March/April 2013 - Guilford Public Schools

ADAMS’ ADVOCATE
Guilford, CT March - April 2013
Catherine Walker, Principal
Robert Loizeaux, Assistant Principal
With the “Blizzard of 2013” becoming a distant memory, I would like to take this time to thank our
custodians for all their efforts in preparing our schools for the safe return of our students and staff. It
was a truly challenging time for all of us as we dug ourselves out of this “New England” winter storm.
Spring! Think Spring!!!
Connecticut Mastery Testing will take place during the month of March. Numerous parents have
made gift certifi cate contributions to enable the PTO to create baskets for our CMT-incentive program.
The PTO has prepared thirty-six baskets of kid-friendly items for students who show diligence
throughout the CMTs. This CMT-incentive program began as a PTO grant request from our math
teacher, Bernie Brennan, and we are pleased to offer it again this year. Each day the CMT proctors
will recognize, with an Adams CARES coupon, every students who demonstrates consistent effort
and perseverance during testing. Students may put their coupons in one of six boxes for a chance at
one of the Team gift baskets. Additionally, students may use their coupons towards specifi c activities
or rewards developed by a core team or department.
Mastery testing begins on Monday, March 4th through Friday, March 15th. The tests will be administered
from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Makeup testing will begin Monday, March 18th through Tuesday,
March 26th. Students will be pulled from regularly scheduled classes for makeups. If possible,
please schedule your child’s appointments before or after the testing window. If you wish, you may
provide your child with a snack that he/she may eat before testing begins each day.
Thank you for your continued support,
Catherine Walker and Bob Loizeaux
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR GUILFORD PARK AND RECREATION
The Community Center will be open to students after school from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm only on Tuesdays,
Thursdays and Fridays. They do not have supervison for students on any other day. This decision has
been made due to recent vandlism to the building and for the safety of the students.
Guilford High School Freshman Orientation
March 18, 2013 Last name A-L
March 19, 2013 Last name M-Z
7:00 p.m.
GHS Auditorium
(If you have a confl ict on your child’s night, please attend the other session.)
Online course selection for incoming ninth graders:
The PowerSchool portal will be open for course selection
March 20th - April 5th

Mrs. Maureen Spinnato
453 – 2755, Ext. #226 FROM THE HEALTH OFFICE
Students planning on trying out for sports this spring or next year must have a completed emergency card,
signed by a parent, submitted to the coach. Upon selection to a team a student must have a current physical
exam form fi led with the school nurse. A physical is considered current if it has occurred within 365 days of
the fi rst competition. Please submit forms to the school nurse before noon.
Please pack a snack for your child, especially if they haven’t had breakfast.
POSTURAL SCREENING NOTICE
Postural screening of all students will be held this spring during gym class.
The screening is to fi nd students with possible curvature of the spine, such as Scoliosis, a side-wards curvature
of the spine. In the early stage it is painless and appears gradually, especially during the years of rapid
teenage growth. It is often confused with poor posture. Some cases of Scoliosis are so mild as to need no
medical attention. Others get progressively more severe as the child grows. If detected in its early stages,
during the growth years, exercises or a brace may be all that is needed to prevent further curvature. Unfortunately,
if not detected and treated early, the curvature can become great enough to severely affect a person’s
appearance and health.
Screenings are conducted individually to provide privacy. Clothing (bathing suit/sun outfi t) may be worn if the
entire back, including waistline/hips can be observed. The procedure is simple: the trained examiner inspects
the child’s spine as he/she stands and bends forward. If a spinal problem is suspected the child is re-screened.
If your child is found to have a possible curvature, you will be notifi ed and asked to take your child to his/her
physician for further examination. An X-ray may be indicated.
Please inform the school nurse if your child has a known postural problem prior to the screening in school. For
further information about postural screening, contact the school nurse at 453-2755, Ext # 226, between 8:00
a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
No Child Left Behind Act
As part of the federal No Child Left Behind Act, parents may request information regarding the professional
qualifications of their child’s teachers. Please submit written requests to the school office for this information.
GUILFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS
PUBLIC NOTICE - NONDISCRIMINATION
The Guilford Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, national/ethnic
origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or disability in its programs, activities, and employment
practices. Questions or complaints related to Title IX should be directed to Jason J. Beaudin, Assistant Superintendent,
701 New England Road, Guilford, CT 06437 or at 203-458-6666, ext 27; questions or complaints related to disabilities,
should be directed to Virginia Brown, Director of Pupil Services, 280 South Union Street, Guilford, CT 06437 or at (203)
453-0128.
3/2013

SUPPORT SERVICES
DEPARTMENT
Mrs. Fran McGrath & Mrs. Carolyn Vanacore,
School Counselors
Phone 453-2755 Ext. #132 and #134
IMPORTANT DATES:
TRANSITION INFORMATION
6th to 7th Grade Transition News: All 6th Grade parents and students
are invited to Adams on Monday, April 8, 2013 (Teams 6-1 & 6-2) and
Tuesday, April 9, 2013 (Teams 6-3 & 6-4) from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. The
Adams Staff will give an overview of programs and the Peer Helpers
will lead building tours. Informational packets will be distributed at this
time. Parents will have the opportunity to complete a Parent Survey/
Learning Profi le for their child and to let us know of any special considerations/concerns
for placement in 7th Grade. Scheduling of 7th
Graders does not occur until May but we encourage parental input so
we can make the best placement for your child.
7th Grade News: Seventh Grade teachers will be completing student
transition cards for next year in April. If you have any questions
or concerns about the progress your child has made or about placement,
please schedule a team conference with your child’s teachers.
Parents are welcome to complete a Parent Survey/Learning Profi le
to assist us with next year’s placement. In early May, seventh grade
students in pre-algebra will take the Iowa Algebra Readiness Test and
all seventh graders will take the Math Basic Skills Test. Both tests
will be used as criteria for math placement in eighth grade, along with
Mastery Test scores and teacher recommendations.
8th Grade News: If you have any questions or concerns about your
child’s recommendations for high school, please discuss them with
your child’s team. You and your child are invited to attend an Informational
Session at Guilford High School on March 18th (last name
A-L) and March 19th (last name M-Z). Between March 20th and April
5th, 8th graders will make their on-line course selections from home
through PowerSchool. Even if you think your child may not attend
Guilford High School, it is important to make a preliminary schedule.
If you already know your child will not be attending Guilford High
School, please notify the counselor in writing as soon as possible.
Mrs. Vanacore will be assisting those students who need help
in completing their registration, by appointment, following on-line registration.
Please contact Mrs. Vanacore if you need her assistance at
extension #134.
Keep the Peace at Adams: Students who have questions, comments,
or concerns about things happening at Adams can place an anonymous
note in one of our “Keep the Peace” boxes. This includes, but is
not limited to sharing concerns about someone being mean to others,
ideas to improve the school, or any question they may want to ask.
Boxes are located in Student Support Services or the Library Media
Center. Remind your child that these boxes are available or that they
can speak with someone in our Support Services Offi ce directly.
8th grade H.S. Recommendations
available to students and parents
March 11th -15th, 2013
8th to 9th GHS Meetings
Monday, March 18, 2013
Last name A-L
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Last name M-Z
7:00—8:30 PM
GHS Auditorium
(If you have a conflict on your child’s night,
please attend the other session.)
GHS On-Line Scheduling
March 20 -April 5, 2013
(Adams Counselor will assist students and
parents without computer access at home.)
6th to 7th Orientation
Monday, April 18, 2013 (Teams 6-1 & 6-2)
Tuesday, April 19, 2013 (Teams 6-3 & 6-4)
Parents and Students
Adams Gym
7:00—8:30 p.m.
If you have a conflict on your child’s
night please attend the other session.
PUBLIC SCHOOL CHOICE
IN CONNECTICUT
Over the last ten years, the state of Connecticut
has expanded the range of public schools
available to parents and students. Your options
now include charter schools, magnet schools,
schools in neighboring districts (the OPEN
CHOICE program), vocational agriculture centers,
and vocational technical high schools.
Information on all of these choices is available
in the booklet, “Public School Choice in Connecticut,
A Guide for Students and Their Families”.
The booklet is available on the web at www.
state.ct.us/sde or you may request a copy from:
State Department of Education
Division of School Improvement
Box 2219
Hartford, CT 06145

Peer Helpers continue their volunteer
efforts in and out of school. They have
gone shopping to fi ll the shelves at
the Guilford Food Pantry, have begun
tutoring, worked with Guilford Park & Recreation on the
DAY committee, and made Valentines for the residents of
Evergreen Woods Health Center. They have been busy
organizing a brochure for all students, to help them prepare
for and do their best on CMTs in March. In April,
Peer Helpers will assist with the 6th Grade Parent and
Student Orientation, providing tours of the school.
FROM THE COUNSELORS’ BOOKSHELVES
This month we offer a short, easy-read book about the process of letting go as children become teens and
young adults. It offers practical advice for the testing that occurs in this age group as you and they adjust to
the changes of adolescence. Thomas W. Phelan, Ph.D. is the author of Surviving Your Adolescents : How to
Manage and Let Go of Your 13 – 18 Year Olds. Glen Ellyn, IL. Child Management, Inc.
STUDY TIPS FOR PARENTS
Have you ever wondered how to help your child with his/her studies without giving too much help? Finding
the balance between independence and assistance can be tricky, but here are a few pointers:
• Let your child know that homework and studying are a top priority. Have a regular time to study, and
don’t let other activities cut into that time.
• Give your child an organized, quiet place to study. Provide materials and supplies, and take an active
role in keeping the distractions to a minimum while your child is studying.
• Help your child budget time, and avoid over-scheduling him/her. A few after-school activities are fi ne, but
studying, sleep and family time are equally important.
• Be available for questions, but don’t hover or provide answers to your child. Homework is the child’s
responsibility. While you may need to monitor assignments for a child who is unorganized, you do not
need to continue this once the child shows he/she can handle it alone.
• Assist your child in developing a system of organization that works for him/her. Many students rush to
get to their next class without putting papers in the proper section or folder. Taking a few minutes each
evening to fi le the papers in the right place helps keep things where they can be found easily. Having a
Homework folder for work coming home and going back helps some students. Help your child clean out
his/her binder at least once a week, keeping unnecessary papers in a fi le folder at home until the unit has
ended or the teacher instructs students to discard the materials.
TIPS FOR CMT TESTING
• Help your child stay healthy during the testing period - students who are absent will have to make up
missed tests after the regular sessions are over. Encourage your child to have a regular, early bedtime
and get plenty of rest during the testing period. Also, help your child choose healthy snacks.
• Remind your child that these tests are important to see how their learning is progressing, and to do his/
her best on the tests.
• If your child is anxious about the testing, encourage him/her to talk about it with a counselor.

The Placement Process at Adams Middle School 2012-2013
In order to ensure that each student is placed appropriately for his/her individual needs, please read about our
placement process.
April/May, 2013 - Placement data is collected. Parents may complete a Parent Survey/Student Profi le for their
child or write a letter about their child’s strengths, weaknesses, preferred learning conditions and personality.
In your letter, do not make specifi c teacher/team requests or friend requests—these will not be considered in
the placement process. Students with social/emotional concerns documented by teachers, counselors, or
administrators in the previous grade or school may be given that consideration in placement. However, the
academic need of the student is the overriding determinant in team placement. Current teachers will complete
a Student Transition Card for the child indicating the achievements and effort of the child in Language
Arts (English & Reading) and Math. All core academic teachers may provide additional comments. Music
and World Language choices are made with parental input; forms will be sent home in April/May. Pre-algebra
placement decisions are made based on the established placement criteria.
May/July 2013 - Counselors will utilize all available information for students to make initial team placements.
Placements will be made on one of three teams for each grade with the following considerations; (1) academic
needs of the child, with a balanced representation of high, average and low achieving students on each team,
including accelerated math students and special needs students (2) balanced teams for gender, music choice,
language choice (3) scheduling of classes with restricted schedules (4) reserved placement to allow for new
student enrollments.
July/August 2013 - Scheduling is completed over the summer.
August, 2013 - Team placements mailed home the third week of the month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to complete a Parent Survey/Student Profi le for my child—can’t I just call or let the sending
school provide information? Parents are encouraged to complete the survey, included in the January/February
and March/April Advocate, because parental input is important in helping us to know your child better.
While we will obtain information from the previous year’s teachers, we do not rely solely on this information. If
there is something important you need to convey to us, please do not hesitate. Each school counselor manages
a caseload of approximately 300 students. This makes it very diffi cult to handle a large volume of phone
calls regarding placement without it having a negative impact on our current students. We encourage you to
give us your input in writing, and to restrict phone calls to urgent or critical matters only.
Why can’t I request a teacher for my child? All of our teachers at Adams are highly qualifi ed, and our teams
are well-balanced to have a variety of teaching styles to meet individual student needs. We make every effort
to fi nd the right team match for each child, based on all the input received. It is unfair to make a request based
on the opinions of others, or from another child’s experience. Each child is unique and may or may not benefi t
from having the same teacher(s) as a sibling.
I am concerned my child won’t know anyone on his/her team—can my child be placed with friends? We realize
that seventh and eighth grade can be a diffi cult time socially, however, it is also a good opportunity to encourage
your child to develop new relationships. We do try to ensure that each student has peers they are friendly
with on their team. However, we can not guarantee placement with specific friends.
What do I need to do to make sure my child gets his/her Music and World Language choices? In late April or
early May, you will receive forms to sign regarding Music choices (7th & 8th grade) and World Language choice
(grade 7 only). Please be sure to sign and return these forms as quickly as possible. If we do not hear from
you, your child will be signed up for their current Music choice, and for an open section of World Language.
What if my child takes a full schedule and can’t handle the workload? Can he/she drop a class? Most students
who are having difficulties fi nd that they are temporary and by consulting with the teacher(s) and counselor,
these issues can be resolved without having to drop a class. If a child is experiencing academic failure, there
may be a reduction in the music schedule. Students with learning diffi culties may also be exempted from World
Language study in order to address their academic needs.

INTERNET SAFETY
Helping your middle school child and teens stay safe on the internet is an important responsibility. Facebook,
MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, AIM, texting and all the technology which makes staying in touch so easy also
opens the door for unwanted intruders into your child’s and family’s life. The following tips from the experts will
help you make sure your child is safe on-line:
• Most social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter do have age restrictions, but do not believe
that your child cannot create an account because of this. Children often lie about their birth date to create
an account, even basically honest kids, all in the name of social acceptance. Also, there are so many new
accounts created every day, so don’t rely on the website administrators to catch it, because they usually
don’t.
• If you do allow your middle schooler to use these sites, make sure the account is set up as private and
frequently monitor it. Know your child’s password, scan their friends list and make sure you look at what is
posted on their page and their friends’ pages. Even if their page is private, if their friends are public, they
will appear on other’s pages and be accessible to anyone who accesses that friend’s account. Make sure
your child knows how to block unknown or unwanted postings, and encourage them to report others who
are inappropriate using the website. They can do this anonymously.
• What gets posted on-line is easily accessed by everyone. Never post personal information on the internet.
Remind your child that whatever they say or do can potentially be seen by future employers, private school
admissions counselors, and later colleges. Being mean or hurtful on line and/or making threats, can lead
to police involvement. The intention of these sites is to network socially, keep in touch with distant friends,
etc. and they should only use it for this purpose.
• Set time limits. Whether it is on-line gaming or social networking, middle schoolers have diffi culty setting
limits. Come up with a reasonable amount of time for your child to be on-line. You might even set limits
on usage during the week (school work only Monday through Friday), or ban computer usage when you’re
not home. Most computers have a parental controls option under user accounts. You can set timers for the
computer usage. There are also programs you can purchase to monitor websites visited by your young
teen.
• Place computers in common spaces in your house, like family rooms and kitchens, where you can see
what your child is doing. If you can, preview sites ahead of time with your child, and discuss what sites are
appropriate for them to visit.
• Remember that the internet is available on your child’s cell phone. You will need to monitor all internet
enabled devices, and your child should remember that the same rules apply on the phone as on the computer.
CELL PHONE USE AND TEXTING ARE PROHIBITED DURING SCHOOL HOURS.

ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Transition Information
Parent Survey Student Profile
Please complete this form and return to the Main Office at Adams Middle School.
The information you provide will help the Adams staff make the most appropriate placement for your
child.
Please describe your child from an overall perspective (academic/social/athletic, etc.):
My child’s strengths are: _________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
My child’s weaknesses are: _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
My child’s interests are: __________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Good Study Habits contribute to a student’s success in school.
Which best describes how your child studies?
_____ My child studies well independently, with little to no parent support.
_____ My child studies somewhat independently, with some regular parent support.
_____ My child is dependent upon parent support during study time.
Does your child have a regular study time in his/her daily schedule? Yes or No
If yes, the study time is used for (check all that apply):
_____ homework _____ copying over notes _____ studying for quiz/test
_____ reading _____ reviewing notes _____ general studying
_____ outlining _____ note taking _____ making/reviewing fl ashcards
Check the instructional conditions that best
support your child’s preferred learning style
(check all that apply):
_____ class discussion
_____ hands-on projects and activities
_____ independent (solo) projects
_____ independent reading/note taking
_____ lecture/note taking
_____ multi-sensory learning opportunities
_____ oral performance
_____ pair work
_____ small group work
_____ written communication/assignments
_____ my child learns well in most any
environment
Please describe any unique or special
considerations we should be aware of
in placing your child next year (teaching
styles, previous learning concerns, family/home
issues):

STUDENT RECOGNITION
ADAMS C.A.R.E.S MOTTO
COMMUNITY, ATTITUDE,RESPECT
EFFORT, & SCHOLARSHIP
DECEMBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
JANUARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
TEAM 7-1
Molly Babbin
Rachel Brown
Carter Cox
Aaron Helsel
TEAM 7-2
Olivia Ghantous
Sam Jankura
Danny Maguire
Gabby Palumbo
TEAM 7-3
Kayla Bryan
TEAM 8-1
Julia Ellman
Michael Lu
Danielle Ott
Sam Sessions
TEAM 8-2
Camryn Craig
Riley Hodson
Josh Rodes
Camryn McGuire
TEAM 8-3
Jack Hodgson
Hannah Soucy
David Standrowicz
Mikayla Zeitlin
TEAM 7-1
Jackson Fischback
Jordan Hedge
Jonathan Kronengold
Devyn Luden
Max Suits
TEAM 7-2
Will Breeze
Abe LeGrant
Chloe Shaw
Grace Zhou
TEAM 7-3
Johnluke Cianciolo
Julia Lemoine
TEAM 8-1
Molly Kosh
Remy Lepeak
Nina Scarpa
Tommy Yanbul
TEAM 8-2
Andrea Boskovic
Avery DeMille
Kayley McLaughlin
Zach Rodes
TEAM 8-3
Alec Andreucci
Max Martin
Jessica Villano
Caitlin Walsh
Our apologizes to Charlotte Babbin, Team 7-1 who was not listed as November Student of the Month.
Oops! We put her sister’s name instead. Sorry Charlotte!
**The names of some “Students of the Month” may have been omitted
as per parental request via the Privacy Policy.

STUDENT RECOGNITION
WORLD LANGUAGE
DECEMBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
JANUARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
GRADE 7
William Boender
Matt Donlan
Lia Dwyer
Sydney Feinberg
Jackson Fischbach
Heather Goodman
Audrey Larrow
Ainsley Mackenzie
Nickolas Moeckel
Gavin Popkin
Steven Prinz
Emma Rand
GRADE 8
Mabel Bartlett
Avery DeMille
Orlando Diaz
Sofia Guarino
Sara Linsmeier
Kendra Luden
Ben Levy
Rowan Page
Juliana Urban
Conrad Poole-Wysopal
Caroline Wienkamp
GRADE 7
Johnluke Cianciolo
Deirdre Hackett
Josh Krause
Bryce Makula
Thomas Mitzelfelt
Rishi Nallur
Hannah Plaziak
Faren Roth
Alexis Sattler
Logan Smith
Parker Toth
Zachary Wang
GRADE 8
Alicia Afonos
Bajram Metjahic
Natalie Cassar
Jack Hodgson
Jake Moscarelli
Nick Munoz
Carly Sommo
Kaitlyn Vitelli
Julia Watrous
John Wettemann
Paige White
Nick Zoarski
**The names of some “Students of the Month” may have been omitted
as per parental request via the Privacy Policy.
STUDENT RECOGNITION
UNIFIED ARTS
DECEMBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
Grade 7
Devyn Luden
Mike Zhou
Grade 8
Mary Beames
Jason Spadacenta
JANUARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
Grade 7
Emma Macy
William Smith
Grade 8
Marketa Hlouskova
John Wettemann

CURRICULUM FOCUS
TEAM 7-1 NEWS
Writing is an important focus of our Language Arts curriculum. Students attended a theater trip in December,
as a culminating activity to our short story unit. Students became theater critics and wrote their own reviews
as argumentative essays. This activity was part of our persuasive essay unit which precedes the March Connecticut
Mastery Tests.
Students also practiced their writing skills as a reaction to reading informational articles. They cited evidence
to argue whether our schools should use bottled water or tap water. This type of argumentative writing will be
part of an ongoing effort to introduce students to learning activities aligned with the new Common Core State
Standards.
Students also responded to and analyzed excerpts from Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
In this way, they honored the legacy of this great civil rights leader.We enjoy working with our students to improve
their written communication skills. These efforts will provide a lifelong skill for success in school and in
professions.
Miss Meyerjack’s science classes are actively engaged in the life science portion of the science curriculum.
They have been discovering cell structures and functions and learning how cells are a part of our everyday
lives. Students have used the microscope to view plant cells from onions and elodea, and have also observed
osmosis in potatoes. The cell unit will soon segue into the human body systems unit. During this unit,
students will perform the “Feel the Beat” lab, a CMT embedded task. Additionally, students, who chose to
participate, are fi nishing the optional enrichment project for the Science Fair. Four winning participants will be
chosen to compete in the Connecticut Science Fair in March.
In Miss Golembieski’s math class, all students have completed the pre-algebra unit including rational operations,
solving one- and two-step equations, and solving and graphing inequalities. In class we are interpreting
graphs, plotting coordinates, and examining variable relationships. Students are using graphs and tables
to make inferences about data and discuss their fi ndings. Students work individually and collaboratively in
group challenges to enhance the curriculum. Students are organized for effort during hands-on activities. To
increase student-engagement and promote active learning, students will be competing in a homework challenge
during quarter three, aspiring for 100% completion of daily assignments.
In Mr. Vail’s social studies class, students are beginning their unit on Latin America. We are beginning by
studying the physical geography of the region as well as the political landscapes. We will also examine the
history and various cultures that comprise this region. In the school wide Geography Bee, which is part of a
national competition, Nicholas George and Rishi Nallur had a tie-break round to determine who would represent
Team 7-1. Nicholas George won the tie-breaker and was our representative. Additionally, Team 7-1 has
a strong participation in the Debate Club. In this club students learn how to develop arguments on both sides
of a debate proposition and present them to an audience. This club will partake in a state-wide competition
which will be held in Deep River on April 30th.

CURRICULUM FOCUS
TEAM 8-1 NEWS
The Team 8-1 science classes have had a very exciting year! We have been having lots of fun while learning
some very interesting science concepts. We elevated toy cars and learned about acceleration and studied
fl ying pigs to learn about centripetal force. The physics unit culminated with Rube Goldberg Day where the
students built fascinating contraptions to accomplish simple household tasks, such as watering a plant or making
toast! Last month the students observed the changing phases of the moons and learned about why we
experience different seasons. Currently, we are studying genetics and heredity and learning how traits are
passed from one generation to the next. In addition, a number of students have been helping to raise our baby
trout which we look forward to releasing when we visit the West River in May.
Clearly, the emphasis in Ms. Volkova’s and Mrs. Griffi th’s language arts classes has been on reading like
detectives analyzing ideas, structure, and author’s craft as well as writing like investigative reporters with emphasis
on organization, precise language, and thorough elaboration. We began the year with a brief review
of the elements of fi ction and applied this knowledge to various short stories and narrative nonfi ction. Since
then, students have independently read nonfi ction books as well as historical novels, such as Uncle Tom’s
Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe, Day of Tears by Julius Lester, and With Every Drop of Blood by James and
Christopher Collier. In a further connection to the social studies curriculum, students have read and analyzed
a speech by Frederick Douglass entitled “The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro,” writing essays analyzing
his persuasive techniques, the tone, and the principle arguments. Presently, we are engaged in a co-curricular
research unit with social studies in support of their study of topics, such as slavery, the Civil War, and westward
expansion.
In Mrs. Elliott’s social studies classes, students are busy at work on the 8th grade research paper. This is a
combined social studies and language arts unit where lessons focus on essential skills, such as identifying an
information need, writing research questions, selecting resources, note-taking, outlining, and writing a thesis
statement. The topics for the paper reinforce important themes in the 8th grade U.S. History curriculum and
allow students to explore how specifi c individuals, events, and beliefs in the 19th century infl uenced the development
of our country. Our students have put a tremendous amount of effort into this assignment and we
cannot wait to read the fi nal products!
In Miss Gellert’s Pre-Algebra class, the students recently fi nished working on a unit learning about applying
percents. We solved problems to fi gure out discount, tax, tip, simple interest, and percent of change. In Algebra
and Geometry, the students took the midterm at the end of January and their hard work paid off in that they all
did a fabulous job. Currently in Algebra, we are in the middle of chapter 7 learning about the different methods
of how to solve a system of equations with two variables. In Geometry, we have moved on to learning about
quadrilaterals. Students will continue to apply what they have learned about triangles and make connections
to prove the new properties. Additionally, we are preparing for the CMT’s.
Finally, in our recent Spelling Bees, the classroom winners are Billy Yerxa, Gaston Kaisin, Danny Melillo, Brendan
Thompson, and Olivia Liebler. Olivia Liebler is also the team winner. Congratulations!

CURRICULUM FOCUS
2013-2013 SCIENCE FAIR
An enthusiastic group of seventh grade students bravely took on the challenge of creating independent Science
Fair research investigations during the second quarter. During the past few months, students created
his or her own experimental question, hypothesis, test procedures, and subsequently collected and analyzed
data. The fi nal product included a written report and Science Fair display board.
Science teachers and judges were very impressed with the dedication and motivation of those students who
clearly spent a great deal of time to independently apply scientifi c investigation skills. The fi nal reports and
display boards tell wonderful stories of each student’s research from start to fi nish.
Display boards and reports were evaluated for application of scientifi c thought, depth and quality of work, application
of scientifi c skills, and clarity of each project display board. We applaud all students who took the
time and effort to carry out an optional investigation. Each student should feel very proud of his or her efforts
throughout the process.
Four projects were chosen to represent Adams Middle School at the Connecticut Science Fair at Quinnipiac
University in March. We are pleased and proud to send the following projects forward:
• The Effect of Different types of light-bulbs on Relative Effi ciency by Andrew Chapman
• The Effect of Different Landscaping Methods on Topsoil Erosion and Prevention by Jackson Fischbach
and Andre Kish
• The Effect of Age on Optical Illusion Recognition by Faren Roth
• The Effect of Color on Light Refraction by Rachael Brown and Claire Keanna
In addition, fi ve projects earned honorable mention:
• The Effect of Pesticides on the Decomposition Rate of Produce by Keely Greiner
• The Effect of Peer Pressure on Middle Schoolers’ Decision Making by Isobel Nairn
• Are Fingerprint Patterns Inherited? by Sam Whitney
• The Effect of Iodine Amount on Sublimation Time by Haoyi Lei/Alexis Sattler
• How Length affects the Oscillation of a Pendulum by Megan Dear
Congratulations to all students who entered projects in the Science Fair. We look forward to
seeing how our students’ projects do at the Connecticut Science Fair in March!
**The names of some “Science Fair” students may have been omitted as per parental request via the Privacy Policy.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GEOGRAPHY BEE
During the fi rst week of January, all students at AMS participated in the National Geographic Geography Bee.
The Geography Bee tests student’s knowledge of United States and World Geography. Questions are focused
on such topics as culture, major world cities, physical features, continents, country and state locations.
The team fi nalists included: Nicholas George - Team 7-1, Hannah Plaziak Team 7-2, Connor Backes, Team
7-3, Billy Yerxa Team 8-1, Greg Sullivan Team 8-2 and David Strandrowicz Team 8-3. All of the finalists competed
against one another in a dramatic competition and the results were David Standrowicz - 1st place, Billy
Yerxa - 2nd place and Greg Sullivan - 3rd place.
The competition was very exciting!

STUDENT ACTIVITIES
CONNECTICUT MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION’S REGIONAL ENSEMBLES
Every year musicians from Adams audition against students from the surrounding 40 towns for the opportunity to perform
with the Connecticut Music Educators Association’s regional ensembles. This year Adams is sending an astounding 51
students to represent Guilford. These students will prepare their music in advance of the festival weekend and, after just
two days of rehearsals with the ensemble, will perform on March 2nd.
Adams would like to congratulate the following musicians who will participate:
Orchestra: Josh Rodes, Steven Mustakos, Jeffrey Eng, Olivia Ghantous, Josh Stern, Alexis Wainer, Ryan Xie, Sydney
Feinberg, Edmund Rogers, Mimi Ren, Finn Anderson, Acadia Hall, Ben Mustakos, Rishi Nallur, Remy Lepeak, Trinity Flynn,
Sam Jelley, Steven Prinz, Andrea Boskovic, Kayla Bryan, Kyle Dwyer, Ally Fannon, Emma Frohling, Charlene Guo, Claire
Keanna, Olivia Liebler, William May, Thomas Mitzefelt Chloe Shaw, Michael Zhou
Band: Sanay Ayele, Connor Backes, John Brunetti, Finn Davidson, Samantha Doria, Luke McNamara, Emily Nolan, Micayla
O'Connor, Juliana Tedeschi
Chorus: Carina Fresa, Jessenia Fuentes, Charlotte Hunsaker, Hannah McDermott, Ava Regas, Nina Scarpa, Dana Shelton
Jazz Band: Brendan Balestracci, Nick DiRaffaele, Brian Hao, Jonathan Orce
STUDENT AND STAFF ANNUAL BASKETBALL GAME
On February 15th, students and faculty came together to watch and participate in “The
Big Game.” In its tenth year, the event opened with Mrs. Johnson and Keynotes singing their rendition of the
“Star-Spangled Banner”. This year’s game started with a beautiful dedication to Tammy McDowell, a former
physical education teacher at Adams, who lost her brave battle against cancer last summer.
The game quickly got underway with a jumper from Team McDowell. That would be Team McDowell’s only
lead, but they were not going to give up easy. However, the students’ squad kept scoring, and scoring, and
scoring. As the student lead increased, Team McDowell hung in there. When halftime came, the Team Mc-
Dowell squad was looking to regroup and stay positive, and the student squad was fi red up and looking for a
runaway. As a halftime show, students were surprised as a faculty fl ash mob broke out to “Gangnam Style”.
After the exciting entertainment, both teams were ready for the second half. Mr. Bushnell gave a ray of hope
to the Team McDowell squad when he drained a 3-point shot, but the student squad quickly responded with
one of their own. The game ended with the students winning 39-19. Both teams had a lot of fun and showed
genuine respect for one another. Team McDowell will be ready for a rematch next year in the 11th Annual “Big
Game”. We would also like to recognize the Adams Faculty Cheerleaders for their positivity and spirit as well
as, Mr. Jones for the sound system.

PTO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Co-Presidents: Gilbert Moeckel - gilbert.moeckel@yale.edu
Alice Slate - alice_slate@hotmail.com
Secretary: Jennifer Moore
Treasurer: Linda McClintock
PTO Meetings
Room M1 - 6:30 PM
March 14, 2013
8th Grade Dinner Dance
Save the Date: Friday, June 21, 2013
Where:
Time:
Adams Middle School
6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Dress:
Dressy Casual – No tee-shirts, jeans or nylon shorts allowed!
Baby Photo Showcase: Submit one COPY (preferably color) of a baby photo (3 years or younger) to the Main
Offi ce by April 30th. PHOTOS WILL NOT BE RETURNED. Photo must be either 3x5 or 4x6. Please write
your child’s name on the back of the photo.
Parent Volunteers are welcomed and encouraged for this memorable event.
E-mail Courtenay Cooper at courtcoop77@yahoo.com
The next dance committee meeting will be held on March 14th from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. in room M1.
PTO SPONSORS CULTURAL ARTS PROGRAMS
Eighth graders will see the Celebration Jazz Band perform on April 9, 2013. This talented group has performed
at Adams for a number of years. Their jazz program is tailored to parallel the eighth grade social studies curriculum
and chronicles the social and economic history of the United States through music. The program is always a
big hit with the students and often has people dancing in the aisles.

ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Connecticut Mastery Testing:
M
A
R
SUN MON TUES WED THUR FRI SAT
3 4 J
CMT’S
5 K
DIRECT
ASSESSMENT
OF WRITING
6 L
CMT’S
7 A
CMT’S
1 I
8
CMT Practice
Test Make-up
SOUTHERN REGIONAL
MUSIC FESTIVAL
SNOW
DAY
2
SOUTHERN REGIONAL
MUSIC FESTIVAL
9
10 11 B
CMT’S
12 C
CMT’S
13 D
CMT’S
14 E
CMT’S
15 F
CMT’S
16
BOE BUDGET MTG
GHS LIBRARY
7:30 PM
17 18 G
CMT MAKEUP
19 H
CMT MAKEUP
20 I
CMT MAKEUP
21 J
CMT MAKEUP
22 K
CMT MAKEUP
23
GHS FRESHMAN
ORIENTATION
A-L
GHS FRESHMAN
ORIENTATION
M-Z
24 25 L
CMT MAKEUP
26 A
CMT MAKEUP
27 B
CMT MAKEUP
28 C 29
GOOD FRIDAY
30
A
P
R
CHORUS
CONCERT
7:00 PM
SNOW DATE
CHORUS CONCERT
7:00 PM
ED STUDENTS
12:53 PM
31 1 D 2 E 3 F 4 G 5 H
MUSIC
DEPARTMENT
DANCE
7:00 PM
6
7 8 I 6TH TO 7TH
PARENT/STUDENT
ORIENTATION
BOE BUDGET MTG
GHS LIBRARY
7:30 PM
9 J 6TH TO 7TH
PARENT/STUDENT
ORIENTATION
10 K 11 L 12 A 13
14 15
SPRING BREAK
16
SPRING BREAK
17
SPRING BREAK
18
SPRING BREAK
19
SPRING BREAK
20
21 22 B 23 C
24 D 25 E 26 F 27
AMS/GHS
JAZZ CONCERT
7:00 PM