Our Schools

Principal’s Blog

October 2020

Parent Conference Information

I would like to remind everyone that this year’s parent conferences will take place via Zoom during the week of October 26th. If you do not receive an invite to the Zoom meeting on the day of the conference, please call the main office.

Monday, October 26th : 2:30 – 7:30 pm

Tuesday, October 27th: : 1:45 – 3:45 pm

Thursday October 28th : 2:30 – 7:30 pm

Friday October 30th : 1:45 – 3:00 pm

Red Ribbon Week Information

The week of October 26th through October 30th, 2020 has been designated as the annual “Red Ribbon Week.” At school, we will be celebrating Red Ribbon Week, which highlights a time for communities to unite and take a stand against substance abuse by making healthy choices each day. We will be emphasizing healthy decision-making skills with students. We have many fun activities planned for Red Ribbon Week! Please do not buy anything new to wear for the special activities planned for the week.

Monday, October 26: “Team Up Against Drugs” Wear your favorite team jersey

Tuesday, October 27: “Take the SCARE out of Hunger” (Blue Team) Students can dress up in their Halloween costumes. Please bring in a non perishable food item into school. All donations will be donated to local food pantries.

Wednesday, October 28: All virtual day (no theme day)

Thursday, October 29: “Take the SCARE out of Hunger” (Gold Team) Students can dress up in their Halloween costumes. Please bring in a non perishable food item into school. All donations will be donated to local food pantries.

Friday, October 30: “Being Drug Free Is No Sweat” Wear your favorite sweatpants and/or sweatshirt

Revised Re-Opening Schedule

As everyone is aware, the Vernon Township School District has recently released a revised re-opening schedule for all students pre K – 12. The virtual schedule continues to focus on expectations for synchronous learning for students that are not attending school in person. However, unlike grades 6 – 12, Rolling Hills Primary School has designated teachers who are teaching only in the virtual classroom. As a result, the expectation of “synchronous” learning for Rolling Hills blue/gold hybrid students will remain the same prior to the cohorts being combined for in person instruction beginning on November 16th.

Important Dates

November 3rd – Virtual Day.

November 4th – In-person day for GOLD cohort.

November 5th and 6th – Schools Closed NJEA Convention.

November 11th – End of the 1st Marking Period

November 16th – Combined BLUE/GOLD

November 26th and 27th – Thanksgiving

Glen Meadow Book Fair, Costume Contest, and SCA Fall Fundraisers

Dear Glen Meadow Parents and Guardians:

Now that we are beyond the middle of Marking Period One; thank you for checking your child’s Genesis and Schoology accounts on a regular basis. Teachers are continually posting & updating information that is instrumental to your child’s academic progress.

Parent Conferences: Parent conferences are open and will run until October 30^th. Please sign up for a conference with your child’s teacher via Genesis. Teachers are holding either Zoom conferences or a phone conference. If you are attending a Zoom conference, you will be placed in “the waiting room” while you wait for your conference to begin. Thank you for logging on a few minutes early to be ready to begin your conference. If you need any help with scheduling a conference, please call the main office at (973) 764-8981. If families require more than one conference per teacher, i.e., blended families, divorce situations, each family may only sign up for one conference in Genesis; however, we will be happy to accommodate you by requesting that you call the main office at the number above. The Glen Meadow office staff will gladly book conferences for you. Remember, you may always request a parent conference whenever you feel you need to discuss your child’s progress.

Picture Re-Takes: Students will be receiving their school pictures beginning on Friday, October 23, and distribution will continue the week of October 26th. Parents of Exclusively Virtual parents will receive a Schoool Messenger alert to pick up their child’s pictures at the main entrance. Picture re-takes are scheduled for Tuesday, November 10 and Thursday, November 12 during the school day. All Exclusively Virtual students are invited to come to have pictures taken from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

Teacher of the Year Program: You are invited to nominate a teacher for the annual NJ Department of Education Governor’s Teacher of the Year and Governor’s Educational Services Professional of the Year. Please use this form to nominate a teacher at Glen Meadow. Our building selection will be made in early December. There are so many outstanding professionals in Glen Meadow for you to consider! Last year’s recipients were Mrs. Renee Kepfinger, special education math teacher, and Ms. Terri Yost, Librarian

Each candidate should:

Inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn;
Serves as an exceptionally skilled and dedicated educator in a public or charter school;
Expresses themselves in an engaging and articulate way;
Plays an active role in the community as well as the school;
Demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside the classroom;
Has the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues

Book Fair: As we are doing most things, we will be holding the Glen Meadow Book Fair virtually AND in-person. Students who are in the building on the Blue and Gold team will be able to peruse the book selections and make a purchase during Language Arts class. If your child is an Exclusively Virtual student, you have two options. You may bring your child to school from 1:30 to 3:00 pm to make an in-person purchase or the purchase may be made online. Here is a Scholastic Book Trailer that spotlights various high-interest books. Here is the link to purchase books online.

Virtual Wednesdays: As a reminder, every Wednesday through early November are virtual learning days for all VTSD students. Our virtual Wednesday schedule is below. It is imperative that your child to follow his or her schedule. Some teachers will have an open Zoom meeting for the class or to receive help on work, others will post pre-recorded lessons, and others will post work for the day. As I have recommended to many parents, it is a good idea to have your child follow his or her daily schedule on the days home whether an Exclusively Virtual student or a Hybrid Learner.

*Wednesday for ALL Students*
Period 1:	9:00 – 9:20
Period 2:	9:25 – 9:45
Period 3:	9:50 – 10:10
Period 4:	10:15 – 10:35
Period 5:	10:40 – 11:00
Period 6:	11:05 – 11:25
Period 7:	11:30 – 11:50
Period 8:	11:55 – 12:15
Period 9:	12:20 – 12:40
Office Time:	12:40 – 1:00

The Big Six Reading Strategies: students are using technology to explain each of the “Big Six Reading Strategies” in Mrs. Basso’s and Mrs. Zaremba’s class. The Big Six are the strategies we all use when we read; they are:

Making Connections

Predicting

Questioning

Monitoring

Visualizing

Summarizing

Check out Matt’s video on his Big Six project below!

Math Counts: The Math Counts Club is open to any 6th, 7th, or 8th-grade student who has an interest in mathematics and problem-solving. Mr. Ferrara, LH math teacher, is the club advisor. This year the competition will be run a bit differently than in the past. The Math Counts Organization has partnered with the company called the Art of Problem Solving or AoPS. AoPS has created 3 practice competitions; one in October, one in November, and one in December. If your child is interested in solving challenging math problems this club is for them! The link below is a Google Slide that contains an explanation video and club sign up information for both students and the parent permission slip.

Builder’s Club Virtual Halloween Costume Contest: The Builder’s Club is sponsoring Glen Meadow’s first school-wide Halloween Costume Contest and a chance to win a $20 Amazon gift card! The deadline to submit your costume virtually is Friday, October 30^th.

Here are the two requirements to enter:

First, fill out an entry form found outside of the main office or on Schoology. The fee to enter is just $1, payable when dropping off your form to Mrs. Grimaldi in Room 119.

Second, take a photo of yourself in costume (two photos if you would like to show the back of your costume as well), and send it to darius.ziabakhsh@vtsd.com as noted on the Entry Form. Darius will be using the photos to create the Contest Video so our judges can rate your costume to determine the winner. Students will be judged on creativity, effort, and appearance.

Judging will take place in early November, and the winner will be announced soon after! Once the video is produced, our school will get to see all costumes. Join in the Halloween fun!

“Screenagers” The Movie: “Screenagers” is an award-winning film that probes into the vulnerable corners of family life and depicts messy struggles over social media, video games, and academics. The film offers solutions on how we can help our kids navigate the digital world. There will be a FREE online airing of “Screenagers” sponsored by the Sussex County Youth Services Commission on Monday, November 9, 2020, and running for two weeks. You can watch the 67-minute movie on demand until Monday, November 23, 2020. You must register for the movie at this link.

Here are some upcoming Glen Meadow SCA Fundraisers:

Thursday, November 5^th: Mamma Mia’s Pizzeria, in Hamburg, NJ, purchase your dinner at Mamm’a Mia’s and some of the proceeds from your purchase will go to the Glen Meadow SCA that funds programming for our school. Thank you for supporting our program and having a great meal! Here is the informational flyer.

Papas Garden Supply in McAfee: purchase holiday wreaths, swags, and grave pillows. Thank you for supporting this fundraiser and shopping locally! This fundraiser will run until November 20^th. Orders will be available for pick up 11/27/20 – 12/12/20 Any day from 10 am-6 pm at the local garden center, Pappa’s Garden Supply: 56 Route 94, in the McAfee section of Vernon. Here is the informational flyer.

Blood Drive: This year Glen Meadow will be hosting our blood drives off campus. Thank you to St. Frances DeSales Church for opening its doors for our blood drive that will take place on Thursday, November 5, 2020, from 3:00 to 7:30 pm. Please click here for the flyer

Above the Influence: The Above the Influence program is a great way for pre-teens and teens together to have fun make a positive difference in our community. Above the Influence is a place for youth to gather to support making healthy choices. The Vernon Coalition is sponsoring the Above the Influence program and holds meetings after school in-person every other Thursday from 4:00-5:30 pm at Walnut Ridge School Gym. Physical/social distancing is strictly followed. If you would like more information about any of these programs, please contact Lisa DeRitter, Vernon Coalition Youth Coordinator, at lisa@centerforprevention.org. Here is an informational flyer about Above the Influence.

Civil Air Patrol: The Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program promotes aviation and related fields through aerospace/STEM education and helps shape future leaders through CAP’s cadet program. The mission of the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program is to transform youth into dynamic Americans and aerospace leaders through character education, fitness, leadership, and aerospace curriculum. This program is an excellent way for pre-teens and teens to get involved in leadership opportunities. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Email the Squadron Commander, Lt. Robert Oszust, at robert.oszust@njwg.cap.gov for a direct link to the meetings. Here is the informational flyer for this program.

Mindfulness Training for Middle Schooler: Mr. Brian Thomasberger, certified Yoga Instructor, will be holding a virtual mindfulness training for our pre-teens and teens on Tuesday, October 20th and Tuesday, November 3^rd, 2020, from 1:30 – 2:15 pm. The following topics may be shared with your children:

Mindful Breathing
Brain Science
Body Awareness
Mindfulness of Thinking
Mindful Movement
Mindfulness of Emotions
Relaxation Techniques
Meditation Techniques

Mr. Thomasberger’s goal is to provide students with a comprehensive, fun, educational, and experiential class to release pent up energy, deal with stress, and learn new ways of self-regulation.

Below are the Zoom links for both sessions. All students are encouraged to attend.

Link for October 20th Meeting ID: 811 5510 5660 Passcode: 664781

Link for Nov. 3rd Meeting ID: 812 3273 4908 Passcode: 634335

Project Self-Sufficiency Annual Toy Drive: Click here for information on this year’s Project Self-Sufficiency’s Stuff the Stocking gift fundraiser. Thank you for considering donating a gift for a child in need this holiday season. Here is the link to the flyer.

As a reminder, all district schools will not in session for in-person or virtual classes on Thursday and Friday, November 5-6, for the NJ Teachers’ Convention.

Sincerely,

Rosemary Gebhardt Eric Kosek

Principal Assistant Principal

Scope Magazine Winner, Middle School Summit, Mindfulness, and more at GMMS!

Dear Glen Meadow Parents and Guardians:

Although this year looks a little different for all of us, I am so impressed with our students’ resiliency each day. Our students have adapted to wearing masks, following new procedures, following the one-way hallways and stairwells, and utilizing their technology skills to stay up-to-date and involved in their classes, and so much more. We are in the middle of marking period one with the marking period ending on November 12^th. It is always our intention to partner with you so that your child will have a successful in-person or virtual learning experience this year. Please be sure you are checking your child’s Genesis and Schoology accounts on a regular basis. Teachers are continually posting & updating information that is instrumental to your child’s academic progress. In addition, teachers may be holding virtual class meetings where your child’s attendance is required. You will read information below about our upcoming Virtual Parent Conferences held at the end of the month.

Congratulations to Maureen Lovett! Maureen is a Scope Magazine winner of their Superfans, February 2020 contest. While Maureen Lovett was a 6th grader in Mrs. Mitchell’s Language Arts class, the class was assigned the topic “Discuss how fan culture can be both positive and negative”. Reading two articles, the students had to synthesize information in two articles and study the author’s craft, text, and structure. Maureen was one of five national winners of the Scope Magazine contest! Maureen won the book The Perfect Star by Rob Buyea. The Perfect Star is the third book in The Perfect Score series.

Boys and Girls Cross Country News: GM’s First Cross Country Meet of the season at Kittatinny was a huge success. Our boys, led by Tim Pallis in first place, Rick Bennett, Dan Arroyo, Lake Doughty, Otto DeJager, and Robert Vazquez, took the top 6 spots in their run. As awesome as that is, our ladies paralleled the awesomeness, led by Micah Delelio in first place with Sue Mentone and Lauren Goolsby helping fill the top spots in the girls’ division. Tuesday’s meet was a phenomenal start to the season as all runners made a great effort in this contest.

Eagle Scout Project at Glen Meadow: Boy Scout Yorgo Liaros with Troop 912 completed his Eagle Scout Project at Glen Meadow Middle School. Yorgo rebuilt the retaining wall garden bed and designed a new garden. The new wall and garden help brighten and makes the front entrance of Glen Meadow School welcoming and inviting. Thank you, Yorgo!

Virtual Wednesdays: As a reminder, every Wednesday through early November are virtual learning days for all VTSD students. Our virtual Wednesday schedule is below. Please encourage your child to follow his or her schedule. Some teachers will have an open Zoom meeting for the class or to receive help on work, others will post pre-recorded lessons, and others will post work for the day. As I have recommended to many parents, it is a good idea to have your child follow his or her daily schedule on the days home whether an Exclusively Virtual student or a Hybrid Learner.

*Wednesday for ALL Students*
Period 1:	9:00 – 9:20
Period 2:	9:25 – 9:45
Period 3:	9:50 – 10:10
Period 4:	10:15 – 10:35
Period 5:	10:40 – 11:00
Period 6:	11:05 – 11:25
Period 7:	11:30 – 11:50
Period 8:	11:55 – 12:15
Period 9:	12:20 – 12:40
Office Time:	12:40 – 1:00

Parent Conferences: Virtual Parent Conferences will run the week of October 19 AND the week of October 26. THE WINDOW TO SIGN UP FOR A VIRTUAL CONFERENCE WILL OPEN ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, AT 4:00 PM, AND WILL CLOSE ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23. Conference times and availability will vary teacher-by-teacher during the two week period. You will select a time you would like to see your child’s teachers in Genesis. Due to present COVID circumstances, please know that conferences for each teacher are not required; however, you can schedule conferences for classes in which you have any concerns or questions. Also, please feel free to schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher throughout the school year as need be. Your child’s teacher will be giving you information on the class Schoology page on signing up for a conference.

Fall Book Fair: Ms. Yost will be hosting a Scholastic Book Fair during the weeks of October 19 and 26. Your child will have the opportunity to purchase books during his or her Language Arts class.

Sussex County Middle School Summit:

This year, the Center for Prevention and Counseling celebrates its 20th annual Taking Flight to Change Middle School Summit. Due to COVID-19, the Summit will be a virtual event that will have an opportunity to make a larger impact than ever before as it will become a week-long event, with daily 20-minute pre-recorded videos including motivational speakers, activities, and energizers. Since it is virtual, all students in Glen Meadow will be able to experience the event. Students will be hearing from various speakers who will provide a motivational message tailored to Sussex County students incorporating empathy, the power of one, and resiliency. Students will be viewing the video messages during lunch, gym, and health classes.

Builder’s Club Virtual Costume Contest: All Glen Meadow students are invited to participate in a VIRTUAL costume contest. Participating students are requested to donate a dollar or two to participate. A slide show using WeVideo will be produced so everyone can see all costumes. There will be three winners selected. The winners will be able to select where the donation collected will go; all proceeds will go to Vernon charities. In addition…the top three winners will be winning an Amazon Gift Card, the top prize will be a $20.00 gift card!! Get creative students!!

Mindful Breathing
Brain Science
Body Awareness
Mindfulness of Thinking
Mindful Movement
Mindfulness of Emotions
Relaxation Techniques
Meditation Techniques

Mr. Thomasberger’s goal is to provide students with a comprehensive, fun, educational, and experiential class to release pent up energy, deal with stress, and learn new ways of self-regulation.

Below are the Zoom links for both sessions. All students are encouraged to attend.

Link for October 20th Meeting ID: 811 5510 5660 Passcode: 664781

Link for Nov. 3rd Meeting ID: 812 3273 4908 Passcode: 634335

Blood Drive: This year Glen Meadow will be hosting our blood drives off-campus. Thank you to St. Frances DeSales Church for opening its doors for our blood drive that will take place on Thursday, November 5, 2020, from 3:00 to 7:30 pm. Please click here for the flyer.

Our Middle School Strings Program: While students are learning virtually and are practicing their instrument in the strings program, students are submitting videos of themselves practicing. Below are videos showing one of the warm-up/skill exercises Mrs. Krott and Mrs. Berls are using in the orchestra this year called Bornoff Finger Patterns. The teachers are able to work on things such as intonation (playing in tune), finger placement on the instrument, and bow control at a level that is appropriate for the students.

The Vernon Coalition: The Vernon Coalition will be offering Lunch and Fun meetings during lunch periods. The goal of the meetings is to develop student leadership and join the movement for young people to recognize and face the influences around them while having fun. The meeting schedule is listed on the flier below. This is a great way for students to get involved and hang out with like-minded teens. Click here for the flyer for the Lunch and Fun program. In addition to this daytime program, the Vernon Coalition also is holding “Above the Influence” early evening in-person meetings at Walnut Ridge/Vernon Board Office. Click here for the flyer for the Above the Influence program. This is a great program for middle schoolers!

Project Self-Sufficiency Annual “Stuff the Stocking” Program: Annually Project Self-Sufficiency requests children’s toys for their annual “Stuff the Stocking” Program. Glen Meadow will be a proud participant of this program and will be collecting gifts for Project Self-Sufficiency in November. Thank you for considering donating a gift for a child in need. Here is the link to the flyer.

Wave Learning Online Tutoring Program from UPenn: As you read in previous Glen Meadow blogs the University of Pennsylvania, UPenn, offers extensive online tutoring and classes for students across a wide variety of topics. Check out the programs offered this month.

STEMtober: Every Saturday in October, Wave Learning be focusing on a different STEM field for interested students who may not have had much exposure to STEM to explore! Details can be found at www.wavelf.org/event-stemey.
Academic tutoring begins on October 5. Students can drop in to receive curricular support from high-achieving high school and college students specializing in whatever subject is needed! www.wavelf.org/tutoring contains all the information for students to get involved.
If you’re interested, Wave Learning recently put together a Wave Learning Festival Facebook community group for students, parents, and educators! Here’s the Facebook link: www.facebook.com/groups/wavelearningfestival

4-H Programs available for Middle Schoolers:

Have you heard about 4-H?

What is 4‑H? 4‑H is delivered by Cooperative Extension—a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. For more than 100 years, 4‑H has welcomed young people of all beliefs and backgrounds, giving kids a voice to express who they are and how they make their lives and communities better.

Through life-changing 4‑H programs, nearly six million kids and teens have taken on critical societal issues, such as addressing community health inequities, engaging in civil discourse, and advocating for equity and inclusion for all.

4‑H believes in the power of young people. 4-H sees that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us.

Here are two programs offered by the 4-H…

4-H Dogs and Paws and the 4-H Dinosaur Fun Fact clubs…Clubs are open to any student grades 2 – 8.

Love dogs? Would you like to know how to care for and train your pet? Then check out the Dogs and Paws club. We will be learning to care for our pets, how to do basic training, and learning facts about each breed. We will also work on a project that will be displayed at the Sussex County Fair in August 2021! To sign up please follow this link

https://forms.gle/NQvLdcE3K68GbSbG6

Are you a fan of Dinosaurs? Join the Dino fun fact club! Learn about Herbivore and Carnivore dinosaurs We will also work on a project that will be displayed at the Sussex County Fair in August 2021! To sign up please follow this link

https://forms.gle/mMpMGjCSiRxCYMor6

Schoology: Marking Period One ends on Thursday, November 12, 2020. Please be sure you are checking your child’s Genesis and Schoology accounts on a regular basis. Teachers are continually posting & updating information that is instrumental to your child’s academic progress. If your child is not attending Zoom meetings, your child will be losing class participation credit in that class.

In addition, teachers may be holding virtual class meetings where your child’s attendance is required.

You can always see what is going on in each class. You will always land on the Updates page. There you will see the message for the day and highlights of the day’s/week’s work. Next, click on the Materials folder that is right above the Updates folder. There you will find all of the work for the week in a weekly labeled folder. Look for a checklist of work your child needs to complete for the week. This is created by each teacher to help your child stay organized.

October Virtual SCA meeting will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, October 21, at 9:45 am. We had a great September meeting. We love our parent volunteers. Please check out the Glen Meadow SCA link where our minutes will be posted to keep you up to date if you missed a meeting. Stay connected with the SCA by visiting their page.

Each candidate should:

Inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn;
Serves as an exceptionally skilled and dedicated educator in a public or charter school;
Expresses themselves in an engaging and articulate way;
Plays an active role in the community as well as the school;
Demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside the classroom;
Has the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues

Reminder: Vernon Township School District schools will be closed for the NJ Education Association Annual Teachers Convention on Thursday and Friday, November 5-6, 2020. There will be no in-person or virtual teaching on these days.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Rosemary Gebhardt Eric Kosek, Ed. D

Principal Assistant Principal

Principal’s Blog

October, 2020

As we move into October with an incredible amount of uncertainty, we are still focusing on and looking forward to a return to normalcy. Nature’s beautiful display of color and the change of seasons reminds us that summer is over and we are into a new; although unconventional school year. That being said, I would like to remind everyone whether learning remotely or in the hybrid platform that all assignments will be graded and students will receive marking period grades. All parents/guardians are encouraged to check assignments or maintain contact with classroom teachers to ensure student attendance and completion of assigned learning activities.

Week of Respect 2020

October 5th– 9th

The Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act (P.K.2010, c.122) requires that the week beginning with the first Monday in October of each year be designated as the Week of Respect in New Jersey. School districts observe this week by providing age-appropriate instruction focusing on preventing/remediating harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying.

Monday, October 5, 2020

Today is World Day of Bullying Prevention. I hope you were able to wear BLUE today!

Mrs. Benz would like to tell us about this special day. Please click on this LINK to find out more.

Next, let’s watch WORD ON THE STREET!

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Today let’s think about how you can show KINDNESS to others. Please click on this LINK to find out more about this!
Mrs. Benz is also going to read you a story about kindness. Click HERE to listen to her!

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Today let’s think about how you can show KINDNESS to others online. Please click on this LINK to find out more about this!

Next, let’s watch the video Power of Words

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Today let’s think about how you can stand up against bullying. Please click on this LINK to learn more about how you can be an upstander!

Mrs. Benz is also going to read the story, The Juice Box Bully.

Click HERE to listen to her!

Friday, October 9, 2020

Today, let’s think about how we can show respect and kindness to the Earth. Please click on this LINK to find out more about this!

Next, let’s listen to the story I Can Save the Earth by Alison Inches

Red Ribbon Week 2020

The annual celebration encouraging young people to stay away from drugs and gangs is set for Oct. 26 to Oct. 30 with more about the activities coming soon.

October Message from the VTHS Admin Team

Principal’s Blog

October, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

“These are the times that try men’s souls” are the opening words to a pamphlet series written by eighteenth-century Enlightenment philosopher and author, Thomas Paine, in his work entitled The American Crisis, or simply The Crisis, originally published from 1776 to 1783 during the American Revolution.

The winter of 1776 was a time of need in the colonies, considering the entire patriotic American cause was still viewed as an unsteady prospect. Paine wanted to enable the distraught patriots to stand, to preserve and to fight for an American victory. Paine brought together diverse colonies and encouraged them to stay motivated through the harsh conditions of the winter of 1776. The pamphlet, read aloud to the Continental Army on December 23, 1776, three days before the Battle of Trenton, attempted to bolster morale and resistance among patriots, as well as shame neutrals and loyalists to support the cause.

So, here we are, nearly 244 years later, in the fall of 2020, and it is fair to share, one could safely say regarding our schools and the teaching and learning process for students, parents, guardians, teachers, secretaries, custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers,…. the list can go on….. “These are the times that try each and every one of Lounsberry Hollow School’s stakeholders’ souls in this new era of public education.

The great majority of our LH students have worked amazingly hard during the opening weeks of the 2020-21 school year, under very challenging and trying times. I want to personally thank you, as parents and guardians, of these hard working students, for overseeing the numerous tasks that go along with in-person, virtual and, or, hybrid models of teaching and learning.

For those students whom have worked hard to date and continue to do so, the dividends will pay off greatly in the form of end of the first making period grades come November, 2020. For those students whom have not been conscientious in completing their assigned work, or in studying for tests and quizzes and participating in class discussions and activities, whether these be in-person or virtual, there will likely be disappointment at the end of the first quarter in November, when Marking Period 1 grades are finalized and realized.

As LH’s building principal, I am reaching out to you in this month’s communique’, and asking you to please take the time to check and monitor your child’s Grade 4 and, or, Grade 5 progress to date. If your child is doing well thus far, great!; if not, please make it a point to reach out to your child’s teachers to seek clarity on what your son or daughter can do to raise his or her grades.

There are so many of the 440 plus students in Grades 4 & 5 who currently attend LH who continue to put the time and effort in it takes to be “the best student they can be.” I am hopeful you will partner with our teachers and with me to see to it your child(ren) are among this hard working group of academic achievers.

All the best to you and to our students for a rewarding month of October and much success!

Upcoming Events October 2020

Sincerely,

Dennis J. Mudrick

Principal

Fall News from Glen Meadow School…

Dear Parents and Guardians:

As you read in our Superintendent’s letter, we will have virtual Wednesday instruction beginning with the first week of October, with our first virtual Wednesday being on October 7, 2020. Our virtual Wednesday schedule is below. Please encourage your child to follow his or her schedule on Wednesdays. Some teachers will have an open Zoom meeting for the class or to receive help on work, others will post pre-recorded lessons, and others will post work for the day. As I have recommended to many parents, it is a good idea to have your child follow his or her daily schedule on the days home whether an Exclusively Virtual student or a Hybrid Learner. In addition, please be sure you are checking your child’s Genesis and Schoology accounts on a regular basis. Teachers are continually posting & updating information that is instrumental to your child’s academic progress. Teachers may be holding virtual class meetings where your child’s attendance is required.

*Virtual Wednesdays for ALL Students*
Period 1:	9:00 – 9:20
Period 2:	9:25 – 9:45
Period 3:	9:50 – 10:10
Period 4:	10:15 – 10:35
Period 5:	10:40 – 11:00
Period 6:	11:05 – 11:25
Period 7:	11:30 – 11:50
Period 8:	11:55 – 12:15
Period 9:	12:20 – 12:40
Office Time:	12:40 – 1:00

Schoology: Please be sure you are checking your child’s Genesis and Schoology accounts on a regular basis. Teachers are continually posting & updating information that is instrumental to your child’s academic progress. If your child is not attending Zoom meetings, your child will be losing class participation credit in that class.

In addition, teachers may be holding virtual class meetings where your child’s attendance is required.

Zoom Etiquette: Here is a reminder of what is expected when your child is on a Zoom meeting with his or her teacher and class- please click this link: Zoom Expectations

FREE Grab-and-Go Breakfast and Lunch Program: Did you know that breakfast and lunch are FREE to ALL students this fall in our district? Your child may take a breakfast upon walking into school…NO order necessary!! Your child may order a lunch daily by completing a GM Lunch Order Form found on the GMMS Student page. Here is the Google form for your convenience. Lunch must be ordered by 9:00 am. Lunch will be delivered to your child’s period 9 class prior to leaving the room for the 12:30 pm bus. Please consider taking advantage of this service.

Looking for a FREE tutoring service? Students at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) are offering free tutoring through a program from Wave Learning Festival, this is a nonprofit project to address equitable education started by college students at UPenn this summer.

Wave Learning Festival will be offering free tutoring sessions from college students on all subjects, speaker events from influencers like Ruta Sepetys and organizations like MEDLIFE, and career & college apps workshops, in addition to the seminars that they will be continuing from this summer. Wave Learning Festival received an extraordinary response from their students this summer, and specifically, tutoring was highly requested by parents to help fill the gaps left by online learning. The goal of the Wave Learning Festival is to help students everywhere with their academic pursuits, especially those with less access to resources.

Check out wavelf.org! Registration for our first round of seminars closes on September 27th, and tutoring begins October 5th. Don’t miss out on these free opportunities.

Teacher of the Year Program

You are invited to nominate a teacher for the annual NJ Department of Education Governor’s Teacher of the Year and Governor’s Educational Services Professional of the Year. Please use this form to nominate a teacher at Glen Meadow. Nominations are due on November 20th. Our building selection will be made in early December. There are so many outstanding professionals in Glen Meadow for you to consider! Last year’s recipients were Mrs. Renee Kepfinger, a special education math teacher, and Ms. Terri, Librarian

Each candidate should:

Inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn;
Serves as an exceptionally skilled and dedicated educator in a public or charter school;
Expresses themselves in an engaging and articulate way;
Plays an active role in the community as well as the school;
Demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside the classroom;
Has the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues

Walking through the Virtual Halls of Glen Meadow…

Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest: Students will be writing essays in Language Arts and Social Studies classes on the topic “What is Patriotism to Me?”. Patriot’s Pen is an annual essay contest is sponsored by the National VFW. Glen Meadow often has winners from our school at the local and regional level; winners receive a monetary prize! Click this link for the application.

Mrs. Holderith uses virtual manipulatives to teach the concept of subtracting integers; click this link to see an example of an online math lesson.

As part of Mrs. Franklyn’s science lessons, she gives students a daily poll that introduces students to the world of science. Students are presented with a topic, have to do a little research online and then they cast their vote and state why they selected the choice they did. The poll and the topic are discussed in next day in class. Here is an example of a poll taken in class:

Which animal courtship ritual do you find most interesting/amazing/odd? Click on the links below for a video of each, then make your choice.

Peacock spiders https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3HlwwJG85c

Bowerbirds https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXwJ3QFIOkg

White-spotted pufferfish https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XT6ILjk1fcg

Hooded seal https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPFkmwo8DQU

Birds of Paradise https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWfyw51DQfU8th

Mrs. Basso and Mrs. Zaremba’s students are expressing their knowledge through a variety of platforms. After watching a video in Mrs. Basso and Mrs. Zaremba’s weekly slide presentation, students respond to the discussion question by using the microphone icon to record or the video and audio icon to the answer about a Scope Magazine article they just read. Students responded to the question, “How are search dogs portrayed in the video? Consider the narration, music, and visuals”. Here are two students’ responses that show how students are using tools in Schoology to complete their work.

Here is Samantha W’s audio response:

Here is Leah G’s audio and video response:

Mrs. Ragone’s 8^th graders wrote poems to express who they are, their interests, and things in their life. Here are some pictures of their creativity. Maybe we will see these in our Reflections Magazine later this year. Click on each image to enlarge and read each poem. You will be very impressed with each student’s creativity.

From our music teacher, Miss Petrucci: Chrome Music Lab is an interactive musical activities website built and run through Google. This website allows students to explore different areas of musicianship such as sound, rhythm, melody, and more. Exploring music can help spark curiosity in all kinds of ways. This website can help one think of new perspectives both in the music classroom and in general education classrooms.

These examples are from the “Song Maker” activity available on Chrome Music Lab. In this activity, students can create a simple composition and can share it instantly with a link. For this assignment, students were able to learn about the different decisions that go into creating a piece of music and were able to get creative with their own musical knowledge. Enjoy the music samples below.

Music 6: Period 2

James’ Composition:

Audrey’s Composition:

Music 6: Period 4

Kayli’s Composition:

Vanesa’s Composition:

Music 8: Period 9

Jared’s Composition:

Frankie’s Composition:

Sadie’s Composition:

Here is an example of Mrs. Hirkaler’s mini-lesson on practicing the elements of art and the principles of design. I think you will find this recorded lesson very relaxing and has students applying skills they have learned in art through the years.

Virtual Clubs are beginning!

Builder’s Club…

Would you like to belong to a club that helps people in our school and in our community? Would you like to reach out to those in need and build friendships along the way? If so, please join the Glen Meadow Builders Club. There will be an organizational meeting for the Builders Club via Zoom on Wednesday, September 30th at 3:00 pm. The link for the meeting will be posted with the announcements in Schoology. We look forward to seeing our members from last year and welcoming new ones!

Virtual Variety Show…

In order to be considered for participation in the 2020 Glen Meadow Variety Show, all students must complete the entire application that is attached here and their music lyrics (if applicable) by Friday, October 2.

Auditions will take place virtually on October 6 and October 8th. Please listen for announcements during homeroom and look for Variety Show announcements in Schoology. You will receive notification of your audition day on a pass given to you by your homeroom teacher, or one will be sent to you via email.

Students may audition for one act only. Students must choose whether they will perform with a group, a partner, or as a solo.
All acts must be under four minutes to ensure that the Variety Show is presented in a reasonable amount of time. Please modify your performance to meet this time restriction.
All students auditioning with music (either instrumental or vocal) must submit a copy of their music’s lyrics along with their permission slip and application. THIS IS ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED. All musical selections must be school appropriate, as deemed by the Variety Show Advisors.
If you are selected to participate in the show, please be aware that rehearsals days are assigned and either Tuesday and Thursdays. Assigned practices are MANDATORY. Students who do not attend mandatory practices will be asked to leave the show!
All costumes must be school appropriate, as deemed by the Variety Show Advisors. A brief description of all students’ costumes must be provided on the application. We just need a general idea of what you plan to wear. Please consult the Glen Meadow Parent/Student Handbook for further information.
All Variety Show participants are expected to display exemplary behavior at all times as outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook. Infractions may result in expulsion from the show.

*The Variety Show will be held on Tuesday, November 17th at 6:30 pm; this will be an ONLINE program*

Vernon Coalition…

“Above the Influence” virtual program will begin soon… This is a very popular club… all are invited. Students will come together to celebrate being a pre-teen/teen and all the ways to have fun while making healthy choices. Lisa DeRitter, the Youth Coordinator will be leading this group. Lisa will also be holding many Lunch and Fun groups during lunch periods throughout the school year.

Glen Meadow Sports…

Cross Country: Coach Galante has been training our students for endurance for long-distance running. This team will experience seven meets this year. Coach Galante gives students leadership opportunities by leading exercising and stretching at the beginning and the end of each practice. All students are welcome; if you are thinking about joining, please see Mr. Galante.

Field Hockey: Coaches Hofmann and Ranzan are training our athletes for six games this year. The Field Hockey team was NUMBER ONE in Sussex County last year; can they do it again this year? Good luck to our players as they compete against Kittatinny, Newton, and Sparta!

Week of Respect 2020-2021

Connect with Kindness

During the week of October 5, 2020, our state will be celebrating the ways that all students can respect each other and avoid bullying behavior. Here is a listing of what we’ll be doing at Glen Meadow Middle School for the week:

Monday, October 5th

Blue Shirt Day- World Day of Bullying Prevention

Blue Shirt Day, World Day of Bullying Prevention is a national initiative held on the first Monday of October. “STOMP Out Bullying” created this initiative where people are asked to wear a blue shirt in an effort to join together in solidarity to stop bullying and cyberbullying. GMMS will help drive awareness of anti-bullying programs and STOMP Out Bullying in our community!

For our virtual students: Students and teachers will make an avatar picture wearing blue.

Tuesday, October 6th

Everyone Counts Day- wear clothing with a number on it.

Students will be encouraged to do Random Acts of Kindness for others.

Wednesday, October 7th

School is a Safe Place to Be Yourself…Dare to be different- wear mismatched clothes

We look forward to being in an encouraging environment that promotes social and creative learning and embraces everyone to be themselves.

Thursday, October 8th

Stand Up Against Bullying- United we stand…wear school spirit wear (“class of t-shirts”, etc.)

Friday, October 9th

HERO Day- dress up as a superhero

School and Community Association (SCA)

The October virtual SCA meeting will take place on Wednesday, October 21, at 9:45 am. The SCA will post a Zoom link on the SCA page so all can attend. We had a great parent attendance at our September meeting. We love our parent volunteers. Please check out the Glen Meadow SCA link where our minutes will be posted to keep you up to date if you missed a meeting. This new site will bring you to all SCAs in our district.

Here are the Glen Meadow Officers for the 2020-2021 School Year:

President: Mrs. Katrine Lally

Vice President: Open

Treasurer: Mrs. Donna Pych

Recording Secretary: Open

Corresponding Secretary: Ms. Clarissa Piper

In closing, thank you for partnering with us, our students are very respectful of wearing their masks, practicing social distancing, and following school rules. Our temperature taking prior to students arriving in the building is going very well. Please continue to monitor Schoology so you can stay up to date with all class requirements. Please reach out to either of us if we can help you navigate your child’s Schoology pages. Thank you for viewing Genesis to see the grades your child is earning. Later in October, we have Virtual Parent Conferences. There will be more information on this in the next Glen Meadow blog.

Sincerely,

Rosemary Gebhardt Eric Kosek, Ed. D

Principal Assistant Principal

Principal’s Blog

Dear Parent(s) or Guradian,

Dear Parent(s) or Guardian:

I would just like to take a moment and offer everyone a very special “Thank You” for your continued support and understanding as we move through a very complex; but extremely successful school opening. Whether your child has opted for in person hybrid learning, or the all virtual platform, you have my assurance that the focus at Rolling Hills will always be to optimize learning. We are focusing on student learning and achievement, as well as, the social emotional growth of our students.

For those who have elected to have their children participate in person, I am both humbled and honored that you have the faith and confidence that we will be doing everything possible to keep your child safe and healthy while in school.

I realize the virtual learning platform brings with it a variety of different concerns and a one size fits all model is extremely hard to achieve. The faculty and staff of Rolling Hills continue to be committed to improving lessons and activities promoting student success, participation, and engagement for those participating in the virtual platform.

I understand that the decision to start your child either all virtual or in the hybrid setting has been an extremely difficult one and some parents of our in person students, as well as, our all virtual students are already rethinking their decisions. While I believe this is a normal and expected process; I would respectfully ask that you give the process a little time. The district is committed to providing the safest learning environment for all students and our ongoing focus will be to create a learning environment which allows for optimal social distancing and the elimination of shared materials and resources between students and staff. As such, the district has established an Oct 5th date to request changes to virtual or hybrid models in order to maintain the delicate balance necessary for in person classroom instruction.

GMMS Virtual Wednesdays-Picture Day-FAQs-and More!

Dear Glen Meadow Parents and Guardians:

Some reminders now that school has begun…

All-Virtual Wednesdays: On Wednesday, September 16, and Wednesday, September 23, all VTSD students will be virtual learners, as our schools will be deep cleaned on both of these days. All students should log on to Schoology and attend all classes. School will be in session online on these two days for all BLUE, GOLD, and VIRTUAL learners. While your classes may or may not be live, your teachers will be available to assist you with your work. Your classes will be very short because we will be giving all students the LinkIt! Benchmark A Test for Language Arts and Math for the first 75 minutes of each Wednesday.

The results from the benchmark assessment are for instructional purposes only. Results will provide important information to your child’s teacher about strengths and areas needed for growth and development for upcoming lessons. Please note, this assessment is only one of the multiple measures we use to make instructional decisions.

We appreciate your assistance in helping to create a secure and comfortable testing environment by:

Providing a quiet, comfortable space with limited interruptions where your child can work independently for about 60 minutes (typical testing time is between 45-55 minutes). Once your child starts the benchmark, it will remain available for 75 minutes. This allows for additional time and breaks as needed, although the session cannot be paused once started.
Reminding your child that he/she is not permitted to search the internet or use other offline resources to help answer questions. Additionally, refrain from coaching and providing assistance of any kind.
Preventing access to a calculator for math, except on the Algebra I, Geometry, or Algebra II assessments, or as indicated in a student’s IEP/504.
Charging the school Chromebook the evening prior to the benchmark and having the cord readily available.

Logistical information related to your child’s taking the LinkIt Benchmark Assessment:

To allow for some flexibility, students can choose to start the benchmark anytime before 9 am on 9/16 for ELA and 9/23 for Math, in order to take advantage of the full-time allotment prior to the virtual “bell” schedule, when teachers may have virtual instruction or check-ins scheduled.
If a student cannot start the benchmark before 9 am, he/she should consider waiting until after 1pm so the student doesn’t miss any scheduled activities with his/her teachers.
Instructions and links will be posted on the language arts class pages in Schoology for 9/16 and the Math class Schoology pages for 9/23. Remember, this is simply a baseline from which student growth can be celebrated, so students should simply give their best effort without worrying about achieving a specific score. The goal is simply what know at the beginning of the school year so we can help guide our instruction.

Here is the schedule for both virtual Wednesdays:

*GMMS Virtual Wednesdays (9/16 and 9/23)*
Linkit Benchmark 9/16 ELA, 9/23 Math	9:00-10:15* (or after 1pm)
Period 1:	10:20-10:35
Period 2:	10:38-10:53
Period 3:	10:56-11:11
Period 4:	11:14-11:29
Period 5:	11:32-11:47
Period 6:	11:50-12:05
Period 7:	12:08-12:23
Period 8:	12:26-12:41
Period 9:	12:44-12:59

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions that have come up with our Exclusively Virtual Learners with clarifying answers:

Question: Do I have to log on at 8:00 am daily?

Answer: No, but you are recommended to follow your regular schedule to help maintain a school routine, so beginning at 8:00 am is a good idea.

Question: Will all of my classes be live?

Answer: No, many of your classes will be recorded and then placed on Schoology for you to watch and then complete the accompanying activity. Please note: from time to time, your teacher may send you a link for a live class session; your teacher will give you all of this information ahead of time so you can join the class. Often you will “meet” with your teacher live after 12:30 pm during his or her office hours.

Question: Do I have until 11:59 pm to turn in assignments?

Answer: It depends on what your teacher is requesting; he or she may have a specific time of day the work may be due. For example, by the end of the regular school day. Remember all regular grading rules will be followed, you do not have a Pass/Fail option.

Question: I don’t hear from my teacher in the morning, why is that?

Answer: Teachers are teaching their Blue or Gold students and may not always be able to get to the virtual learners in the morning. This is why teachers hold office hours after 12:30 pm. At times, your teacher may invite you to a class that is taking place in the morning; you will be notified on your Schoology page when this occurs.

Question: I notice that some of the recorded lessons are not of my teacher, who are the other teachers I hear and see?

Answer: Teachers are doing a lot of collaborating this fall to create lessons; so, as a result, you will see all the teachers that teach that grade/subject on your Schoology page. For example, you may have Mr. Ferguson but you may see or hear Mr. Myhren, Mr. Henry, or Mrs. Studley, as they all teach 6th grade math. This may actually make learning more interesting for you, as you get to see different teachers teaching concepts.

Question: If I am sick and cannot do my work, should my parents or guardians call Glen Meadow to tell them I am sick?

Answer: Yes, if you cannot do your work and will not be participating in your daily lessons, please have your parents call Glen Meadow at 973-764-8981. You should also send your teachers a Google Hangout or an email to let them know they may not see you online on that day.

School Picture Day: Picture Day will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, for the BLUE students and Thursday, September 24, 2020, for the GOLD students. All VIRTUAL students should come to GMMS to have his/her picture taken on either afternoon (9/22 or 9/24) from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. It is imperative that all students have their pictures taken even if pictures are not purchased. There will be NO paper forms this year. You can purchase the pictures online OR you may print out the form and place money or a check with your form. HERE IS THIS YEAR’S PICTURE FORM

Snacks: Your child may bring a snack to school. Below are the times your child may eat his or her snack. Your child may also bring a water bottle to school. Our fountains are turned off, but we have two water filling stations for students to refill water bottles.

Upon arrival to HR: 8:08 am

During lunchtime:

Period 4- 9:40 am- Grade 7

Period 5- 10:08 am- Grade 6

Period 6- 10: 36 am- Grade 8

Purchasing a Grab-and-Go Lunch: Your child may order lunch daily by completing a GM Lunch Order Form found on the GMMS Student page. Here is the Google form for your convenience. Lunch must be ordered by 9:00 am. Your child’s lunch will be delivered to the classroom prior to going home at 12:30 pm.

Fall Interscholastic Sports:

Cross-Country: Practice will begin on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, with Coach Galante. Practice will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, excluding 9/16 and 9/23. All students are welcome to participate. If your child is a virtual learner or is home on an opposite day, your child is welcome to come to school for practice. Practice will begin at 12:45 pm. Students will eat lunch prior to practicing. Your child can purchase a Grab-and-Go lunch for convenience. Practice will end at 3:00 pm. There will be after school activities buses to take your child home. Here the After School Activity Bus form. Your child must have a completed physical to participate.

Field Hockey: Practice will begin on Tuesday, September 15, with Coaches Hofmann and Ranzan. Practice will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, excluding 9/16 and 9/23. All students are welcome to participate. If your child is a virtual learner or is home on an opposite day, your child is welcome to come to school for practice. Practice will begin at 12:45 pm. Students will eat lunch prior to practicing. Your child can purchase a Grab-and-Go lunch for convenience. Practice will end at 3:00 pm. There will be after school activities buses to take your child home. Here the After School Activity Bus form. Your child must have a completed physical to participate.

ALL TEAM MEMBERS

Must have their own water bottle with their name on it
Must have appropriate face covering for time frames when they are not engaged in a high intensity aerobic or anaerobic activity
Should have their gear in a clearly marked bag for days that they are in the building prior to practice (Blue or Gold days)

Calling all students who have an interest in aerospace/aviation, STEM, military customs and courtesies, emergency services, character development and leadership:

Civil Air Patrol Squadron (CAP) is an auxiliary of the Air Force. The cadet program is a program that helps to teach students about leadership, aerospace/aviation, STEM, military customs and courtesies, emergency services, character development, and much more. There are opportunities to fly aircraft, build rockets, and develop camaraderie with a squadron of other like-minded young adults. A Civil Air Patrol student will be speaking at our open house, along with several past and present members about how CAP helped teenagers bolster their resume for college, prepare them for the military, or prepare them for life. A CAP teenager will be speaking at the open house, along with several past and present members about how CAP helps bolster a resume for college, prepares students for the military, or prepares a person for life. The Civil Air Patrol Squadron (CAP) will be holding a VIRTUAL Open House on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Here is the informational flyer.

SCA Fundraiser: Our district’s SCAs are collectively running a fundraiser that will benefit the school of your choice. Please click the flyer to read about the Gift Certificate Pochuck Vally Farm Fundraiser.

In closing: As a reminder, all Vernon schools will be closed on Monday, September 28, 2020, for the celebration of Yom Kippur.

Sincerely,

Rosemary Gebhardt Eric Kosek

Principal Assistant Principal

Viktor the Viking and the Road Back to VTHS

As we continue our Back-To-School Night presentations, we have saved the best for last! Our VTHS SCA and the Senior Class Officers for the Class of 2021 have purchased a mascot they have named Viktor the Viking. Thanks to their class advisors, Mrs. Lea Haddeland and Mrs. Emely Paulino, these seniors visited VTHS this week to create an informative–and entertaining–video to help all of our students know what to do on the first day of school for the 2020-2021 school year! Click HERE to watch Viktor the Viking and the Road Back to VTHS. We hope you enjoy it!

We’ll see everyone next week!

Dr. Anderson, Mr. Demsak, and Mrs. Van Orden

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