1 Jan/Feb Issue 2

Warrior Times ❄ One School, Two Campuses ❄

​ D2b Amanda Gorman-Who are you? American History Was Made In Washington D.C. By:Saniya Sewnarine Inauguration 2021

Amanda Gorman - ​National Youth Poet Laureate by Hayagreev Shankar Karthik ​ ​As of January 20th, 2021, Amanda Gorman is youngest inaugural poet in U.S. On January 20th, Joseph R. known as the ​ ​ history ​. Amanda Gorman is also an Biden was sworn in as the award-winning author cum laude graduate ​ and​ 46th President of the United of Harvard University. Born in 1998 and ​ States. He returns to the White growing up with two siblings in Los Angeles, she is now an award winning poet and activist. House in the role of President New York and leaves behind the title of She has written and performed for ​ Times, CBS, The Edit, ​and has even received Vice President. Obama White House Lin-Manuel Miranda, invitations to the​ ​ to perform for​ a​ nd of ‘The Hill We Climb’ course the highlight performance of her piece ​ ​ at the Biden’s running mate, Kamala inauguration ceremony of President Joseph R. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, became the 49th Vice Harris this year. ​During the week before the inauguration, Gorman told a Washington Post President. She makes history as ​book critic, "My hope is that my poem will represent a moment of unity for our country" and "with my words, I'll be able to speak to a new chapter and the first Vice President who is a era for our nation." Amanda Gorman was also the first poet in all of the world to woman, African American, and perform at the Superbowl. Her poem recited at Superbowl LV was written to honor South Asian. This the NFL’s Honorary Game Captains. accomplishment would not have Watch Amanda Gorman recite stunning poem at Biden inauguration been possible if not for other “For there is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it, women who came before her in if only we’re brave enough to be it.” -- Amanda Gorman politics at this executive level.

“Mommy Why Am I Different?”: The Journey of an SGS Seventh Grader by Caitlin Mullen Sarai Styles and her mother wrote and self published a book called ​Mommy Why am I Different? T​ he book is filled with positive words and important conversations from the mother and daughter writers. “​ My book is about celebrating my differences as a young girl. The book is also about a young girl understanding what sets her apart. Including hair, skin, lips, appearance, self esteem to name a few. My book is also filled with affirmations and journal entries to empower young girls to write their story,” ​Sarai says. You see, Sarai and her mom started having conversations during quarantine. They talked about all sorts of things, like how Sarai felt different from the other girls her age. Her mom continued to support her, and sooner or later they realized other girls could be feeling the same way; that’s where the journey started. “​ Being home during this pandemic my mother and I had a lot of conversations, and in the conversations I asked why is my hair, skin, eyes, lips and a few others so different. And then my mom answered with positive affirmations and I learned that being different is okay. Then we thought about how many other girls are thinking about their differences but are not communicating with a parent, friend or anyone else,” ​Sarai says. Once the idea sparked, they got to writing! ​“The writing process took about a month because it was a real conversation my mother and I had.” ​Soon enough the book was ready to publish! “​ It was simple because my mom self published a book a couple months before but we did face some challenges like illustrations.” I​ n an interview with the young writer she said, “W​ hen the book was finished I was so excited and could not wait to empower young girls like me.” Truly this is an inspiring story of how a simple conversation can turn into an amazing book. Some 0ther responses in her interview: Question: How did you get your book out there for people to purchase? ​ ​ Answer: “My mom took a lot of time marketing my book on social media so that everyone can see it and purchase it on Amazon. She contacted girl groups and organizations to either purchase or sponsor.”

Question: Any advice for aspiring young writers out there? ​ Answer: “In my book and in my coloring book and journal there are journal entries in the back of the book to encourage young girls to write their story. Why are they different, brave and confident?”

Question: Any advice for people who look up to you? ​ Answer: “Some advice that I would give to someone who looks up to me is that you can do anything you put your mind to and that dreams do come true.”

There was even an article published in “TAPinto Franklin/Somerset”: ​Franklin 7th Grader Sarai Styles Embraces Differences in Self-Published Book You can purchase the book on amazon here: ​Mommy Why Am I Different

Updates on COVID-19 Pandemic By Jayan Shah

As of January 11, 2021, there are 90.4 million cases and 1.94 million deaths worldwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic that’s swept through the world since early last year. In the US there are 22.5 million cases and 374K deaths (both most in a single country worldwide). Due to this raging pandemic, many people had to adjust and change their lifestyles which included not seeing family and friends during the holidays, wearing a mask, and working and doing school virtually at home. During ​ ​ the month of December, we got multiple vaccines approved (Pfizer and Moderna), and they are being distributed to front-line workers and elderly people. Right now they don’t have any information about the vaccine in people under the age of 16, but there are ongoing trials for them to be able to get it. Hopefully everyone can get the vaccine soon so we can go back into school and see all of our friends and teachers. Check out the Somerset County Hotline.

2 Jan/Feb Issue 2 Unforgettable Gifts to End an Unforgettable Year -- Holiday Gifts from 2020 by Jayan Shah

This past holiday season there were tons of great gifts for everyone, and I am going to break them down so you know what some of the most popular gifts were, and if you received any!

Hot Gift Trends 2020 ● Amazon Echo Dot ($24.99) - Amazon Echo Dot at Amazon ​ ● RapidX My Desktop Charging Stand ($44.99) - RapidX Charging Stand at Best Buy ​ ● Fitbit Charge 4 ($119.95) - Fitbit Charge 4 at Fitbit ​ ● Anker Powerbank ($21.99) - Anker Powerbank at Amazon ​ ● Smart Plug ($8.99) - Smart Plug at Amazon ​ ● Multifunctional LED Desk Lamp ($39.99) - LED Desk Lamp at Amazon ​ ● Fidget Cube ($19.99) - Fidget Cube ​ ● Airpods 2nd Gen ($159) - Airpods 2nd Gen at Apple ​ ● PS5 ($499) - PS5 at Sony ​ ● Xbox Series S ($299)- Xbox Series S at Microsoft ​ ● Xbox Series X ($499) - Xbox Series X at Microsoft ​

FMS Students Celebrate the Holidays On Stage (At Home) by Breanna Ihechi Nwachukwu

During the December holiday season, Franklin Middle School campuses held a two day, virtual holiday assembly. The joint assembly was sponsored by the Spirit of the Warrior Team and Diversity Club. There were three student emcees. The FMS dance program also participated in this successful event with varied performances planned to showcase during the assembly.

First, there were many solo student dances which had been choreographed by the dancers themselves. All of the dances were nicely choreographed and very cool to watch; there were even some duos. Overall, viewers were treated to a lot of talented dancers.

Next, students got to see the dance troupe put together a cool, choreographed and well edited video --edited by a student. A contemporary class performed as well and so did the green team. Overall, it was really entertaining and impressive to watch all these talented FMS dancers perform. The assembly was a perfect way to kick off the holiday break from school.

Winter Celebrations Trivia By Elangkathir Elamaran

​ Winter is the time on the calendar marked from Dec. 21 until the first day of spring on March 21st. Families enjoy a variety of celebrations during this time of year. How many Winter celebrations can you identify? Click on the link below to take our Winter Celebrations quiz. If you would like to be entered to win a prize from the HSC or SGS school ​ store, be sure to include your name, grade, and school. One winner from each middle school campus will be picked from the responses with the most correct answers. The answers, along with the winners, will be published in the next edition of the Warrior Times. ​ ☃ TAKE THE WINTER SURVEY HERE☃ ​

Snow Day FUN in 2021 ​ ​ by:Isha Agarwal Snow days. Just thinking about them brings thoughts of relaxation, hot cocoa, snowball fights, and beautiful scenery. What does YOUR ideal snow day look like?

We asked teachers at Hamilton Street and Sampson campuses. Here a few direct quotes from some of our teachers.

From Hamilton Street​- Ms. Garyantes -” My ideal snow day is to curl up with a warm blanket and cup of coffee and binge watch Netflix!” ​ ​ Mr. Krauss -​ “ I like to relax with my two daughters and play in the snow with them. Then we enjoy having a game and movie night.”

From SGS- Mrs. Weinstein -“ If there was a lot of snow, I would love to go outside and build a snowman!” ​ Ms. Robinson ​-” A family tradition in my household growing up was cinnamon buns on snow days. I had to continue the tradition with my girls as well. A perfect snow day means playing in the snow then coming inside and cuddling up in PJs and eating cinnamon buns and watching a good Disney movie!”

Mr. DeStefano ​- “Wake up late, have a nice breakfast of pancakes, bacon, and coffee, and then go for a walk in the snow!”

Most answers involved- reading, movies-hot cocoa, family time, playing in the snow, and games.

​Click on the links below to see a chart of how the teachers responded from each Middle School. Stay warm!

SGS Snow Day Fun HSC Snow Day Fun

3 Jan/Feb Issue 2

Honoring African Heritage With Kwanzaa Celebrations Festival of Lights -- Hanukkah By Isha Agarwal By Isha Agarwal

Kwanzaa is a weeklong winter celebration held in the United States that Hanukkah, or the Festival of Rededication, celebrates the rededication of the honors African heritage in African-American culture. The name Kwanzaa is derived Temple in Jerusalem after its defilement by the Syrian Greeks in 164 BCE. Although from the phrase matunda ya kwanza which it is a late addition to the Jewish liturgical calendar, the eight-day festival of ​ ​ means first fruits, or harvest, in Swahili. Hanukkah has become a beloved and joyous holiday. It is also known as Chanukah or Kwanzaa is observed from December 26th to the Festival of Lights and usually takes place in December, at the time of year when January 1st, and culminates in gift giving the days are shortest in the northern hemisphere. and a big feast. The holiday is relatively new, Much of the activity of Hanukkah takes compared to other holidays celebrated in the place at home. Central to the holiday is United States. Celebrations often include the lighting of the hanukkiah or menorah, ​ ​ ​ singing and dancing, storytelling, poetry an eight-branched candelabrum to which reading, African drumming, and feasting. one candle is added on each night of the holiday until it is ablaze with light on the Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor and chairman of Africana Studies at eighth night. In commemoration of the California State University, first created Kwanzaa in 1966. Dr. Karenga created seven legendary cruse of oil, it is traditional to guiding principles to be discussed during the week of Kwanzaa. The seven principles eat foods fried in oil. The most familiar represent seven values of African culture that help build and reinforce community Hanukkah foods are the European (Ashkenazi) potato pancakes, or latkes, and the Israeli favorite, jelly donuts, or among African-Americans. Each day a different ​ ​ sufganiyot. The tradition developed in Europe to give small amounts of money as ​ principle is discussed, and each day a candle is lit on well as nuts and raisins to children at this time. the kinara (candleholder). On the first night, the ​ ​ Under the influence of Christmas, which takes center black candle is lit, and the principle of umoja, ​ ​ place around the same time of year, Hanukkah has or unity is discussed. On the final day of Kwanzaa, evolved into the central gift-giving holiday in the families enjoy an African feast, called karamu. Jewish calendar in the Western world. ​ ​

At present time, Kwanzaa has become a popular, Like Passover, Hanukkah is a holiday that widely celebrated holiday throughout the globe. Its seven core principles teach celebrates the liberation from oppression. It also wonderful lessons and its seven core symbols hold much meaning - especially for provides a strong argument in favor of freedom of those who celebrate the holiday. According to one celebrator of this holiday, David worship and religion. In spite of the human action Johnson, “Above all, Kwanzaa is a time for family and love.” that is commemorated, never far from the surface is the theology that the liberation was possible only thanks to the miraculous support of the Divine.

Chinese New Year Traditions A​ New Beginning, the Winter Solstice By Saniya Sewnarine

By:Shanon Schwarz The Winter Solstice, something many of you have probably heard of but With Chinese New Year arriving in what is it really? February, let’s learn about the traditions to celebrate, such as different types of food, The Winter Solstice, marks activities, and much more. In China, red is the first days of winter known as a lucky color. People also give lucky usually occurring money to children, It is supposed to give you somewhere between the luck. They wear and eat red things so red seems 21st to 23rd of December. to be known as a lucky color just like money is The Solstice goes by quite a the lucky money. Red symbolizes luck and yellow symbolizes wealth. Some lucky few names from being foods to eat during Chinese New Year are: known as ‘The Shortest ➔ Fish- An increase in Prosperity Day Of The Year’ to ➔ Dumplings- Wealth ‘Midwinter’ this worldwide occurrence marks the start of astronomical winter. An ➔ Spring rolls- Wealth occurrence such as this only happens twice a year, once in mid December (Winter ➔ Tangyuan(sweet rice balls)- Family and Togetherness Solstice) and mid June (Summer Solstice) when one of Earth’s poles has its ➔ Good fortune Fruit- Fullness and Wealth maximum tilt away from the sun. ➔ NIangao(Glutinous Rice Cake)- A higher income or a higher position The Solstice itself is celebrated in many different ways depending on ➔ Longevity Noodles- Happiness and Longevity Yule countries and religion with various holidays, one of the more well known is ​ ​. These are some of the most popular foods served during the Chinese New Year This event takes place for the duration of eleven days total starting on December celebration. 21st and ending on January 1st, with many aspects ranging from a holiday tree The Stonehenge gathering Some activities enjoyed for the Chinese New Year include: blessing to something more well known the Yule log. ​ ➢ Putting up New Year’s decorations in England is another. No one is sure where the stone carvings came from but on ➢ Enjoying a reunion dinner the night after the solstice people gather around the henges to watch the sun ➢ Giving red envelopes (lucky money) to children Shab-e Yalda through the stones. In Iran ​ ​ is celebrated, ‘Yalda’ being translated to ➢ Setting off firecrackers and fireworks ‘birth’, is known as the victory of light over darkness. It's traditional to eat various ➢ Watching Lion and Dragon Dances nuts and fruits such as watermelon and pomegranates as they are rumored to These are some of the more traditional activities to celebrate the new year. protect you from sickness in winter. A few other celebrations include a lantern ​ festival Dong It is unlucky to wear black or white during the new year or in general because it ​ on the night of the solstice, similar to the way it was in Rapunzel or ​ symbolizes death in China. Red is a favorite color because it is thought to bring luck. Zhi which is celebrated in China and marks the end of the harvest season. ​

​Tis the Season to Celebrate Christmas By: Dharti Shastri and Saara P​awar Like every holiday, Christmas only comes once a year. And it's that one day every year that waking up at 6 in the morning is so fun. The jingling of bells and the amazing decorations at every corner of the city, indicates one thing. It's the holiday season! People are going to celebrate Christmas, and after that, the celebration of new year. The hearts of people are filled with excitement and joy. The preparations for the beautiful festival are already in full swing. Decorating trees with ornaments, welcoming guests, baking cakes and cookies, singing carols, and exchanging gifts makes Christmas one of the most awaited holidays of the year. Christmas is the time of year when the whole world wishes to celebrate in a different and charismatic way. Santa Claus brings with himself the special message of hope, happiness, joy and merriment. He says never let that magical, elementary innocence from your life go. Keep the child within you always alive and make sure you add a little of that element to everything you do. From his sparkling eyes to his spectacles, snow white beard, and unique red suit, everything is perfect. Many families now use the little elves on the shelves for the ​ ​ children to find every morning to make them happy and excited to start the day.

4 Jan/Feb Issue 2

Warrior Times ❄ One School, Two Campuses ❄

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A Great Time to Honor Great Educators: NJ Governor’s Awards Announced in December 2020 With all the difficult news in the world in 2020, we must remember to take time to celebrate good news when we get it. In December, just before our holiday break from school, educators in the state of New Jersey are recognized by the Governor’s office. This year, the four winners from both campuses of FMS were presented with their awards. Even though this year there were no big assemblies or crowds to cheer for them, the awards hold great meaning for the educators who work so hard to make our FMS community a brighter place. Let’s give a big “thanks” to these powerful and productive staff members.

Meet Mrs. Bills -- Award-Winning Language Arts Meet Mrs. Patel -- Paraprofessional of the Year Teacher By Eliana Montas By Ivy Pennyfeather Congratulations to the 2019-20 NJ Governor’s Award Winner Congratulations to Mrs. Bills (formerly Read this interview to learn about Mrs. Patel’s experience of known as Miss Knoeppel), one of our being a paraprofessional. eighth grade Language Arts teachers for Q. How did you react when you found out you won winning this year's New Jersey paraprofessional of the year? Governor’s Teacher of the Year award. I was surprised, honored, and Here are a few things that she would like happy all at the same time. to share with us. Q. How many years have you been a paraprofessional at FMS? Q: How did you feel when winning teacher This is my third year working at ​ of the year? Franklin Middle School. A: When I received the award I was honored and surprised. I have worked hard for Q. What are some of the lessons my seven years here at Franklin and since you have learned while being a there are so many great teachers, you never paraprofessional? really expect to win the award. It was a humbling experience and I have learned many things from although I wasn't able to be with all of my students and all of the staff in my students, including to live in the person, I was happy to have my eighth grade team there with me. present moment, to be curious about everything and anything, to have a sense of humor and to smile Q: How did you celebrate being teacher of the year? ​ more. I've learned the importance of honesty and being kind with your A: My celebration was simple -- a good meal! Due to the covid words, and to have a positive attitude. I am learning the importance of pandemic, it was hard to have a celebration with my colleagues, but I was engaging in after school activities, listening more, and trying to inspire able to celebrate with my family! and to be inspired. I try to be realistic, creative, and imaginative. Last but not least, a very important lesson is to have fun. The most beautiful thing Q: Is there anything special that you did to help get through this ​ about learning is that nobody can take it away from you. Believe in tough year? yourself! A: Breathe. Through remote learning we have had some difficulties and a lot of accomplishments, but through it all you just need to Q. What do you enjoy most about your job? remember to take a minute away from the computer and breathe. I often The best part of my job is that it doesn't feel like a job. I am enjoying go for walks with my dog in order to get outside, get exercise, fresh air, quality time with my students and teachers so much and when they see the and get away from a screen! connection between what they are learning and their lives, it is the best Q: What accomplishments were you able to achieve this year? ​ part of my day. A: My biggest accomplishment is the connections I am able to make with my students. I love hearing from older students (after they’ve left Q. What are some challenges you’ve faced while teaching during the FMS) and getting their feedback about class. One of the best things I pandemic? have done as a teacher is create a sense of community as well as My biggest challenge is not being able to see the smile on my students' community service. I love to see my kids carry out those values and ​ ​ faces behind the masks but now we have come up with the idea of talking continue their own community service as they grow and move on to other with our eyes to feel connected with each other. places. Q. What’s an interesting fact about yourself that you’d like to share? Q: Is there any advice that you have for staff/students? ​ My own love of learning makes me happy every time my students reach A: My advice to everyone is to keep doing what you love, hold your their goals and strive for more. Albert Einstein said "The true sign of head up high, and you can persevere through any obstacle that is thrown ​ ​ at you. If we can handle remote learning, we can handle anything! intelligence is not knowledge but imagination." I fully believe this.

5 Jan/Feb Issue 2

FMS at HSC Introduces 2020-21 New Student Council Executive Board By: Breanna Ihechi Nwachukwu

Nothing stops the Student Council at FMS; not even a pandemic. The student council is a group of young leaders who strive to make the school, and Franklin a better place. The club is led by Ms.Virgone, a social studies teacher at HSC. The student council is currently planning multiple fun events, such as a health and wellness activity, spirit weeks, fundraisers, and movie night -- and maybe even a cooking show! Some of these events and activities will be coordinated with the student council at our SGS campus.

Every year, the student council elects new Executive Board members. These elected students represent the voice of the rest of the student body. Earlier this school year, in November, the election took place virtually due to remote learning. Students were asked to vote for the people that they thought would do well representing the voice of students.

There are six roles for elected students, and here is our new Executive Board: ★Ashley Matos Perdomo --President ★ Alicia Beltran --7th Grade President ★ Sydney Echevarria Martinez --6th Grade President ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ★Sydney Bobbit --Treasurer ★ Osmatu Sesay -Secretary ★Abigail Balda --Public Relations and Communication Director ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The board members were inaugurated on January 19 at the PTSO meeting which they attended virtually with their families. SGS campus board members were also inaugurated on that day. ​ According to Ms.Virgone, "This year's student council is a brilliant group of young minds. From ​ all walks of life, students have come together to ensure their school is a great place to learn, play, and grow. In all of my years as an advisor, this year has been my favorite because of the unique combination of personalities and vision that exists in the club and on the executive board. The board is knowledgeable, understands the power of their voice, and are socially conscious. I am impressed beyond measure and look forward to seeing what they have in store.”

Congratulations to our new Executive Board. As we begin a new calendar year, it is exciting to see the ideas that the student council has planned for us. Student council advisor, Ms. Virgone reports that anyone is still able to join the student council -- contact her through email at [email protected]. So it’s not too late for anyone who is ​ ​ ​ interested in working together with us.

Welcome New Teachers - What is Your Why? By:Aiden Guerrero Ms. Elizabeth Ramirez MAT, SAC Student Assistance Coordinator

What is your experience and background? My inspiration and years in education - Through twenty years of teaching experience I was able to gain a better understanding of how to combine my passion and skills for identifying and assisting at-risk youth. My favorite job before becoming a teacher was being a mom!

How do you inspire your students? AND/OR "What is your Why? My why - Every child deserves and needs a trusted adult who sees their worth and potential, and is willing to be their advocate, so why not me​?

Ana P. Pazmiño World Language Spanish Teacher ¡Hola estudiantes! Soy la maestra Pazmiño. As you can probably tell, I am a Spanish teacher. This is my first year at HSC, but my 9th year at Franklin. I taught for seven years at the high school level and now I am excited to work in the middle school. I was born in Quito, Ecuador and when my parents emigrated to the United States, I arrived in Edison, NJ, not too far away. This is where I began school and then I went to Rutgers University in New Brunswick, where I majored in Spanish Translation/Interpretation. My goal was to work as an interpreter in hospitals and in the United Nations. I did that and it allowed me to help a lot of people who needed to communicate in their native language. While working I had an opportunity to volunteer teaching at my local church and it awoke my teacher instincts. I taught in Trenton and Mount Holly schools before coming to Franklin. I am glad to have had the translator experience because I can use this now to teach a second language to others. It is not about what you do, nor what you say, it is about how you make your students feel. That is why I am an educator. I hope to see you in my classroom soon!

Mrs. Canning Science

What inspired you to join this profession? I have wanted to teach for a long time. I loved science, and initially thought I was going to go into the field, but then I realized my personality belongs in a classroom, not a lab! My high school biology teacher also cemented that decision for me, he was awesome. How long have you been teaching? This is my 7th year in teaching, though I was out of a district for four years, helping students who were struggling with school in a different job. Did you have a favorite job before becoming a teacher? Nope! This has always been my calling. How do you inspire your students? AND/OR "What is your Why? I want everyone to love learning as much as I do, and it helps to have fun! I am just myself in front of the classroom, goofy demeanor and occasional spaciness included. I hope that inspires my students to be themselves, too. Education is such an awesome thing, to be able to learn about the world around you and yourself is a gift. People are naturally curious, and I think it’s important that we can come back and remember that part of who we are as individuals.

6 Jan/Feb Issue 2

​HSC Reads - Get In On the Competition--Read Books! By: Warrior Spirit Staff

Congratulations to the overall grade-level winners for the MP1 & MP 2 Challenges: MP 1​ ​MP 2 How many books did you read? How many pages did you read? Gr. 6 - Jaylen Jaquez Uche Azu-Ogba Gr. 7 - Devraj Dyal Abigail Balda Gr. 8 - Isaiah Mosley-Aviles Camila Hernandez

Lucky winners from the raffle and Kahoot games at the Zoom celebrations: Abigail Balda (x2) Kennedy Price Myles Cherette Kayla Tucker Emma Kozubal Amaka Obi Sam Bocchino (x2) Ohana Qavanaugh Gia Garces

Barnes & Noble What Winners received gift cards to ​ ​ to continue their reading journey. All students are invited to join the Marking Period 3 Challenge -- ​ makes a book interesting? ​ Pick up some books -- expand your universe. Remember that knowledge is power. ​Check out the link to the challenge….here. HSC READS!

NJHS Induction 2020 Celebrating Students of the Month! By: Warrior Spirit Staff National Junior Honor Society by Saniya Sewnarine FMS is proud to announce the Here is a quick shoutout to all of our PBSIS student of the month winners so far newest members of the National Junior Honor Society. for the months of December and January. These students were recognized and

According to the advisor, Ms. nominated by their teachers for a variety of things that they do to be good citizens in Cooke, “In order to receive this our school community. From having exemplary grades to representing our school by honor students must exemplify the pillars of the NJHS: Scholarship, being safe, kind, respectful, responsible, accountable and showing integrity -- we Character, Service, Citizenship, and Leadership. congratulate these students for doing just that. Here’s a round of applause and best Though we were unable to celebrate this achievement in person, the advisors and current members put wishes for the duration of this school year! The award is virtual, but the pride is real.

together a virtual celebration to honor the student's hard work.” The newest members are highlighted. January Student Of The Month NJHS Induction Ceremony December Student of the Month 2021

Chijioke Azu Abigail Balda Valentine Virtual Bash Alicia Beltran

Samuel Bocchino

Avery Brennan Jessica Byrd Sophia Kawah

Emma Kozubal Arianna Maciel Da'Nia Matthews

Gianna Mattia Eliana Montas Brandon Mora

Isaiah Mosley-Aviles Ivy Pennyfeather Isiah Pennyfeather

Derek Peters

Zayla Salas

Saniya Sewnarine

Shalanie Solomon Hearts were full and laughter filled the Zoom screens on February 11 from 6-8 pm when Noelle Tatum dozens of FMS students and some staff attended a virtual Game Night to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Be on the lookout for more virtual events sponsored by FMS Grade Zalan Varga level clubs, PBSIS team, and our Student Council. Christopher Wilson

7 Jan/Feb Issue 2

The Real Warriors H​ ot Chocolate Bombs ​ Advisors: By: Ivy Pennyfeather and Eliana Montas SGS: Mrs. Holzer & Mrs. Klinck ​ HSC: Mrs. Trach It’s winter time and even though the holiday season has officially ended, it is never a bad time to make some ​ yummy, heartwarming treats to share with your family and friends! On a cold day or night, these hot chocolate Layout Editors: bombs are a good treat to make your hot chocolate 10x better!

SGS:Stasha Holzer Ingredients ​ HSC:Dhrumi Pandya - Chocolate Candy Melts (any kind of chocolate) ​ - Hot Cocoa Mix ………………………………………………. - Marshmallows Isha Agarwal Supplies Aleshia Belizaire - Half circle baking mold

Maria Dominguez Directions Melt your chocolate​. Use the microwave to melt the chocolate melts or Hernandez chocolate stirring in between until everything is smooth and pourable.

Elangkathir Elamaran Fill the molds. S​ coop some chocolate into the mold and use the back of a spoon or pastry brush to push the melted chocolate around the molds, making it thick enough along Gabriella Fuentes the sides and edges. Pop the molds into the freezer for 5-10 minutes to set.

Aiden Guerrero Remove the chocolate from the molds. Gently push the half spheres out of the silicone mold.

Stasha Holzer Melt the edges.​ Microwave a microwave safe plate for a minute, you want the plate to be just Eliana Montas hot enough to melt the chocolate. Pick up the empty half of the chocolate bomb and place it on the warm plate for a couple of seconds, just until it melts. Caitlin Mullen Breanna Ihechi Nwachukwu Holiday Crispy Rice Treats Maya Pabuwal Ingredients (Makes 12 to 14 servings) ​ ​ Dhrumi Pandya ● 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Saara Pawar ● 10 ounces marshmallows (or 4 cups miniature marshmallows) Isiah Pennyfeather ● 6 cups crispy rice cereal ● 12 to 14 candy canes Ivy Pennyfeather ● Decorations (Optional) : Red and Elizabeth Sack green gel icing, M&Ms, and colored sugar Directions: Siya Sanghavi 1. Gather you ingredients Shanon Schwarz 2. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper or parchment paper. ​ Saniya Sewnarine 3. Melt the butter and the marshmallows in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the marshmallows melt completely. Jayan Shah 4. Immediately stir in the crispy rice cereal. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, so that the rice crispy treats are about 1/2- to 3/4-inch thick. Hayagreev Shankar Karthik 5. Spray a knife generously with cooking spray. Use it to cut the rice crispy treats

into large triangles. Dharti Shastri 6. Break or cut the candy canes into 3-inch pieces. Insert a candy cane into the Angel Simmons bottom of each rice crispy treat triangle to form the trunk of the tree. 7. Let the rice crispy treats cool completely before decorating with icing, candies, Arham Syed and colored sugar. 8. Enjoy!