least and least to greatest. Students were evaluated on the mastery and
understanding of concepts, skills, and problem solving strategies. The students are
able to read and write decimal numbers in tenths, hundredths, thousandths, and
ten-thousandths. They are also able to identify and write equivalent decimals.
 Mrs. Applegate’s fifth grade reading classes were introduced to the Harcourt
Reading series, Storytown, reviewing how to use the various components, as well
as reinforcing lessons utilizing the Smartboard. Emphasis was placed on the
focus skill of plot, character’s motives, reviewing types of literary genre, robust
vocabulary, and reading comprehension strategies. Students also began using
leveled readers for both remediation and enrichment. Study Island was introduced
to the students and students took their Benchmarks pretest assessment and
completed the first two lessons on Study Island in Reading.
 Mrs. Applegate’s fifth grade social studies classes began the year by focusing
on geography skills. Students completed world maps which included locating key
physical features, as well as learning a variety of information about different parts
of the world. Current Mini-page information about all of the continents was given
to provide special information and interesting facts about the seven continents.
The class studied a packet of physical and political maps to complete a study
packet about the continents.. Lessons also included a study of latitude, longitude
and identification of specific hemispheres. As students began utilizing the text
many of the lessons involved using the Smartboard to review map skills. Students
also studied the five themes of geography and identified how each of the themes
was reflected in two states of their choice. Students also began to learn about the
importance the newspaper and began utilizing the newspaper to begin doing
written Current Events in class. Students saw a short vide to commemorate 9/11
and did a Current Event related to ‘Heroes’ from the newspaper or the Internet

Mrs. Applegate’s fifth grade writing class began the year by reviewing types of
writing that will be done during the school year. Students were given folders and
a packet reviewing Writing Workshop rules. Topics and due dates were assigned
for work during the first marking period. Students also began reviewing given
types of sentences, punctuation, and sentence structure. Students began Study
Island in Writing. Graphic Organizers and precise language lessons and tests were
completed by all students.
Art
Ms. Cronk’s art classes began the school year with name design projects! These
projects promoted individuality and self esteem. Art classes grades K-2 participated in
Reading Celebration Day with a variety of projects from bookmarks to story illustrations.
Ms. Cronk’s classes ended the first month of school by beginning a unit of autumn
creations!
Music
Mr. Nicolle began all classes with patriotic (flag) songs, handed out textbooks,
assigned student jobs (book buddies, etc.), reviewed song battery with grade 1-5, and
worked on new songs with the Kindergartens (Mr. Sun, I'm in the Mood for Singing,
etc.). On September 14th, National Anthem Day, the 4th and 5th grades studied the StarSpangled Banner; learning and singing the anthem, watching a video about the Banner
and its history, and researched one fact about the anthem for homework.
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.
Comprehensive Health & Physical Education
Health
Nurse Linda is busy getting to know all the students and checking that all their
health information is complete and correct. Parents are reminded to contact the nurse for
the paperwork if your child needs any medications kept at school. Remember to call
Nurse Linda if anything changes with your child's health history. Stop by and say hello
on Back-to-School Night, and take a look at the School Nurse Page on www.SchoolNotes
for helpful information
Mr. Cioffi"s Physical Education Classes
 K-2 will be learning the rules of the gym and will begin to review their
locomotive skills. They will also begin to develop the proper techniques on
throwing a ball.
 Grades 3-5 were also introduced to the rules of the gym. They will also begin a
unit of soccer developing their passing, shooting, and dribbling skills. This unit
will continue through the end of the month and the beginning of October.
Computers
Teachers and student continue to use the computer lab and the laptop modules for
learning purposes including Study Island.
Basic Skills
 Mrs. Korycinski and Mrs. Young and the first grade teachers have completed
the First Grade Assessment Test. Learning groups have been formed and
schedules have been assigned. Prior to the start of school, the staff analyzed data
in order to determine specific Action Plans for students.
Special Ed
 Special Ed-Mrs. Volpe’s resource class participated in back to school activities
focusing on our expectations of goals and objectives related to each student’s
Individual Education Program (IEP) for the school year.
Workshop Attendance
 Many staff members participated in an in-service workshop on Blood Borne
Pathogens
Student Recognitions
Each month one child is selected from each class as the Student of the Month.
The decision process is a difficult one as many students regularly demonstrate extraordinary 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 September 2009: Abigail Pletsch, Gabriel Phelan,
Stephanie Schillari, Victoria Vargas, Haley Harrison, Jacob Rytelewski, Abd Cheikhali,
Ivy Lin, Ryan Camacho, Jasmine Poventud, Callie Evanchick, Kyle Camacho, Katie
Errico, Byron Toledo, and Danica Krawczyk.
School Accomplishments
 School-wide Reading Celebration Day
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Successful completion of the Kindergarten Assessment, which in almost entirely
administered on a one-on-one basis.
Welcomed our new kindergarten classroom paraprofessional – Mrs. Laura
LaBarbera
Ms. McCrea welcomed our Junior Practicum student from Felician College –
Mrs. Stephanie Riveros
Began differentiated instruction for ELL, Special Education and G & T Students
Special Programs
Teachers in K through 2 plan to participate in Read for the Record on October 8th
by reading the story The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Information can be found at
http://www.readfortherecord.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about&JServSessionIdr002
=a5hv0lxnu1.app202b
 Fifth grade students designed and wrote postcards of their favorite character as
part of Reading Celebration Day
 Student Council members were selected from the 4th grade and all members met
to begin planning school activities to help members of the school community
Field Trips
Jefferson School first graders and their teachers Mrs. Carla Pereira & Mrs.
Arianne Paglucci recently spent a day at the Meadowlands Environmental
Center (MEC).
On the same day, fourth graders and their teachers Mrs. Cheryl Herrmann and
Mrs. Christine Rotondo also visited MEC. During their program entitled “Solar
Energy: That’s Hot” they viewed the sun through telescopes with special dark
glasses; learned about the tilt, rotation, and orbital pattern of the Earth around the
sun; discussed the causes for our four seasons and constructed environmentally
appropriate dwellings complete with seasonal foliage. All of the MEC programs
are interdisciplinary and integrate an outdoor component with classroom
instruction.
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
MONTH: SEPTEMBER 2009
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - ROOSEVELT
Pre-K
Mrs. Mack’s Pre-kindergarten students are settling in nicely and learning
classroom rules and routines as well as practicing fire drills. After studying
shapes, students created shape collages. The collages now decorate our hallway.
Children also tasted different varieties of apples, graphed their favorites and then
created a class book about their favorite apples.
Kindergarten
Mrs. Malanga’s kindergarten students are working on learning school rules
and routines this month. The children have practiced reading and writing their
names correctly. Many girls and boys can read their friends’ names as well.
First Grade
 Mrs. DiTommaso’s first graders worked together with fifth grade students. Fifth
graders under the supervision of Mrs. Badiola interviewed the first graders
regarding their interests. The young students had to respond using complete
sentences. Mrs. Badiola’s students made a recording of answers they received,
and then recorded the answers on a questionnaire form in complete sentences.
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Mrs. Arena’s first graders are learning about the Fall season. They are creating
a “Leaf Man”, then writing about something that reminds them of fall. Children
are also going outside to do crayon etchings of leaves. A selection of Fall books
is available to the children to read in their classroom.
Second Grade
 Mrs. Phalon’s second grade class began using Smartboard during reading /
language arts lessons. Students became familiar with Think Central. In addition,
students are using robust vocabulary words in their speaking and writing.
Third Grade.
 Mrs. Giuffre’s third grade class has been busy writing letters and perfecting
their friendly letter writing techniques this month. Students are looking forward
to being pen pals with a third grade class in Rockaway, New Jersey. The students
are introducing themselves and sharing their interests in their first letters. These
letters will also include student made frames containing their photos. Mrs.
Giuffre has been laminating these and will mail the letters this week. Students are
anxiously waiting responses from their new friends.
Fourth Grade
 Ms. Jaume’s fourth grade class is already immersed in science. The students
have begun collecting, recording and studying data. Using their math skills, the
class drew conclusions in their investigations about wind speed.
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Geometry has captured the fourth grade’s attention. Using protractors they
have drawn, labeled, measured and classified angles.
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Ms. Jaume’s students continue their tradition of honoring our local heroes.
Students interviewed these special individuals to discover their contributions to
our North Arlington community. While doing do, the fourth graders also honed
their personal writing skills.
Fifth Grade
 Mrs. Badiola’s fifth grade class has begun differentiated instruction. In addition
to using the Harcourt Leveled Readers, the fifth grade has opted out in spelling
and math. Students who have averaged a 90 or better on their last two math tests
and pass all or part of a pretest are given the option of opting out of math
homework. With their parents’ permission, they may in lieu of the usual
homework, complete a spelling project, which is then shared with the class.
Finally, the fifth grade is working on leveled writing. Based on the NJ State
Holistic Writing scores generated by the previous composition, the students are
given a prompt which requires specific components. All prompts are on grade
level, but some of the students are asked to stretch and attempt more difficult
risks.
Resource –Special Ed
 Mrs. McKenna’s Resource Room students, in all Reading / Language Arts
classes, created posters called, “All About Me”. This collage consisted of
pictures that described themselves, their likes and dislikes, family, sports, etc.
These were then presented orally to the class as a strategy for getting acquainted
at the start of the new school year.
 Mrs. Whalen’s fourth and fifth graders had a great start to the new school year.
The students have been learning about plants and how they live and grow. They
have been working with micro slide viewers to view different cells. Some
students also brought in their own microscopes from home to share. The classes
were really interesting.
Speech
 Our speech teacher, Mrs. Hale, whose students are receiving speech and
language services have made progress towards mastery of the goals set forth in
their Individual Educational Plans. Goals have been addressed in the context of
the general curriculum and / or NJCCS when appropriate.
Basic Skills
 Mrs. Wei (Kleber) taught classes to enable Kindergarten and grade 1 teachers to
complete their students’ alternate assessments. In addition, Mrs. Wei has been
administering her assessments using STARR Early Literacy and STARR Literacy
software.
School Nurse
 Mrs. Terletzky, school nurse, reports the following:
- Monitored students’ health records as per state requirements
- Formulated new student health charts
- Continued written and verbal communication with physicians and parents
- Reviewed medical forms necessary for the administration of medication
- Reviewed emergency cards incorporating information onto health charts
- Trained delegates for the administration of Epipen
ESL
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Art
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Mrs. Stringham’s has been busy teaching the primary grades so they could
complete their students’ kindergarten and first grade alternate assessment.
Having completed this, Mrs. Stringham began assessing her students to determine
which children may require ESL and / or Reading Support.
Ms. Cronk’s Art classes began the school year with name design projects!
These projects promoted individuality and self esteem. Art classes in grades K-2
participated in Reading Celebration Day with a variety of projects from
bookmarks to story illustrations. Ms. Cronk’s classes ended the first month of
school by beginning a unit of autumn creations!
Music
Comprehensive Health & Physical Education
 Mr. Cioffi’s Physical Education classes are learning the rules of the gym and
will begin to review their locomotive skills. They will also begin to develop the
proper techniques of throwing a ball. Grades 3-5 will be introduced to the rules of
the gym. They will also begin a unit of soccer and develop their passing, shooting
and dribbling skills. This unit will continue through the end of the month and the
beginning October.
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World Language
 Mrs. Gonzalez’, our Spanish World Language teacher, reports that A is
for…abeja? Yes! Kindergartners are beginning to learn their ABC’s in Spanish.
They are learning what the letter is called in the target language, how it sounds,
and a word that begins with that letter. Practicing writing the letter as gives great
reinforcement for the Kindergarten classroom.
School Accomplishments
 Roosevelt School elected its Student Council members. The representatives chose
Theme Days to encourage school spirit. As its first project, the Student Council is
collecting Yoplait lids, which will benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer
Foundation.
Special Programs
 The Roosevelt School PTO once again sponsored the Roosevelt School Annual
Ice Cream Social. The weather was perfect and the attendance outstanding. The
event was held in the evening at 6:00pm and was a HUGE success, attended by
more that 200 people including students with their families and their extended
families, staff with their families, students and former students and our ELL
teacher and her husband, our Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Stringham. All had
an enjoyable evening becoming acquainted and reacquainted with each other
while enjoying ice cream. For staff, having an opportunity to meet informally
with so many students, past students, as well as their families and extended
families was fun and rewarding. It was truly a joy to see so many of our present
and past Roosevelt Family socializing while enjoying ice cream!

Back to School Night was attended by almost every parent. Every teacher
reported that all or all but one parent attended her program. Many parents visited
special teachers as well as traveling teachers. This was a truly different evening.
All teachers felt rewarded by having an opportunity to interact with parents. Of
note is the growing numbers of Dads (not just Moms) visiting. You know the
times are changing when two of your Class Moms are Class Dads. We are now
reviewing programs to include Dads’ Evening(s). Hooray for Parents who Care!!!
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
MONTH: September 2009
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: WASHINGTON
Pre-Kindergarten
Mrs. Johnson – Pre-K class

Mrs. Johnson's Pre-K class has been extremely productive this month.
They've made friends, learned how to share and take turns, and became
familiar with all of our classroom procedures. This is a big accomplishment
for these children. It's an amazing amount of new information for them to
process, and they are doing a great job! They are learning new songs and
finger plays, listening to lots of stories, and reviewing shapes and colors.
They've also been fine-tuning their fine motor skills through activities such
as ripping paper, using Play-Doh, building with small blocks, and writing
with pencils, crayons, and markers. They are having a great time.
Pre-Kindergarten
Mrs. Luciano’s – Pre-K class
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We have settled into a new school year and are very excited about the new
friends we have made.
We made family trees and each tree was as special and unique as they are.
Working in centers seems to be a favorite time of the day.
We are looking forward to a colorful adventure in pre-k this year!
Kindergarten
Mrs. Haag’s – Kindergarten class

The Kindergarten students started out the year getting to know each other.
On Reading Celebration Day, Dr. Stringham came to our classroom. He
read us the story Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Afterwards
we played a fun game with a stuffed brown bear. We are looking forward to
learning our letters and numbers and having a great year!
Kindergarten
Miss Pusaver’s – Kindergarten class

The kindergarten was busy making new friends on the first day of school.
We have been diligently making “All About Me” books. We are also masters
at writing our first and last names! For Reading Celebration Day, we listened
to Dr. Stringham read The Apple Pie Tree to us. Later that day, we made
paper apples and wrote about why we are special with Mrs. Haag’s
kindergarten and Mrs. Luciano’s Pre-K!
First Grade
Mrs. Dillon’s and Mrs. Crismale’s – First grade classes

In September, the first grade students partnered with the second grade
students for Reading Celebration Day. Each student brought in their
favorite book from home to share with their partner. After reading the
books together, the students illustrated their favorite part of their story. It
will be made into a story quilt for display in the hallway.
Second Grade
Ms. Mielke’s - Second grade class

The students in Ms. Mielke’s second grade class created “Acrostic Poems” all
about themselves in language arts. They also wrote and published stories
about their summer and about their families to introduce themselves to each
other in class! What a great beginning!
Third Grade
Miss Maier’s – Third grade class
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Math - Understanding Numbers and Operations
Addition and Subtraction Concepts
Place Value and Number Sense
Multiplication Concepts and Facts
Social Studies - Communities - Communities are alike and different and are
found all over the world.
Science - Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils
Literacy - Theme 1 – School Days
Fourth Grade
Ms. Verrier’s – Fourth grade class
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Science - investigation: students worked in cooperative groups in a hands on
investigation to observe, record, and draw conclusions that vascular plants
have tubes.
Science - investigation: students made model backbones to identify its parts
(spinal cord, vertabrae, soft discs)
Writing - students wrote narrative essays about their "Favorite Things"
Reading - students celebrated "Reading Celebration Day" by telling the
class about their favorite fictional characters and creating posters about that
character.
Fifth Grade
Ms. Lonergan’s – Fifth grade class

The safety patrols and the student council are in full swing. Fifth graders can
be seen daily helping the staff and the younger grades. Student council had
red, white, and blue day on Sept. 11, in commemoration of the terrorist
attack on our country. The council has been planning "Hats On Day" for
children who have cancer. The fifth grade is adjusting to their new
responsibilities.
Pre-K -3
Mrs. Porfido’s – Pre-K3 class
We read the story, “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom.”
 We made coconut trees using paper towel rolls and cut out leaves. We placed
letters on Velcro so students could retell the story.
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We made coconut trees using chocolate wafers, sliced Granny Smith apples
and grapes. Students ate the coconut trees upon completion.
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Students sponge painted letters on a big coconut tree
We read the story, “When the Leaf Blew In”
 We discussed fall and what happens with the change of the season.

Students sang the song “The Leaves are Falling Down.”
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o The leaves are falling down,
o The leaves are falling down
o Red, Yellow, Green and Brown
o The leaves are falling down
Students marble painted leaves fall colors. We placed marbles in various
colors of paint. We then placed a marble in the paint. Students then used a
spoon to pick up the marbles and place them on a leaf in a container. We
closed the container and then we shook it.
Pre-K-4/5
Mrs. Fasouletos – Pre-K4/5
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This month the students in Mrs. Fasouletos’ K-1 self contained class read the
book If you Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff. They
completed the following activities:
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The students cut out Mm and non Mm pictures and sorted them by gluing
only the Mm pictures onto a piece of construction paper.
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The students were given numbered paper cookies without chocolate chips;
they then increased their knowledge of 1:1 Correspondence by dipping their
finger into brown paint to place the correct amount of chocolate chips onto
the corresponding cookie.
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The students participated in a sequencing activity about how to make
chocolate chip cookies. They made cookies and ate them.
Kindergarten and First Grade
Mrs. Kosiakowski’s – Kindergarten class and First Grade

In the month of September, Mrs. Kosiakowski's Math class learned that
numbers can be represented in a variety of equivalent forms. We counted
groups of ten and identified their corresponding number of ones. We also
practiced using ten blocks and ones to represent numbers up to 99.
Second and Third Grade
Mrs. Cutruzzula’s – Second and Third Grade class

Mrs. Cutruzzula’s students each brought in their favorite book from home
on Reading Celebration Day. The children shared their books with one
another and gave a short summary of the book. They each designed a poster
to advertise their favorite book.
Physical Education
Mrs. Scalia’s – Phys. Ed. Class

The 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students have begun their pedometer program for
the 2009/2010 school year. Our goal is to “Walk Across America”. Students
in each physical education class use pedometers and track their steps on a
chart. Next month students will learn how to keep track on the computer
using the website ‘Log It’, which encourages students to be physically active
and they can virtually walk around the USA with their classmates.
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Students in grades K-2 are busy learning how to play hopscotch on our newly
painted hopscotch boards on the blacktop, as well as working on basic
locomotor skills and tagging games.
Art
Ms. Cronk’s – Art Class

Ms. Cronk’s art classes began the school year with name design projects!
These projects promoted individuality and self esteem. Art classes grades K2 participated in Reading Celebration Day with a variety of projects from
bookmarks to story illustrations. Ms. Cronk’s classes ended the first month
of school by beginning a unit of autumn creations!
Nurse
Ms. DeVenio
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Welcome Back to School ! We are hoping for a healthy, happy school year.
We celebrated Johnny Appleseed and APPLES as a healthy snack. Start
each day with a healthy breakfast and choose a healthy lunch and snack on
fruits and vegetables.
HANDWASHING frequently for at least 20 seconds is suggested to protect
from germs. Singing Happy Birthday or the Alphabet Song twice is a fun way
to remember how long to wash.
H1N1 FLU updates with staff as well as information on ANAPHYLAXIS and
ALLERGIES have been shared .
Conferences with parents as needed have been taking place on a continuing
basis.