In the Middle

Welcome back to Garfield Middle School! We are excited to begin a brand-new school year filled with fresh opportunities, new experiences, and exciting goals. Whether you are returning to familiar hallways or joining our school for the first time, this is the perfect time for a fresh start.

The beginning of the school year brings new classes, new friendships, and new chances to learn and grow. At Garfield Middle School, students and staff are ready to make this year a successful, positive, and memorable one.

In this first issue of our school newspaper, we are proud to celebrate the start of the year and all the wonderful things ahead. Throughout the year, we will share student voices, school events, achievements, and stories that make our school community special.

We wish everyone a fantastic school year. Welcome back, GMS!

On September 11, students and staff at Garfield Middle School came together to honor and remember the lives affected by the events of September 11, 2001.

Throughout the school, students, teachers, and staff wore red, white, and blue as a symbol of patriotism, remembrance, and unity. The school was filled with the colors of the American flag as the Garfield community showed its respect for those who lost their lives and for the first responders who bravely helped others that day.

For many middle school students, September 11 happened before they were born, making school observances an important opportunity to learn about the significance of the day. Wearing patriotic colors provided a simple but meaningful way for students to participate in remembering an important moment in American history.

The red, white, and blue worn throughout Garfield Middle School served as a reminder of the strength that can come from people standing together during difficult times.

By participating in the school-wide observance, the Garfield Middle School community showed that the lessons of September 11 continue to be remembered by new generations of students.

As my alarm went off at 6:45 AM on my phone, I stared at the ceiling, feeling nervous, excited, and scared. Today was my first day of seventh grade. I kept thinking about everything that could happen. What if I go to the wrong class? What if I don’t have anyone to talk to in my classes? What if my teachers are strict? I just thought everything was bad, I had so many questions in my head.

I got out of my bed; I got dressed and looked at myself in the mirror. I took a deep breath I was thinking to myself, “It’s going to be fine.”, I wasn’t completely convinced everything was going to go wrong I just think It will.

At school, the hallways were packed with students. Everyone seemed to know exactly where they were going, while I was trying to not be nervous in homeroom. My stomach felt like it was twisting into a knot. After homeroom we had to go to our classes now, I checked my schedule and started walking.

When I finally found my first classroom, I quietly walked inside. A few students were already talking with their friends. I recognized some people from sixth grade, I couldn’t see any of my friends and I realized I didn’t have any of my friends in my first class.

My first class went by slowly. The teacher introduced herself and explained the rules for the year. I tried to pay attention, but I kept looking at the clock. I was still nervous about what the rest of the day would be like.

Then came lunch.

I walked into the cafeteria excited to be with my friends this time. There were tables filled with people laughing and talking. For a second, I felt relief. I stood up ready to get lunch

By the end of the day, I was exhausted. As I walked out of the school, I realized something: the day hadn’t been perfect, but it wasn’t as scary as I imagined either.

On the car ride home, I looked out the window and smiled. I knew there would probably be difficult days ahead, but I also knew there would be new friends, funny moments, and memories I hadn't made yet.

My first day of seventh grade had started with fear and uncertainty, but it ended with me feeling hopeful.

Maybe seventh grade was going to be okay after all.

Garfield Middle School welcomed families into the building on September 23 for its annual Back to School Night. The evening gave parents and guardians an opportunity to meet teachers, visit classrooms, and learn more about what students can expect during the school year.

Throughout the night, families followed their children’s schedules and heard from teachers about classroom expectations, assignments, grading, and upcoming activities. Teachers also shared information about the subjects students will study and the skills they will develop throughout the year.

Back to School Night is an important event because it helps build a strong connection between families and the school. Parents and guardians were able to see where their children spend their school day and learn more about the teachers who work with them.

The evening also gave families a chance to ask questions and become familiar with the many programs, classes, and opportunities available at Garfield Middle School.

The halls were busy as families moved from classroom to classroom, creating an exciting and welcoming atmosphere throughout the building. Teachers were happy to introduce themselves and share their goals for helping students have a successful school year.

Garfield Middle School’s Back to School Night was a wonderful way to bring families, teachers, and the school community together as everyone begins another year of learning, growth, and achievement.

Garfield Middle School is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in a fun and interactive way on Wednesday, September 30, with a school-wide Kahoot competition.

Students throughout the school will have the chance to test their knowledge of Hispanic culture, history, traditions, famous figures, countries, and important contributions. The Kahoot will give students an opportunity to learn while also enjoying a little friendly competition with their classmates.

To make the event even more exciting, students who perform well will have the chance to win prizes.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated each year from September 15 through October 15. It is a time to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures, and achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

Garfield Middle School’s school-wide Kahoot is a creative way to bring students together while helping them learn more about the rich and diverse cultures represented during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Students are encouraged to bring their best knowledge, quick thinking, and competitive spirit as they take part in the celebration. Who will become Garfield Middle School’s Hispanic Heritage Month Kahoot champion?

Zoe Jane Garcia debates:

It’s clear that a hot dog is not a sandwich. A hot dog contains one piece of bread that surrounds the hot dog. What sandwich has a single bread slice holding the meat? The structure of a hot dog is specific, bread with meat inside it. Sandwiches have a pattern; they’re bread with toppings of your choice. Then, it’s topped with bread once more; no hot dog contains that process. Others may argue that the only relevant way to categorize a sandwich is with bread and meat in the center, but a sandwich contains two pieces of bread covering the contents inside of it completely. When hot dog buns become two bread slices, they’ll be a sandwich.

Karolina Sheremata responds:

Anyone who says hot dog isn’t a sandwich is totally wrong. By definition, a bread is just any filling placed inside of bread. If a meatball sub is considered a sandwich, why shouldn’t a hot dog count too? A hot dog has a bread bun wrapped around meat, which fits the description perfectly. If you order sausage roll at delicatessen, everyone calls it a sandwich, so a hot dog shouldn’t be treated differently. Some people argue that hot dogs are different because the bun is connected and held vertically. However, sub rolls are also connected, and tilting your hand doesn’t magically change what food it is. We need to stop overthinking it and finally admit that hot dogs belong in the sandwich family.

What do you think? Let us know!

Garfield Middle School students are putting their writing skills to the test by participating in the Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest.

The Patriot’s Pen contest gives middle school students an opportunity to express their ideas about patriotism, citizenship, and what it means to be an American. Students are challenged to think carefully about the annual theme and develop an original essay that clearly communicates their thoughts and experiences.

At GMS, students are working on planning, drafting, revising, and polishing their essays before submitting them for consideration. The contest allows students to practice important writing skills while also reflecting on topics connected to American history, civic responsibility, and community.

Participating in the Patriot’s Pen contest is also a chance for students to have their voices heard beyond the classroom. Strong entries may advance through different levels of competition and can earn recognition and prizes.

Teachers are encouraging students to be thoughtful, creative, and authentic in their writing. Rather than simply stating facts, students are being asked to explain their ideas in a meaningful and personal way.

Garfield Middle School is proud to see students taking part in a contest that combines writing, reflection, and civic awareness. No matter how far their essays advance, the experience gives students a valuable opportunity to strengthen their writing and share their perspectives.

See your ELA teacher for details.

Vocabulary is more than just learning new words for a test. The more words you know, the better you can understand, communicate, and express yourself.

A strong vocabulary helps you understand what you read, whether it’s a novel, textbook, news article, directions, or even something online. When you recognize more words, reading becomes easier and you can understand more complicated ideas.

Vocabulary also makes you a stronger writer and speaker. Instead of always using words like good, bad, nice, or fun, you can choose words that explain exactly what you mean. The right word can make your writing more interesting, powerful, and precise.

Most importantly, learning new words gives you confidence. Every new word you add to your vocabulary gives you another tool to communicate your ideas.

Think of vocabulary as your personal word toolbox: the more tools you have, the better prepared you are to build something great!

Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna by Alda P. Dobbs is a historical fiction novel set during the Mexican Revolution. The story follows a 12-year-old girl named Petra Luna, who must be brave and protect her family during a very difficult time.

Petra has already faced many hardships. Her mother has passed away, and soldiers have taken her father away. Before he is gone, Petra promises that she will take care of her grandmother, younger sister, and baby brother. Even though she is still young herself, Petra takes on the responsibility of helping her family survive.

One of the most important things about Petra is that she is brave, responsible, and protective. She wants to become more mature and do whatever she can to keep her family safe. Petra’s younger sister, Amelia, also wants to help care for the family. Another character, Adeline, is someone who wants to help others, just like Petra.

The book teaches readers about courage, responsibility, family, and perseverance. One of the main themes is that people should never give up, even when life becomes difficult. Petra shows bravery by stepping up as a leader and doing everything she can to help the people she loves.

I thought this book was interesting because it teaches readers about an important time in history while also telling an emotional story about family. It is enjoyable to read and shows what life can be like when someone is forced to grow up quickly.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction, stories about courage, and books about strong characters may enjoy Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna.

If you walk through the halls before first period or listen closely during lunch, chances are you’ll hear someone talking about Geometry Dash. The colorful rhythm-based platformer has remained one of the most popular mobile and computer games among students for years — and it’s easy to see why.

Created by Robert Topala, Geometry Dash challenges players to guide a small cube through obstacle-filled levels while music plays in the background. The controls are simple: tap to jump. However, the game quickly becomes much harder than it looks. One missed jump can send players all the way back to the beginning of the level.

Part of the game’s appeal comes from its fast-paced gameplay and energetic soundtrack. Each level is carefully timed to music, making players feel as though they are part of the beat. Songs such as “Stereo Madness” and “Electroman Adventures” have become recognizable to many gamers.

Another reason for the game’s popularity is competition. Students often compare which levels they have completed or challenge each other to beat difficult stages. Some players spend hours trying to conquer famous “demon” levels, which are considered the hardest in the game. The feeling of finally completing a difficult level after dozens — or even hundreds — of attempts can be extremely satisfying.

What also sets Geometry Dash apart is creativity. The game includes a level editor that allows users to create and share their own custom levels online. Some players have built levels that look like works of art, featuring complex designs, animations, and perfectly synchronized music. This creative aspect has helped the game maintain a strong community for more than a decade.

Despite its popularity, some students admit the game can become frustrating. Repeating the same section over and over can test anyone’s patience. Still, many players say that challenge is exactly what keeps them coming back.

In an age where games constantly change and trends disappear quickly, Geometry Dash has managed to stay relevant through its combination of music, skill, and creativity. Whether students play for a few minutes between homework assignments or spend hours mastering impossible jumps, the game continues to be a favorite among gamers at school.

One thing is certain: as long as students enjoy a challenge, Geometry Dash is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

Poetry is back in the spotlight! After some time away, Poetry Corner has returned as a regular feature in our school newspaper, giving students a place to share their voices, ideas, and creativity. From funny rhymes to thoughtful verses, this space is all about celebrating student writers. Get ready to read, enjoy, and maybe even submit a poem of your own.

The summer days have slipped away,

And now it’s time to start the day.
Backpacks packed and pencils new,
New adventures wait for you.

Hallways buzz and lockers slam,
“Where’s my classroom?” “Where I am?”
Old friends meet and new friends smile,
We’re finding our way, mile by mile.

New teachers, subjects, things to learn,
So many pages left to turn.
Some days are easy, some are tough,
But keep on going—you’re strong enough.

Ask a question, lend a hand,
Try new things you haven’t planned.
Mistakes will happen—that’s okay,
They help us learn along the way.

So here’s to laughter, goals, and cheer,
And all we’ll accomplish throughout the year.
A brand-new chapter starts today—
Welcome back! Let’s lead the way!

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.

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