MONTGOMERY C. SMITH MIDDLE SCHOOL
Telephone: 518.828.4658
ANNOUNCEMENTS
HUDSON MIDDLE SCHOOL'S SNOW BALL
The 5th Annual Snow Ball was held at Hudson Middle School on Friday, February 29, 2008. The court was decided by student voting at the dance. The students and staff all had a great time.
Here is the court:
Ice Princess: Morgan Colarusso
Ice Prince: Zach Davi
7th Grade Court: Hannah Jepsen, Amber Craver, Amber McClain, Lauren Varriale, Manny Folds, Bruce Hotaling, Ashley Prochera, Jordan Peterson, Carlton Tillman, and Jamie Stevens.
Snow Queen: Shaquette Ivery
Snow King: Frank Werner
8th Grade Court: Kulton McCall, Andrew Valentine, David Frank, Patrick LaChance, Tonya Manney, Kim Drahushuk, JenniferBenn, Shondelle Yarde, Trey Morrison, and Victoria Revene.
STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN SCIENCE EXPO
The Science Expo is an annual event hosted by Columbia-Greene Community College. It is an opportunity for middle school students from all school districts in Columbia and Greene Counties.
The showcase of talent takes place each year on the last Saturday in March. This year 24 of our students in grades 5, 7 and 8 chose to participate. Projects covered topics in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Biology, Earth Science and Technology.
Prizes are awarded by grade level. Alexis Doto won first prize for 5th grade with her project on HD-TV.
RIGHT CHOICE PARTY
The middle school recently held the quarterly Right Choice Party where the students where treated to breakfast. All students who were passing all academic subjects, had no referrals and all satisfactory’s were invited. The students had a great time and were recognized for their outstanding achievement and behavior. The middle school is proud of all of these students who have made the right choice.
MIDDLE SCHOOL SPELLING BEE
The Hudson City School District held spelling bee competitions for students in grades 5 - 8. The process was a rather involved one, which culminated in two students qualifying for the Capital Region Spelling Bee at Proctor’s Theater in Schenectady, NY. First, the ELA teachers held a bee in each of their classes to determine classroom winners. Then those winners took part in grade level spelling bees to come up with one winner from each grade. The last part of the school bee took place to determine the winner and runner up that would represent the district. NaQuera Roache’, a 7th grader, was our first place winner, and 8th grader, Justin Porreca, was the runner up. On Monday, March 13th, they competed in the Capital Region Bee, where the competition was quite intense. Justin yielded to the word “etymology” and NaQuera succumbed to “chauvinism”. We are very proud of them for going so far and being model students of the Hudson Middle School.
HMS REPORT CARD CONFERENCE NIGHT
Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Grades 5-8: 5:15 - 7:00 p.m.
Fourth Grade Orientation will be held from 4:30 - 5:15 p.m.
Report card conference night is a valuable time to assess student success and foster the relationship between home and school. The report card serves as a major indicator of student success. During this final quarter, it is important to take an assertive role in your child’s learning to insure he/she continues to do their best for the remainder of the year.
We had a great response in the fall and we hope you take this opportunity to visit Hudson Middle School on Wednesday, April 23, 2008. At this time you may pick up your child’s report card in the library and meet with his/her teacher(s).
Student Schedule Changes
The Hudson Middle School has been working diligently to modify the existing schedule to address shared concerns. On Tuesday, November 13th, we will be implementing changes that will allow us to regain a full band/choir period for grades 6, 7, and 8 and a full twenty minute lunch period. The modifications will allow this to happen without disrupting the original changes that were made during the summer to improve our educational services. These changes will alter student schedules. In an attempt to minimize disruption and make the transition as smooth as possible the changes will take place on November 13th which is the beginning of the second marking period. [More Information]
Hudson Middle School Afterschool Program
The Hudson Middle School Afterschool Program (HMS ASP) operates Monday through Friday from 2:45 pm – 5:45 pm. Activities include various clubs, homework help, indoor and outdoor activities. Students are served a bag dinner daily consisting of a sandwich, fruit, vegetable and milk. Busing is available. This FREE program is primarily funded through the
21st Century and Advantage Afterschool Grants. For more info please see our website: www.hudsonafterschool.com
The middle school is looking for parent volunteers for the School Improvement Team and Corrective Action Team. These committees look at making the school a better educational environment. If interested please submit a letter addressed to Mr. Groat.
Iraq War Veteran Visits Mrs. Del Principe's 6th Grade Computer Classes
6th grade Computer Education classes used a variety of writing styles and formats to produce Veteran’s Day poems. The students read and analyzed one of the most famous poems about World War I, “In Flanders Field”, written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae in 1915. Using “In Flanders Field” as a resource, students wrote their own poems in honor of Veteran’s Day. Captain Aaron Perry, Veteran of the Iraq War visited Mrs. Del Principe’s 6th grade Computer Classes, presenting pictures of Iraq and answering student questions.
The Unknown Soldier
by Oswaldo Rosete-Garcia
The Unknown Soldier was unknown
But he is not all alone
DOZENS and DOZENS are killed in a war
To them it’s a responsibility almost a chore
To fight for their country it brings them pride
To the gateway of heaven they’re never denied
The Unknown Soldier was honored and respected
In peoples hearts he is respected
To everyone in the force
I hope you are protected!
Honor Our Veterans
By Corinna Hawver
Let every veterans be honored
Don’t let politics get in the way
Without them freedom would have died
What they did we can’t repay
We salute each and every one of them
The noble and the brave
The ones still with us today
And those who rest in a grave
So here’s to our country’s Heroes
They’re a cut above the rest
Let’s give the honor that’s due
To our country’s very best
Student Visits New York State Forensic Center
On November 21st, Raven Meus, sixth grader at the Hudson Middle School, was given a private tour of the New York State Forensic Center in Albany. She was greeted at the facility by Acting Superintendent of the New York State Police Preston Felton. Joined by her parents Kelly and Joseph Meus, Raven, along with her teacher Gordon Pratt, was treated to a fascinating look inside one of the premier forensic labs in the country.
Built by assets obtained from drug seizures within New York State, the Forensic Investigation Center sole purpose is to provide state-of-the-art forensic analysis and expert testimony on matters related to the investigation, resolution and prosecution of crimes. Raven talked with scientists and viewed demonstrations of technology used in DNA analysis, firearm identification, drug detection, vehicular crimes, autopsies, toxicology, and document examinations. The tour was hosted by the director of the facility, Keith Coonrod. Mr. Coonrod spent time talking with Raven and her family about the forensic science field, educational requirements, and employment opportunities. He also took time to talk about the realities of forensic investigation versus what is created in Hollywood. Finally, Mr. Coonrod focused on one of the most critical aspects of pursuing a career in forensic science or any other field, and that is the importance of a person’s character. He said that students need to understand that making positive choices in life along with hard work throughout school will help students achieve their dreams.
Principals’ Breakfast Award Club
Pictured here are students who were nominated for the Principals’ Breakfast Award Club at Hudson Middle School. This newly inaugurated program began last year with generous support from Investments in Youth, a local not-for-profit organization. Students who demonstrate an effort in their academic studies and who express consistent good character traits are role models for others and will be recognized each month as long as they continue to put forth their best self.
Students receive a free T-shirt and are treated to breakfast with the Principals and a free lunch snack along with other benefits each month.
Student names are prominently displayed on the wall outside the music department in a cumulative fashion and their photos adorn the “Tree of Character” in the Main Lobby.
Students remain in good standing and receive this recognition on a monthly basis unless academic standing changes or a referral is received.
Times Union Challenge
Sixth grade students who attended classes at Hudson Middle School on Wednesday, November 28, rather than the field trip learned to read the Times Union in an active, efficient manner. They took on a Times Union
challenge that Mr. Bonville prepared just for them and were thoroughly engaged in the assignment. Watch out parents....your copy of the Times Union may soon be disappearing into your child's room!
Hudson Elks Donate to Students at Hudson Middle School
The Hudson Elks Lodge recently donated 150 Thesaurus books to fifth grade students at Hudson Middle School. Pictured here are Mrs. Cousens students with two representatives from the lodge. These books are the property of the students and will be a helpful resource to them through the years.
Hudson Middle School Afterschool Program
The Hudson Middle School Afterschool Program (HMS ASP) operates Monday through Friday from 2:45 pm – 5:45 pm. Activities include various clubs, homework help, indoor and outdoor activities. Students are served a bag dinner daily consisting of a sandwich, fruit, vegetable and milk. Busing is available. This FREE program is primarily funded through the
21st Century and Advantage Afterschool Grants. For more info please see our website: www.hudsonafterschool.com
The middle school is looking for parent volunteers for the School Improvement Team and Corrective Action Team. These committees look at making the school a better educational environment. If interested please submit a letter addressed to Mr. Groat.
STUDENTS EXPLORE "IDENTITY" THEME
Grade 7 and 8 English classes, are exploring the theme “Identity”. One of the ways they have explored this theme is by comparing and contrasting the stories of Cinderella. They have read the American version; “Cinderella”, the Native American version; “Rough-Faced Girl”, the African American version “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” and finally the Middle Eastern Version “The Golden Sandal”.
Ms. Foronda and Ms. Coryell invited 3 girls from various parts of the Middle East and Asia, to be guest speakers in the class. The students prepared intriguing information, food, photos and other props to help the class learn more about their culture. This was an exciting opportunity for all of the students in these classes.
READ TO SUCCEED TREATS AT HMS
With a question from a few of Ms. MacGowan's RTS students, Mrs.McEnroe prepared a delicacy for students and staff recently at Hudson Middle School.
Students have been reading In Their Own Words: Christopher Columbus by Peter and Connie Roop. The book, based on Columbus' journals, told of "pickled beef and pork". This unknown menu item led to a discussion and a conversation with Mrs.McEnroe. She found a recipe on the internet and prepared it as a surprise. Cooked with onions in brine, the PICKLED BEEF HEART was a tasty surprise! One student liked it enough to have a second serving!
Iraq War Veteran Visits Mrs. Del Principe's 6th Grade Computer Classes
6th grade Computer Education classes used a variety of writing styles and formats to produce Veteran’s Day poems. The students read and analyzed one of the most famous poems about World War I, “In Flanders Field”, written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae in 1915. Using “In Flanders Field” as a resource, students wrote their own poems in honor of Veteran’s Day. Captain Aaron Perry, Veteran of the Iraq War visited Mrs. Del Principe’s 6th grade Computer Classes, presenting pictures of Iraq and answering student questions.
The Unknown Soldier
by Oswaldo Rosete-Garcia
The Unknown Soldier was unknown
But he is not all alone
DOZENS and DOZENS are killed in a war
To them it’s a responsibility almost a chore
To fight for their country it brings them pride
To the gateway of heaven they’re never denied
The Unknown Soldier was honored and respected
In peoples hearts he is respected
To everyone in the force
I hope you are protected!
Honor Our Veterans
By Corinna Hawver
Let every veterans be honored
Don’t let politics get in the way
Without them freedom would have died
What they did we can’t repay
We salute each and every one of them
The noble and the brave
The ones still with us today
And those who rest in a grave
So here’s to our country’s Heroes
They’re a cut above the rest
Let’s give the honor that’s due
To our country’s very best
Student Visits New York State Forensic Center
On November 21st, Raven Meus, sixth grader at the Hudson Middle School, was given a private tour of the New York State Forensic Center in Albany. She was greeted at the facility by Acting Superintendent of the New York State Police Preston Felton. Joined by her parents Kelly and Joseph Meus, Raven, along with her teacher Gordon Pratt, was treated to a fascinating look inside one of the premier forensic labs in the country.
Built by assets obtained from drug seizures within New York State, the Forensic Investigation Center sole purpose is to provide state-of-the-art forensic analysis and expert testimony on matters related to the investigation, resolution and prosecution of crimes. Raven talked with scientists and viewed demonstrations of technology used in DNA analysis, firearm identification, drug detection, vehicular crimes, autopsies, toxicology, and document examinations. The tour was hosted by the director of the facility, Keith Coonrod. Mr. Coonrod spent time talking with Raven and her family about the forensic science field, educational requirements, and employment opportunities. He also took time to talk about the realities of forensic investigation versus what is created in Hollywood. Finally, Mr. Coonrod focused on one of the most critical aspects of pursuing a career in forensic science or any other field, and that is the importance of a person’s character. He said that students need to understand that making positive choices in life along with hard work throughout school will help students achieve their dreams.
Principals’ Breakfast Award Club
Pictured here are students who were nominated for the Principals’ Breakfast Award Club at Hudson Middle School. This newly inaugurated program began last year with generous support from Investments in Youth, a local not-for-profit organization. Students who demonstrate an effort in their academic studies and who express consistent good character traits are role models for others and will be recognized each month as long as they continue to put forth their best self.
Students receive a free T-shirt and are treated to breakfast with the Principals and a free lunch snack along with other benefits each month.
Student names are prominently displayed on the wall outside the music department in a cumulative fashion and their photos adorn the “Tree of Character” in the Main Lobby.
Students remain in good standing and receive this recognition on a monthly basis unless academic standing changes or a referral is received.
Times Union Challenge
Sixth grade students who attended classes at Hudson Middle School on Wednesday, November 28, rather than the field trip learned to read the Times Union in an active, efficient manner. They took on a Times Union
challenge that Mr. Bonville prepared just for them and were thoroughly engaged in the assignment. Watch out parents....your copy of the Times Union may soon be disappearing into your child's room!
Hudson Elks Donate to Students at Hudson Middle School
The Hudson Elks Lodge recently donated 150 Thesaurus books to fifth grade students at Hudson Middle School. Pictured here are Mrs. Cousens students with two representatives from the lodge. These books are the property of the students and will be a helpful resource to them through the years.
Hudson Middle School Afterschool Program
The Hudson Middle School Afterschool Program (HMS ASP) operates Monday through Friday from 2:45 pm – 5:45 pm. Activities include various clubs, homework help, indoor and outdoor activities. Students are served a bag dinner daily consisting of a sandwich, fruit, vegetable and milk. Busing is available. This FREE program is primarily funded through the
21st Century and Advantage Afterschool Grants. For more info please see our website: www.hudsonafterschool.com
The middle school is looking for parent volunteers for the School Improvement Team and Corrective Action Team. These committees look at making the school a better educational environment. If interested please submit a letter addressed to Mr. Groat.
STUDENTS EXPLORE "IDENTITY" THEME
Grade 7 and 8 English classes, are exploring the theme “Identity”. One of the ways they have explored this theme is by comparing and contrasting the stories of Cinderella. They have read the American version; “Cinderella”, the Native American version; “Rough-Faced Girl”, the African American version “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” and finally the Middle Eastern Version “The Golden Sandal”.
Ms. Foronda and Ms. Coryell invited 3 girls from various parts of the Middle East and Asia, to be guest speakers in the class. The students prepared intriguing information, food, photos and other props to help the class learn more about their culture. This was an exciting opportunity for all of the students in these classes.
Interactive Learning at HMS
Students in Mrs. Rees’ class show off their PowerPoint slide shows on the recently installed ACTIVboard. The students have created PowerPoint lesson that demonstrate a math topic during Enrichment. The students have also created Podcasts and math games as part of their math literacy lessons. The students hope to share their games and PowerPoint lessons with other students in the Middle School and at Greenport.
Hudson River Snapshot Day
A distinct group of 5th grade Hudson Middle School students sailed aboard the Clearwater Sailboat on Tuesday, October 2nd to partake in the Hudson River Snapshot Day. In June, Superintendent, Dr. Fern Aefsky, challenged the graduating 4th graders to read at least 10 items over the summer and promised that they would be rewarded if they did. Over 75 students took the challenge and turned in their reading lists. As promised, each student was rewarded with a special invitation to take part in this special river event.[More Information about Snapshot Day]
Principal's Message
Ryan Groat is the Middle School Principal.
The middle school years are a time of transformational changes in a young person’s life: physically, emotionally, socially, psychologically and intellectually.We are, therefore, committed to supporting our students both academically and socially. A rigorous instructional program provides literacy instruction every day and across all subject areas, enrichment opportunities, and fosters a life long appreciation for reading. The Hudson Middle School places a strong emphasis on the motto that, “Character Counts Everywhere All the Time” by focusing on the six pillars of character - trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. This program provides incentives for students to make appropriate decisions on a daily basis. Furthermore, strong connections between school and home provide a foundation for working in partnership to give each student the best opportunity to succeed and have a positive school experience.We invite you to visit us to see all of the good things happening at Hudson Middle School,
Ryan Groat
Principal, Hudson Middle School