In the Middle

Garfield Middle School is proud to celebrate two of its own, Vice Principal Ms. Sabani and ESL teacher Ms. Kovacs, who were recently honored at the Garfield Police Department Community Leader Awards and Beefsteak Dinner 2026. The event recognized outstanding individuals who have made a meaningful impact through leadership, service, and dedication to the community.

The annual dinner, hosted by the Garfield Police Department, brings together educators, community members, and local leaders to celebrate those who go above and beyond in supporting the city of Garfield. This year, both Ms. Sabani and Ms. Kovacs were selected for their continued commitment to students, families, and the broader school community.

Ms. Sabani, the vice principal of Garfield Middle School, was recognized for her strong leadership and dedication to creating a positive and supportive school environment. Through her work, she has helped strengthen school programs, support student success, and ensure that the needs of students are met both academically and emotionally.

We interviewed Ms. Sabani about being honored this year at the Garfield Police Department Community Affairs Awards Dinner.

"I felt extremely grateful and honored to receive this award. It was meaningful to know that the Community Affairs Division recognized the efforts I have made to support students and families in our community. During my acceptance speech, I shared one of my favorite sayings: "You can take the girl out of Garfield, but you can't take the Garfield out of the girl." To me, that means that no matter where life takes me, my roots and connection to Garfield will always remain a part of who I am. This community has helped shape me, and I am proud to continue giving back to it."

Ms. Kovacs, an ESL teacher at Garfield Middle School, was honored for her outstanding work with English Language Learners. Her efforts in the classroom have helped students develop confidence, improve their language skills, and feel welcomed as part of the school community. She is widely appreciated for her patience, encouragement, and commitment to helping students thrive.

School officials and staff members expressed pride in both honorees, emphasizing that the recognition reflects the positive impact they have every day. Their dedication not only supports students inside the classroom but also strengthens connections between families, staff, and the community.

Garfield Middle School extends heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Sabani and Ms. Kovacs for this well-deserved honor. Their achievements highlight the importance of strong leadership and compassionate teaching, and the school community is proud to celebrate their success.

Have you ever wondered what our principal, Mr. Riggs, thinks about our school, our students, and the future? We sat down with him for a fun and insightful interview to learn more about his experiences this year and his advice for students.

Three Words That Describe Our School

When asked to describe our school in three words, Mr. Riggs chose Growth, Maturity, and Success.

He explained that students enter the school as young fifth graders and, over the years, grow into mature eighth graders ready to graduate. According to Mr. Riggs, watching students develop both academically and personally is one of the most rewarding parts of being principal. That growth leads to maturity, and together they create success.

Most Memorable Moment This Year

Mr. Riggs had a hard time choosing just one memorable moment. From plays and performances to special events, he enjoyed seeing students step outside their comfort zones and showcase their talents. Watching students gain confidence and perform in front of others made a lasting impression on him.

A Rule Students Often Misunderstand

One school rule Mr. Riggs believes students misunderstand is the importance of being on time.

He noted that some students think they can arrive at school or walk into class whenever they want. However, being punctual helps students stay organized and ready to learn.

If He Could Be a Teacher for a Day

If Mr. Riggs could switch jobs with any teacher, he would choose a health teacher.

"That's my jam!" he said enthusiastically. He loves teaching about health and hygiene.

and joked that if he taught health, everyone would definitely know how important it is to take care of themselves.

A Surprising Fact

Students may be surprised to learn that Mr. Riggs claims he has blonde hair and dyes it black to look more mature!

He also joked that he speaks seven languages: gibberish, Yiddish, kiddish, nonsense, sarcasm, Pig Latin, and confusion.

A Class He Would Add

If he could add any class to the school, Mr. Riggs would add more health classes taught by himself.

He believes strongly in what he calls "soap, scope, and hope" and wants students to understand the importance of hygiene and healthy habits.

Life Advice for Students

Mr. Riggs' advice is simple but meaningful:

"Lighten up, smile, and laugh."

He believes that enjoying life and maintaining a positive attitude can help students through challenges both in and out of school.

Important Skills for the Future

According to Mr. Riggs, one of the most important future skills is socialization.

He encourages students to spend less time on electronics and more time talking, playing, and laughing with friends. Building relationships and communicating effectively are skills that will benefit students throughout their lives.

Helping Students Who Struggle

When students are struggling, Mr. Riggs focuses on helping them relax.

He believes that success is not about being perfect. Instead, what matters most is continuing to move forward and making progress, even when things are difficult.

Advice for the Eighth Graders

As the eighth graders prepare for high school, Mr. Riggs has one important message:

Enjoy high school. Don't stress too much about grades or drama. Be kind, make friends, and trust that everything will work out.

Final Thoughts

Whether he's encouraging students to smile more, reminding them to get to class on time, or celebrating their accomplishments, Mr. Riggs is passionate about helping students grow into successful young adults. His sense of humor, positive outlook, and dedication to students make him an important part of our school community.

Congratulations to our winners of the Boilermaker Pride scavenger hunt!

1st place - The Clue Crushers (Marija Stojanovska, Alexa Santiago, Mercedes Sanchez Crucet, Alicja Salach)

2nd place - The Polish Girls (Claudia Kawecki, Amy Wilenski, Justyna Majcher, Nicole Chamot)

3rd place - GiggleGlitters (Josie Barrera, Juliette Barrera, Ashley Blancas, Darija Poposka, Matea Enzova)

Fourteen Garfield Middle School students were awarded FREE tickets to the End-of-Year Dinner Dance in recognition of their excellent behavior, strong academics, and positive contributions throughout the school year.

Special thanks to Mr. Leonard and Ms. Kutarnia, who organized a district-wide Trivia Night fundraiser supported by our amazing staff members in the Garfield School District. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this celebration possible! We hope to see you back next year.

We are incredibly proud of these students for setting a positive example and representing Boilermaker Pride every day

This year, our newspaper had the opportunity to sit down with Vice Principal Mr. Caiazzo and learn more about his experiences, thoughts on school life, and advice for students.

When asked to describe our school in three words, Mr. Caiazzo chose "positive, welcoming, and sometimes crazy." He explained that our school welcomes all kinds of people and encourages positive behavior, although students sometimes make choices that lead to a little chaos.

One of his favorite memories from this school year has been watching students participate in extracurricular activities. From school dances and holiday shows to the end-of-the-year play and graduation, Mr. Caiazzo said these events bring the school community together and create lasting memories.

Mr. Caiazzo also shared that one of the most misunderstood school rules is the dress code. He explained that uniforms help reduce bullying based on clothing choices and create a more equal environment for students. He also mentioned that the headphone policy is often misunderstood because wearing headphones can be disrespectful when teachers are trying to communicate with students.

If he could trade places with a teacher for a day, Mr. Caiazzo said he would choose a science teacher. Having taught science in the past, he still enjoys the subject. If he had to choose one teacher specifically, he would pick Ms. Kurt because of her hands-on teaching style and engaging experiments.

Students may be surprised to learn that Mr. Caiazzo is both a talented artist and pianist. He shared that he enjoys drawing and can play the piano very well.

Looking toward the future, Mr. Caiazzo believes schools should offer a digital citizenship class. Such a course would teach students how to communicate positively online, use social media responsibly, and build a positive digital presence.

When asked what advice he would give students, his message was simple: don't live with regrets. He encourages students to take advantage of opportunities, avoid hesitation, and make decisions they can feel confident about.

As for future success, Mr. Caiazzo believes students will need strong people skills and practical abilities. Whether students become influencers, teachers, plumbers, technicians, or pursue other careers, he believes communication and hands-on skills will remain important.

To motivate students who are struggling, Mr. Caiazzo tries to connect with them through their interests. Whether it's talking about sports, dance, or other hobbies, he believes building relationships is key to helping students succeed.

Finally, when asked what movie best represents our school, Mr. Caiazzo jokingly answered, "Mean Girls." While the response was humorous, it reminds us that every school has its share of drama, friendships, and memorable moments.

Through his leadership, encouragement, and dedication to students, Mr. Caiazzo continues to play an important role in making our school a positive and welcoming place for everyone.

On April 23rd, teachers from Garfield Middle School proved they’re just as sharp outside the classroom as they are inside it, winning first place at the 4th Annual District-Wide Trivia Night. Competing against teams made up of students, staff, and educators from across the district, the faculty team delivered an impressive performance that showcased both their knowledge and teamwork.

The event, held each spring as a friendly district tradition, brought together participants for an evening of fast-paced trivia spanning a wide range of topics, including history, science, pop culture, literature, and current events. Teams faced multiple rounds of increasingly challenging questions, with points awarded for both accuracy and speed.

From the beginning of the competition, the teachers’ team demonstrated strong chemistry and quick thinking. While other teams struggled through particularly tricky rounds, the faculty group remained consistent, often pulling ahead with confident answers and well-timed strategic guesses. By the final round, the competition had tightened, but the teachers managed to secure just enough points to take the lead and hold it through the end.

Many spectators noted that what set the winning team apart was not just their knowledge, but how effectively they worked together under pressure. Answers were discussed quickly but efficiently, with different team members stepping in based on their individual strengths—ranging from science and math to entertainment and history.

The victory was met with enthusiastic applause from attendees, especially students who enjoyed seeing their teachers in a different light. For many, it was a reminder that learning is a lifelong skill, and that curiosity doesn’t stop at the classroom door.

As the district celebrates another successful trivia night, this year’s win adds a memorable chapter to the tradition. One thing is certain: next year’s competition will be even more intense, as teams aim to take the title from the reigning champions—the teachers of Garfield Middle School.

On April 29th, our school celebrated the talented writers who participated in the Poetry Month Contest. Students from various grade levels submitted creative poems that showcased their imagination, emotions, and unique voices.

After carefully reviewing the entries, the judges selected winners based on creativity, originality, and use of poetic techniques. The winning poems impressed readers with their vivid imagery and thoughtful messages.

Congratulations to all of the contest winners and participants! Their hard work and dedication helped make Poetry Month a success. Thank you to everyone who submitted a poem and shared their love of writing. This year‘s winners won gift cards provided by the Garfield Rotary club.

We look forward to reading even more outstanding poetry next year!

1st place - Juan Rizales - “I Am America”

2nd place - Jerianna David - “America is a Web”

3rd place - Chrysta Abonga - “Torches to the Sky”

At Garfield Middle School, Mr. Williams is known as a disciplinarian, but his role goes far beyond enforcing rules. His goal is to help students learn from their mistakes, develop responsibility, and become successful both in and out of school.

Before becoming an administrator, Mr. Williams worked as a fifth-grade math teacher and coached football and wrestling. Those experiences inspired him to pursue a career where he could make a positive difference in students' lives.

Mr. Williams believes discipline is an important part of personal growth. He uses a system called progressive discipline, which means smaller issues receive lighter consequences, while repeated or more serious behaviors result in stronger disciplinary actions. According to him, the most common issues at Garfield Middle School are playfighting and students being late to class. However, he acknowledges that being late is not always the student's fault.

One experience that had a lasting impact on Mr. Williams involved a student who was considering dropping out of school. To help motivate the student, Mr. Williams worked out an agreement: as long as the student attended school, he could continue participating in his boxing program. The student stayed committed, eventually became a Golden Gloves champion, and graduated from high school. This experience taught Mr. Williams that his job is not just about disciplining students—it is also about caring for them and helping them succeed.

Mr. Williams encourages students who frequently get into trouble to evaluate their priorities and think about how their actions affect others. He believes that poor decisions can impact not only the individual but also classmates, teachers, and the school community.

He also emphasizes the importance of discipline in everyday life. "You need discipline to become successful," he says. "The earlier you learn it, the better off you will be."

When students receive disciplinary consequences, Mr. Williams wants them to understand that the purpose is not to hurt or punish them, but to help them learn, grow, and make better choices in the future.

Over the years, he has noticed changes in student behavior, particularly due to the influence of social media. He believes some students are becoming more reckless online, often posting content that is more explicit or inappropriate than in the past.

To create a more respectful school environment, Mr. Williams encourages students to demonstrate positive behavior, treat others with kindness, and show respect to their peers and teachers. He believes the biggest lesson students can learn from discipline is responsibility. By taking accountability for their actions, students can develop respect for themselves, their classmates, and the adults who support them.

Through his work at Garfield Middle School, Mr. Williams continues to show that discipline is not just about consequences—it is about helping students learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

Garfield Middle School's brightest young minds showcased their knowledge and teamwork at the prestigious Bergen Brain Busters Final Competition on Thursday, June 4, at Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah.

The annual county-wide academic trivia tournament brings together talented seventh and eighth-grade students from middle schools across Bergen County for a day of fast-paced intellectual competition. Known for challenging participants in a wide range of subjects, the Bergen Brain Busters competition highlights academic excellence, critical thinking, and collaboration among students.

The tournament took place from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on the Ramapo College campus, where dozens of school teams competed in a quiz-bowl format. Students faced questions covering topics such as mathematics, science, history, literature, geography, current events, and other academic disciplines. The event featured both mixed-team and school-versus-school matches, testing competitors' knowledge, quick recall, and teamwork under pressure.

Representing Garfield Middle School, students have spent months preparing for the competition by studying a broad range of academic subjects and participating in practice sessions designed to sharpen their problem-solving and communication skills. Their dedication and commitment have earned them the opportunity to compete against some of Bergen County's top middle school scholars.

Beyond the competition itself, Bergen Brain Busters provides students with a unique opportunity to meet peers who share a passion for learning and academic achievement. The event celebrates intellectual curiosity and encourages students to challenge themselves in a positive and supportive environment.

The entire Garfield Middle School community is proud of the students' accomplishments and wishes the team the best of luck as they represent the school on the county stage and beyond. Participation in the Bergen Brain Busters Final Competition is a testament to the hard work, determination, and academic excellence demonstrated by Garfield's young scholars.

The New Jersey School Boards Association’s 2025-26 STEAM Tank Challenge program received 618 team entries representing 78 school districts in all 21 counties of New Jersey. Of that, 330 Middle School teams registered. After the first round, the teams were narrowed down to 50 teams selected overall. This unprecedented growth reflects the expanding impact of STEAM education and the commitment of New Jersey schools to fostering creativity, problem-solving, and real-world design thinking among students.

What exactly is "Steam Tank"? Well, Steam Tank encourages student teams to work collaboratively to identify and develop innovative solutions to issues such as sustainability, climate change, the environment, societal problems, and situations that need resolution in our schools, communities, in our state, and globally. This challenge allows teams to take the challenge in any direction they wish. No matter what they create or what problem they seek to solve, students must learn to consider the impact of environmental and climate change, whether direct or indirect.

The student teams selected by the STEAM Tank application committee moved on to the virtual regional rounds, which were held from March 1 to March 22, 2025. Teams were provided with a timeslot during which they met in a virtual platform with the judges and had five minutes to pitch their concept. The judges had 10 minutes for questions and answers.

Garfield Middle School was a regional winner and moved on to the final round last week. GMS also won that round and is moving on to the Grand Finale presentation that will be held at the NJSBA convention in Atlantic City this October, with the top three teams in each division. The Educational Leadership Foundation of New Jersey will provide $15,000 in prize money to support STEAM programs at the winners’ schools.

Winners in the Middle Division

• Team IN SINK- Garfield Middle School- Garfield
• Team Reed Claim- Demerest Middle School, Demerest

• Team Hunger Haulers- Green Brook Middle School, Green Brook

Our team also received 7 out of 8 awards.

• Entrepreneurship
• Creativity and the exemplary integration of the arts
• Improvement to the human-built environment
• Subject matter expert collaboration
• Societal impact
• Sustainability, climate change, and the environment
• Public health and safety

Congratulations to our amazing Steam Team and their inspirational advisors.

This year, GMS welcomed a new Computer Science and Media teacher, Mr. Hyka, also known by students as Mr. K. As a former GMS student himself, Mr. Hyka has enjoyed returning to GMS in a new role and connecting with students every day.

When asked what inspired him to become a teacher, Mr. Hyka explained that he enjoyed “the challenge of taking on something new.” His interest in technology, creativity, and working with students has already made a strong impact on the school community.

One of Mr. Hyka’s favorite lessons to teach is Web Design. He explained that students enjoy having the opportunity to create their own websites and “make something come to life.” Many students appreciate hands-on projects that allow them to express their creativity while learning important technology skills.

Mr. Hyka also believes in setting high expectations for students. When asked how he helps students who struggle with Computer Science, he shared that “a consistent amount of work makes it easier for every student not to struggle.” He believes that practice, discipline, and effort help students become more successful in class.

Although this is his first-year teaching, Mr. Hyka said the ex

perience has been “how I expected it to be.” However, becoming a teacher also came up with new challenges. He explained that one important thing he had to

learn this year was “how to make technology and Web Design lessons more engaging for students.”

Teaching at GMS has also been a unique experience for Mr. Hyka because he once attended the school himself as a student. When asked if teaching at GMS was different from what he expected, he responded that it is “way better than what we had back in the day.”

One of Mr. Hyka’s most memorable moments this year happened during Cafeteria Lunch 4B, when students began singing “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys. He said the moment stood out because everyone was having fun and enjoying themselves together.

For Mr. Hyka, the most rewarding part of teaching has been the positive interactions he has with students every day. He explained that “having the kids stop by and say good morning or thank you” makes him feel like he has made a difference in students’ lives.

When asked what advice he would give himself if he could go back to the beginning of the school year, Mr. Hyka said he would “do the same thing all over again, the same exact way” and “change nothing.” His response shows how much he enjoyed his first-year teaching at GMS.

As the school year continues, Mr. Hyka hopes students remember one important lesson from his class: “Discipline will take you places where talent won’t.” Through his teaching, creativity, and dedication to students, Mr. Hyka has already become an important part of the GMS community.

Summer arrives with bright sunshine, longer days, and warm temperatures. The air is fresh and inviting, and nature seems full of energy. Trees stand tall with lush green leaves, flowers bloomed in vibrant colors, and birds sang cheerful songs from dawn until dusk.

The start of the season brings a sense of excitement and possibility. Beaches are ready to welcome visitors with golden sand and sparkling waves. Parks will become lively with outdoor activities, while picnic areas will fill with the aroma of freshly prepared food. Lake will reflect the clear blue sky, and hiking trails will offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Looking for a delicious place to grab a snack or breakfast this summer?

Garfield Creamery

Cool off with a tasty treat at Garfield Creamery! Whether you're craving ice cream, a milkshake, or another sweet snack, this is a great place to visit on a warm summer day. It's the perfect stop for friends and families looking for something refreshing and delicious.

Why Visit?

• Variety of ice cream flavors
• Refreshing summer treats
• Fun and welcoming atmosphere

Bare Naked Bowl

Start your day right with a healthy and flavorful breakfast from Bare Naked Bowl. Known for its smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and fresh ingredients, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a nutritious meal or snack.

Why Visit?

• Fresh fruit and healthy toppings
• Delicious acai and smoothie bowls
• Great breakfast and snack options

Whether you're in the mood for a sweet treat or a healthy breakfast, Garfield Creamery and Bare Naked Bowl are two great places to visit. Gather your friends and family and enjoy some of the best local flavors this summer!

What's your favorite summer snack?

Have you ever wondered what it was like to live through the Holocaust and start over in a new country? Out of Hiding by Ruth Gruener tells the true story of a young Jewish girl named Luncia and her family's struggle to survive during one of the darkest times in history.

This nonfiction book follows Luncia and her family as they face persecution during World War II. They move from place to place to stay safe, travel to Poland to reunite with family members, and eventually hide from the Nazis. Throughout the story, Luncia experiences many hardships, including leaving behind loved ones, friends, and even her dog, Lala. Despite these challenges, she never gives up hope. Eventually, she and her family escape to America, where they begin a new life.

Some of the important people in the story include Luncia, her parents Isaac and Barbara, her brother Henio, her grandmother Babacia, and several friends and helpers they meet along the way. Their experiences show the courage and determination needed to survive during the Holocaust.

I enjoyed reading Out of Hiding because it provides a survivor's perspective on history. Many people learn about the Holocaust, but this book includes personal details that are not always discussed in textbooks. These details help readers better understand what daily life was like for Jewish families during that time.

One of the main themes of the book is staying positive during difficult times. Even after witnessing tragic events and experiencing loss, Luncia continues to look forward and build a happy life in America. Her story reminds readers that hope and resilience can help people overcome even the greatest challenges.

Overall, Out of Hiding is an inspiring and educational book that teaches important lessons about courage, perseverance, and hope. I would recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the Holocaust through the eyes of a survivor.

Summer is a great time to relax, have fun, and enjoy a good book. While school is out, reading during the summer can help students keep their minds active and continue learning.

One major benefit of summer reading is that it helps improve vocabulary and reading skills. Students who read regularly are exposed to new words and ideas, which can make it easier to succeed in school when classes begin again. Reading also helps strengthen comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Another benefit is that books can reduce boredom and provide entertainment. Whether it's a mystery, adventure, fantasy, or nonfiction book, reading allows students to explore new worlds and learn about different people and places.

Summer reading can also encourage creativity and imagination. Stories inspire readers to think in new ways and develop their own ideas.

Overall, spending time with a good book during the summer is both fun and beneficial. Just a few minutes of reading each day can help students stay sharp and prepare for a successful school year.

Have a great summer! Keep writing!!!

Between the lockers and the late bell rings,
We learned the weight of growing things.
From scribbled notes and classroom jokes
To finding courage when our voice first broke.

Eight years of pencils, dreams, and change,
Of friendships forming in ways so strange.
We raced through hallways, laughed too loud,
Trying to stand out inside the crowd.

Some days were easy, some felt long,
But every mistake became part of our song.
We carried backpacks full of fears and hopes,
Still climbing every slippery slope.

Now caps aren’t tossed, but hearts still soar,
Because we know we’re meant for more.
The doors ahead swing open wide,
With nervous smiles we step outside.

So here’s to the memories we’ll always keep—
The promises made we’re determined to meet.
Eighth grade ends, but not who we are;
This is just the start of how far we’ll go from here.

Thank you for your years of dedication, professionalism, and commitment as our security guard. Your vigilance, reliability, and friendly presence have helped create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. You have been a valued member of our team, and your hard work has not gone unnoticed.

As you begin this exciting new chapter, we wish you good health, happiness, and many rewarding experiences. May your retirement be filled with relaxation, new adventures, and quality time with family and friends.

Thank you for everything you have done. You will be greatly missed, and we wish you all the best for a long, happy, and fulfilling retirement.

As Father's Day approaches, we wanted to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, guardians, and father figures who help shape the lives of our GMS students & staff every day.

Behind every school concert, sports game, science project, and early-morning drop-off is often a dad cheering from the sidelines, offering encouragement, and providing unwavering support. While their contributions may not always be in the spotlight, their impact is felt throughout our school community.

Our school dads wear many hats. They are coaches, mentors, homework helpers, chauffeurs, storytellers, and role models. They teach lessons that extend far beyond the classroom—lessons about kindness, perseverance, responsibility, and integrity. Whether helping with a difficult math problem, attending school events after a long day of work, or simply being there to listen, they play an important role in helping students grow and succeed.

To all of the dads and father figures in our GMS family: thank you for your dedication, encouragement, and love. Your guidance helps our GMS students & staff dream bigger, work harder, and believe in themselves.

On behalf of the "In the Middle" staff, we wish you a very happy Father's Day

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