In the Middle

February is recognized as Black History Month to honor the achievements and contributions of Black Americans that have often been ignored in history books. It began in 1926 as Negro History Week, created by historian Carter G. Woodson, and later expanded into a month-long observance.

Black History Month exists not because Black history is limited to February, but because it was left out of the rest of the year for so long. The month highlights the impact Black Americans have had on the nation—from culture and science to politics and civil rights.

More than just learning about the past, Black History Month helps us understand the present. It encourages students to learn a fuller, more accurate version of history and recognize the importance of inclusion and representation. Remembering this history matters not just in February, but all year long.

This winter, middle school students had the exciting opportunity to participate in the annual Winter 4 Kids trips—a program designed to introduce students to skiing and snowboarding while building confidence and teamwork.

Throughout the season, students traveled to the Winter 4 Kids facility, where they received professional instruction tailored to their skill levels. Whether they were stepping onto skis for the first time or improving skills they’ve been working on for years, everyone had the chance to learn and grow on the slopes.

Each trip included lessons with trained instructors who focused on safety, technique, and having fun. Students practiced everything from balancing and turning to riding the chairlift and navigating different trails. By the end of the program, many beginners were confidently making their way down the mountain on their own.

Beyond learning a new sport, the trips also gave students the chance to bond with classmates outside of the classroom. Sharing bus rides, warming up with hot chocolate, and cheering each other on created memories that will last long after the snow melts.

The Winter 4 Kids trips were a huge success this year, giving students a fun, active way to stay engaged during the winter months. We can’t wait to see even more students join in next season!

The Gifted & Talented class recently visited Boswell Engineering as they gear up for this year’s state competition. After earning an impressive third-place finish last year among more than 530 schools, the team is returning with an exciting new challenge: designing a freshwater solution for third-world countries and communities affected by natural disasters.

During their visit, students gained valuable real-world engineering insights and explored innovative approaches to problem-solving. The experience is helping them strengthen their designs, expand their thinking, and prepare to compete at the state level once again.

6th Grade: Karolina S.

7th Grade: Chrysta A.

8th Grade: Inesa V.

Garfield Middle School defeated Wood-Ridge in the 2026 "Soup-er" Bowl canned food drive competition, collecting a significant portion of over 4,812 total cans to support local pantries, including the GMS Humanity Pantry. Wood-Ridge High School acknowledged the loss, praising their student council for collecting over 885 cans.

• Winner: GARFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL
• Competitor: Wood-Ridge Jr./Sr. High School

This competition was a friendly, charitable event to collect soup cans and non-perishable foods to fight local food insecurity.

Community Impact: Over 1,800 cans were collected in total.

Wood-Ridge acknowledged the effort with a "small town, big heart" message, noting that while they did not win, the donations supported the Assumption Food Pantry and the community.

Written by: Sebastian Guachamin Nunez & Kevin Klymovych

The heat was on at this year’s GMS Faculty Chili Competition—and while last year’s champion put up a strong fight, a new winner has officially taken the title.

After previously holding the crown, Mr. LaMonico was unseated by none other than our very own beloved custodian, Mr. Connolly. The competition was fierce, with Mr. LaMonico earning a strong second-place finish and Ms. Pandorf coming in third.

Ms. Pandorf shared that she was proud of her performance, especially given the level of competition. “I heard Mr. LaMonico was tough competition and I felt honored that I placed right after him,” she said. She also revealed a fun fact about her past: “Actually, when I first went to college my first major was culinary arts.”

As last year’s champion, Mr. LaMonico had high expectations to meet. He shared that his secret ingredient is turkey, along with kale and a variety of seasonings that help give his chili its award-winning flavor. Although he didn’t take home the top prize this year, his creative recipe clearly impressed the judges once again.

Several staff members competed for the first time, including Mr. Roberts. When asked about his experience, he said he “felt good, and that in his heart, his chili was the best.” Confidence is key in any competition!

Ms. Sabani also brought the heat, preparing her chili in a slow cooker for at least an hour and a half. Reflecting on the experience, she said that next year she “would maybe cook it a little bit longer, and add more salt.”

From secret ingredients to slow-cooked recipes, this year’s chili competition was a delicious success. It continues to be one of the most anticipated events of the year, bringing faculty and staff together for a little friendly competition—and a lot of great food. Congratulations to Mr. Connolly on his big win!

By Franklin Benavides, Grade 6

On February 3rd, 2026, what started as a normal school day at Garfield Middle School turned into a stressful afternoon for one 6th grader. Due to confusion during dismissal, Nahtzier D. missed his bus and was left unsure of what to do next.

With buses pulling away and students heading home, Nahtzier found himself alone and worried. Because of the bus confusion that day, he didn’t make it to his bus in time. Not knowing what to do in the situation, he stayed at school, hoping for help.

Thankfully, help was closer than he thought.

At around 3:30 p.m., 8th grader Avant Davis noticed the situation and stepped in. Understanding that Nahtzier needed support, Avant took responsibility and chose to walk him home from a return bus that was routed far form his house. Thanks to Avant’s kindness and leadership, Nahtzier made it home safe and sound.

This simple but powerful act reminds us of the importance of looking out for one another. Middle school can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially in unexpected situations. Avant showed maturity, responsibility, and compassion by making sure a younger student was safe.

His actions demonstrate that kindness is always the right choice. At Garfield Middle School, we are more than just classmates—we are a community. When we support each other during times of need, we make our school a safer and stronger place for everyone.

Let’s all follow Avant’s example and remember: one small act of kindness can make a big difference.

Winter break doesn’t have to be expensive to be fun. There are plenty of free and low-cost ways to stay busy during the week off.

You can visit the Garfield public library for free activities, book challenges, or movie days. After a snowfall, sledding at a nearby park is a classic winter activity.

At home, try hosting movie marathons, board game days, or try simple crafts and baking projects with family. Winter nature vacation walks and photo challenges are also great ways to enjoy the season.

“My friends and I went sledding and had a movie night during winter break, and it was more fun than going on a ski slope,” said a sixth-grade student.

With a little creativity, winter break can be fun and relaxing.

Home made cocoa recipe is posted below for you to try. Have you ever made your own marshmallows? Let us know if you make either of these recipes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk (any kind)

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• A few drops of vanilla (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the milk in a microwave or on the stove until warm (not boiling).

2. Stir in the cocoa powder and sugar until fully mixed.

3. Add vanilla if you want extra flavor.

4. Pour into a mug and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 3 packets unflavored gelatin

• 1 cup cold water (divided)

• 1½ cups sugar

• 1 cup light corn syrup

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Supplies

• Mixing bowl

• Hand or stand mixer

• Saucepan

• 9×13 pan

Instructions

1. Pour ½ cup cold water into a large bowl. Sprinkle gelatin on top and let it sit.

2. In a saucepan, mix ½ cup water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt.

3. Heat on medium, stirring until sugar dissolves. Then let it boil without stirring for about 5 minutes.

4. Carefully pour the hot syrup into the gelatin.

5. Mix on low, then high for about 10 minutes, until fluffy and thick.

6. Mix in vanilla.

7. Pour into a pan dusted with powdered sugar.

8. Let sit uncovered for 4–6 hours.

9. Cut into squares and coat with powdered sugar.

Have you ever read a question on a test and thought, I know the topic… but what does this word mean? You’re not alone. A strong vocabulary doesn’t just help in English class—it helps in every subject, from science labs to social studies essays to everyday conversations.

That’s why our school newspaper is launching a new feature called “Words That Matter.” In each issue, we’ll introduce five important academic words that students in grades 6–8 see all the time in class, on assignments, and on tests.

These aren’t random “big words.” They’re words teachers use when giving directions, authors use in texts, and students are expected to understand when reading, writing, and thinking critically. Words like analyze, evidence, infer, and perspective show up everywhere—and knowing them can make school feel a lot less confusing.

Each issue will include:

• Five new vocabulary words

• Student-friendly definitions

• Examples you might actually see in class

• Tips for how to use the words in your own writing and discussions

By the end of the year, you’ll have learned dozens of high-utility words that can help you:

• Understand reading assignments faster

• Write clearer essays

• Answer test questions with more confidence

• Sound more precise when sharing your ideas

Vocabulary isn’t about memorizing long lists—it’s about having the right tools to explain what you think. Learning just five words at a time makes it manageable, useful, and (dare we say?) kind of satisfying.

So keep an eye out for “Words That Matter” in every issue. Your future essays—and your future self—will thank you.

Teamwork: Working with others to plan events or solve problems.

Communication: Sharing information clearly and listening to feedback.

Fairness: Treating everyone equally and making unbiased decisions.

Initiative: Stepping up to help or improve things without being asked.

Role Model: A student whose behavior encourages others to make good choices.

1. How do you act at school?

• A) Super excited about everything – SpongeBob

• B) Relaxed and goofy – Patrick

• C) Serious and a little grumpy – Squidward

• D) Always thinking about money or goals – Mr. Krabs

2. Your friends would describe you as…

• A) Optimistic and kind – SpongeBob

• B) Silly and loyal – Patrick

• C) Quiet and artsy – Squidward

• D) Smart and inventive – Sandy

3. On the weekend, you like to…

• A) Try something new – SpongeBob

• B) Nap or snack – Patrick

• C) Play an instrument or draw – Squidward

• D) Invent, experiment, or workout – Sandy

4. How do you handle problems?

• A) Stay positive and keep trying – SpongeBob

• B) Ask a friend for help – Patrick

• C) Complain but keep your distance – Squidward

• D) Strategize and make a plan – Sandy

5. Your favorite thing about life is…

• A) Friends and adventure – SpongeBob

• B) Relaxing and having fun – Patrick

• C) Alone time and hobbies – Squidward

• D) Challenges and learning – Sandy

Results:

• Mostly A’s – You’re SpongeBob! Cheerful, energetic, and always ready to help.

• Mostly B’s – You’re Patrick! Funny, loyal, and laid-back.

• Mostly C’s – You’re Squidward! Thoughtful, artistic, and a little grumpy.

• Mostly D’s – You’re Sandy! Smart, adventurous, and fearless.

If you love mysteries that keep you guessing until the very last page, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is a book you should definitely check out. The story follows a high school student named Pip Fitz-Amobi who decides to reopen a local murder case for her senior project. Everyone in her town believes the case has already been solved—but Pip isn’t so sure. What begins as a simple school assignment quickly turns into a dangerous investigation filled with secrets, lies, and shocking discoveries.

The case centers around Andie Bell, a popular girl who was supposedly murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who then took his own life. As Pip digs deeper, she begins to suspect that Sal may have been innocent. With the help of Sal’s younger brother, Ravi, Pip interviews townspeople, uncovers hidden clues, and starts to realize that someone in her community is hiding the truth. The more she investigates, the more intense and risky things become.

One of the things I enjoyed most about this book was how suspenseful it was. There were so many unexpected twists that kept me hooked and wanting to read “just one more chapter.” I also liked how intelligent and determined Pip is, while still feeling like a realistic teenager. The interview transcripts and podcast-style elements made the story feel unique and modern. The ending was shocking, but in a way that made the whole mystery come together.

The main themes of the novel include truth vs. lies, justice, and the danger of secrets. The story shows how easy it is for people to accept assumptions without questioning them—and how important it is to stand up for the truth.

Overall, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is an exciting and intense mystery that I would recommend to middle school readers who enjoy thrillers with lots of twists and suspense.

During Black History Month, we honor the stories of brave people who fought for freedom, justice, and equality. One of the most inspiring figures is Harriet Tubman (c. 1822–1913), known as the “Moses of her people.”

Born into slavery, Harriet escaped to freedom in 1849. But she didn’t stop there—she risked her life to help dozens of other enslaved people escape through the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses and helpers. Tubman made multiple trips back to the South, guiding people to freedom and showing extraordinary courage and determination.

Her bravery didn’t end with the Underground Railroad. During the Civil War, Tubman worked as a nurse, cook, and even a spy for the Union Army. She fought not only for freedom but also for equality, education, and civil rights.

Langston Hughes (1902–1967) was a famous American poet, writer, and social activist. He is best known for writing about the everyday lives, struggles, and dreams of Black Americans during the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement in the 1920s and 1930s that celebrated Black art, music, and literature.

Hughes wrote poems, essays, plays, and stories that were easy to read but full of meaning. His work often celebrated Black culture, jazz music, and the hope for freedom and equality. Some of his poems, like “I, Too” and “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” are still studied in schools today because they inspire people to stand proud of who they are.

He believed that art could give a voice to the voiceless and used his writing to shine a light on injustice while celebrating joy, culture, and resilience.

What happens to a dream deferred?

Does it dry up

like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore—
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over—
like a syrupy sweet?

Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.

Or does it explode?

Do you have an opinion? A story to tell? Come and join the school newspaper with us. Have fun with your friends and report on happenings throughout the school.

Dr. Bugge

Email: abugge@gboe.org
Location: GMS, 175 Lanza Ave, Garfield NJ 07026
Phone: 973-272-7020