Guilford Public Schools

Dear Parents and Guardians,
What a “wild and wooly” year it has been so far! Eighth grade parents may remember that the concerns over controlling the
spread of the H1N1 virus began last spring when we cancelled all the end­of­year eighth grade team trips to Ellis Island in NYC.
Our absentee rate during October was high, although (knock on wood) it never reached the 40+ percent level that was experienced
at GHS. We are hopeful that with your cooperation ­ keeping students home if they are showing flu­like symptoms ­ and the
increase in numbers of students with acquired immunity because they had the flu– we will be able to return to a routine of relative
normalcy. I say that with a smile because we are a middle school; and as you know, “normal” is an ever­changing term when applied
to adolescents!
On October 29th, Adams staff and students experienced our first district Learning Walk. Superintendent Tom Forcella, Assistant
Superintendent Anne Keene, Calvin Leete Principal Nancy Bishop and Adams Principal Catherine Walker spent the entire day observing
classes at Adams. The objective of a Learning Walk is to provide teachers with feedback regarding teaching and learning in
order to improve school­wide instructional practice and learning for students. It is a data collecting protocol for schools/districts that
are applying the Principles of Learning, which are a set of teacher and learner expectations developed at the University of Pittsburgh
Institute for Learning. We see it as a tool for getting smarter about teaching and learning.
Adams teachers asked the visiting team to focus on learner comprehension of skills and content as the focus for the Learning Walk.
We wanted to know how our instruction supports improved comprehension of content and skills (e.g. science concepts and reading
skills) and how this is evidenced by students through their response, interaction, level of awareness and understanding, etc. This
focus was chosen because improving student comprehension is a goal of a majority of the collaborative teams in our building.
A written report of the Learning Walk, in the form of a letter to the staff, will be shared at the first faculty meeting in November.
Teachers will use the feedback provided to discuss their practice and implement the Principles of Learning to improve instruction.
During this season of Thanksgiving, it is appropriate to slow down and reflect on the positives in our professional and personal
lives, those relationships that provide us with genuine satisfaction and joy. Reflection helps us to restore our perspective and balance,
to counter worries over the very real personal, local, national and global problems that concern us all. The Adams learning
community wishes the very best to every one of our families.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and support to insure the safety, security and success of every child and
adult at Adams Middle School.
Catherine Walker and Bob Loizeaux
EARLY DISMISSAL AT 12:15 PM FOR PARENT ­ TEACHER CONFERENCES NOVEMBER 12 & 13, 2009
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Dismissal 12:15 Conferences from 6:00—8:30 PM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Dismissal 12:15 Conferences from 12:30—3:00 PM
Upcoming PTO meetings: 6:30 p.m.— 8:00 p.m.
Adams Library Media Center
Thursdays ­ November 19th, December 17th, January 21st
DAILY BULLETINS NOW AVAILABLE IN POWERSCHOOL
Our Main Office if a very busy place so , help us to help you, by clicking on the Daily Bulletin icon in PowerSchool for
our morning announcements and sports updates. This is a great way to know about club activities and to see if the
game or concert has been cancelled due to inclement weather.

Guilford Public Schools
Dr. Thomas Forcella
Superintendent
GPS District News
Please look for regular updates from the Superintendent’s office in your PTO newsletter. We look forward
to sharing information about the district’s goals and vision to broaden your understanding of the
direction of the Guilford Public Schools. Feedback has been that many parents would appreciate more
information about our initiatives. Your understanding and involvement in the process is vital to our success.
Our vision is “a professional learning community where instruction invites effort and supports academic
rigor for all students and educators.” The achievement of this vision requires a change in the culture
within our schools. The concept of a Professional Learning Community (PLC) means that our educators
are not working in isolation, concerned only with their lesson plans and teaching their students within the
confines of their four classroom walls.
Our educators meet regularly in small groups to set goals and learn from each other with the shared objective
of increased student learning. Teachers compare student results and discuss the learning strategies
and assessments each employs to achieve these results. They analyze test scores and talk about
why the students in Mrs. Jones class scored higher. They ask each other, “What does she do differently?
What can we learn from her strategies?”
Professional Learning Communities foster collaboration and drive the daily work of all of our educators
to improve their individual and collective results.
Goal setting is essential to measure our success. Goals are set at the district, building, department and
PLC levels and must relate to the vision of the district. The district goals for the 2009­2010 school year
are:
Goal #1: Academic rigor and persistent effort will be present in every school as evidenced by the successful
implementation of the Principles of Learning identified through Learning Walks.
Goal #2: All students will be engaged in a guaranteed and viable curriculum through quality differentiated
instruction and will achieve at high levels as measured by summative, formative, and benchmark
assessments.
We look forward to continuing to elaborate on our goals and initiatives including Learning Walks and the
Principles of Learning throughout the year. More information can be found on our website at
www.guilford.k12.ct.us.
PUBLIC NOTICE ­ NONDISCRIMINATION
The Guilford Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, national/ethnic
origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, or disability in its programs, activities, and employment practices
as set forth in compliance with the Office of Civil Rights, Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504.
Any person having inquiries concerning Guilford Public Schools’ compliance with Title VI or Title IX should
contact Anne Keene, Assistant Superintendent, Guilford Public Schools, 55 Park Street, P.O. Box 367, Guilford,
CT 06437, telephone 203­453­8216.
Any person having inquiries concerning Guilford Public Schools’ compliance with Section 504 should contact
Patricia Free Brett, Director of Pupil Services, Calvin Leete Elementary School, 280 South Union Street, Guilford,
CT 06437, telephone 203­453­0128.
8/2009
Parents Right­To­Know
As part of the federal ‘No Child Left Behind Act, you may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your
child’s teachers. You may do this by contacting the appropriate building principal in writing for this information.

STUDENTS ACCEPTED INTO HONOR ENSEMBLES
The Adams Middle School Music Department consists of three performance ensembles (band, chorus, and orchestra)
and the music technology program. This program, in addition to the three performance ensembles, provides all students
at Adams the opportunity to work towards meeting the National Standards in Music Education. The benefits of
studying music include developing higher­level thinking skills, self­discipline and organizational skills, cooperative learning
and teamwork, and enhancing self­esteem.
Congratulations to all musicians who were accepted into honor ensembles! We look forward to an exciting year!
Keynotes: Sopranos: Kate Floyd, Hannah Grasso, Jamie Holcomb, Alex Loukides, Maya Morduch­Toubman, Emma
Nanamaker, Hayley Page, Liz Rubbo, Keira Valaitis, Megan Vanacore Tenors: Patrick Gabel, Niall Kneerim, Jeremy Pastor,
Paul Wettemann, Nate Wilson Alto: Anna Babbin, Maddie Barnes, Zoe Bosenberg, Jessica Boughton, Rylee Carrillo­
Waggoner, Makaela Duran­Crelin, Kristen Forscher, Alex Heller, Emma Munson, Devin Patton, Olivia Schultes, Lindsey
Updyke, Olivia Warner Bass: Sam Dinerman, Sandy Goss, Stephen Hollo, Max Platia, Jon Venter
Girls’ Ensemble: Thea Anderson, Claire Bailey, Tessa Barry, Kaiti Brown, Megan Burke, Megan Carey, Rylee Carrillo­
Waggoner, Maria Corsini, Jaimie Cretella, Zoe Demitrack, Tiffani DiNicola, Makaela Duran­Crelin, Rebecca Eige, Ashley
Fiengo, Kate Floyd, Meghan Furness­Criscuoli, Haley Germaine, Chloe Gorman, Lucy Haskell, Celeste Heath, Alex Heller,
Jamie Holcomb, Jessa Holcomb, Meggin Jacob, Annie Jonathan, Kimber Kristy, Olivia Lahner, Caitlin Leese, Hannah Magoveny,
Samantha Mayeski, Athena Mayor, Lexie Morgan, Aimee Munck, Alessandra Munoz, Taryn Nelson, Megan
O’Connor, Hayley Page, Leer Porter, Alissa Rams, Jessica Reynolds, Jordana Rothberg, Sarah Russell, Emma Ryan,
Rachel Sanacora, Meghan Scott, Lucy Smith, Allison Stephens, Emily Stephens, Kristin Torre, Emily Tucker, Alice Valley,
Megan Vanacore, Kate Vitagliano, Michelle Wang, Julia Warner, Olivia Warner, Genny Wilson, Anny Yang, Bella Zira, Aly
Zoarski
Boys’ Ensemble: Sam Dinerman, Sandy Goss, Stephen Hollo, Niall Kneerim, Matt Landry­McWilliams, Kellin McDermott,
Jeremy Pastor, Max Platia, Colin Scarfo, Charles Slate, Jon Venter, Paul Wetteman, Nate Wilson
Concordia: 1st Violin: Gabrielle Sejourne, Jenna Moscarelli, Shauna McLaughlin, Derek Li, Ashley Zeller, Alex Li, Richard
May, Emily Schaefer 2nd Violin: Annie Xie, Junyu Huo, Amanda Pinto, Ian Whittall, Bridget Hackett, Meaghan Barrett,
Anna Strait, Mackenzie Walsh Viola: Charlotte Killiam, Olivia Schultes, Elizabeth McGavisk, Samuel Wong, Cello: Bronwyn
Reeve, Kimber Kristy, Audrey Balaska, Megan Burke, Kristen Urban, Christopher Worden, Caroline Napoli, Bass:
Derek Dioguardi
Honor Band: Flute: Corrine Huhnke, Mike Iranpour, Alex Loukides, Meg Rebuzzini, Anna Torres Clarinet: Cameron
Charbonneau, Claudia Despres, Leah Giovanniello, Maria Gonzalez, Katie Macy, Stephanie Monaco, Katie VanSteenbergen
Bass Clarinet: Conner Ozer Alto Sax: Ben Weidman, Marieke Page Tenor Sax: Anthony Gordon Bari Sax: Nicole
Mason Trumpet: Joe Boughton, Zach Clark, Ian Connell, Haley Gorman, Ned Gresham, Colin Pittorie, David Shan,
French Horn: Jack Davidson, Sandy Goss, Lauren Lepeak Trombone: Mike Balestracci, Kyle Landry­McWilliams, Zack
O’Conner Baritone: Katrina Niedziela, Abby Rogers Tuba: Ryan Brand Percussion: Mike Lim, Derek Longhini, Owen
Marks, Lucy Rosenthal, Alec Weeden
Jazz Band: Alto Sax: Mike Iranpour, Luke Nerney, Cody Barron, Eric Zergiebel Tenor Sax: Julia McMahon, Claire Weil­
Bari Sax: Zack Ligham Trumpet: John Ivy, Josh Malamud, Dan Fisher, Tom Roberts, David Shan, Trombone: Brian
Wolek, Jeff Tucker, Brian DaCorte, Shane Gallimore Rhythm Section: Piano: Derek Dioguardi, Nicole Mason Drums:
Derek Longhini, Mike Lim Guitar Michaeljohn Alio, Mike Balestracci Bass: Dylan Morris
PLEASE NOTE: The Media/Internet Privacy protocol is in effect. Parents/Guardians who have requested that their child’s name be excluded
from print/internet have been omitted. If you would like to change your request, please submit in writing to the Main Office.

SEPTEMBER
OF THE
STUDENTS
MONTH
TEAM 7­1 Tyler Donlan TEAM 8­1 Juandiego Carmona
Kendall Duncan
Chole Gorman
Ally Gieger
Mike Iranpour
Joe Iassogna
Anne Lacey
TEAM 7­2 Michaeljohn Alio TEAM 8­2 Kevan Ip
Kate Clancy
Jenna Moscarelli
Alyssa Devin
Emma Nanamaker
Alex Li
Salvatore Siciliano
TEAM 7­3 Matthew Murphy TEAM 8­3 Mike Afeltra
Daniel Radford­Smith
Taylor Hudak
AnaMaria Skarzynski
Olivia Schultes
Emily Tucker
T.J. Williams
UNIFIED ARTS
GRADE 7
GRADE 8
Olivia Boudreau
Steven Hollo
Desiree Klemenz
Richard May
WORLD LANGUAGE
GRADE 7 Isaac Abrams GRADE 8 Derek Batick
Lucy Doorack
Kyera Bryant
Alec Dwyer
Kevan Ip
Joe Iassogna
Zach Ligham
Liam Kelly
Jenna Moscarelli
Alessandra Munoz
Ben Moskow
Henry Robinson
Elena Pensa
Katherine Rosadini
Alissa Rams
Brett Soffer
Elizabeth Rubbo
Shaun Ross
Fred Trotta
Olivia Watrous
Claire Weil
Joe Zilinski
**The names of some “”Students of the Month” have been omitted as per parental request via the Privacy Policy
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
The Guilford Public Schools will use the following means of communication during an emergency
situation provided we can access power:
· An ALERTNOW emergency message will be sent to all email and telephone contacts pro­
vided to GPS by parents and guardians.
· Updates will be posted on our website at www.guilford.k12.ct.us
· Updates will be posted on our local access television Channel 19
· A voice mail message will be available at (203) 453­8200

You make a living by what you get, but you make
a life by what you give.
-Winston Churchill
The Adams Peer Helpers wish to thank the following
parents and teachers for
chaperoning the September 25th Welcome Back Dance.
Miss Ardito Mrs. Iranpour Mrs. Vanacore
Mrs. Barry Mrs. Isnard Mrs. Von Oehsen
Mrs. Bifulco Mrs. Johnson Mrs. Williams
Mr. Chocolate Mrs. Leese Mrs. Zoarski
Miss Dean
Mrs. Demitrack
Mr. Filley
Mrs. Furness
Mrs. Oakley
Mr. Loizeaux
Mrs. Pinto
Mrs. Tortora
Adams Student Council News
The Adams’ Middle School Student Council has
kicked off this year by brainstorming a variety of
fun and interactive activities to engage the student
body in their school community.
Club Officers
2009­2010
National Junior Honor Society Officers
President
Vice President
Treasurer
Corresponding Secretary
Recording Secretary
President
Emma Nanamaker
Juandiego Carmona
Richard May
Caroline Napoli
Daniel Fisher
2009­2010
STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Thomas Roberts
Brian Donohue
Kayla Rook
Caitlin Leese
KC Horton
2009­2010
ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB OFFICERS
We are looking forward to an amazing year! Some
of our upcoming events include:
President
Vice President
Karoline Ibarra
Tom Stokes
· October 30 th – Project Graduation Fundraiser
Halloween dress­up or wear black and orange.
Students will vote for best costume with a penny
and all funds collected will support Project Graduation
in June.
· November 10 th – Mix It up Day­ Students will
be requested to sit in a different seat during their
lunch to encourage getting to know new friends
and become more comfortable with different people.
· November 20 th – Caps for Kids­ Students may
bring in a $1.00 and wear a hat for a day. Proceeds
go towards kids going through cancer
treatments.
We hope to see all students participate I these activities
and are always looking to increase our
membership! All interested students are welcome
to drop in at any of our Monday afternoon meetings.
Get involved, show your school spirit and
make a difference in your school community!
Secretary
Treasurer
TEAM LIASIONS
Leah Giovanniello
Stephanie Maiorino
Many thanks for being part of the team!
"If you ever need a helping hand, it is at the end of your arm
As you get older you must remember you have a second
hand. The first one is to help yourself. The second hand is to
help others." ­­ Audrey Hepburn
Thank you to the following parents for volunteering to be
Core Team parent liaisons:
Team 7­1
Team 7­2
Team 7­3
Team 8­1
Team 8­2
Team 8­3
Caroline Wilson
Tina Leese
Lisa Skarzynski
Nora Ryan
Michele Lavoie
Robin Wolek

“Per Scientiam Sapienta”
NJHS NEWS
Wisdom through Knowledge
The National Junior Honor Society is a group of students who demonstrate outstanding skills in scholar­
ship, citizenship, leadership, service, and character.
The NJHS members are involved in a variety of school projects. Right now, we are organizing a Holiday
Dance, a fun event with lots of prizes. We will soon begin preparing for the Knowledge Masters competition,
in which we will compete with junior honor societies all over the U.S.A., showing off our “smarts.”
At the end of the year, students will also get a chance to participate in an enrichment field trip.
The NJHS also organizes a few of the community service projects during the year. Currently, we are
supporting a Make a Difference Day drive that will benefit The Guilford Food Bank. On Valentine’s Day,
the club conducts a Carnation Sale for SARAH, and in the spring we hold Penny Wars to collect money
for a charity of choice.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
The AMS Drama Club and the Music Department would like to thank the AMS PTO for the approval of
their grant request for a portable lighting package and a followspot. The Drama Club is preparing for
their third consecutive performance this year and are delighted to be able to add a dimension of true
technical theatre to this year’s performance. The Music Department looks forward to creating a more
ambient performances by adding lighting.
TEAM 7­1 PTO GRANT
Team 7­1 would like to thank the PTO for their generous grant. The money will enable our
team to purchase a Jeopardy game system and/or supplies for our team­building activities.
The students will surely enjoy and benefit from either option. Thank you for your continued
support of our children.
KEYNOTES TO SING AT FORUM HOSTING BLUMENTHAL
AMS Keynote members were honored by an invitation to sing at Gateway Community College
on November 10th. They will provide the entertainment at a program that includes a speech by
Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal.

AMS ORCHESTRA HELPS CELEBRATE 150 YEARS!
Conductor: Mr. Jones
This was the first year that the Adams Orchestra was involved with the Guilford Fair
Day Parade. Fifty­seven members of the Orchestra rode a float and performed fiddle
tunes, in keeping with the parade’s them; “Celebrating 150 years of Guilford Agricultural
Society.” Both parade goers and students enjoyed the day.
AMS STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN
ACES ECA THEATER GRANT PROGRAM
Advisor: Mr. Malli
AMS was accepted to participate in an urban/suburban grant program entitled, Words! Action! Theater!
This inter­school district grant program introduces area students to the world of drama and the
theater. Twenty­eight AMS students participated in the two­day theater workshops at ACES Education
Center for the Arts School in New Haven on October 9th and October 16th. Congratulations to
all the students who participated in this unique and worthwhile experience.
Fall 2009
7 th GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS
Submitted by Ms. Kushin Team 7­3
Seventh graders have been quite busy in their language arts classrooms this fall. Students have been
learning about their parts of speech, while concentrating on sentence organization, subjects, and predicates.
This will act as terrific framework for students writing creative short stories and persuasive essays.
Reading classes have been studying short stories. Classes are reading short stories from a wide variety
of authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Gary Soto. Literature terminology and the plot triangle are being
used to show the development of a short story. The short story unit will conclude with a field trip in
December to a dramatic production featuring five of the short stories which students have read in class.
All in all, fall is definitely jam­packed with exciting activities in language arts class!
AMS ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB
Advisor: Mrs. Stevens
The Adams Environmental Club is going to be busy this year! We have many activities planned that will
raise the environmental awareness of our school community. EC students will ask Adams
students and staff to focus on a weekly “Green Theme” which will support green living.
We are very excited about supporting Heifer International http://www.heifer.org/ and will be
doing fund raising for this important non­ profit organization. Penny banks will be placed in
science and social studies classrooms to collect for this important non­profit organization.
“Trout in the Classroom” has also come to us this year; we will be raising brown trout to release in the
West River next spring. We are also going to maintaining the 8 th grade courtyard butterfly garden. Finally,
this spring, we will have a “green” carwash to raise funds for our spring field trip. Please call Mrs.
Stevens if you are interested in volunteering or donating bulbs, annuals, perennials or ornaments to our
butterfly garden. The Environmental Club meets on Mondays from 2:50­ 3:30.

Athletic Schedules
For the most current listing of our scheduled events go to…..
www.casciac.org
· Click on : CIAC (Athletics Division) on the left side menu bar to reveal options.
· Select: View Schedules/Results.
· Select the Individual Sport you’re inquiring for (i.e. basketball, soccer).
· Select the Name of the School to see the sports schedule options (Adams MS).
· From here a schedule can be printed/viewed in multiple ways.
Please remember that games/meets may be postponed or cancelled due to weather.
E­Mail Update Option
The CIAC also has an e­mail service in which you may submit your e­mail to them and they will update you on any
schedule/site changes. To subscribe to this service:
· Click on: CIAC (Athletics Division) on the left side menu bar to reveal options.
· Select: E­mail Lists.
· Under Member School Schedule Updates click on the link to subscribe
ONGOING EVENTS at AMS
CLUBS:
Anime ..................................... Starting Mondays, September 21st in the Café, 2:50 pm—3:40 pm
Advisor – Mrs. Yetso
Computer Club ........................ TBA
Advisor – Mrs. Cardella
Debate Club ............................ Starting Thursdays, October 29th , Room B2, 3:00 pm—4:00 pm
Advisor – Mr. Vail
Drama Club ............................. Starting Thursdays, September 24, in the Café, 2:50 pm—3:30 pm
No Drama Club on October 8th or October 15th
Advisor – Mr. Malli
Environmental Club ................ Starting Mondays, September 14 h , Room B­5, 2:50 pm—3:30 pm
Advisor – Mrs. Stevens
Elysium .................................... Starting Thursdays, October 8th+, Room M1, 2:40 pm—3:30 pm
Advisors: Miss Dean & Mrs. Campbell
Getting Organized .................. Starting Mid­October 7 th Grade Room B9; 8 th Grade Room B10, 2:50 pm—3:40 pm
Advisors: Mrs. McGrath & Mrs.Vanacore
NJHS ....................................... Starting Fridays, October 2nd, in the Café, 2:40 pm—3:30 pm
................................................. Officer’s 1st Friday of the month
................................................. Member’s 2nd Friday of the month
Advisors: Mrs. Whiteman & Mrs. Campbell
Peer Helpers ........................... Starting Tuesdays, September 22nd, third Tuesday of each month, LMC, 2:50 pm—3:30 pm
Most meetings fall on the third Tuesday of each month. See Mrs. Vanacore for a schedule.
Advisor: Mrs. Vanacore
Raider Review ......................... Starting Mondays, September 21st in the LMC , 2:50 pm—3:40 pm
Advisor: Ms. Cardell
Sign Language ........................ Starting Thursday, September 24th Room B­11, 2:40 pm—3:40 pm
9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19, 12/3, 12/10, 12/17
Advisors: Mrs. Carlson & Mrs. Martino
Spanish Club ........................... Starting Fridays, September 18th, every other Friday, Room 103, 2:50 pm—3.50 pm
Student Council....................... Starting Mondays, September 14th, Room 103, 2:50 pm—3:45 pm
Advisor: Miss Ardito & Miss Dean
Wildside................................... Starting, Thursdays, September 10th Room 104, 2:45 pm—3:45 pm
Young Artisans ........................ Starting Tuesdays, September 29th, PPT Room 2:50 pm—4:00 pm
Advisors: Mrs. Crosby & Mrs. McGrath
SELECT MUSIC GROUPS:
Boys Ensemble ....................... Tuesdays 2:50 pm—3:30 pm & Fridays 7:15 am—7:55 am, Choral Room
Chamber Music ...................... Monday ­ Friday 7:15 am—7:52 am, Orchestra Room
Concordia ................................ Tuesdays, 6:30 pm ­ 8:00 pm, Orchestra Room
Girls Ensemble........................ Mondays & Wednesdays 7:15 am—7:55 am, Chorus Room
Honor Band ............................. Wednesday & Fridays, 7:10 am—7:50 am, Band Room
Jazz Band................................ Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7:10 am—7:50 am, Band Room
Keynotes.................................. Tuesdays & Thursdays 7:15 am—7:55 am, Choral Room
Regional’s................................ Mondays, 2:50 am—3:30 pm, Choral Room

A D A M S M I D D L E S C H O O L
News from the Library Media Center
Book Fair
The annual book fair at Adams will be held in the Library Media Center on the dates below. Students will be able to
make selections with their Language Arts classes and during study halls. Parents are welcome at any time. Please
sign in at the main office and receive a visitor’s badge if you attend during school hours.
This is a good opportunity to pick up birthday gifts or to begin holiday shopping, and profits benefit the Adams Library
Media Center collection.
Family Night
at the
Book Fair
Thursday Nov.12th
6:00pm to 8:00pm
(during evening parent conferences)
Book Fair Hours:
Tuesday November 10th 8:00 am­3:30 pm
Thursday November 12th 8:00 am­1:00 pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Friday November 13th 8:00 am­3:00 pm
Library Media Center WEB Site
Please have your children visit the Library Media Center Web Site for access to information online. Students at Adams
use this tool when they are researching topics for classroom assignments. Follow the path below.
Please have your children visit the Library Media Center Web Site for access to information online. Students at Adams
use this tool when they are researching topics for classroom assignments.
Follow the path below:
From Home: www.guilford.k12.ct.us
Select Schools
Select Adams Middle School
Select Library Media Center
ABC­CLIO World Geography COBBLESTONE ICONN
Used ID:ecadams User ID: ecadams From School:
Password: ecadams Password: ecadams Select Access from School
From Home:
SIRS
Use Public Library Card Barcode
From School:
EBSCO
Customer Number: ct0579
User ID: ecadams
Password: 06437
Password: ecadams
Select SIRS Products
From Home:
Customer Number: ct0579h
Password: 06437
Select SIRS Products

FROM THE COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
Mrs. Fran McGrath & Mrs. Carolyn Vanacore,
School Counselors Phone 453­2755 ext. 231
7th Grade News – Seventh graders have made a nice transition to Adams. They have
settled into a routine and are working hard. As we begin the second marking period, there
are several major projects which are beginning for 7th graders. As seventh grade is a big
transition from sixth grade, it would be helpful for you to guide your child through some of
these new demands. You will find that the seventh grade teachers are adept at breaking these projects down into
manageable parts, but your assistance in helping your child to set up a schedule that allows for progress to be made
on a regular basis will make a big difference. If you notice your child is overwhelmed by the increasing demands
of the workload, do not hesitate to contact your child’s team at any time or call the counseling office. The first
quarter of seventh grade Classroom Guidance has focused on ‘Character Education’ and learning about ‘School
Success Skills’. We will soon begin a ‘Career Exploration’ unit. Any parent who would like to be a guest speaker
during our Career Exploration unit may contact Mrs. Vanacore to arrange some dates. Students love to hear about
what adults do, so please consider coming in one afternoon during our classes.
8th Grade News – Mrs. McGrath will be finishing up Classroom Guidance in a few weeks. Officer Gardner
will begin the D.A.R.E. program for eighth graders in early November. This program is a drug abuse resistance
program aimed at keeping teens off drugs. Throughout the Fall, there were visits from guest speakers from alternative
high schools, such as the Middletown Vocational­Agriculture School, Vinal Technical High School, and the
Educational Center for the Arts. Also in this Advocate you will find information on New Haven Magnet Schools
which are open to Guilford students, and some of the local private schools’ open house information. Please contact
these schools directly if you have an interest. Guilford High School counselors will be coming in late March/early
April to begin the scheduling process for high school. If your child is considering a private or alternative high
school, please notify us as soon as possible and forward all recommendation forms in a timely manner.
Counseling Services ­ Our seventh and eighth grade counselors provide supportive counseling services to any
student who requests it for personal, academic, social, or emotional concerns. Parents may request support for
their child(ren) as well. Referrals will be made to parents for an outside helping professional if long term services
are requested. Our counselors will work in partnership with parents, psychologists, physicians, and other mental
health service providers to support these children in school. If you have concerns you would like to share with us
confidentially, please do not hesitate to call. If you do not want your child to see the counselors, please send in a
written note for our files.
Small Group Discussions – Voluntary Lunch group discussions have begun for both seventh and eighth
graders. These discussion groups focus on a variety of teen concerns including self­identity, social skills, handling
relationships, peer pressure, academic concerns and more. Groups are voluntary, and meet once a week during
lunch. Because of the popularity of these groups, we now have a waiting list. If you do not want your child to see
the counselors in a group, please send a written note in for our files. If you would like your child to be invited to
our lunch group discussions, you can contact the counseling office.
Parent Conferences – our November conferences are team/teacher­initiated, but remember that you can have
a meeting with your child’s team, World Language, UA teachers, or the counselors at any time of the year. Do not
hesitate to contact us with your questions or concerns.
FROM THE
COUNSELORS’
BOOKSHELVES
Teenagers come programmed for power struggles—it is their way of moving toward
independence. If you are having difficulty with this issue, check out this different
approach to parenting by Nancy S. Buck (2002). Peaceful Parenting applies
the principles of psychiatrist William Glasser’s Choice Theory to raising children.
By understanding the needs we all have, and that children’s misbehavior is their
means for getting their needs met, instead of arguing, nagging, threatening, punishing,
and bribing your kids, new behaviors can be chosen that will help everyone in
the family be happier. It is a refreshing approach to improving your relationship
with your children. The book is available directly from the author at Peaceful Parenting,
P.O. Box 271, Portsmouth, RI 02871 for $15.95 plus $3.95 shipping and
handling. An accompanying workbook is available for $13.95 plus $3.95 s&h.

STUDY TIPS FOR PARENTS
Have you ever wondered how to help your child with his/her studies
without giving too much help? Finding the balance between independence
and assistance can be tricky but here are a few pointers:
PEER
HELPERS
1. Let your child know that homework and studying are a top
priority. Have a regular time to study, and don’t let other
activities cut into that time.
2. Give your child an organized, quiet place to study. Provide
materials and supplies, and take an active role in keeping
the distractions to a minimum while your child is studying.
3. Help your child budget time, and avoid over scheduling him/
her. A few after­school activities are fine, but studying,
family time, and a good night’s sleep are equally important.
4. Be available for questions, but don’t hover or provide answers
to your child. Homework is the child’s responsibility.
5. Help your unorganized child develop a system that works for
him/her, and set aside time each week to clean out the binder/
folders. Monitor until your child shows he/she can handle it
alone.
Upcoming events:
Dec. 1st Toys for Tots Campaign
Holiday Trip
PEER HELPER NEWS
STRESS­BUSTING DURING THE
HOLIDAY SEASON
1. Build relaxation time into every
busy day.
2. Talk about your stress with friends.
3. Take a warm bath.
4. Take a short walk.
5. Make a list.
6. Try a few deep breaths to relax you.
7. Exercise.
8. Set priorities.
9. Plan to do a “little” each day.
10. Hum some holiday tunes.
11. Donate some time to the needy.
12. Buy a needy child a toy.
13. Treat yourself gently.
14. Say “no” when you need to.
15. Set limits within your means.
16. Let others help you.
17. Enjoy your family and this
precious time together!
Our 50 new and returning Peer Helpers have participated in many service
activities since the year began. Already this year they have shown
Newcomers around the town, worked at Back­to­School Night, held the
first dance of the year, helped with several family events at the elementary
schools, volunteered at the Civic Women’s Harvest Festival, and
begun working with the young children after school.
Training for all new Peer Helpers began in October and will end in early
December. Students learn about their role as helpers, good communication
skills, leadership training and conflict resolution skills. The trainings
are held once a week during lunch. Once trained, Peer Helpers can use
their skills to help their peers in a variety of settings.
Several Peer Helpers volunteered to work at community and school
events around Guilford this month. Peer Helpers sponsored the Welcome
Back Dance, the first dance of the year. They also helped out at the Family
fun Day on Sunday, October 25th and the Guilford Lakes Fall Festival
on Friday, evening, October 23rd. If your school needs students to run
activities and/or watch young children, don’t hesitate to give the Peer
Helpers a call.
Our next regular meeting is on Tuesday, November 17th from
2:50– 3:30 p.m. in the Adams Library Media Center.
TOYS FOR TOTS
On December 1st , Peer Helpers will launch the Toys for Tots campaign.
We’ll be collecting new, unwrapped toys for needy children in the area.
Our downtown shopping trip, planned tentatively for December 1st, kicks
off this event. All donations can be dropped off at Adams between De­
cember 1st and the 18th. We’ll be working with St. George Church to
get the toys to locally needy kids. This annual event for Peer Helpers
has been a big hit year after year, and helps out those who need it most.
Last year we donated over 400 toys ­ let’s see if we can do it again!!!
PURCHASES FOR PETS
Also, during the month of December, Peer Helpers will collect toys and
food for the pets at our local animal shelters. We will also accept gently
used sheets, blankets, and towels for the floors in the shelters.

PUBLIC SCHOOL CHOICE IN CONNECTICUT
Over the last ten years, the state of Connecticut has expanded the range of public schools available to parents and
students. Your options now include charter schools, magnet schools, schools in neighboring districts (the OPEN
CHOICE program), vocational agriculture centers, and vocational technical high schools. Information on all of these
choices is available in the booklet, “Public School Choice in Connecticut, A Guide for Students and their Families”.
The booklet is available on the web at www.state.ct.us/sde or you may request a copy from:
State Department of Education
Division of School Improvement
Box 2219
Hartford, Connecticut 06145
Alternative Choice High Schools
(Contact the schools you are interested in directly)
MAGNET SCHOOLS
Student enrollment consists of 65% New Haven students and 35% suburban students
Magnet schools lottery deadline is February 15th, 2010
Cooperative Arts and Humanities High School – New Haven (203) 946­5923
With an enrollment of 400 students, this full­time high school offers art­focused courses in theater, dance, music,
visual arts and creative writing along with the regular high school academic subjects. No auditions are necessary,
just an interest in Arts and Humanities.
High School in the Community – New Haven (203) 946­7022
With an enrollment of 350 students, this high school serves students by using a nontraditional approach to education.
The focus of the day is a three­ hour “block” class, which meets five days a week for one nine­week quarter
and is team taught and interdisciplinary. Students are encouraged to develop problem­solving skills, participate actively
in classes and learn individual responsibility.
Hill Regional Career High School – New Haven (203) 946­5845
With an enrollment of 715 students, this high school provides a rigorous academic preparation and career exploration
program to prepare the students for entry into the fields of business/computers and allied health/science.
Working relationship with Yale University and Yale New Haven Hospital.
Hyde Leadership High School – Hamden (203) 946­8121
With an enrollment of 200 students, this high school is significantly different than the traditional high schools.
Families are enrolled rather than the students. It emphasizes the ”Character First” philosophy that all students are
capable of excellence and character growth. In addition to the college preparatory curriculum, each student participates
in their five­part curriculum: all students are to participate in a competitive athletic program, a performing arts
curriculum, community service and leadership training. Their acceptance criteria consist of: an application with a
written essay, a personal interview including the parents and a mandatory new parent, freshman and new student
orientation prior to the start of the school year.
Metropolitan Business Academy ­ New Haven (203) 946­6731
With an enrollment of 143 students, this high school provides opportunities for integrating academic and occupation
related instruction in the area of entrepreneurial arts and sciences with courses such as finance, investment,
research and development, quality control, sales and returns of investments. The goal is to prepare the students to
manage and own business enterprises.
New Haven Academy – New Haven (203) 946­8995
With an enrollment of 195 racially, ethnically and economically diverse student body, this high school provides a
rigorous education to prepare the students to succeed in college. Now in its third year, this works well for students
looking for a diverse learning environment.
Vinal Open House—Mon., Nov 16, 2009 6­8 p.m. (860)344­7100
Sound School Open House—Thurs., Oct. 15th, 2009 (203)946­6937
Vocational Agriculture Program Visit—Nov. 19, 2009
(860)704­4594 Open House—Thurs., Dec. 10th, 2009 6:30 p.m.
ACES Educational Center for the Arts Visit—TBA
(203)777­5451

Mrs. Mary Crosby, R. N. Phone 453­2755 Ext. 226
WINTER SPORTS HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Adams Middle School students may participate in the following
winter sports: Cheerleading,
Boys basketball,
Girls basketball, and
Wrestling.
All students trying out must bring a completed emergency
card with them to the first tryout, and give it to the coach.
Upon selection to a team, the student must have a sports
physical on file with the school nurse. The physical exam
must be current: “within 365 days of the first competition.”
The physical must be on the white sports physical form NOT
the blue state physical form.
SCHOOL NURSE SUBSTITUTES ARE NEEDED
Per diem hours for RN’s at all Guilford Public Schools
If interested or for more information, please contact
Carol Ott, GPS Health Services Coordinator at
Guilford High School 453­2741 Ext. 241.
H1N1 INFLUENZA
Students and staff with any flu­like illness should stay
home until 24 hours after they no longer have a fever
(temperature over 100 degrees without the use of medication)
and flu symptoms.
Decisions about school closure will be at the discretion
of local authorities based on the number of students absent
and staffing shortages.
VISION & HEARING SCREENING
During the school year the school nurse conducts
vision, hearing, and postural screening.
If a problem is suspected, the student will be rechecked
at a second screening.
If further consultation is recommended, parents will be
notified by mail requesting further evaluation from their
primary care provider.
If you have any questions concerning state mandated
screenings please contact the school nurse.
PARENTS:
Please DO NOT DROP OFF or PICK UP students from
the north lot at Adams Middle School !!!
Thank you for using the proper student drop­off/pick­up site in the South parking lot, near the basketball
court. We know mornings and afternoons are busy times, however, we want them to be safe times as
well. The north lot is very congested and faculty and staff want to be able to enter the building in the morning
and leave the building in the afternoon safely.
In addition, if you enter our building for any reason during the school day, please sign in at the Main Office
and receive a visitor pass. This is a standard security procedure for all of the Guilford Public Schools.
Thank you for hearing our requests and acting to improve the safety and security
for all members of our Adams family.

ADAMS PTO 2009­2010
PTO Executive Board:
Co­Presidents: Dianne Donohue & Lisa Lelas
Secretary:
Elizabeth Goss
Treasurer:
Patty Brand
Committee Chairs:
Book Fair
position open/please volunteer
Box Tops
Judy Loukides
Cultural Arts
Rita Cote (AMS)
Chaperones
Terry O’Hara
Hospitality
Laurie Webb
Membership Database position open/please volunteer
Newsletter
Maggie Woodruff (AMS)
School Directory Robin Wolek
School Photos Christine Rubbo
& Jane Yates (AMS)
School Store
Diane Vilaseca
Spiritwear
Trish Thibault
PTO MEETINGS 2009­2010
THURSDAY EVENINGS
6:30 PM
AMS Library Media Center
NOVEMBER 19TH
DECEMBER 17TH
JANUARY 21ST
PLEASE NOTE: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
The Adams PTO needs a new board for the
2010­2011 school year. If you are interested
in volunteering for any of the positions
listed, please contact Dianne
Donohue at bandd65@comcast.net. Thank
you in advance for your support.
GUILFORD WEARABLES
AVAILABLE!
A variety of apparel in all sizes available to
order for the holiday season.
Watch for the flyer/order form, on November 9th with
your students‛ report card!
ORDER FORMS ALSO LOCATED IN THE AMS OFFICE
Or E­mail Trish Thibault at Trishthibault@aol.com
Box Tops for Education are being collected by the PTO.
Donate yours to Adams at the Main Office.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER AN
ADAMS DANCE?
Attending dances is a new experience for many of our students. Please take a moment to review the guidelines presented on
the permission slips with your son or daughter. He/she needs to realize that the regular school behavior and dress code guidelines
also apply to dances. Students who cannot abide by the guidelines may lose the privilege of attending the next dance.
Additionally, students often want to go Friendly’s or Ashley’s after they leave the dance at 9:00 PM. Traffic on Routes 1 and
77 can be dangerous for people who do not behave safely. It is extremely important that you review ahead of time your expectations
for your child’s appropriate behavior during the walk to these locations and while your children are customers in the
restaurants.

ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
NOVEMBER­DECEMBER 2009
SUN MON TUES WED THUR FRI SAT
1 2
OTR 1
ENDS
School Wide
Writing Prompt
3 4 5 6 7
N
O
V.
8 9
BOE Meeting
7:30 pm
GHS Library
10 11
NO SCHOOL
VETERANS’ DAY
Professional Day
for Teachers
12
Early Dismissal
12:15 PM
Parent/Teacher
Evening
Conferences
6:00 pm—8:30 pm
Book Fair Family
Night
6:00 pm—8:00 pm
13
Early Dismissal
12:15 PM
Parent/Teacher
Afternoon
Conferences
12:30 pm—3:00 pm
Book Fair
8:00 am—3:00 pm
14
15 16 17 18
BAND CONCERT
7:00 pm Gym
22 23
BOE Workshop
7:30 pm
Calvin Leete
Eighth Grade Fitness
Award
Ceremony
19 7th Grade
Author Visit
Susan Beth Pfeffer
AMS PTO Meeting
LMC 6:30 pm
Snow Date
Band Concert
20
Student Council
Caps for Kids Day
24 25 26 27 28
thanksgiving
recess
21
29 30 1
Team 7­1
Theatre Trip
9:00 am—1:15 pm
2 3
Peer Helpers
Toys for Tots
Holiday Trip
4 5
D
E
C.
6 7 8 9
13 14
BOE Meeting
GHS Library
7:30 pm
15 16
ORCHESTRA
CONCERT
7:00 pm Gym
CHORUS
CONCERT
7:00pm GYM
10
SNOW DATE
ORCHESTRA
CONCERT
17 CHORUS
CONCERT
SNOW DATE
Keynotes
Guilford Library
PTO Meeting
LMC 6:30 pm
11
BAND OUTREACH
CONCERT
18
BAND OUTREACH
CONCERT
Team 7­2
Theatre Trip
9:00 am—2:00 pm
19
20 21
Team 7­3
Theatre Trip
9:00 am—1:30 pm
22 23
Holiday
Assembly
24 25 26
WINTER RECESS
27 28 29 30 31 1 2
J
A
N.
3 4
School resumes
after winter
recess
WINTER RECESS
5 6 7 8 9

Return Service Requested
YEARBOOK
ORDERS
Parents: Yearbook order envelopes will be sent home
along with quarter one report cards on Friday, November
9th.
You can order a yearbook for your son or daughter by
completing the information on the envelope and enclosing
a CHECK ONLY for $27.00 (NO CASH ) payable to
“Adams Middle School”. Yearbooks will be imprinted
with the student’s name in gold. Please be sure to PRINT
the name as it should appear on the cover of your student’s
yearbook.
Envelopes should be returned to Mrs. Yates in the Main
Office no later than Friday, December 18th. Late orders
will cost $30.00.
LOST AND FOUND
Clothing items may be claimed
in the Cafeteria, and smaller
items may be claimed in the
Main Office.
If you have questions, contact the Yearbook Advisor:
Mrs. Yates at 453­2755, ext 0.