Dear Parents, Welcome to the New Year! - Guilford Public Schools

Dear Parents,
Welcome to the New Year!
In this issue of the Advocate we are recognizing student participation in numerous activities. There are a variety of curricular
and extra curricular activities at Adams that provide students with opportunities to collaborate with their peers as
well as to lead, to improve planning and organizational skills, and to expand their artistic and athletic abilities. Although
most of these activities are part of the regular, reoccurring schedule throughout the year, singular opportunities do present
themselves from time to time and we encourage all students to participate in such events.
One such opportunity will be available to students on Tuesday, January 22nd, from 2:50 to 4:50 p.m. TEAM Guilford will
hold a Community Conversation at Adams for the seventh and eighth grade students. You may be aware that TEAM Guilford
is a local initiative that is identifying core community issues through a series of informal conversations with citizens.
The conversations, which commenced in November 2007 and continue through the end of January 2008, solicit input from
participants to determine the core values that are important to us as a community, identify critical issues that the community
is facing and then mobilize resources to address those needs.
As is the case for each Community Conversation, a three person team will facilitate the student conversation, which will
take place in the chorus room after school. The Conversation focuses on identifying Guilford’s strengths and critical issues,
determining the core values and healthy characteristics that are important to us as a community, and generating
ideas for action. This is a unique and special occasion for our students to express their opinions and concerns about their
town and to take an active role in a community­wide effort. When young people participate in events such as these, they
are exercising their voices as citizens. The Community Conversation will be an excellent vehicle for students to speak their
minds and to practice civics lessons that have been taught both in the home and at school. If your son or daughter is interested
in participating, please have them register in the Main Office before January 17th so that we may have sufficient
materials on hand for all participants.
Best wishes for the New Year and thank you for your continued support,
Catherine Walker and Bob Loizeaux
TEAM Guilford Community Conversation for AMS students
Tuesday, January 22, 2008 2:50­4:50 p.m. in Chorus Room
Adams Planning Team Meetings: 7:00­8:30 p.m. Adams Library Media Center
Wednesdays ­ January 23, March 19, May 21
Adams PTO Meetings: 6:30­8:00 p.m. Adams Library Media Center
Thursdays ­ January 17, March 20, April 10, May 15, June 12

Guilford Public Schools
Dr. Thomas Forcella
Superintendent
The proposed Budget Timeline for the 2008­2009 budget has been established and includes the following dates:
Monday, January 14, 2008
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Monday, February 4, 2008
2008­2009 Budget Timeline
BOE Regular Meeting ­ Budget Discussion
BOE/BOF Budget Committees Joint Meeting
BOE Public Hearing on 2008­2009 Budget
BOE Public Hearing on 2008­2009 Budget
BOE Special Meeting to Approve Budget
February and March (TBA)
Budget presented to Board of Finance
BOF Public Hearing on Budget
BOF Workshops to Discuss Budget
April (TBA)
Annual Town Budget Meeting
Referendum on Budget
A complete list of 2008­2009 Budget activities and meetings is available on the BOE website.
Dates for some of the activities are not yet available.
The site will be updated as soon as the information is available.
Parents Right­To­Know
As part of the federal ‘No Child Left Behind Act’, you may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s
teachers. You may do this by contacting the Adams Main Office in writing for this information.
Non­Discrimination Notice
The Guilford Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of a disabling condition as it applies under
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
The Guilford Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national/ethnic
origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, or disability in its programs, activities, and employment practices.
The following individuals are coordinators for Title IX (sex discrimination), Title VI (race, creed and color)
and Section 504 (disabled):
Title VI, VII and Title IX Dr. Anne Keene (203) 453­8216
Section 504 Dr. Patricia Brett (203) 453­0128

OCTOBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
NOVEMBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
TEAM 7­1
Ryan Auffant
Abdul Aziz
Austin Anderson
Natalie Bruneau
TEAM 7­1
Jacob Hastings
Tim Marchand
Paula Stocco
Taylor White
TEAM 7­2
Mike Albergo
Zach Battipaglia
Rachel Connolly
Hannah Krumholz
TEAM 7­2
Matt Brockett
Connor Remington
Sarah Rosadini
Casey Santarpia
TEAM 7­3
Erica Bonelli
Josh Cash
Kate McClement
Garrett McCormick
TEAM 7­3
Courtney Gorham
Sean Keck
Hannah Makula
Nico Van de Bovenkamp
TEAM 8­1
Eric Pasay
Megan Powell
Adam Strilbyckij
Ariel Youngblood
TEAM 8­1
Charlene Carmons
Shane Fonicello
Corinne Sejeurne
Andrew Weber
TEAM 8­2
Lucy Faulkner
Kevin Gozzi
Andrew Ibarra
Gioia Pappalardo
TEAM 8­2
Julianna Molloy
Spencer Price
David Slattery
Sylvina Thomas
TEAM 8­3
Robert Dombrowski
Maddie Fischer
Marissa Mormile
Anthony Tomaselli
TEAM 8­3
Mike Donlan
Shannon Scott
(The names of some “Students of the Month” have been omitted as per parental request via the Privacy Policy)
Student Workshops Address Current Social Issues
On December 18th, speakers with first hand experience with four current issues addressed the students and staff
of Team 8­1 in a lecture and question format. The “Connecticut Consortium for Law and Citizenship Education”,
based in Hartford, sponsored the speakers to address these important topics. Bullying in Schools was
addressed through audience participation and discussions relative to “bullying” and “being bullied”. Internet
Safety was presented by representatives of the “Lisa and Paul Program”, which is located in Westbrook, CT. In
this workshop, the representatives discussed and demonstrated how students can keep safe on the internet.
Youthful inmates from “Project Reach” discussed Making Good Choices, and a CT juvenile defense attorney
spoke of Children's’ Rights in the CT Juvenile Court System. These discussion supported the school­based
Character Education program at Adams and also corresponded with current events and civics and government
lessons in the eighth grade social studies curriculum.
Appropriate School Attire
The Adams dress code was established with student, staff, and parent input to provide reasonable guidelines defining attire that is
appropriate for school. It is one set of expectations that helps to insure the smooth and safe functioning of our school, for students
and staff alike. What is your child wearing to school? Is your child dressed appropriately for the cold weather? Coats are
appropriate for this time of year, as are hats and gloves; but convincing your middle school student to wear the proper clothing
and footwear can be a battle. Please know that we do support your efforts to have your child dress for the weather! Also know
that pajamas and slippers are for at­home­wear and are not appropriate school attire. Clothes and/or accessories that pose a
safety or health risk (i.e. ‘spiked’ attire, chains, clothes with rips or tears, soiled clothing) are also inappropriate. Thank you for
your cooperation. We’ll work together to help our students make good choices for their attire.

ADAMS WRESTLING TEAM
Grade 7 Grade 7 Grade 8
Teddy Adinolfi Adam Gelo Eric Acampora
Dylan Anderson Tim Harmon Alexander Desrosier
Kyle Bejnerowicz Nick Hunsaker Matt Doyle
Nick Burkle Mark Kiss Kyle Jones
Ryan Carafeno John Lisitano Evan McDougal
Josh Cash Mark Lisitano Keith Munck
Noah Criscuolo Dallas Nugent Kenneth Paecht
Zachary DeMarco JP Peters Mike Palmieri
Tyler Desisto Joe Stokes Kurt Staschke
Tony Dinse Mark Weed Ryan Sutowski
Matthew Zingarella
HOME ATHLETIC EVENTS
(subject to change due to the weather)
WRESTLING
Tuesday, January 15 Ledyard 4:00 PM
Friday, January 18 Branford (Walsh) 4:00 PM
Tuesday, February 12 Madison (Polson) 3:30 PM
BOYS’ BASKETBALL
Monday, January 7 North Haven 3:30 PM
Thursday, January 10 Hamden 3:30 PM
Thursday January 17 Madison (Polson) 3:30 PM
Thursday, January 24 Shelton 3:45 PM
Thursday, February 7 New Haven 3;30 PM
GIRLS’ BASKETBALL
Thursday, January 3 Bailey 3:30 PM
Monday, January 14 Derby 3:30 PM
Tuesday, January 22 Carrigan 3:30 PM
Monday, January 28 Orange 3:30 PM
Thursday, January 31 East Haven 3:30 PM
Monday, February 11 Madison (Polson) 3:30 PM
BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM
7th Grade 8th Grade
Mike Albergo Joe DeLucia
Zach Battipaglia Robbie Dombroski
Matt Brockett Mike Donlan
Andrew Depatie Shane Fonicello
Estevan Gutierrez Zach Fulton
Jake Hull Sean Gunn
Ado Kandic Matt Hoey
Andrew Kelly Sam Jensen
Ryan Moore Ted Jensen
Kyle Mordecia Kevin Maguire
Nick Moretti Conor McGinley
Tyler Nelson Christian Tolson
Dante Parisi Andrew Weber
G
O
A
D
A
M
S
Coaches
GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM
7th Grade
Halle Altieri
Sara Duggan
Ali Hart
Hannah Krumholz
Caroline Massey
Carla Puchini
Riley Smith
Mr. Brennan
Ms. McDowell
8th Grade
Lucy Faulkner
Meg Goodrich
Morgan Lesage
Amanda Levy
Kelly Markle
Courtney Miller
Marissa Mormile
Dominique Sobieski Hannah Oman
Caitlin Sobolewski
Kelsey Weischet
8th Grade
Ashton Bartles
Sam Berry
Jordan Panicali
Sheryl Pawlik
Kathleen Rooney
Leigh Rooney
Emilee Standish

ONGOING ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL EVENTS
Anime Club ………………..Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25
........................................Feb. 8, 15, 29
........................................March 7, 14, 28, Rm. TBA
Boys’ Ensemble................Tuesdays & Thursdays,
........................................2:40pm—3:25pm,
........................................Choral Room
Chamber Music ................Monday—Friday,
........................................7:15am—7:52am,
........................................Orchestra Room
Colorguard .......................March 28th, April 4th, April 25th,
........................................May 9th, May 16th,
........................................2:50pm—4:00pm
Drama..............................Thursdays,2:50pm—3:45pm,
........................................Band Room
Concordia.........................Tuesdays, 6:30pm­8:00pm,
........................................Band Room
Debate Team ...................Wednesdays, 2:50pm—4:15pm,
........................................Room B­2
Environmental Club ..........Every other Wednesday,
........................................2:50pm—4:15pm, Room B5
Elysium ............................Every other Thursday,
........................................3:00pm—4:00pm, Room M1
Getting Organized ............Wednesday,2:50pm—3:50pm,
........................................Conference Room
Girls’ Ensemble ................Mondays & Wednesdays,
........................................7:15am—7:55am,
........................................Choral Room
Honor Band......................Tuesdays, Thursdays and
........................................alternating Mondays
........................................7:15am—7:55am, Band Room
Jazz Band ........................Wednesday, Fridays, and
........................................alternating Mondays
........................................7:15am­ 7:55am, Band Room
Keynotes..........................Tuesdays & Thursdays,
........................................7:15am—7:55am,
........................................Choral Room
NJHS ...............................Two Tuesdays per month,
........................................2:50pm – 3:30pm, Room M­15
Peer Helpers ....................3 rd Tuesday, 2:50pm ­ 3:30pm,
........................................LMC
Raider Review..................Tuesdays,3:00pm—3:45pm,
........................................LMC’s Computer Lab.
Sign Language .................Wednesdays,3:40pm—3:40pm
........................................Room M3
Speak Out........................Fridays, 1st and 2nd Lunch,
........................................Guidiance
Young Artisans’ Club ……..Wednesdays, 2:50pm­4:00 pm,
........................................ Room B5
Peer Helpers wish to thank
Mr. Fabricant
Mrs. McGrath
Ms. Scarpa
Mrs. Vanacore
Mrs. Walker
For chaperoning the
Toys for Tots trip.
PEER HELPERS
TOYS FOR TOTS TRIP PARTICIPANTS
DECEMBER 4, 2007
Chaperones Mr. Fabricant
Mrs. McGrath
Ms. Scarpa
Mrs. Vanacore
Mrs. Walker
Rylie Ayles
Liz Barnes
Nina Bohner
Erica Bonelli
Lauren Boudreau
Colleen Burkle
Zach Cattaruzza
Peggie Chien
Alyssa Denison
Laura Deskin
Annaliese Difabbio
Sarah Durno
Anna Goodridge
Virginia Gresham
Jacob Hill
Taylor Holland
Sarah Jonathan
Hannah Krumholz
Matt Lebow
Hannah Makula
Caroline Massey
Jess Marra
Emily Ostrowski
Jenna Pacileo
Hannah Risse
Maha Saleem
Belinda Sam
Shannon Scott
Dominique Sobieski
Courtney Streeto
Paula Stocco
Brigid Sullivan
Shaun Sullivan
Natalie Stockmann
Rachel Tucker
Megan Venter
Taylor White
Ashley Williamson
Katelyn Williamson
Kaitlin Worden
The names of some of“ Toys for Tots Participant” have been
omitted as per parental request via the Privacy Policy
ELYSIUUM
ADAMS LITERARY MAGAZINE
Advisors: Miss Dean & Miss Volkova
Taylor Holland
Ashley Malafronte
Gioia Pappalardo
Medeea Popescu
Paula Stucco
The next deadline for submission is Friday, February 15th.

CONNECTICUT PHYSICAL FITNESS CHALLENGE
The Physical Fitness Awards Assembly was a very successful event for our eighth grade students.
The fitness test events include:
the tests evaluate:
(1) the mile run/walk endurance
(2) partial curl‐ups abdominal strength
(3) sit and reach flexibility
(4) pull‐ups upper body strength
Students were recognized for their achievements on three levels:
Health Level: Students who perform at this level demonstrate a healthy level of fitness‐related skills for their age.
It is considered to be a challenging , yet attainable, standard for most students
Challenge level: Students who perform at this level demonstrate exceptional fitness‐related skills for their age.
Personal Best: is awarded to students who performed at a higher level in all four categories in comparison to their
last fitness testing scores.
Student winners in the different levels are listed below.
Congratulations to these students and to all the students that participated in the fitness challenge!
Boys
Health Level
Christopher Argento
Trevor Barry
Russell Bogue
Robert Bright
Brett Camillo
Colby Cretella
Jonathon Currier
Jared Dillon
Matthew Doyle
Chad Faulkner‐Filosa
Caleb Fridell
Gavin Goeler
Kevin Jacobsen
Theodore Jensen
Tyler Leone
Kevin Maguire
Derek Mauriello
Ryder Miconi
Christopher Montesi
Derek Nelson
Michael Nocera
Kenneth Paecht
George Page
Michael Palmieri
Marco Parisi
Eric Pasay
David Prusinski
William Ring
Kyle Russo
Adam Strilbyckij
David Wagner
Tyler Wall
Boyd Whittall
Andrew Wolek
Yuning Zhang
Julia, Afeltra
Marissa, Allain
Amanda, Altieri
Remi, Ardito
June, Arriens
Emily, Bertschinger
Kendall , Borden
Lyndsay, Boudreau
Erica, Brancato
Christina, Bryant
Colleen, Burkle
Charlene, Carmona
Elizabeth , Christensen
Morgan, Cianciolo
Allison, Colberg
Sadie, Colcord
Alyssa, Dinicola
Christine, Doman
Margaret, Durso‐
Smith
Chelsea , Evered
Lucy, Faulkner
Madeline, Fischer
Jessica, Forcello
Jillian, Forcello
Megan, Galligan
Makenzie, Gennette
Caitlin, Heath
Nadia, Imanishimwe
Hailey, Jacobs
Nicole, Jewett
Sarah, Jonathon
Allyson, Kaechele
Kayla, Kreidel
Rachel, Lemarier
Girls
Health Level
Morgan, Lesage
Amanda, Levy
Julianna, Lovington
Rebecca, Mahoney
Julianna, Malloy
Colleen, Marcik
Kelly, Markle
Chrysanthi , Mayor
Courtney, Miller
Marissa, Mormile
Ryan, Morris
Anamaria, Musterer
Emily, Ott
Jordyn, Panicali
Gioia, Pappalardo
Jeanmarie, Portocarrero
Sara, Potocsny
Megan, Powell
Alison, Putney
Tess, Reichart
Leigh, Rooney
Kathleen, Rooney
Lindsey, Salatto
Amanda, Simon
Barbara, Smith
Katherine, Sperry
Amanda, Stone
Brigid, Sullivan
Emily, Taylor
Allison, Tucker
Danellys, Vargas
Caroline, Webb
Alexis, Zarrillo
Boys
Challenge Level
Robert Dombroski
Christian Hallaway
Matthew Hoey
William Palmieri
Christian Tolson
Girls
Challenge
Level
Caitlin Austin
Ashton Bartels
Corrine Sejourne
Emilee Standish
Erin Weidman
Boys
Personal Best
Eric Acampora
Joshua Bergeron
Ross Breaker
Brett Camillo
Julian Canto
Asa Deblois
Jared Dillon
Robert Dombroski
Chad Faulkner‐
Filosa
James Ferrara
Caleb Fridell
Zachary Fulton
Christian Hallaway
Kevin Jacobsen
Matthew Lebow
Kyle Mahoney
Michael Mazeiko
Ryan Mazzaro
Michael Nocera
Kenneth Paecht
Michael Palmieri
Michael Rubbo
Raymond Sherwood
Christian Tolson
Robert Uthoff
Dylan Vansteenbergen
Joshua Vargas
Andrew Wall
Andrew Wolek

ADAMS OFFERS GRIEF AND LOSS GROUP
To all Parents and Guardians;
Adams Middle School is offering a grief and loss group.
The Cove “Good Grief” School Program is for students
who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, family
member, friend or other significant person in their life.
Although not a therapy group, students will be given the
opportunity to share feelings related to their loss with other
students in the school who have experienced a similar loss.
The group will be facilitated by a Cove Facilitator and the
school social worker. Participation in the group is voluntary
for the students and requires your written permission.
The group will meet for eight consecutive weeks, beginning
after winter recess in December. Students are given
handouts summarizing each session to share with their
families.
I welcome the opportunity to talk with anyone who might
be interested in their child participating in this program.
The group will meet after school from 3:00 pm until 4:00
pm on Tuesdays. Please call me at 203­453­2755 extension
236 to discuss further. At the conclusion of the last
session, you will be receiving an invitation to express any
concerns or questions or just to discuss what has occurred
during the program. If this is something you are interested
in knowing more about please do not hesitate to call me.
Thank you,
Nora Dixon LCSW
School Social Worker
203­453­2755 X236
Exxon Mobil Corporation
Educational Alliance Grant
Elisabeth Adams Middle School is the recipient of an
Exxon Mobil Corporation Alliance Grant. We will be
using the $500 grant to supply our students’ with classroom
calculators for both our Math and Science Departments.
Thanks to Exxon for providing us with the tools to achieve
Guilford Public Schools vision, “a high performance learning
community where instruction invites effort and supports
academic rigor for all students and educators.”
Many thanks the local Exxon Mobile station, TRAV’S
INC. and to manager Mr. Jaafar Kafel for sponsoring our
school in the grant process and helping us achieve our academic
goals.
PARENT GROUPS
At Guilford Youth & Family Service
36 Graves Avenue, Guilford, CT
“TWEENS” GROUP
For parents of pre­teen and early teens
1st & 3rd Monday of the month
Starting Monday, January 7, 2008
Topics/Open Discussion Addressing:
Emotional Development
Moodiness, Fears, Sense of Self­Esteem
Social Development
Identity, Independence, Peer Pressure, Fads
Physical Development
Physical Changes, Adjusting to Changes
Intellectual Development
Concrete Thinking, formal thinking
Groups are from
12 Noon—1:30 pm
Bring Your Lunch
Join us for education, information and support.
Facilitator: Claire Keenan, LCSW
Call to register, seating is limited.
453­8047
Internet Safety Tips for Teens
From a “Teen and Pre­Teen’s Guide How to
Keep Yourself Safe on the Internet” printed by
Paul & Lisa Program, Inc. Westbrook, CT.
· Never give out your personal information
like any part of your name, your phone/cell
phone number, your passwords, the name of
your school, or credit card numbers.
· Choose a gender neutral screen name and/or
blog name
· Beware of contests or free giveaways over
the Internet;they are used to get more information
about you.
· Never send a photo of you to people you
meet over the Internet.
· Beware of on­line “friends” who offer you
gifts or send you plane tickets, they have a
hidden plan.
· Never assume that the person you are chatting
with is telling you the truth about who he
or she really is. Screen names and e­mail
addresses can be stolen. Don’t assume you
are speaking to your friend.
· Do not respond to messages that make you
feel uncomfortable.
· Leave an Internet site immediately if it contains
disturbing images or hateful material.
· Never arrange a face­to­face meeting with
someone you met online.

FROM THE SUPPORT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Mrs. Fran McGrath & Mrs. Carolyn Vanacore,
School Counselors Phone 453­2755 Ext. 2
7th Grade News – The new semester will begin on January 22nd and this means that those students who have
had Classroom Guidance the first half of the year will begin Health class with Mrs. Riggio. Seventh graders who
have not yet been in Classroom Guidance will be with Mrs. Vanacore in place of Health. In Guidance class, students
will be exploring topics like self­awareness and character, school success skills including study skills, time
management and test­taking strategies, career exploration, interpersonal relationships and communication skills.
Students also switch between two other courses, Computer and Technology Education, at the semester break.
8th Grade News – At the beginning of semester 2, those students who have been in Guidance/D.A.R.E will switch
to Health class. Eighth graders from Health class will begin the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)
class on January 22nd for ten classes. At the end of March, the eighth grade Classroom Guidance course will focus
on self­identity, character development, career exploration, stress management, conflict resolution, decision–
making strategies, goal setting, and preparing for high school. Mrs. McGrath will also provide information on the
transition to high school throughout the course, reinforcing information provided by our guest speakers from alternative
high schools, and the Guilford High School counselors.
8 to 9 Transition/Parent Conferences – As we approach the high school transition for 8th graders, you may want
to have a phone conversation or conference with your child’s teacher(s) or Mrs. McGrath. Certain teachers (Math,
Science, Language Arts and World Language) will be making preliminary high school placement recommendations
in February. These recommendations are based on your child’s work to this point. Significant changes in an
eighth grader’s achievement and/or effort during the second semester will be noted and will affect the 9th grade
placement recommendations. GHS guidance counselors will visit Adams sometime in February/March. Do not
hesitate to contact us with your questions or concerns. Parent conferences that are part of the GPS calendar are
scheduled for April 3 and 4, 2008. These dates come after the scheduling process for GHS is completed, so please
do not hold your transition questions until then.
Small Group Discussions – Lunch group discussions continue for seventh and eighth graders. These discussion
groups focus on a variety of teen concerns including self­identity, social skills, handling relationships, peer pressure,
academic concerns and more. Groups are voluntary, and meet once a week during lunch. Because of the
popularity of these groups, we now have a waiting list. If you
would like your child to be a part of our lunch group discussions,
you can contact the Student Support Services Office.
CMTS FOR ALL SEVENTH AND EIGHTH
GRADERS WILL OCCUR FROM
MARCH 1ST—MARCH 31st, 2008.
THE DIRECT ASSESSMENT OF WRITING WILL
OCCUR ON TUESDAY, MARCH 4TH, 2008.
GOOD ATTENDANCE DURING THE TESTING IS
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. IF YOU HAVE
ANY CONCERNS, DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT
YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL COUNSELOR.
TIPS FOR CMT TESTING
1. Encourage your child to have a regular,
early bedtime and get plenty of rest during
the testing period.
2. Help your child choose healthy snacks.
3. Remind your child to do his/her best on
the tests.
4. 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.
5. If your child is anxious about the testing,
encourage him/her to talk about it with a
counselor.
6. Try to avoid scheduling doctor’s appointments
during the testing period; if a child
misses even five minutes of the testing
window they will have to make up the test
during regular classroom instruction
times.

TRANSITION INFORMATION
FROM THE COUNSELORS’
BOOKSHELVES
8TH – 9TH GRADE
GUILFORD HIGH SCHOOL
FEBRUARY 2008 – Eighth grade teachers at Adams
make preliminary recommendations for high school placement.
MARCH 2008 – High School Guidance Counselors visit
Adams to present orientation and scheduling information to
students.
LATE MARCH 2008 – 8th grade parents and students will
visit the high school for an overview and to schedule
courses.
MARCH/APRIL 2008 – Course verification and final course
selections for high school.
APRIL—AUGUST 2008 ­ Updates of recommendations
conveyed to the high school personnel.
6TH – 7TH GRADE TRANSITION
JANUARY 2008 – Baldwin and Adams Counselors begin
meeting to discuss the transition to middle school.
FEBRUARY 2008– Baldwin teachers begin communicating
with parents and students about the student transition to
Adams.
MARCH 2008 – Continued communication regarding the
transition to Adams — District­wide CMT/CAPT Testing
APRIL 2008 ­ Baldwin Parent Orientation at Adams. Preliminary
Music choices made.
MAY 2008 ­ Student transition cards turned in to Adams
Middle School counselors. Algebra screening tests begin.
JUNE 2008­ Initial team placements made. Algebra
screening tests continue. Final Team Placements will be
sent home in mid­August.
Reminder: Parents please complete the student profile
for your incoming seventh grader.
This month we offer a resource that may be helpful to parents
struggling to understand their teens. David Walsh’s
Why Do They Act That Way (2004) New York, NY: Free
Press is a wonderful guide to how the teen brain works. It
will help parents understand the many changes in their
teen’s behavior, and offers many tips for getting through the
tough teen years. Explaining in easy to understand language
how the teen brain is developing, and using several examples,
Dr. Walsh helps us to realize the magnitude of development
occurring in adolescence. A great read!
PEER HELPERS
Our Toys For Local Tots campaign was a big success!
We donated over 600 new, unwrapped toys to needy children
in Guilford and surrounding shoreline towns. Toys were
disbursed through Guilford Newcomers. Thank you to everyone
who participated in our campaign! Peer Helpers contributed
$400 toward the campaign from our earlier fundraising—great
job!
Congratulations to the 40 newly trained peer helpers. Peer
helpers trained for eight weeks during lunch in communication
skills, helping skills and leadership development. Newly
trained Peer Helpers are eligible for all activities now that
they have completed their training.
We will continue our day care volunteering during the
month of January. The newly trained peer helpers will be
able to participate along with previously trained helpers.
Tutoring continues, we will make a shopping trip in February
for the food pantry, and we have been asked to work at an
upcoming children’s festival in March.
If your child missed our initial recruitment in September, but
would like to join us, please ask them to see Mrs. Vanacore,
8th grade Counselor and Peer Helpers Advisor. Two new
trainings will be offered in January.
Next Peer Helper meetings:
after school, January 22nd & February 26th.
We will discuss our spring projects, including our February
food drive for the Guilford Food Pantry, collecting for the
animal shelter, tutoring, day care work, children’s festivals
and the orientation for the Baldwin 6th graders.
We encourage all Peer Helpers to participate in the
TEAM Guilford Community Conversation, to be held at
Adams on January 22nd, after school . For more information,
please see the principal’s letter to parents on the cover
of this newsletter.

The Placement Process at Adams Middle School
In order to ensure that each student is placed appropriately for his/her individual needs,
please become familiar with our placement process and practices, below.
At Adams, the academic need of a student is the overriding factor in determining team placement.
During the spring, school counselors collect placement data from a variety of sources, including parents and
teachers. Counselors will utilize all available student data/information when making initial team placements. Parents
may complete a Parent Survey/Student Profile sheet for their child or write a letter about their child’s
strengths, weaknesses, preferred learning conditions and personality. (This form is found in this issue of the
newsletter, for your convenience.) In your letter, do not make specific teacher/team requests or friend requests.
These will not be considered in the placement process.* Current teachers will complete a Student
Transition Card for each child indicating the demonstrated ability and motivation/effort of the child in Language
Arts (English & Reading) and Math. All academic teachers may provide additional comments. Music choices are
made with parental input and the forms will be sent home in April/May. Algebra placement decisions are made
based on established, specific criteria that may be found in the Adams Curriculum Guide (available online).
Initial team placements are made during May & June. Each of the three grade level teams are:
· heterogeneous, meaning that they are composed of a balanced representation of high, average and low ability
students on each team, including accelerated math students and special needs students, and
· balanced in terms of gender, choice of music elective and choice of world language (French may not be
available on all six teams due to staffing limitations.)
Places are reserved on every team for new student (summer) enrollments during the initial placement process.
Final team placements are mailed home the third week in August.
* The academic need of a student is the overriding factor in team placement. Students with documented social/
emotional concerns will also be given consideration in team placement (written documentation of a concern may
be provided by teachers, counselors or administrators in the child’s previous grade or school).
FAQs
Do I really need to complete a Parent Survey/Student Profile for my child—can’t I just call or let the sending
school provide information?
Parents are encouraged to complete the survey, 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 so. Each school counselor at Adams
manages a caseload of approximately 300 students. It is difficult to handle a large volume of phone calls,
without it having a negative impact on our current students. We encourage you to put your thoughts and concerns
in writing.
Why can’t I request a teacher for my child?
All of our teachers at Adams are highly qualified, and our teams are well­balanced to include a variety of teaching
styles to meet individual student needs. We make every effort to find the right team match for each child, based
on all the input received. It is unfair to make a request on the basis of the opinions of others, or from another
child’s experience. Each child is unique and may or may not benefit 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 difficult 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 cannot guarantee placement with specific friends.
What do I need to do to make sure my child gets his/her Music elective choice(s)? In late April, or early
May, you will receive forms to sign regarding music choices. 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 to continue their current Music option.

ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Transition Information
Parent Survey ­ Student Profile
Please complete this form and return to the Support Services
Office at Adams Middle School.
The information you provide will help us to make the most
appropriate placement for your child.
____________________________
Student’s name
____________________________
Parent or Guardian name
____________________________
Date
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 flashcards
Check the instructional conditions that best
support your child’s preferred learning style
(check all that apply):
_____ class discussion
_____ hands­on projects and activities
_____ independent (solo) projects
_____ independent reading/note taking
_____ lecture/note taking
_____ multi­sensory learning opportunities
_____ oral performance
_____ pair work
_____ small group work
_____ written communication/assignments
_____ my child learns well in most any
environment
Please use this space and the reverse of this sheet to
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):

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, Connecticut 06145
Alternative / Choice High Schools
(Contact the schools you are interested in directly)
MAGNET SCHOOLS
Student enrollment consists of 65% New Haven students and 35% suburban students
Magnet schools lottery deadline is February 25, 2005
Cooperative Arts and Humanities High School – New Haven (203) 946­5923
With an enrollment of 400 students, this full­time high school offers art­focused courses in theater, dance, music, visual arts
and creative writing along with the regular high school academic subjects. No auditions are necessary, just an interest in Arts
and Humanities.
High School in the Community – New Haven (203) 946­7022
With an enrollment of 350 students, this high school serves students by using a nontraditional approach to education. The
focus of the day is a three­ hour “block” class, which meets five days a week for one nine­week quarter and is team taught and
interdisciplinary. Students are encouraged to develop problem­solving skills, participate actively in classes and learn individual
responsibility.
Hill Regional Career High School – New Haven (203) 946­5845
With an enrollment of 715 students, this high school provides a rigorous academic preparation and career exploration program
to prepare the students for entry into the fields of business/computers and allied health/science. Working relationship with
Yale University and Yale New Haven Hospital.
Hyde Leadership High School – Hamden (203) 946­8121
With an enrollment of 200 students, this high school is significantly different than the traditional high schools. Families are
enrolled rather than the students. It emphasizes the ”Character First” philosophy that all students are capable of excellence and
character growth. In addition to the college preparatory curriculum, each student participates in their five­part curriculum: all students
are to participate in a competitive athletic program, a performing arts curriculum, community service and leadership training.
Their acceptance criteria consist of: an application with a written essay, a personal interview including the parents and a
mandatory new parent, freshman and new student orientation prior to the start of the school year.
Metropolitan Business High School ­ New Haven (203) 946­6731
With an enrollment of 143 students, this high school provides opportunities for integrating academic and occupation related
instruction in the area of entrepreneurial arts and sciences with courses such as finance, investment, research and development,
quality control, sales and returns of investments. The goal is to prepare the students to manage and own business enterprises.
New Haven Academy – New Haven (203) 946­8995
With an enrollment of 195 racially, ethnically and economically diverse student body, this high school provides a rigorous education
to prepare the students to succeed in college. Now in its second year, this works well for students looking for a diverse
learning environment.
Charter Schools
Common Ground High School ­ New Haven (203)389­4333
With an enrollment of 135 students, this school offers a team­taught, interdisciplinary curriculum; uses a farm and forest sites
to promote active performance based learning. The school is shaped by an ecological framework; that all living and non­living
things are connected and interdependent.

VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS
Middletown High School Regional Vocational Agriculture Center (860) 704­4599
A four­year high school agricultural school based at Middletown High School in Middletown with an enrollment
of 119 students focusing on the agricultural sciences. The program includes instruction in plant and animal science,
agricultural mechanics, food science and natural resources and the environment. Acceptance into the program
is based on the students’ career interests. The admission procedures require the student’s grades and attendance
for grade seven, the first marking period for grade eight, the Connecticut Mastery Test scores, and a personal
interview. The deadline for applications is January 2005.
Vinal Regional Vocational Technical School (Vinal Tech) (860) 344­2622
A four­year high school technical program in Middletown with an enrollment of 646 students focusing on both
the academics and technological training. The school provides the students hands­on opportunities to experience
eleven technology areas: Auto Body, Auto Mechanics, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Drafting, Electrical, Electro­
Mechanical, Hairdressing, Cosmetology and Barbering, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, Manufacturing
Technology and Microcomputer Software Technology. The admission procedures require the student’s grades and
attendance for grade seven, the first marking period for grade eight, the Connecticut Mastery Test scores, and
disciplinary record. The deadline for applications is January 2005.
ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS
ACES Educational Center for the Arts (ECA) – New Haven (203) 777­5451
With an enrollment of 269 students, this part­time high school offers programs in dance, instrumental and vocal
music, creative writing, theater and visual arts in the afternoons. Students attend academic classes at Guilford
High School in the morning and then transfer to ECA in the afternoons Monday through Thursdays 1­4 p.m.. Student
auditions are required – call the school for more information and to arrange a Tuesday visitation. Parents pay
a portion of the tuition along with the state and local school board.
New Haven Regional Aquacultural/Agriscience Center (The Sound School) (203) 946­6937
A comprehensive high school located in New Haven with an enrollment of 320 students focusing on the aquaculture
and the marine sciences. Students who are interested in a career having to do with aquatic environments,
from boat repair specialist to marine biologist, from fisher to pollution control engineer will benefit from this program.
The applications are being accepted now.

Adams PTO would like to thank all the parents and teachers who
supported our membership drive.
We were able to start out the year with a strong budget and the ability to plan ahead.
PTO programs have been running smoothly, thanks to all the wonderful parent volunteers
who have given their time!
A big thank you to all those who helped out with
The Book Fair
Field Trips
The School Store
The Teacher’s Luncheon
Chaperoning dances
Spirit Wear
Membership
Photo day
AS we begin 2008, the PTO is already gearing-up for the
7th grade Science Fair on February 4-8th and the 8th grade Dinner/Dance in June.
Although much is getting accomplished, there are still many opportunities for parents to
get involved:
Teachers’ Breakfast – Friday, May 16-7AM /Cook, Bake, Set-up
8th Grade Dinner Dance - Volunteers needed
(see update below)
The Adams School Store is OPEN for business every Thursday during all lunches.
The Adams School Store is OPEN for business every Thursday
The Adams School The final Store Spirit
during is Wear OPEN order
all lunches. for has business been submitted. every Thursday during all lunches.
There are a few girls and boys tees available in size small!
Students can buy school supplies at reasonable prices!
ADAMS PTO 2006­2007 2007­2008
ADAMS PTO 2005­2006
PTO Executive Board:
PTO Co­Presidents: Executive Board:
Amy Desrosier, Lori Parisi
Co­Presidents:
Secretary:
Amy Position Jean Desrosier, Mahoney Vacant Laurie Parisi
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Jean Lori Parisi Mahoney
Treasurer:
Jean Mahoney
Questions? Contact
amydesrosier@comcast.net
or loriparisi@comcast.net
PTO MEETINGS
2007­2008
All meetings in Adams LMC
JANUARY 17 ­ 6:30 PM
8th Grade grade Dinner 8th Grade Dance Dinner Dance
Planning Committee Planning Committee
The PTO There will convene will be a a planning Planning meeting Committee for the for the
8th grade dinner 8th dance Grade Dinner February.
Dance on
Wednesday, Thursday, February 1, 6, 2007 2008
Please check the 7:00 Adams 7:00 PM in PM Adams website at Adams Library for meeting date
and time Any or questions contact Amy ? Contact Desrosier. Kathleen Wilcox@
Any questions kmwgable@aol.com
? Contact Judy Wright, 453­8745.
MARCH 20 ­ 6:30 PM
APRIL 10 ­ 6:30PM
MAY 15 ­ 6:30 PM
JUNE 12 ­ 6:30PM

ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
JANUARY­FEBRUARY 2008
NJHS Carnation Sale February 8­14
SUN MON TUES WED THUR FRI SAT
30 31 1 2
3 4 5
Winter Recess
SCHOOL
RESUMES
J
A
N.
F
E
B.
6
TEAM Guilford
Community
Conversation
4­6 PM
Community Cntr
13 14
GBOE
7:30 PM
GHS Library
20 21
7 8 9 10
State of GPS
GHS
Auditorium
6:30 PM
MARTIN
LUTHER KING
NO SCHOOL
27 28
GBOE Budget
Workshop Meeting
7:30 PM,
Adams
Chorus Room
15 16
7thGrade Band
And Jazz Band
Concert
7:00 PM
AMS Gym
22
TEAM Guilford
Community
Conversation
for students
2:50­4:50 PM
Chorus Room
29
GBOE Budget
WorkshopMeeting
7:30 PM,
Adams
Chorus Room
23
AMS Planning
Team Meeting
7:00­8:30 PM
AMS Library
3 4 5 6 Concert
8th Grade Band
GHS Wind
Ensemble &
Percussion
Ensemble
7:30 PM, Gym
10 11
GBOE
7:30 PM
GHS Library
12
8th Grade Band &
GHS Ensembles
Concert
Snow Date
17
Adams PTO
Meeting
6:30 PM
AMS Library
11 12
18
24 25
Last Day Qtr. 2
Report Card
Distribution
30 31 1
NO SCHOOL
Professional
Development
Day
7 8
NJHS
Carnation
Sale
February 8­14
13 14 15 16
19
26
2
9
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Winter Recess
M
A
R.
24 25 26 27
2 3 4 Direct
Assessment of
Writing
9 10
GBOE
7:30 PM
GHS Library
Q3
Progress
Reports
CMT TESTING
28 29
1
Southern
Regional Music
Festival
Seymour MS
Southern
Regional Music
Festival
Seymour MS
5 6 7
Southern
Regional Music
Festival
Snow Date
11 12 13 14 15
CMT TESTING
8
Southern
Regional Music
Festival
Snow Date

AN IMPORTANT SAFETY REQUEST
REGARDING STUDENT DROP­OFF and PICK­UP
Parents often drive their children to and from school. We ask that you please use the South lot for any student drop­offs
and pick­ups. The North lot does not have sufficient space to allow for a safe turnaround of your vehicle, and is reserved
for staff parking. We have already had one incident this year in the North lot of a staff member’s car being damaged
when another driver was attempting to turn around to exit the lot. We certainly do not want to add to this any injuries
to persons crossing through the lot to reach their cars.
Our South lot does offer a driveway turnaround area, although it gets crowded and clogged­up, especially at dismissal
time (2:35­3:10 p.m.) It is important once you enter the drop­off/pick­up loop that you continue around the entire loop
and do not attempt to exit against the incoming traffic. The Adams site is congested on a daily basis and we ask for your
patience and cooperation in trying to minimize safety concerns for any students or staff members who may be crossing
the lot to reach their vehicle.
Please also be mindful that the piles of snow left by plows may decrease your visibility of people entering the lot, and
may also make the loop and turnaround space even tighter. We appreciate your cooperation ­ for the safety of all concerned!