News

Mount Olive Middle School Celebrates Culinary Creativity with "Cupcake Wars"

November 22, 2024

Students in Ms. Antoniello’s 8th grade Bake Shop classes recently competed in the much-anticipated "Cupcake Wars" competition, a culinary showcase that combines baking, teamwork, and artistic design. This engaging project serves as the culmination of the trimester, allowing students to apply their newly acquired kitchen skills to create dazzling cupcake displays based on selected themes.

A Creative Culinary Challenge

The project is more than just a baking exercise; it’s an exploration of creativity, collaboration, and resourcefulness. Students begin by selecting a theme—often inspired by the season—and designing a display of 24 cupcakes to bring their vision to life. From sketching initial ideas to mastering piping techniques with buttercream frosting, every step is a testament to their hard work and ingenuity.

Learning Through Baking

Throughout the trimester, students hone essential culinary skills such as measuring, mixing, baking, and decorating. The class emphasizes teamwork as students collaborate to plan and execute their designs. A key component of the project is resource management: students work within a budget for additional decorations, enhancing their problem-solving abilities while fostering creativity.

The Big Day

The competition spans several days. After perfecting their designs with practice materials like instant mashed potatoes, students bake their cupcakes, prepare colorful frostings, and assemble their displays. The finished masterpieces are photographed and submitted to an extensive judging panel, including teachers, administrators, and over 300 members of Ms. Antoniello’s Professional Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers group.

Judging and Recognition

Judges evaluate the displays on their aesthetic appeal, creativity, and execution. From elegant holiday-themed creations to intricate spring flower bouquets, the designs showcase the students’ diverse talents and imaginations. The winning team is announced after the votes are tallied, earning not just recognition but also the pride of a job well done.

A Highlight of the Trimester

“Cupcake Wars” has become a beloved tradition in Ms. Antoniello’s class. “The students absolutely love this project," she shared. "They eagerly anticipate it throughout the entire trimester, making it the perfect way to conclude our class. They showcase all the baking skills they have learned, and collaborate on a design they created, and, of course, who wouldn't want to enjoy cupcakes?"

This year’s standout designs included a winter-themed display featuring a life-like snow globe, and a snowman that could rival professional bakery creations.

Congratulations to all participants for their incredible effort and creativity. The "Cupcake Wars" competition continues to inspire students to embrace the art and science of baking, fostering a love for culinary arts in the process.

After the votes were tallied, the snowman-themed display emerged victorious with 52% of the votes! Congratulations!

Mount Olive Middle School Lights Up Red Ribbon Week: A Creative Journey to Living Drug-Free

October, 2024  

At Mount Olive Middle School, Red Ribbon Week is more than just a campaign—it's a chance for students to pledge to a brighter, healthier future in the most creative ways possible! From October 23rd to October 31st, the halls buzz with excitement as students embrace this important cause through hands-on activities and a splash of Hollywood flair.

Spearheaded by our dedicated guidance counselors, Mrs. Crumm and Mrs. Flagg, Red Ribbon Week is a national event that encourages students to steer clear of drugs and make positive life choices. But instead of just talking the talk, our students are walking the walk—right down the main hallway, where hundreds of signed "movie tickets" are proudly displayed. Each signature represents a promise to live drug- and violence-free, adding extra motivation in the form of points towards an epic end-of-year competition run by the Student Council. Who knew staying healthy could be so rewarding?

"This week is a great opportunity for students to understand that they can be the heroes of their own stories," said Mrs. Crumm. "Red Ribbon Week teaches them that making healthy choices isn’t just about avoiding drugs, but about shaping a bright and successful future."

And the fun doesn’t stop there! In homeroom, students will take part in a schoolwide door-decorating contest with the theme: Life is a Movie: Film Drug-Free. Each homeroom will transform their door into a mini movie set, complete with LED lights, posters, props, and some serious artistic flair. The rules? Simple:

• The door must be themed after a movie.
• Be as creative as possible—go wild with materials and design!
• Most importantly, capture the spirit of staying drug-free.

Judging will take place on November 1st, with doors being evaluated in these fun categories:

• Best fit to the movie theme
• Execution (Is the movie recognizable?)
• Significant student contribution
• Creativity and originality

“We wanted to make Red Ribbon Week not only educational but also something the students could really get excited about," added Mrs. Flagg. "The door-decorating contest allows them to express themselves and connect with the message in a fun, hands-on way."

Each homeroom is vying for the top spot, and the competition is fierce. With doors inspired by everything from animated classics to action-packed thrillers, it's clear our students are ready to take on drugs and violence with style.

Red Ribbon Week at Mount Olive isn’t just about making healthy choices—it's about coming together as a school, embracing creativity, and learning that we all have the power to positively shape our own futures. After all, life is a movie, and in this one, we’re all choosing to live drug-free!

Stay tuned for the winning homerooms and see which classes will take home the Red Ribbon Week crown. Until then, remember: "Lights, camera, drug-free action!"

 

NOVEMBER 4TH UPDATE

Red Ribbon Week at Mount Olive Middle School wrapped up with an exciting announcement of the top homeroom winners in the schoolwide door-decorating contest. Students channeled their creativity to design movie-inspired doors that promoted the theme, "Life is a Movie: Film Drug-Free." With incredible submissions from each grade, the competition was close, and now, the winners and honorable mentions have been revealed!

Grade-Level Winners:

• 8th Grade Winner: Room D119, Mr. Kelley & Mrs. Tarnowski, with their design "Scream if You See Drugs" inspired by the thriller Scream. This spooky, bold display reminded students to stay alert and steer clear of drugs!

• 7th Grade Winner: Room E134, Mr. Carifi & Mrs. Karipidis, with "STEM Wars," a Star Wars-inspired creation complete with galactic props and lights. This “force-filled” design reminded everyone that students have the power to fight off negative influences.

• 6th Grade Winner: Room F140, Mrs. Dejaager & Mrs. McDowell, with "Let Drugs Go" inspired by Frozen. Complete with snowflakes and icy blue hues, this door captured the importance of “letting go” of harmful choices for a drug-free life.

Honorable Mentions:

• Room B134, Mrs. Corazza, with "Who You Gonna Call? Drug Busters!" inspired by Ghostbusters. This clever display transformed the doorway into a ghostly fight against drugs, reminding students to “bust” negative influences.

• Room B148, Mrs. Rennalls, with "We Scare Because We Care" inspired by Monsters, Inc. This fun and colorful design showed that sometimes a little “scare” can encourage positive choices and a drug-free life!

Congratulations to all the winning homerooms and honorable mentions, and a huge thank you to every student who participated. Red Ribbon Week at Mount Olive was a powerful reminder that creativity, teamwork, and positive choices make a winning combination!

 

Mount Olive Middle School Student Council Officer Elections

September 24th, 2024

Mount Olive Middle School is buzzing with excitement as we prepare for this year’s Student Council officer elections! Under the guidance of our dedicated advisors, Ms. Utter, Ms. Schilling, and Mr. Carifi, students have been working hard to showcase their leadership skills and campaign platforms.

The Election Process

To run for a Student Council officer position, interested students first attended an informative interest meeting. They were provided with a comprehensive packet outlining the responsibilities of being an officer, which required signatures from both the students’ parents and teachers. Each candidate also needed to secure two teacher recommendations and one from a guidance counselor, ensuring that they have the support and approval of our school community.

Candidates were required to maintain a B average or higher and have no major disciplinary actions on their record, emphasizing the importance of both academic performance and good conduct.

Types of Officers:

• President: The leader who sets the agenda and represents the student body.
• Vice President: The supportive partner to the President, helping manage projects and stepping in when needed.
• Secretary: The record-keeper who maintains meeting notes and keeps communication clear.
• Treasurer: The financial steward who oversees budgeting and fundraising efforts.

Once approved, candidates dove into the creative side of campaigning. Each candidate crafted two eye-catching posters, created a Google Slides presentation, and produced a compelling video outlining why their fellow students should cast their votes for them. These materials will help students make informed decisions when they head to the polls.

Looking Ahead

Voting day is just around the corner, and we are excited to see which students will be elected to lead the Student Council this year. The results will be announced next week, so stay tuned!

This year’s election is particularly significant, as it coincides with the U.S. presidential election. The heightened political engagement surrounding this national event serves as an inspiration for our students to understand the importance of their voices, both locally and nationally. We encourage all students to participate in the voting process and support their peers as they take on these important leadership roles. Let’s make this election a memorable one!

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UPDATE:

After a spirited and engaging campaign, the results are in for this year's student council elections! We are proud to announce the following winners who will represent their fellow students in the upcoming school year:

• President: Dominic Moscatello
• Vice President: Ava Drew
• Secretary: Michael Zentko
• Treasurer: Aariz Mujtaba

Congratulations to all the candidates for their hard work and dedication throughout the election process. We look forward to seeing the positive changes and exciting initiatives that this dynamic group of leaders will bring to our school!

 

Mount Olive Middle School - 2024 Promotion Services from HTV Media Productions on Vimeo.

Mount Olive Middle School’s 7th Grade Band Shines at High Note Festival

June 7, 2024

The 7th grade band of Mount Olive Middle School, under the expert direction of Mr. Ken Adessa, delivered an outstanding performance at the prestigious High Note Festival held at Dorney Park in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This event marked a significant milestone for the young musicians, showcasing their talent and hard work in a non-competitive, encouraging environment.

The High Note Festival is renowned for its unique approach to music adjudication. Unlike typical competitions, the festival emphasizes personal and ensemble growth over rivalry. Each group is judged solely on their performance, ensuring that middle school bands are not unfairly pitted against high school groups. This inclusive philosophy allows students to focus on improving their personal best and achieving excellence.

During the festival, adjudicators assessed the band on various musical skills and techniques that are the core of their daily practice. These included breath control, intonation, phrasing, dynamics, attacks, releases, diction, balance, tone, posture, attentiveness to the director, and concert etiquette. The students performed a well-rehearsed program, carefully chosen to highlight their strengths.

Mr. Adessa’s guidance and the students’ dedication were evident in their polished performance, which earned them positive feedback from the adjudicators. The recorded comments provided constructive suggestions for improvement, reinforcing the excellent teaching methods employed by Mr. Adessa.

Following their successful performance, the students were rewarded with an afternoon of fun at Dorney Park’s Wildwater Kingdom. This well-deserved break allowed them to enjoy the park’s attractions and celebrate their achievements.

The 7th grade band’s participation in the High Note Festival not only showcased their musical talents but also embodied the spirit of striving for personal excellence. Congratulations to Mr. Adessa and all the young musicians for their hard work and dedication!

CHECK OUT AMAZING VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS HERE!

Mount Olive Middle School's Production of "Once Upon a Mattress" Enchants Audiences

May 5th, 2024

Mount Olive Middle School's auditorium was transformed into a realm of magic, music, and mirth as the talented students took center stage in their production of "Once Upon a Mattress" on May 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.  Under the guidance of director Mr. Bosch, the school's drama club brought this beloved musical fairy tale to life with gusto and flair.

"Once Upon a Mattress" is a whimsical retelling of the classic fairy tale "The Princess and the Pea," with a modern twist. Set in a kingdom where a domineering queen has decreed that no one may marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, finds a suitable bride, chaos ensues as potential princesses vie for his affection. Enter Princess Winnifred, a feisty and unconventional contender whose arrival shakes up the royal court and tests the boundaries of love, loyalty, and happily ever after. Filled with hilarious antics, memorable characters, and toe-tapping musical numbers, "Once Upon a Mattress" is a delightful romp that offers a fresh take on a timeless tale.

From the moment the curtains rose, audiences were transported to a kingdom far, far away, where a quirky queen, a dashing prince, and a colorful cast of characters embarked on a whimsical quest for true love.  The vibrant performances, witty dialogue, and catchy musical numbers had attendees of all ages captivated from start to finish.

Leading the ensemble was Zoe Rock, who embodied the role of Princess Winnifred with infectious charm and spunky determination. Her rendition of "Shy" showcased both her vocal prowess and comedic timing, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. Opposite her, Kayleigh Hannah portrayed the formidable Queen Aggravain with deliciously villainous flair, commanding the stage with each withering glare and cutting remark.

Aariz Mujtaba impressed as the hapless Prince Dauntless, infusing the character with endearing naivety and a heartfelt yearning for true love. His chemistry with Rock's Winnifred was palpable, particularly during their tender duet, "In a Little While," which resonated with sweetness and sincerity.

The supporting cast, including a wizard, jester, knights, ladies, and ensemble, added depth and color to the production, with standout moments including the rousing number, "Opening for a Princess" led by Prince Dauntless, Lady Larkin, Ladies, and Knights. The choreography was lively and well-executed, enhancing the energy of each musical number and transporting the audience to the bustling streets of the kingdom.

A special commendation must be given to the pit orchestra, under the expert direction of Mr. Adessa.  Their dynamic performances brought the score to life, providing a rich and immersive musical backdrop for the actors on stage.  Particularly memorable was their interpretation of "Spanish Panic," which crackled with energy and excitement, perfectly complementing the on-stage action.

Behind the scenes, countless hours of dedication and hard work went into bringing "Once Upon a Mattress" to the stage.  In rigorous rehearsals, the students demonstrated a commitment to excellence that was truly commendable.  Their passion and enthusiasm shone through in every scene, showcasing their immense talent and creativity.

As the final curtain fell on this unforgettable production, it was evident that the cast and crew of Mount Olive Middle School's "Once Upon a Mattress" had left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of attending.  Their collective efforts had not only entertained audiences but also served as a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and the arts in education.

For more information and a closer look at the cast, crew, and production details, visit the playbill link: Mount Olive Middle School Drama Club's "Once Upon a Mattress" Playbill.

 

A Trip fit for a King/Queen - Mount Olive Middle School 7th Graders Experience Medieval Adventure

April 24th, 2024

In an exciting excursion back in time, seventh-grade students from Mount Olive Middle School embarked on an unforgettable journey to Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. The renowned dinner theater venue became a living classroom as students immersed themselves in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the medieval era.

Eight packed buses of students and teachers arrived at Medieval Times brimming with anticipation and curiosity. They eagerly awaited the grand spectacle that awaited them within the castle walls.

As they entered the majestic arena, the students were transported to a world of chivalry, honor, and valor. The medieval ambiance captivated them as they took their seats in the grandstands, overlooking the arena where knights would soon engage in thrilling competitions including jousting tournaments and sword fights.  As a precursor to the main event, while the audience was settling in, students were presented with scenarios and questions that focused on topics related to character education and kindness.  To start the festivities off a falcon was released and flew through the arena.

The highlight of the day was the exhilarating jousting competition, where knights clad in shining armor showcased their equestrian skills and bravery.  Throughout the performance, students were not mere spectators but active participants in the medieval experience.  Each section of the arena was assigned a knight represented by colors.  Half of the students were cheering for the green knight, while the others were hoping for the red and yellow night to be victorious.  They cheered on their favorite knights, waved banners, and eagerly anticipated the outcome of each duel.  Their chanting echoed through the arena!  

In addition to the thrilling entertainment, students had the opportunity to indulge in a feast fit for royalty. They dined on hearty fare reminiscent of a medieval banquet, including roasted chicken, garlic bread, corn on the cob, all served without utensils, in keeping with the traditions of the time.

The field trip to Medieval Times provided students with a hands-on learning experience that brought history to life in a tangible and engaging way. By witnessing the pageantry and spectacle of medieval culture firsthand, students gained a deeper understanding of the customs, traditions, and values of the era.

As the event drew to a close and the last echoes of cheering and applause faded away, the students departed Medieval Times with memories that would last a lifetime. The field trip was not only a fun-filled adventure but also a valuable educational opportunity that enriched their understanding of history and culture.

For the seventh graders of Mount Olive Middle School, their visit to Medieval Times was truly a journey back in time—an experience they will cherish and remember for years to come.

 

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.

 

New Leadership at Mount Olive Middle School: Daniel Barcia Takes on Role of 6th Grade Vice Principal

March 19th, 2024

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.  

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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 of 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.