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Mount Olive Middle School 8th Grade Science Students Showcase Innovative Learning with Rube Goldberg Machines

April 16th, 2024

Mount Olive Middle School's 8th-grade science classes are abuzz with excitement as students showcase their ingenuity through the creation of Rube Goldberg machines. This innovative project, spearheaded by the collaborative efforts of the 8th-grade science teaching team, aims to challenge students to apply their knowledge of various scientific principles in a hands-on, creative manner.

Led by teachers Emily Anne Ponomarev, Rachel Scimeca, Katelin Riggs, Caitlyn Schilling, Becky Neidhardt, Pam Wilson, and Michael Thompson, the project kicked off six weeks ago, setting the stage for an engaging exploration of physics concepts in action.

Rube Goldberg machines are whimsical contraptions designed to perform simple tasks through a series of complex, interconnected actions. This year, the 8th graders' mission was to engineer machines that produce a sound, demonstrating their understanding of scientific principles in a fun and practical way.

"While the end goal is to create a sound, the journey involves delving into fundamental scientific concepts," explains Katelin Riggs, one of the lead teachers involved in the project. "Throughout the process, students have been exploring magnetism, potential energy, kinetic energy, elasticity, electricity, and even Newton's Third Law."

The project's interdisciplinary approach goes beyond mere construction. In addition to building their Rube Goldberg machines, students have engaged in a series of laboratory experiments and demonstrations, further reinforcing their understanding of scientific principles. From exploring the magnetic properties of different materials to investigating the transfer of energy in elastic collisions, students have had the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios.

However, perhaps the most significant aspect of this project is the emphasis on collaboration. Students from white, red, and yellow teams intermingled and were divided into small groups, each tasked with designing and constructing their own Rube Goldberg machine. This collaborative environment has fostered teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills among the students.

"Working in teams has been a highlight for many students," remarks Rachel Scimeca, another member of the teaching team. "Not only are they learning from each other, but they're also discovering the value of cooperation and shared responsibility in achieving a common goal."

As the project nears its completion, anticipation is high for the grand unveiling of the Rube Goldberg machines. Teachers, and fellow students eagerly await the opportunity to witness the culmination of weeks of hard work, creativity, and scientific exploration.

Mount Olive Middle School's 8th-grade science students are not only building Rube Goldberg machines; they're building a foundation for lifelong learning and innovation.

Mount Olive Middle School 6th Graders Honor Veterans with Memorial Rock Painting Event

April 15th, 2024

Mount Olive Middle School's commitment to honoring veterans and fostering community spirit shone brightly on Monday, April 15th, during period 8, as a group of enthusiastic 6th-grade students gathered to paint rocks destined for The War Memorial Monument at Turkey Brook Park. This heartwarming initiative, in collaboration with the All Veterans Memorial (AVM) organization, aimed to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country.

Under the guidance of 6th grade guidance counselors, Julie Kester, Kayla McDonald, and Ann Greszczak, a beloved retired MOMS teacher who initiated this meaningful activity, students eagerly grabbed their brushes, infusing each rock with their creativity and gratitude. The event served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, while also fostering a sense of community and remembrance among the students.

Home Depot, a staunch supporter of community initiatives, played a pivotal role in making the event a success by generously sponsoring it with smocks and painting supplies. Their contribution ensured that students had everything they needed to express themselves artistically and contribute to the Memorial Day tribute.

As Mount Olive Middle School students dipped their brushes into an array of vibrant colors, each stroke on the rocks they painted held profound significance.  Students were given the freedom to choose from three flowers, each carrying its own symbolism deeply rooted in the experiences of war. The young artists poured their creativity into symbols honoring various aspects of war.

The dandelion, selected by some, represents the resilience of military children. Known for its hardiness and strong roots, the dandelion symbolizes survival and adaptability, characteristics often embodied by families navigating the challenges of military life.

Others chose to paint poppies, a poignant symbol of remembrance for the children of war. Every warrior, as the saying goes, is somebody's child, and the poppy serves as a timeless reminder of the honor and sacrifice associated with military service. Through the vivid red petals, students paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

The third option, the daisy, spoke to the innocence and childhood affected by conflicts. With its white petals symbolizing purity, the daisy serves as a reminder of the innocence lost amidst the chaos of war. Through their artwork, students sought to honor the memory of those whose lives have been forever altered by the impact of conflict, particularly on children. Each stroke of paint represents a heartfelt tribute to the multifaceted experiences of war and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The event not only provided students with an opportunity to express their appreciation for veterans but also served as a valuable learning experience, fostering empathy, respect, and a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.

The painted rocks will find their permanent home at The War Memorial Monument in Turkey Brook Park, where they will serve as enduring symbols of gratitude and remembrance. Memorial Day will mark the solemn occasion when these beautifully adorned rocks will be placed, adding a colorful touch to the memorial site while honoring the legacy of those who served.

Mount Olive Middle School extends its sincere appreciation to all the students who participated in this touching tribute, as well as to Ann Greszczak for returning with her guidance and inspiration. Together, MOMS has ensured that the Memorial Day tribute will be a colorful and meaningful expression of gratitude and remembrance for generations to come.

Excitement fills the halls of Mount Olive Middle School as the school welcomes a new addition to its administrative team. Mr. Daniel Barcia has stepped into the role of 6th Grade Vice Principal, bringing with him a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to guide students through their middle school journey.  Mr. Barcia's career path has been nothing short of impressive, boasting over a decade of experience in education. Prior to his appointment at Mount Olive Middle School, he served as an English teacher, igniting young minds with the power of literature and language. Most recently, he held the position of Dean of Restorative Practices at East Side High School in Newark, NJ, where he dedicated himself to creating a positive and inclusive school culture.  His first day on the job was March 18th, and already his presence is being felt throughout the school. Students and staff alike are eager to see the positive impact he will undoubtedly make in his new role.

During his inaugural week, the newly appointed 6th Grade Vice Principal, found himself facing the toughest panel of judges yet: four sharp-witted 6th-grade students armed with questions for Mr. Barcia:

What was your favorite school subject when you were a kid?

Lunch.  I was not a big fan of school when I was little.  I had a really bad relationship with education and lunch was the one place I got to be myself and where people understood me.  But if it actually had to be a class, it would be phys ed because I love sports.  

If you could swap roles with any movie or TV administrator for a day, who would it be?

So you probably won't know who this is, but it's Mr. Feeny.  Mr. Feeny from Boy Meets World eventually becomes principal and I would choose him because he was just so smart and always knew what to say.  He was such a role model for the kids.  To watch his journey from a great teacher to a great principal, and great neighbor was beautiful and I'd like to be that one day. 

What's the most outrageous excuse a student has given you for not turning in their homework? 

I had a kid tell me one time that she didn't have her homework because she had lost her grandma.  It wasn't a lie, but there was a caveat.  What she failed to mention was that her grandma passed 6 years prior.  So it wasn't a lie, but when I called mom to say I'm so sorry for your loss, she had no idea what I was talking about!

What's your go-to karaoke song, and would you ever perform it at a school talent show? 

Absolutely, positively yes for the second part-- I love to make a fool out of myself, especially in front of kids.  It's funny beacuse I go to karaoke every Thursday!  My go to karaoke song--it depends on the mood.  Sometimes I like, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun- it's probably my go to. I just like to have fun! 

What’s your go-to order at McDonalds?

That's a good one.  I love fries. Fries are the way to my heart.  But probably a Big Mac and fries. Shamrock shakes are amazing, I wish they had them all year round.

If you could have any historical figure as a guest speaker at the school, who would it be? 

Ooh, there's so many.  There is a man named Ernesto Che Guevara.  He was a South American revolutionary.  I actually have a tattoo of him on my leg.  He's one of my heroes, I just thought he was a very interesting and smart man who had vision way beyond his time- even beyond our time.  Very intelligent and very selfless.

If you could teleport our school to anywhere in the world for one week, where would you take us? 

I like to travel so that's a hard question, but definitely someplace tropical where it's beautiful all day, every day.  Puerto Rico is my favorite place in the entire world.  I go every year for my birthday for the Saint Sebastian Festival.  Puerto Rico would be a beautiful place to go, except it rains every day- its only for a little bit, but it does rain every day.  Or Aruba, I've never been but I heard it's amazing.

We’ve been asking for an ice cream truck to come here.. can you help us out? 

That's a bit above my pay grade, but what I will tell you is that I'm 100% going to advocate for you for selfish reasons because I want an ice cream truck here too. I do think there is a space for kids to have nice things, and if that's something you guys really really want, I can tell you that I will guarantee that I will fight for it.  

In a surprising twist during the interview, discussions took a detour down the magical lane of Harry Potter and the fascinating world of sneakers. Mr. Barcia, found himself entangled in delightful banter about Hogwarts and wand-waving antics, before seamlessly transitioning into a lively discourse on sneaker culture. Amidst giggles and nods of approval, the 6th graders unanimously praised Mr. Barcia's impeccable sneaker game, dubbing him a style icon of the school halls. Breaking momentarily from the interview, Mr. Barcia graciously invited the enthralled youngsters for a tour into his new office, promising again to work on that ice cream truck!

In the hot seat: Josh Colon, Will Dolan, Jessica Clark, and Natalie Carter interrogate newly appointed Vice Principal, Mr. Barcia.

Jessica Clark and Natalie Carter listen attentively as they get to know Mr. Barcia.

Josh Colon and Will Dolan find common ground with Mr. Barcia as they discuss all things Harry Potter. 

Josh Colon, Will Dolan, Natalie Carter, and Jessica Clark take time to pose for a photo after the interview.

Leap into Learning: Mt. Olive Middle School 6th Graders Dive into Frog Dissection Lab

In an exciting exploration of biology, the 6th-grade students at Mt. Olive Middle School recently plunged into the world of biology through a captivating frog dissection lab. With scalpel in hand and curiosity as their guide, these young scientists delved into the anatomy of our croaking companions, unraveling the mysteries of life beneath the skin.

Under the expert guidance of science teachers Mrs. Carlson, Mrs. Nawrocki, Mr. Osner-Hackett, Ms. Windish, Ms. Gage, and Mr. Gonzalez, the science labs transformed into M.O.M.S - Mount Olive Medical School as students eagerly gathered around the dissecting tray containing a preserved frog specimen awaiting their scrutiny. Excitement, and some trepidation, filled the rooms as the students prepared to embark on their hands-on journey into the realm of biology.  The labs were visited by building and district administrators Dr. Bangia, Mrs. McDermond, Mr. Jensen, Mr. Lucid, and building principal, Mrs. Wilke, all of whom were very impressed.

With steady hands and sharp minds, students took the roles of anesthesiologist, surgeon, nurses, and attending, and carefully explored the external and internal structures of the frogs, from their sleek limbs to their intricate organs.  This immersive, hands-on experience not only deepened the students' understanding of biological concepts but also fostered essential skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, attention to detail, observation, and the importance of process all while creating a dynamic learning environment where curiosity was peaked.  Students embraced their roles, and took turns being “hands-on.”  During the “All Clear” students stepped back and out of their roles to let others take the lead.  Students were able to open the stomach of the frog and see the bugs that the frog had eaten.  Phrases and exclamations such as “I can’t believe the liver is so big!,” and “Look at the stomach muscles!” demonstrate the students' excitement.  

Beyond the classroom, the frog dissection lab serves as a bridge between theory and practice, enabling students to connect “textbook” knowledge with real-world exploration. The experience not only expands the students' scientific knowledge but also instills in our students a sense of responsibility and respect for the natural world.

With their leap into learning, the 6th-grade students at Mt. Olive Middle School should be commended for their enthusiasm, curiosity, and maturity. As they continue their educational journey, they now carry with them the invaluable lessons learned from their frog dissection lab, as well as stories to share with their families and friends.

We would also like to thank our PTO for supplying the students with “medical student” badges, which added much excitement and authenticity to the experience.  

7th Grade Masters of Disasters: Students Put Science Skills and Knowledge to The Test

In the dynamic world of science education, engaging students in hands-on projects is key to fostering a deeper understanding of natural phenomena. All 7th-grade students in Mrs. Sosnovik, Mrs. Eby, and Ms. Whitesides' science classes, embarked on an exciting journey to explore the forces of nature through a project centered around their study of tornadoes and hurricanes. This project not only provided valuable insights into these powerful weather events but also encouraged teamwork and problem-solving skills.

The project began with an in-depth study of tornadoes and hurricanes. Students delved into the science behind these natural disasters, learning about the atmospheric conditions that lead to their formation, the destructive forces they unleash, and the measures taken to mitigate their impact. Armed with this knowledge, the students were ready to apply their learning in a hands-on and creative manner.

To enhance the learning experience, and apply their knowledge, the students were organized into collaborative groups. Each group was tasked with collecting materials, and designing and building a model that could withstand simulated tornado and/or hurricane conditions. This collaborative approach not only encouraged teamwork but also allowed students to benefit from diverse perspectives, personal experiences, and skills within their groups.

Each group set out to design and construct a model that could replicate a small community including roads, bridges, and building structures, such as homes and schools.  The challenge was to create a structure without modifications and similar buildings with modification to the structure capable of withstanding the simulated forces of a tornado or hurricane. Students had to consider various factors, including wind speed, precipitation, structural integrity to ensure the resilience of their models.

Once the models were completed, the classroom transformed into a simulated disaster zone. The students eagerly awaited their turn to subject their creations to the simulated extreme weather conditions. Teachers fans and water sprays to mimic the forces of nature. This hands-on experience allowed students to witness the real-life challenges faced by engineers and architects, as well as develop empathy for those dealing with the loss of a home, school, transportation, etc.  

As the simulated weather conditions unfolded, students observed and analyzed the performance of their models. Some structures withstood the forces admirably, showcasing the success of the design and construction process. Others faced challenges, highlighting the need for further refinement and improvements. This critical analysis provided valuable insights into the principles of engineering and architecture, as well as the importance of disaster-resistant design.

The 7th-grade science project on tornadoes and hurricanes proved to be an exciting and educational journey for students. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on application, students not only gained a deeper understanding of natural disasters but also developed crucial skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. As they shared their findings and experiences, the classroom buzzed with enthusiasm, leaving a lasting impact on the students' appreciation for the forces of nature and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.

Image below is of one of the final creations made by Mrs. Sosnovik's students. It was able to withstand the simulated weather conditions.

December 2023

In a celebration of musical talent and holiday spirit, the Mt. Olive Middle School Choirs took the stage in the Performing Arts Center at Mt. Olive High School on Thursday, December 21. The much-anticipated concert featured the melodic voices of the 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade choirs, each delivering a captivating performance under the guidance of the very talented middle school choir director, Joanna Scarangello.  The choirs were accompanied by pianist Laura Rutan. Mrs. Scarangello’s student teacher, Melissa Hughes, assisted with the students and their performances.  The students showed their love for her with the presentation of cards, flowers, and students sharing personal messages.  

The evening commenced with a buzz of excitement as friends, family, and community members gathered to witness the culmination of weeks of hard work and dedication by the young performers. The concert showcased the remarkable progress made by the students throughout the trimester.

The 6th-grade choir set the tone for the night with their delightful renditions of holiday and contemporary pieces including Put a Little Love in Your Heart and Rondo Alla Christmas. Their enthusiasm and commitment were evident in every note, captivating the audience right from the start.

Following the 6th graders, the 7th-grade choir took the stage, delivering a dynamic performance that displayed the growth and musical maturity of the students, including solo performances. The choir's harmonious blend and emotive delivery left a lasting impression on the audience.  Jingle Bells, Sort Of and Seasons of Love, with soloists Angel Anyangwe, Alex Swierscz, Madison Lynar, Adithi Balusamy, Ryan Zlasney were highlights of their performance.

The crescendo of the evening was reached with the performance by the 8th-grade choir showcasing the depth of their vocal abilities. The audience was moved by the sheer talent and passion displayed by these young musicians.  Among the selections was an audience favorite, Holiday Road of Carols from the classic holiday movie Christmas Vacation, with a solo performance by Ciara Monahan, and Stand Together.

Throughout the concert, the choirs displayed a remarkable range of musical genres demonstrating the versatility of the school's music program. The Mount Olive Middle School Choirs' commitment to excellence was evident in every selection.

Joanna Scarangello, the dedicated middle school choir director, was acknowledged by district music supervisor Melany McQueeny for her unwavering support and guidance . Under her leadership, the choirs have flourished, and the students have developed not only as musicians but as confident performers.

The festive atmosphere and the joyous holiday spirit were evident with parents, and students in high spirits as they exited the Performing Arts Center.

Mount Olive, [December 22, 2023] — A momentous change is on the horizon for the Mount Olive Middle School as Mr. James Kramer, a revered figure in the educational community, departs for his retirement after decades of dedicated service to the Mount Olive Township School District. Effective January 3rd, 2024, Mrs. Agatha Wilke, a seasoned educator with a rich background, will take the helm as the new acting principal of Mount Olive Middle School.

Mr. Kramer's professional journey within the Mount Olive Township School District commenced in 1997 as a high school social studies teacher. Over the years, he ascended through various roles, culminating in his appointment as the principal of Mount Olive Middle School in 2019. Beyond his administrative duties, Mr. Kramer's legacy is etched in the history of Mount Olive as a distinguished high school football coach. Under his guidance, the team clinched the state championship in 2002, a testament to his coaching prowess and an enduring source of pride for the district. The accolades that followed, including Daily Record Coach of the Year and Morris County Coach Association Coach of the Year, underscore his commitment to excellence and the inspiration he provided to student-athletes.

A lifelong resident of Mount Olive and an alum of the school district, Mr. Kramer's deep roots and unwavering passion for the community have left an indelible mark. As the district bids him a fond farewell, his dedication, passion, and commitment to the betterment of the school community will be remembered and cherished.

Stepping into the role of principal is Mrs. Wilke, whose educational journey has been marked by excellence and a commitment to student development. Before joining Mount Olive as Vice Principal in 2020, Mrs. Wilke spent her entire educational career teaching seventh and eighth-grade social studies at Randolph Middle School. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom, where she served as the eighth-grade faculty leader and presented at esteemed conferences, including Montclair University's summer conference and the annual workshop of the New Jersey Council for Social Studies.

Despite the challenges of transitioning to a new district during the post-pandemic reentry planning phase, Mrs. Wilke's resilience and adaptability have been evident. In her role as the building's third vice principal, she joins Chris Reagan and Nick Cutro, supervising a different grade level as part of an innovative house plan designed to create meaningful connections between administrators and students throughout their middle school years.

Mrs. Wilke holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Rutgers, a master’s in the art of teaching from Marygrove University in Detroit, and a master’s in education leadership from Centenary University. Her journey from Poland to the United States at the age of 9 enriches her perspective, contributing to her commitment to diverse and inclusive education.

As Mount Olive Middle School embarks on this new chapter, the district expresses heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Kramer for his decades of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication. Simultaneously, the community welcomes Mrs. Wilke and looks forward to the continued growth and success she will undoubtedly bring to the role of principal.

On the chilly evening of Thursday, December 14, the Mt. Olive High School Performing Arts Center came alive with the enchanting sounds of music as students from the 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade bands took the stage for the highly anticipated Winter Band Concert. The event, a culmination of months of dedication and practice, showcased the incredible talents of these budding musicians under the skilled direction of Middle School Band Director, Ken Adessa, and instrumental music teacher Ms. Jacqueline Burkat.  

The concert kicked off with the impressive 6th-grade band, composed of budding musicians eager to share their newfound skills. Their repertoire ranged from classic holiday tunes to more modern compositions with personal connections for Mr. Adessa, demonstrating the range of their musical talent. The audience was treated to a captivating blend of selections that showcased the students' growth and dedication throughout the trimester.

The 7th-grade band followed with three selections beautifully performed showcasing a sense of sophistication and maturity. The young musicians presented a selection of pieces that highlighted their developing instrumental skill and abilities. As they seamlessly transitioned from one piece to another, the audience was captivated by the outstanding performance.

Culminating the evening was the powerful performance by the 8th-grade band, a group of seasoned musicians who have honed their skills over the years. Their repertoire showcased a higher level of complexity and musical maturity, leaving a lasting impression on the audience with a selection that Mr. Adessa had been waiting to introduce to “just the right group of students”. The auditorium resonated with the harmonious sounds of brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments as the 8th-grade band delivered a memorable performance.

At the helm of each band was the talented and dedicated Middle School Band Director, Ken Adessa. His passion for music education and commitment to nurturing young talent were evident throughout the evening. Adessa's guidance was not only instrumental in refining the technical aspects of the performances but also in instilling a sense of passion and enthusiasm among the students.

Adessa's conducting skills were on full display as he skillfully led each band through the intricacies of their respective pieces. His ability to connect with the students and inspire them to achieve their musical best was palpable, making him a beloved figure in the Mt. Olive Middle School music community.

The Winter Band Concert served as more than just a showcase of musical talent; it was a celebration of the vibrant community that supports and encourages the arts in the Mt. Olive Middle School. Families, friends, and faculty members gathered to witness the culmination of the students' hard work and dedication, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie within the school community.

As the final notes echoed through the Mt. Olive High School Performing Arts Center, the Winter Band Concert proved to be a resounding success. The event not only highlighted the musical achievements of the 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade bands but also underscored the importance of music education in shaping well-rounded individuals. The Mount Olive School District has been repeatedly distinguished as a NAMM Foundation Best Community for Music Education.