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Veronica E. Connor Middle School 2007
Principal
Mr. Bruce F. Benson

Veronica Connor Middle School District's Web Page.

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Modified Wrestling Team - 39 Wins - December 2007
The Grand Island Vikings Modified wrestling team traveled to Niagara Wheatfield on December 20th to wrestle Niagara Wheatfield and Niagara Falls. The Vikings had their usual strong showing with 39 wins, 26 by pin and only 9 losses. Congratulations to the following six wrestlers who went undefeated this season: TJ Acker, Ellicott Busch, Kevin Dobson, Glenn Skelly, Wesley H and Adam C. Great Season Grapplers!

Middle School Students Take Part In Job Interview Process - Nov. 2007

Makallie Banker and Maria Buyer
Click photo for larger view
Friday, November 9th was a very different day for over 120 eighth grade Connor Middle School Family and Consumer Science students, they went on job interviews during class! What is even more different is that junior and senior high school students were conducting the interviews! This innovative program was instumental due to three teachers working together between the schools; Mrs. Mary Jane Fonte and Mrs. Marcia McHenry at Connor Middle and Mrs. Cheryl Chamberlain at the High School. Authentic job interview experience is a part of the high school's Job Search Seminar in which students interview with local business leaders. Mrs. Chamberlain wanted to bring this same excitement to the middle school through her students and the interview process. Mrs. Fonte coordinated all of the classes and times and the high school students were excited to participate. This program will continue into next semester when new middle school and high school students will participate in what is deemed as, "Junior Job Search."

Middle School Book Fair Family Event - November 2007
The Connor Middle School Scholastic Book Fair Family Event takes place on Tuesday, November 13th from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the school. Books range in price from $2.99 - $24.99 and sales tax will be added. Payments may be made by cash, credit and checks payable to Connor MS PTA. If you cannot make the family event, the book fair will be open to students during study halls on Wednesday and Thursday, November 14 & 15.

VCMS Blanket Workshop - November 2007

   For the fourth year in a row, the faculty of Veronica Connor Middle School along with the help of students and parents will be making No Sew Fleece Throw blankets for children in need. In the past, VCMS has made and donated nearly 200 blankets to the Roswell Pediatric Unit, Children's Hospital Pediatric Cancer Unit and this year the Children's Hospital Neo-Natal Unit.
   This year's workshop will be held at 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, December 4th in the Connor Middle School cafeteria. The blankets are simple and fun to make. All you need to do is bring a pair of SHARP scissors, a fleece blanket making kit (available at JoAnne Fabrics or WalMart) or 1.5 yards of patterned fleece and 1.5 yards of coordinated solid colored fleece. Moms, dads, grandmas, children, etc. are welcome. It takes about one hour to make and the blanket making skill is yours to keep!
   If you are unable to attend but would still like to make a blanket, contact Karen Grande at 773-8830. If you would like to donate the material or a kit, the group will gladly make the blanket for you.

Veronica E. Connor Middle School PTA Poinsettia Sale - November 2007

The Veronica E. Connor Middle School PTA Poinsettia & Holiday Wreath Sale has begun and flyers have gone home with the students. Many different colors and sizes of poinsettia are available for purchase along with a 12" and 16" Balsam Fir wreath. Click and fill out form. All orders must be received by Friday, November 16, 2007 and pick-up is Monday, November 26th at the High School main hall between 11:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Middle School Fall Concert - Nov. 2007
Connor Middle School students will present a fall concert on Wednesday, November 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the Grand Island High School auditorium.

Modified Girls Volleyball Team Wins Final Game - Oct. 2007
The Connor Middle School Girls’ Modified Volleyball Team won its final game of the season on Thursday, October 25, 2007 against Lewiston-Porter. The team finished with 12 wins and only 1 loss.

Middle School Cheerleaders Are Champions - Oct. 2007
Once again, Connor Middle School has proven that we are the best middle school in WNY. The middle school cheerleaders traveled to UB on Sunday, October 21, 2007 where they took first place in the modified division. They performed a perfect routine, earning them the title of champion. Great job girls!
The Girls Volleyball team went back to their winning ways by defeating North Tonawanda 3 games to 2. The team is now 11 and 1 and will face Lewiston-Porter for their final game of the season on Thursday.

School-To-Work Program At Middle School - Oct. 2007

Pictured is Mr. MacGregor helping to develop the advertising campaign for “Yummy UFO’s” for the mod ¾ “BLAM KNEZ & Co.” which are said to be “Out of this World!” Five other classes developed their own creative strategies to raise money for various charities around Western New York and across the world.
Click photo for larger view
Preparing our youth to be productive citizens is the aim of the Entrepreneurship Unit in the Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) classes at Veronica E. Connor Middle School. So what better way to motivate kids to learn about advertising than to bring in a published illustrator, political cartoonist and strip cartoonist to get the young Entrepreneurs’ advertising campaigns off the ground.
Mrs. Mary Jane Fonte, FACS teacher, enjoyed her own version of “Take Your Brother to Work Day” as she hosted her brother, Doug MacGregor of the Ft. Myers, Florida News-Press as a guest speaker. Doug spent the day developing creativity and getting the FACS students to think “out of the box” as they developed characters and colorful posters to entice costumers to buy their products for charity. Mr. MacGregor was delighted to have the opportunity to increase students’ self-confidence in their own creative talents which will benefit them in whatever career path they follow one day. The FACS students were thrilled to have personal instruction from a real-life artist who makes a living making people think and laugh through his illustrations.

Modified Girls Volleyball Team Beats High School - Oct. 2007
The Connor Middle School Girls’ Modified Volleyball Team took on the JV team Tuesday, October 16, 2007 from the high school. Modified lost the first game but won the second game 25 to 19. This is the first time in school history that a bunch of "middle schoolers" beat a high school team. Congratulations! The team will take a 21 and 0 record to Niagara Wheatfield today (Oct. 17) as they take on a very good Falcon Team. Good Luck Vikings.

K-12 Student Artists To Be Honored With New Award - Oct. 2007

"Artist of the Month" Orendael Miller - click photo for larger view
   The Art Department of the Grand Island Central Schools is pleased to announce a new forum in which they may honor their many talented artistic achievers throughout the school year. The K-12 “Artist of the Month” is an award designed to honor one student each month who is currently enrolled in the district, and who has distinguished him or herself artistically.
   Grand Island has long been home to many artistic and creative individuals, and students are certainly no exception. Students often find the visual arts an appropriate vehicle for self-expression and often use the arts as a creative outlet and opportunity to improve and enrich the environment in which they live and attend school. In an effort to recognize and commend those students who have excelled artistically and who use the visual arts positively, one student each month will be featured as an award recipient beginning this month and running throughout the school year.
   It is hoped that the public will join in sharing the art department’s collective pride in the positive and creative contributions that our young people make to their school and their community and look forward to the features on our K-12 artists throughout the school year.
   Pictured holding two of her recent artworks is September’s “Artist of the Month”, Orendael Miller, grade seven. Says Orendael, “I like art because it is a great way to express yourself and to have fun while making a masterpiece.” Orendael, who has been interested in art since she was a little girl, says that Monet is her very favorite artist. Art has been important in this student’s family. She credits her parents for inspiring her to make lots of art projects and for providing encouragement by drawing with her. In addition, Orendael says that her sister is an inspiration as well. The Art Department of the Grand Island Schools applauds this student’s creative achievements and unique artistic voice, and wishes her much success in all of her future artistic endeavors.

Connor Middle School Modified Girls Volleyball - Oct. 2007
19 and 0 with 5 to go! On Tuesday, October 9, 2007, the Connor Middle School Girls Volleyball team crushed Franklin Middle School 5 games to 0. The team will travel to Lockport today (Oct. 11) to take on North Park Middle School. Good Luck Vikings!

Middle School Boys and Girls Cross Country - Sept. 2007
See "Cross Country Results" week of September 22, 2007

Middle School Orientation - September 2007
   Principal Bruce Benson welcomed back Connor Middle School students on Monday, September 17th with a orientation program. Explained during the assembly were school rules, opportunities for students, and information on food allergies, bullying and sexual harassment. At the end of the program, the "Not Ready For Primetime" teachers performed in skits describing good and bad behavior to the delight of the audience.
   The list of opportunities to get involved in at Connor Middle School is long and diverse. Sports, art, music, math, science and government are available. It is a proven fact that students who get involved in extra activities are less likely to have poor grades and legal problems later on in life. The middle school describes itself as a "Successful School," that is one where the students have respectful behavior, positive attitude and high involvement.
   A food allergy presentation was given to make all the students aware of the dangers to the 30 students registered with allergies. A movie featuring NHL hockey player Tom Poti of the Edmonton Oilers, who has allergies, showed there is nothing that can hold anyone back as long as they are careful. Over 2,000,000 students in the United States have food allergies that are hereditary and can create mild to life threatening reactions. A discussion on bullying was eye-opening with a national survey statistic that 30% of all students have been bullied at one time. Bullying occurs where there is no supervision and may be either female or male in gender. Males tend to be physical while females are more into social and verbal attacks. The message conveyed was don't fall into the bullies trap, get help by contacting a trusted adult, stand up for yourself or others being bullied and avoid contact with the bully. A bully box is located in the school for the students to drop complaints into.
   Sexual harassment was addressed as a serious problem that occurs in school and outside in the real world. Any unwelcome or unwanted sexual behavior makes a student feel uncomfortable. It can be physical, verbal or non-physical such as gestures, staring or showing of sexual pictures. A movie was shown detailing what sexual harassment is and how to deal with it. Sexual harassment is not appropriate and is illegal.

Middle School News
SCIENCE meets CSI-ence - July 2007
   A few of the eighth grade science classes at Veronica E. Connor Middle School encountered a surprise on the last few days of school. Upon entering their classroom, the students were met with a crime scene complete with crime scene tape, bloody footprints, cryptic writing on the floor, and a chalk outline of a body. With the recent popularity of Crime Scene programs and the student interest in these programs, some eighth grade science students were presented with a fictional crime scene to test their evidence collecting and interpreting skills to see if they could solve the crime. The goal was to have students view the investigative process from a scientific perspective. After reading a detailed description of the crime that took place, “Mr. Boddy’s body was found in the classroom last night”, the students were provided with a list of suspects that were known to have been in the building at the time of the crime. These fictional suspects were then fingerprinted, blood typed, and were asked to provide tooth imprint samples along with other samples for evaluation.
   Students worked in groups to unravel the mystery, The groups viewed hair samples under a microscope to try and link the hair sample to the murderer. Photos were taken of shoe samples and students were challenged to compare the samples to a “bloody” shoe print that was found at the crime scene. Fingerprint samples were also taken from each suspect and the students compared the whorls and rings on the samples to one lifted from the crime scene. Using Forensic Serology skills, the students compared the suspect’s blood types to the blood type that was determined to have been found at the crime scene. Finally, through Forensic Odontology, they were challenged to compare wax tooth imprints from each suspect to a bite mark also obtained at the crime scene.
   To make the characters more real, fictional statements were also taken from each suspect in the form of podcasts. These podcasts were made available to the students online and they took note of interesting facts, attitudes, or incriminating evidence that the suspects may have provided in their statements. In an effort to incorporate Language Arts skills into the lesson, the culminating activity involved a creative writing process where students not only determined which suspect committed the crime, but also, how the crime was committed and why. The groups were invited to write their story and act it out for the class.
   As SCIENCE met CSI-ence in the Middle School, this mystery provided a wonderful end of the year activity that integrated the scientific principals of examination, evaluation, and technology that included content and subject matter to engage and interest the students.
This story was written by Mary Howard - a Veronica E. Connor Middle School teacher

Connor Middle School Honor Roll - July 2007
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the honor roll for the fourth quarter, 2006-2007 school year:
High Honor Roll
Grade 6: Jessica Amsdill, Conor Atkins, Alexandra Bahgat, Rachel Bailey, Lydia Bernatovicz, Casey Bolles, Jessica Brownschidle, Nathan Bundscho, Zachary Burns, Sara Carlson, Megan Carroll, Sarah Chamberlain, Alexis Cino, Alyssa Cino, Sam Clarke, Samuel Colao, Courtney Collignon, Jane Cooke, Annaliese Corrao, Evan Doyle, Keelan Erhard, Meghan Federico, Brianna Gibney, Melissa Gibson, Madeleine Goc, Alexandra Griffin, Kourtney Hoppel, Mark Hughes, Sage Kashmanian, Manjinder Kaur, Bridget Kennedy, Zaineb Khawar, Shannon Kieffer, Mary Kneer, Christopher Komin, Carolyn Kruszona, Evan Leffler, Stephanie LoTempio, Ellen Lutnick, Brianna McGuire, Orendael Miller, Maggie Nobumoto, Samantha Oriani, Michelina Pariso, Marisa Phillips, Benjamin Purrington, Christina Richard, James Rustowicz, Katelyn Ruszkowski, Kelsey Ruszkowski, Rachael Ruszkowski, Alexa SantaLucia, Marina Scerra, Ashley Serianni, Lauren Shepard, Nicholas Soos, Adam Stanczyk, Matthew Sutton, Joshua Tixier, Margaret Weiser, Kimberly Yaeger, Andrew Yarnes
Grade 7: Gabrielle Ailinger, Amanda Blanton, Shannon Boreali, Sonia Brar, Christopher Brownschidle, Amber Carpenter, Alexandra Corrao, Jordan Davis, Maggie DeMarco, Allison Donahue, Sydney Dudish, Rebekah Evans, Alyssa Fuoco, Kaitlyn Gilbert, Jonathan Goc, Katlyn Holt, Ryan Hughes, Samantha Kahn, Megan Karpie, Brendon Lutnick, Rebecca Masse', Kallan McMillan, Nigel Michki, Joshua Miller, Ryan Miller, Dominic Morell, Samuel Railey, Sarah Ramsperger, Danyelle Redmond, Rachel Ripellino, Nicolette Scerra, Alexandra Seibert, Zachary Smith, Sarah Stanczyk, Taylor Sweet, Bridget Thompson, Jessica Ungaro, Sarah Williams, Nathalie Winder, Jenny Xiang
Grade 8: Nicholas Battaglia, Bethany Cinelli, Nicholas Colao, Aliena Cook, Sara Diletti, Alan Endres, Christopher Ernst, Anna Ferrante, Julie Hasselbeck, Emma Henderson, Ava Jackson, Matthew Killian, Julia Manuszewski, Ariana Mendel, Jessica Osvath, Amy Schooping, Evan Shaw, Sara Victor, Stephen Vitello, Danielle Wegrzyn, Alyssa Yaeger, Jessica Yarnes
Honor Roll
Grade 6: Corey Adamshick, Ciara Alcorn, Cyle Alcorn, Jennifer Amato, Kevin Aronica, Tanner Atkinson, Brittney Banks, Kassandra Bennett, Eli Brennan, Alexander Brink, Alexandra Brown, Mitchell Cancilla, Samantha Conner, Christopher Connors, Jenna DelSignore, Jamie Dobson, Laura Dolan, Mark Dryfhout, Nicholas Egloff, Katarina Eichel, Sarah Ernst, Brittany Faulise, Alexandra Filips, Michael Giambra, Andrew Gilbert, Emily Harnden, Adam Heftka, Megan Hoople, Robert Johnson, Hayley Keane, Grace Kulikowski, Jake Lawley, Mandy Liesenfeld, Jessica LoBrutto, Alexandria London, Vincent LoPresti, Zachary Manuszewski, Ayla Marino, Taylor Marino, Joseph Martin, Tarandeep Mattu, Michaela McDonald, Nicholas McKenna, Gurwinder Nijjar, Matthew Osinski , II, Catherine Otto, Cassandra Oursler, Michael Palazza, Samantha Pangborn, Dalton Pitts, Russell Potter, Zachary Re, Dominica Roberts, Kelly Ruminski, Kevin Salonek, Aaron Schauger, Taylor Scheuing, Taylor Schiffhauer, Matthew Seaman, Christopher Serra, Cole Smith, Emily Steinbrenner, Lillian Thompson, Ashley Tillett, Alexander Tollner, Joshua Ungaro, Elena Watt, Megan Wendt, Kayleigh Weselak, Adam Wilk, Tyler Yockey
Grade 7: Reem Abdellatif, Alexander Ahne, Laura Amantia, Jessica Bamberg, Makallie Banker, Joshua Bastian, Brianna Beadles, Eric Bellanca, Alexandria Black, Conner Bolles, Diana Boulden, Sarah Brady, Marshall Cancilla, Alanna Cedrone, Andrew Chorey, Jesse Ciffa, Eric Colon, Shannon Doctor, Talia Fabiilli, Michael FitzGerald, Matthew Foote, Matthew Gannon, Ashley Gorman, Deanna Green, Morgan Green, Jonathan Grenda, Anmol Grewal, Marissa Haley, Jessica Hall, Lynne Huffnagle, Mary Irving, Andrew Jasek, Casey Jelonek, Dylan Kelly, Elizabeth Kowalik, Jenna Lee, Jodi Lee, Kelsie Loos, Madelyne Mankowski, John McGinty, Shannon McNaughton, Kailah Moss, Alexis Pearce, Kristen Percival, Jamison Phillips, Alyssa Pino, Corey Price, Brittanee Ramallo, Zackary Reese, Kenneth Rogoza, Michael Sendlbeck , III, Stephanie Senn, Emily Sommer, Brittney Sonnenberg, Jessica Spencer, Angelina Stromberg, Katherine Studley, Harrison Thompson, Christina Ward, Rachel Watt, Laurice Wilbert, Alicia Zartman
Grade 8: Danya Abdellatif, Karl Albrecht, Taylor Bedford, Kathryn Boutet, Jenna Cardone, Jason Chadwick, Brooke Chamberlain, Amanda Cinelli, Brooke DeMarco, Kaleigh Deuser, Robert Dickinson, Samantha Ducette, Thomas Dzielski, Geoff Federspiel, Christopher Field, Korin Frantz, Rebecca Hammett, Amanda Heftka, Kyle Held, Emily Jones, Alex Killian, Donald MacIntyre, III, Christina Martinez, Ryan McCarthy, Shannon Moody, Kevin Neary, Emily Pease, Jenna Raepple, Paige Rockwood, Christopher Rose, Chelsea Rupert, Kathleen Rustowicz, Rachel Schauger, Michael Seaman, Aren Shanor, Christopher Shemik, Sarah Stewart, Rebecca Sturniolo, Amanda Sutter, Ashley Swiantek, Megan Tates, Patrick Thompson, Benjamin Tomkins, Patrick Worbs, Megan Young

Connor Middle School Merit Roll - July 2007
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the merit roll for the fourth quarter, 2006-2007 school year:
Grade 6: Ammany Abdellatif, Daniel Blocho, Nicholas Bonarek, Johnathan Boorady, Danaegrace Busch, Meghan Carpenter, Ronald Clark, Lauren Cook, Cody Csendom, Adam Cummings, Rachel DeNormand, Aubrie DiTullio, Jacob Dixon, Zoe Dodd, Timothy Doermer, Helen Eckman, Ryan Falter, Joseph Fanara, Christopher Foote, Shannon Gallagher, Bradley Gibson, Kristen Greinert, Nyah Hanratty, Matthew Higgins, John Holody, Anthony Huff, Tyler Jackman, Daniel Konopski, Alexia Malpica, Collin McMahon, Taylor Moran, Max Oursler, Kyle Pletcher, Alyssa Quarantello, Katrina Rockwood, Daniel Rott, Rosalie Russell, Gregory Sarratori, Javier Solis, Ronald Steffans, Jr., Sharihan Taffal, Alexa Territo, Joseph Torregrossa, Dominic Tripi, Leah Watkins, Joshua Zernickel, Emily Ziurinskas, Anthony Zogaria
Grade 7: Amir Abdellatif, Sumr Ali, Nicolas Antonelli, Eric Aronica, Elora Bascello, Korey Bennett, Shane Bennett, Katelyn Benns, Philip Boudrow, Paul Capone, Joseph Carrato, Emma Chambers, Emily Dauphin, Samantha DeMarco, Bridget Doyle, Brittney Ducette, Timothy Dyet, Kodie Fahrer, Carissa Finger, Brent Fred, Sean Garten, Rebecca Gasiorek, Olivia Graziano, Thomas Grenke, Brianna Guagliano, Joshua Gunn, Morgan Kaczmarowski, Paige Kippley, Jonathan Kneer, Victoria Kostenbauder, Victoria Kustra, Mitchell LaRiviere, Elise Lenzner, Mark Lydle, Michael Malaney, Marisa Marino, Dylan Martinic, Thalia Melendez, Connor Murray, Hallie Nowak, Ryan Proctor, Stefani Rhodes, Matthew Robinson, Jenna Sansalone, Loretta Scherrer, Glenn Skelly, Jessica Spiesz, Phyllip Stallard, Kathryn Turner, Jessica Young
Grade 8: Samira Amin, Matthew Arida, Dale Baran, Shannon Becker, Alexandria Bleich, Christopher Boulden, Kathleen Brady, Brian Brink, Justine Call, Michael Campanella, Amandip Cheema, Samuel Cummings, Austin Dee, Alexandra DeMita, Chelsea Fairbairn, Carson Filips, Patrick Gallagher, Edward Gauthier, Jr., Carmela Gentile, Christian Gibson, Vincent Golda, Heather Graff, Lindsay Hodan, Mark Jurga, Taylor Kozlowski, Andrew Kuch, Justin Lee, Kyle Leinweber, Kelly Lorence, Domenic Luciani, Lucas Madia, Nicholas Masiello, Chelsea Mazurkiewicz, Jennie McCoy, Christopher Meyer, Shelbi Milkas, James Mysliwiec, Jaclyn Nusstein, Michael Paasch, Jack Pilie, Alexzander Prine, Jeremy Rockwood, Miranda Santa Lucia, Benjamin Sherman, Allison Stewart, Eugenia Taylor, Sarah Webb, Courtney Weiser, Shantel Williams-Rivers, Tyler Wunsch, Andrew Yockey

Middle School Parent/Student Orientation - July 2007
An orientation program for parents and students new to the Veronica E. Connor Middle School will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 8, 2007. Parents and students are invited to meet with the principal, assistant principal and school counselors to become familiar with the Middle School program and facilities. The program will be held in the Middle School Little Theater. This orientation is a repeat of the programs done for parents and students in the spring.
Calendar of Activities
• Wednesday, August 8 - 10:00 a.m. Veronica E. Connor Middle School Orientation for parents and students in the Middle School Little Theater.
• Wednesday, August 8 - after 1:00 p.m. - Veronica E. Connor Middle School registration of students new to the District. Call 773-8837 for an appointment.

Middle School Registration of New Students - July 2007
Registration of students in grades 6-8 who are new to the Grand Island Central School District will be held on Wednesday, August 8. Parents are encouraged to call the Middle School at 773-8837 to set up appointments for registration. An original birth certificate, proof of residence, a copy of your child’s last report card, and a record of immunizations will be needed to register.

8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony - June 2007

(left) Brooke Chamberlain and Victoria Mordaunt - (right) Jena Cardone, Brooke Chamberlain, and Alyssa Yaeger
   June 2007 . . . Veronica E. Connor Middle School celebrated on June 19th as the 8th-Grade Moving Up Ceremony was held in the Grand Island High School Auditorium. Vice Principal Carl Guidotti welcomed the family and friends of 8th-grade students. Stephen Vitello and Geoff Federspiel, Student Council President and Vice-President, reviewed their three years in the middle school. Academic Awards were presented followed by the presentation of a certificate to each 8th-grader by Principal Bruce Benson. Mr. Benson and Mr. Guidotti encouraged the students to follow the Viking Values throughout their high school careers.
   The following are the academic awards presented by middle school teachers:
Orchestra and Musical Awards Participation in Three Musicals: Shannon Becker, Lizzie Davis, Emma Henderson, Kathleen Rustowicz
Musical Rookie of the Year : Sarah Stewart
Musical Spirit Award: Lizzie Davis, Julie Hasselbeck
Best Actress Award: Emma Henderson
Most Improved Orchestra Members: Bethany Cinelli, Anna Ferrante
Outstanding Orchestra Musician: Emma Henderson, Jessica Osvath, Alyssa Yeager
   Art Awards were presented to: Jaime Magaris, Aren Shanor and Amanda Sutter
   Foreign Language Department recognized the following students who received 100% on the grade 8 Foreign Language Proficiency Exam in Spanish : Jenna Cardone, Sara Diletti, Shannon Moody, Jessica Osvath, Sarah Stewart, Jessica Yarnes
   English Department presented the following awards for “Highest Averages” in ELA 8: Mrs. Campbell’s classes: Nicholas Battaglia, Sara Diletti, Alan Endres, Ariana Mendel, Jessica Osvath, Evan Shaw, Sara Victor
Mr. Meaney’s class: Christopher Field
Ms. Stevens’ classes: Bethany Cinelli, Aliena Cook, Christopher Ernst, Christopher Rose, Amanda Sutter
Perfect Score on the NYS English Language Arts 8 Assessment: Nicholas Battaglia, Sara Diletti, Sara Dzielski, Alexzander Prine, Shelbi Millkas
   Social Studies Department Award for Highest Overall Average
Ms. Brooks’ classes: Sarah Stewart
Mr. Zaleski’s classes: Michael Seaman, Nicholas Battaglia
   Science Department Award for Highest Overall Average
Mr. Butcher’s classes: Ava Jackson, Taylor Bedford Mrs. Hegarty’s classes: Chris Rose, Christina Marinez, David Gerfin
Ms. Schaber's classes: Lucas Madia, Kevin Neary Earth Science: Emma Henderson, Amy Schooping,& Evan Shaw
   Math Department Awards for Highest Overall Average
Mrs. Slowinski’s classes: Math 8 - Ava Jackson, Paige Rockwood Math A - Sara Diletti
Mr. Brodie’s classes: Math 8 - Christian Gibson Math A - Emma Henderson, Evan Shaw
"Mathletes" Awards for the top 3 finishers. 1.) Ben Sherman 2.) Korin Frantz 3.) Anna Ferrante • NYS Attorney General Award for Commitment, Character, and Courage: Ashley Swiantek and Aren Shanor
   NYS Comptroller’s Award for Academic Excellence and Civic Commitment: Jessica Osvath
   The Presidential Awards for Outstanding Academic Achievement went to: Danya Abdellatif, Samira Amin, Matthew Arida, Shannon Becker, Taylor Bedford, Alexandria Bleich, Justine Call, Brianna Catanzaro, Jason Chadwick, Stephanie Cleveland, Nicholas Colao, Samuel Cummings, Dominque DeGregario, Brooke DeMarco, Alexandra DeMita, Kaleigh Deuser, Robert Dickinson, Samantha Ducette, Matthew Edwards, Geoff Federspiel, Christopher Field, Jennifer Fiels, Carson Filips, Carmela Gentile, Heather Graff, Rebecca Hammett, Julie Hasselbeck, Amanda Heftka, Molly Higgins, Lindsay Hodan, Mark Jurga, Jordan Kaufman, Nicholas Kellner, Taylor Kozlowski, Justin Lee, Kelly Lorence, Lucas Madia, Jaime Magaris, Ryan McCarthy, Elizabeth McLean, Shelbi Milkas, Jaclyn Nusstein, Jack Pilie, Alexzander Prine, Jenna Raepple, Christopher Rose, Chelsea Rupert, Kathleen Rustowicz, Rachel Schauger, Michael Seaman, Samuel Serra, Aren Shanor, Rachel Spiker, Allison Stewart, Amanda Sutter, Ashley Swiantek, Megan Tates, Benjamin Tomkins, Stephen Vitello, Jenelle Walters, Danielle Wegrzyn, Patrick Worbs.
   The Presidential Awards for Outstanding Academic Excellence went to : Karl Albrecht, Dale Baran, Nicholas Battaglia, Kathryn Boutet, Kathleen Brady, Jenna Cardone, Brooke Chamberlain, Bethany Cinelli, Aliena Cook, Austin Dee, Sara Diletti, Thomas Dzielski, Alan Endres, Christopher Ernst, Anna Ferrante, Korin Frantz, Edward Gauthier, Jr., Christian Gibson, Kyle Held, Emma Henderson, Ava Jackson, Alex Killian, Matthew Killian, Donald MacIntyre, Julia Manuszewski, Christina Martinez, Ariana Mendel, Shannon Moody, James W. Mysliwiec, Jessica Osvath, Emily Pease, Paige Rockwood, Amy Schooping, Evan Shaw, Christopher Shemik, Benjamin Sherman, Sarah Stewart, Rebecca Sturniolo, Patrick Thompson, Sara Victor, Alyssa Yaeger, Jessica Yarnes, Andrew Yockey Megan Young.

Connor Character Connection - June 2007
Connor Middle School is pleased to announce the final Connor Character Connection (C 3 ) award recipients for the year. The May character trait that was selected was Creativity and the June trait was Diligence. The student posters for Diligence are on exhibit in the front hall of Connor Middle School. The students selected were chosen because they reflected the values as defined by the Character trait of the month. This Connor Character Connection Program was implemented by the Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports Committee (PBIS) at Connor Middle School as a supplement to the district goals of providing opportunities for Character Education. These award recipients should by proud of their efforts.

(left) Creativity - (right) Diligence - Click photos for larger view

Creativity Recipients:

Abt
 Dakota
 
Beach
 Jacob
 
Boorady
 Johnathan
 
Boulden
 Diana
 
Brownschidle
 Chris 
 
Cancilla
 Marshall
 
Chadwick
 Jason
 
Cleveland
 Kaleigh
 
Dzielski
 Sarah
 
Kahn
 Samantha
 
Khawar
 Zaineb
 
Link
 Wesley
 
Magaris
 Jamie
 
Martinez
 Christina
 
Meyers
 Sarah
 
Miller
 Orendael
 
Ruszkowski
 Rachael
 
Sherman
 Ben
 
Smith
 Benjamin
 
Sommer
 Emily
 
Stevens
 Jan
 
Studley
 Katherine
 
Sutter
 Amanda
 
Thompson
 Bridget
 


 

 

Diligence Recipients:


 


Amin
 Samira
 
Baron
 Dale
 
Bichler
 Selina
 
Blocho
 Daniel
 
Bolles
 Conner
 
Bonarek
 Nicholas
 
Brar
 Sonia
 
Call
 Justine
 
Carpenter
 Amber
 
Corrao
 Anna
 
Ducette
 Brittney
 
Ducette
 Samantha
 
Dueser
 Kaleigh
 
Eerhart
 Megan
 
Field
 CJ
 
Fiels
 Jen
 
Faules
 Brittany
 
Gannon
 Matt
 
Garten
 Sean
 
Gibson
 Melissa
 
Gilbert
 Kate
 
Grenda
 Jon
 
Hasselbeck
 Julie
 
Huffnagle
 Lynne
 
Jelonek
 Casey
 
Jurga
 Mark
 
Karpie
 Megan
 
Kashmanian
 Sage
 
Kaufman
 Jordan
 
Kozek
 Seth
 
Loos
 Kelsie
 
Marino
 Marisa
 
McDonald
 Michaela
 
McGinty
 John
 
McLean
 Beth
 
McMillan
 Kallan
 
Mendel
 Ariana
 
Michki
 Nigel
 
Neary
 Kevin
 
Osvath
 Jessica
 
Percival
 Kristen
 
Purrington
 Ben
 
Ramsperger
 Sarah
 
Ramsperger
 Sarah
 
Rustowicz
 James
 
Sansalone
 Jenna
 
Scerra
 Nikki
 
Schauger
 Rachel
 
Scheuing
 Taylor
 
Smith
 Zachary
 
Soos
 Nick
 
Stallard
 Phyllip
 
Sweet
 Taylor
 
Swiantek
 Ashley
 
Swiantek
 Nicole
 
Taffel
 Sharihan
 
Tates
 Megan
 
Tillet
 Ashley
 
Worbs
 Patrick
 
Xiang
 Jenny

Connor Middle School Eighth Grade Honors Breakfast - May 2007

May 2007 . . . What started out with an eighth grade team leader collecting his Burger King gift certificates to treat those students who consistently excelled academically at Connor Middle School has now become a tradition know as the Eighth Grade Honors Breakfast. This event, held every May, celebrates those students who maintain academic averages on the Honor Roll or High Honor Roll for the first three semesters of the eighth grade. This year, students gathered before school on Friday, May 11th to enjoy a buffet breakfast, compliments of the Student Council and PTA. Mr. Robert Christmann, District Superintendent, and Mr. Bruce Benson, Connor Middle School Principal, offered some words of praise and encouragement. They say 'It takes a village to raise a child'. What a great job the village of Grand Island is doing to prepare our students to excel in life!

Connor Character Connection - April 2007
The recipients of this month’s Connor Middle School Connor Character Connection (C3) have been announced. The character trait selected for this month was Sportsmanship and student posters have been displayed in the front hall for the duration of the month of March. Those nominated were chosen for their character and ability to control themselves in sports, school and in life.

Students pictured (not in order): Michael Avery, Jessica Bamberg, Katie Brady, Dominique Degregorio, Sydney Dudish, Helen Eckman, Anna Ferrante, Michael Fitzgerald, Ashley Gorman, Taylor Marino, Courtney Mergel, Ryan Miller, Aren Shanor, Ashley Swiantek, Sarah Williams, Robert Vanthoff

Award Recipients Not Pictured: Jonathan Boorady, Donald Brant, Chris Field, Christian Gibson, Thomas Kalman, Jenna Lee, Jodi Lee, Sam Oursler, Shelby Milkas, Sarah Stanczyk, Ben Tomkins Click photo for larger view.
   This character initiative was implemented by the Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports Committee (PBIS) at Connor Middle School as a supplement to the district goals of providing opportunities for Character Education. The faculty and staff at Connor Middle School are very proud of all of the award recipients. It has been observed that as the program has progressed throughout the year, it is having a positive impact on student attitudes and behaviors. Students view the wall that displays the awards and display with a sense of pride as they see themselves and their peers being honored for their actions.
   In April, in keeping with the uplifting weather of Spring, the Connor Character Connection trait is Cheerfulness. Teachers will be selecting students and staff who are full of good spirits, happy, willing, pleasantly bright, likely to dispel from gloom or worry.

Connor Middle School News - April 2007
By Brooke Chamberlain (8th grade) - Student Writer
   Thursday, April 5, 2007 . . .The 3rd quarter has finally ended for Connor Middle School Students. Report cards should come in the next couple of weeks. Schedules for the 4th quarter were given out last week. There is no School Friday, April 6th as Spring Break begins; there is also no school through the 15th. School will resume Monday, April 16th.
   Great job to everyone performing in the school play. It was fantastic; it must have taken a lot of hard work. We can’t wait until next years play.

Connor Middle School Schoolhouse Rock Live Is Hit With Audience - April 2007

Jeff Stange Photos - click for full view
Schoolhouse Rock, Live, a musical presented by Connor Middle School students Tuesday evening, April 3, 2007 in the Grand Island High School auditorium, received a well deserved applause for their performance. High school social studies teacher, Michael DeDario, played the part of Mr. Mizer, the teacher. String orchestra teacher Debra Remson, directed and choreographed the show, with sets by Connor Middle School tech teacher Ed Anker. Costume designs were the work of Andrea Wilson, a high school art major. Student choreographers included Ashley Green and Kim Snell. The cast and crew celebrate their success with a cast party at the Niagara Sailing Club after the show. See "Cast/Crew"

Connor Character Connection - January 2007

Students pictured are (front left) Taylor Scheuing, Liz Kowalik, Kevina McCaw, Dylan Martinic, Kevin Salonek, Alexa Territo, Brianna McGuire, Jessica LoBrutto; (back) Cassandra Bennett, Brendon Lutnick, Brent Fred, A. J. Jasek, Allie DeMita, Brianna Beadles and Allison Donahue; Award recipients not picture are Christopher Rose, Thomas Petz, Jordan Davis, Bethany Cinelli, Cory Ludwig and Makallie Banker.
   Faculty and staff at Veronica Connor Middle School have announced the recipients of this month' Connor Character Connection (C3). The character trait that was selected for January was Kindness. Teachers were looking for students that displayed the willingness to perform good deeds and bring happiness to others.
   This character initiative was implemented by the Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports Committee (PBIS) at Connor Middle School as a supplement to the district goals of providing opportunities for Character Education. The faculty and staff at Connor Middle School are very proud of all of the award recipients and see this as a wonderful opportunity to recognize and reward the positive attributes that many of the students display on a daily basis.
   The Connor Character Connection trait for February will be Respect. The nominated students will be civil, courteous, gracious, polite, and follow the Golden Rule. Students should be tolerant of others and of their differences, use good manners and language as well as deal peacefully with anger, insults or disagreements.
   In the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., famous Civil Rights Leader, "The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically... Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education."

Connor Middle School News - 2007
By Brooke Chamberlain (8th grade) - Student Writer
   Monday, January 29, 2007 . . . Because of two staff development days, there is no school on February 2nd, and February 8th is a half-day. Students will be dismissed at 11:45 a.m.
   Last week's 8th grade orientation was great. Some of the featured classes and clubs were DECA, Art Club, and many others. The students did a great job setting up and the booths were very unique. The teachers gave interesting presentations on the classes available for freshmen next year. The high school students in the play gave us a sneak-peek at their performance and it was fantastic.
   Speaking of the play, the high school's “The Beauty and the Beast” play is being performed the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd of February at 7:30 p.m. and there will be a Saturday Matinee at 1 p.m.
   Yearbook order forms were sent out last week; each yearbook costs $10 and is in full color. The orders should be handed into the office.
   Our modified girls and guys basketball teams are doing great. Keep up the good work.

Connor Middle School News - January 2007
By Brooke Chamberlain (8th grade) - Student Writer
   Monday, January 22, 2007 . . . According to business teacher, Mrs. Cheryl Chamberlain, there will be an added bonus to this year’s 8th grade orientation that will take place on Thursday, January 25th. All of the clubs and activities will be in the large gym and booths will be set up to entice incoming freshmen to join these worthwhile organizations. DECA, a business and marketing club, is just one of the many organizations taking part.
   As I said before, grades closed last week and report cards should be here soon. All students got there new schedules. If you have any problems with your new schedule you can see the guidance counselor. And the ELA state testing that took place last week is finally over.
   For any student interested, the school counselors are having a contest. In honor of National School Counseling Week, the school is looking for words of wisdom written by students. Any student may write something about being fair, honest, kind, trustworthy, and a good decision maker. A winner will be chosen from each topic and will be announced and given a gift. Winners will be announced during National School Counseling Week from February 5th to the 9th. Entry forms may be picked up in student services and returned to student services by January 30th.
   For anyone interested, next week the high school musical is being performed. They are performing “Beauty and the Beast” on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd of February at 7:30 p.m. I am sure they will be great. Click for Times/Ticket Information

Connor Middle School News - January 2007
By Brooke Chamberlain (8th grade) - Student Writer
   Monday, January 15, 2007 . . . We are still encouraging everyone to take part in this year's play “Schoolhouse Rock-Live.” The auditions are on January 22nd and January 23rd and packets may still be picked up from Miss Remson in the high school.
   Thank you for buying carnations all of last week. They are being delivered on Valentine's Day, Wednesday February 14th to the day 1 mod 1 classes.
   Attention girls grades 6 through 8, there is a technology conference at the University of Buffalo on March 17th. For a small fee of $5.00 per person, you can meet professional women who can share information about different careers. This includes workshops, and lunch. You may go to student services for more questions.
   The end of the second quarter is this Friday, so report cards should be in the mail within the next couple of weeks.

Connor Middle School News
Back To School - January 2007
By Brooke Chamberlain (8th grade) - Student Writer
   Monday, January 8, 2007 . . .Welcome back to school students and teachers. Our first week back in the New Year and still no snow! There was no ski club last week, but it should hopefully resume this Saturday. And the school musical is here. This year we will be performing “Schoolhouse Rock-Live.” The auditions are January 22nd and the 23rd, and any students interested should pick up an audition packet from Miss Remson starting January 8th. The scripts are also available in the library.
   All County auditions are this week on Saturday, January 13th for all who are trying out. Also, there is no school on the 15th. And what everyone has been waiting for, New York State ELA Exams take place from January 16th to January 19th for 6th, 7th and 8th graders. The end of the second quarter is the 19th.