Carmel Central School District

Cultivating Opportunities for All

• Hispanic Heritage Month Readings

  In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, English as a New Language Teachers Sarah Albrecht and Angeline Solimine read books to their students that sprinkled some Spanish words in with the English text.   

  Albrecht read “Pepe and the Parade: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage” by Tracey Kyle to her first graders at Kent Primary School.  

  In the book, Pepe goes to the city to see a Hispanic Heritage Parade that showcases clothes, foods and music that come from places like Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Colombia, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. “Todos Celebramos!” the grandfather/abuelo says.  

  One line in the book says “Abuelo shakes maracas. People love the ‘chuk chuk’ sound.”  So, Albrecht had her students make maracas of their own. They filled plastic eggs with pinto beans and wrapped them in brightly colored tissue paper.  

  “I like this,” said Gael, 6, shaking his maraca and giving a little wiggle.  

  “I’m going to use a lot of colors,” said Mia, 6. “I’m going to make a rainbow.” 

  Over in the Kent Primary School library, ENL Teacher Angeline Solimine read “Isabel and Her Colores Go to School” by Alexandra Alessandri to her kindergarten students.  

  It is the story of a girl who is afraid to go to her first day of school because she does not speak English.  

  “She was sad because she didn’t understand the language – yet,” Solimine said. “You are all learning English, too. Think of how much you have learned already.”  

  While most English skills are taught in subject areas throughout the day, students who need extra help attend more intensive English language classes for one period a day.  

  “There are a lot of good words to learn in this book,” Solimine told the class. “What are ‘corazones’ in English?”  

  Elena, who is five, put her hand on her heart to show she understood.  

  Kent Primary School News

• New Superintendent Eager to Start

  Though his official start date is not until October 17, incoming Superintendent of Schools Michael F. Plotkin has been hard at work in the Carmel Central School District since the Board of Education appointed him on September 16. Mr. Plotkin, a longtime member of the Carmel schools community, has been meeting nights and weekends with Interim Superintendent Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben to ensure a smooth transition.  

  “I am so eager to start that I wanted to jump right in,” Mr. Plotkin said. “I’m excited to meet all the parents, staff and the students, and I look forward to being involved in the day-to-day operations of the Carmel schools.”  

  A resident of Holmes whose three daughters are Carmel High School graduates, Mr. Plotkin has deep roots in the community. He particularly enjoyed the recent homecoming weekend, since his son is one of the Carmel High School Rams football players.   

  “I am so honored to have the chance to serve my home district,” Mr. Plotkin said.  

  After touring the schools and discussing issues with Dr. Fairben, who announced her retirement plans this past spring, Mr. Plotkin solidified his goals for his first 100 days in office. Now, when he officially starts as Superintendent, he will hit the ground running.  

  “Over these past few weeks, I have gotten to know Michael, and I am confident that I am leaving the district in excellent hands,” Dr. Fairben said. “I am certain that the Carmel Central School District will thrive under his leadership.” 

  District News

• RISE and Recycle with PACE

  Students in April Roe’s PACE class and Heather Pitcher’s RISE class at GFMS are taking on some new responsibilities this year with a total of 4 building enterprises: Fast PACE Shredding; PACE RISE Express; PACE RISE Supply Co; and RISE and Recycle with PACE. While these jobs don’t yield money, the students are learning and practicing social skills and job readiness skills.

  RISE and Recycle with PACE is the newest initiative at GFMS where the students are collecting recycling from the classrooms and sorting it. The project is helping to make the students more visible within the school community. It also allows gives them practice with wearing and tolerating a uniform, appropriate work behavior and social skills interactions.

  Thank you to the building’s support team on these new initiatives!

  George Fischer Middle School News

• Homecoming 2025: The Great Flood

  You may have seen the bonfire, the parade and the Rams football game, but have you seen the Carmel High School Film Club's video, Homecoming 2025: The Great Flood? The video sticks with this year's "Under the Sea" theme for homecoming and features lots of familiar CHS faces.  

  Carmel High School News

• GFMS Students Celebrate Constitution Day

  The classrooms at George Fischer Middle School were abuzz with activity as students celebrated Constitution Day through interactive and engaging lessons in their Social Studies classes. From drafting their own constitutions to conversing with the Founding Fathers, students explored the enduring importance of the U.S. Constitution in imaginative ways.

   

  Some classes, like those in Marie Bova’s 5th grade class took on the challenge of creating their own classroom constitutions. Working collaboratively, students outlined rules, rights, and responsibilities for their learning environment, mirroring the compromises and debates of 1787. This hands-on activity helped students connect with the democratic process while building skills in teamwork and problem-solving.

   

  Other groups focused on analyzing the Bill of Rights. They examined the freedoms guaranteed in the amendments, discussing their significance and relevance in today’s world. These conversations prompted students to think critically about the ways individual rights shape civic life.

  Students also explored the goals set forth in the Preamble to the Constitution. After reviewing its famous opening lines, they reflected on how the goals of the Founders—such as establishing justice and promoting the general welfare—remain important today. Each student then set their own personal or classroom goal for the school year, creating a meaningful connection between history and their daily lives.

   

  In a particularly exciting twist, several classes utilized a school AI resource that transported them into a virtual “chat room” with the Founding Fathers. Students had the chance to ask historical figures questions about the Constitutional Convention, the debates behind the Constitution, and the challenges of building a new government. Many remarked that it was a fun and efficient way to learn about a complex topic, while teachers noted that the activity not only boosted student engagement but also deepened their historical understanding.

   

  By blending creativity, critical thinking, and technology, GFMS students discovered that the lessons of the Constitution are as relevant today as they were over two centuries ago. Their enthusiasm and curiosity showed that the spirit of civic engagement is alive and well in Carmel.

  George Fischer Middle School News

• CHS Teacher Helps Create Holocaust Curriculum

  Last year, Carmel High School Social Studies Teacher Susan Tornatore was selected as one of two dozen educators to help develop a new Holocaust curriculum for New York State—the first update since 1985. Led by Steve Goldberg, Director of the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center in White Plains, Tornatore was tasked with creating materials on Jewish resistance leaders in the Warsaw Ghetto, a topic she has been passionate about since early in her career.

  "This project was especially meaningful to me," Ms. Tornatore said. "In 1999, I was awarded a fellowship to study the Holocaust in Poland and Israel, where I learned directly from two extraordinary Holocaust survivors and resistance fighters, Vladka and Benjamin Meed. Working on this curriculum felt like coming full circle, honoring their legacy and the stories of so many others."

  The new curriculum has now been published online. Teachers across New York and beyond now have access to a comprehensive Holocaust education database, including activities, readings, and case studies. It’s hosted on the Consider the Source platform by the NYS Archives Partnership Trust.

  You can view the curriculum here: https://considerthesourceny.org/teaching -holocaust-and-genocide 

  The section Ms. Tornatore worked on is 1942-1945: Genocide :: Consider The Source Online

  "Susan Tornatore's dedication to this work to help develop this curriculum will impact thousands of students across New York State now and in the future," CHS Principal Brian Piazza said. "The work you've done, especially in learning from and sharing the stories of survivors is so important."

  Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben praised Ms. Tornatore's work.

  "Thank you so much for this powerful work and for sharing your expertise with both our students and students throughout NYS," Dr. Fairben said. "The impact of your instruction will be felt throughout NYS."

   

  Carmel High School News

• A Surprise Reader Visits Kindergarten

  Kent Primary School Principal Vincent Fino went into all the kindergarten classrooms recently and read a book with kindergartners. In Kelly Tierney's class he read Kindergarten Rocks! by Katie Davis. Kindergarten Rocks!  is a fun and reassuring story about a boy named Dexter who insists he's not nervous about starting kindergarten—even though his stuffed dog Rufus might be. The story shows children that it is okay to feel unsure about new experiences.

  Kent Primary School News

• Carmel Schools Remember

  Throughout the Carmel Central School District on Thursday, educators took time to reflect on the history of 9/11. 

  “This morning, we observed a moment of silence during our announcements,” said Jeffrey Noto, Interim Principal of Kent Elementary School. “We also shared a short paragraph with students about the significance of September 11, 2001. Our statement recalled the heroic acts on and following September 11, 2001.  We referenced Carmel’s 6C’s: Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, Citizenship, Creativity and Compassion, and how these characteristics contribute to developing a greater school community.” 

  At Kent Primary School, third grader Gregory said he was wearing a red, white and blue shirt to honor Patriot’s Day for the memory of 9/11.  

  “Today was the day the twin towers were destroyed,” Gregory said.  

  John Fratto, the principal of George Fischer Middle School, said the day not only included time to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost on 9/11. 
   
  “We also want to thank the first responders—firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and everyday people—who showed incredible bravery in the face of unimaginable danger. Your actions saved lives, and your courage continues to inspire,” Mr. Fratto said.  “It’s a day to reflect, to honor, and to never forget.” 

  District News

• Carmel High School Mentors Welcome Incoming Freshmen

  The first day of high school for any freshman can be both exciting and anxiety provoking. There’s a bigger school to navigate, more students to get know, and challenging new classes to tackle.

  For incoming freshmen at Carmel High School, their mentors have them covered.

  “Each incoming freshman is assigned a mentor, who is a junior or senior in the school,” said English teacher Joanne Morgan, who facilitates the mentorship program. “Mentors help the students navigate the school and are there for them if they have any questions.”

  On Tuesday, August 26, more than 300 new ninth graders were greeted by their student mentors outside of the high school for Orientation Day. As each freshman entered the building, mentors cheered and gave them high fives.

  Once inside, Principal Brian Piazza greeted the incoming freshmen.

  “Welcome to the class of 2029!” he said. “We have been doing our mentoring program for 16 years, and the students we’ve selected as your mentors are the best of the best!” Mentors are chosen for their academic excellence as well as their engagement in extracurricular activities.

  Piazza also demonstrated the use of lockable cell phone pouches, which the students would be receiving in order to comply with the New York State rule prohibiting cell phone use in schools. Students can carry the pouches with their phones in their backpacks but are to refrain from using them during the school day. Once the day is over, students are permitted to unlock the pouches.

  Once students were paired with their mentors they were shown their lockers and invited to sign up for clubs and activities.

  “We find that students who are the most successful in high school participate in at least one or two activities,” Piazza said. They also received information on their academic classes.

  “It’s so much bigger than my other school, but I’m sure I’ll get used to it really soon,” said one enthusiastic student.

  Carmel High School News

• 359 Graduate in the Class of 2025

  At Carmel High School’s 95th annual commencement, 359 members of the Class of 2025 celebrated their achievements while a crowd of more than 2,000 family and friends cheered them on at the school’s athletic field.

  Principal Brian Piazza spoke of all the contributions members of the class have made to the community.

  “This is an outstanding collection of young people, who have achieved so much during their four years at Carmel High School,” he said. “Individually, you’ve been recognized on the local, state and national levels for your accomplishments in academics, the arts, athletics, and service to our community. Collectively, this Senior Class has made our school and community a better place, through their leadership, caring, and dedication to the values instilled in them by their families and the Carmel Central School District.”

  This year’s class as a lot ahead of it: 207 graduates are going to fpur-year-college; 48 graduates are going to two-year-college; 17 graduates are going to trade school; 27 graduates are entering the work force; 4 graduates are taking a gap year; 16 graduates are entering the military; and some haven’t decided what to do yet. 

  Together, the class earned more than $5 million in scholarships.

  Valedictorian Chase Yom, Salutatorian Kayleigh Harney and Senior Class President Jake Patino delivered addresses thanking their families and teachers for their support and love during their educational journeys.

  “Take what Carmel has given you and shape the world with it whatever way you can,” Chase told his fellow graduates.

  Carmel High School News

• Eighth Graders Say Goodbye to GFMS

  The graduations at George Fischer Middle School were a celebration of the eighth graders who have grown tremendously since they entered the school just a few years ago.

  “I have watched you become the change agents,” said Principal Dr. Merica Neufville. “I can’t wait to see how you change Carmel High School and the Carmel Community.”

  The middle school graduated in two programs – one at 1:30 and the next at 4 p.m. -- so that the auditorium could accommodate the supportive families who came to cheer the students’ success.

  “This is the end of a chapter we have written together,” said Ava Hall, GO President.

  Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben, the Interim Superintendent of Schools, said she looked forward to seeing what the students accomplish in the next chapter.

  “High school is a time of discovery, challenge and growth,” Dr. Fairben said. “It is a time to try new things, to meet new people. It is a time to find out what you are capable of.”

  Board of Education Trustee Jason Paraskeva told the crowd that he graduated from George Fischer Middle School 41 years ago and that his son was graduating this year.

  “To stand here both as a trustee and as a parent is an experience I will cherish forever,” he said.

  Then he noted how much had changed in those four decades and encouraged the graduates to embrace their future.

  “What hasn’t changed is how much the people around you matter,” Trustee Paraskeva said. “Walk forward with courage. The road ahead is full of possibilities.”

  George Fischer Middle School News

• Getting to Know the Kent Public Library

  Seven-year-old Camryn ran through the aisles at the Kent Public Library searching for science books. Her search was part of a scavenger hunt that the librarians devised to show children from Kent Primary School all the different types of books the library holds.

  “Science is nonfiction,” Camryn, a first grader, said. “I know what nonfiction is because cartoons are fiction, but nonfiction is real. Science is real, they do tests on animals.”

  Kent Library welcomed the classes from Kent Primary School one day recently and had a set of outdoor and indoor activities designed to show how much fun visiting the library can be.

  “We are trying to show them how many resources are in the library and all the interesting programs and activities that the library offers,” said Christine DiTota, a children’s librarian.

  First Grade Teacher Corinne Phillips said the library trip reinforced a lot of what students are learning in their Core Knowledge Language Arts, or CKLA, program

  “We just learned about nonfiction,” Phillips said. "With CKLA, they are getting introduced to a lot of information and knowledge that is pretty incredible for the first grade.”

  Carmel Central School District elementary schools encourage parents to take their children to the library to get their own library card.

  “We have a contest,” Phillips said. “The first class in which everyone gets a library card is rewarded with an extra recess -- with ice pops.”

  Kent Primary School News

• Great Gatsby on Broadway

  Carmel High School seniors enrolled in AP Literature and WCC 101/102 had the unique opportunity to see The Great Gatsby live on Broadway. As part of their study of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, students were able to witness the text come to life on stage—an unforgettable field trip! From the roaring twenties' glitz to Gatsby's tragic pursuit of the American Dream, the experience helped bring the story to life. Students were dazzled by the whole Broadway experience, from the musical numbers to the stunning costumes and set design.

  CHS English teacher Kristin McKenna said "Seeing the musical on Broadway and watching students react to scenes we read in class being performed on stage was an unforgettable experience. It's a reminder of how powerful it can be to connect classroom learning with real world experiences.

  Senior Jorja Tompuri said, "I could not take my eyes off the stage and have not stopped listening to the music since!" Thank you to the CHS English Department and chaperones for organizing this memorable experience!

  Carmel High School News

• Carmel Among Best Communities for Music Education

  Congratulations to the Carmel Central School District Music Department for being named one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAAM Foundation.

  This is the 12th time that NAAM (the National Association for Music Merchants) recognized Carmel for its exceptional music education.

  “The award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who have made music education part of a well-rounded education,” the group said.

  The music program is excellent throughout the district. 

  In May, several Carmel High School and George Fischer Middle School groups excelled at NYSSMA majors. All three Carmel High School bands, all three CHS orchestras and the CHS chorus each performed at NYSSMA majors and received gold and silver ratings. The groups went on to play at the Music in the Parks Festival last week and were awarded superior ratings for the second year in a row. The 6th, 7th and 8th grade orchestras also performed well at the NYSSMA majors.

  Music education plays a big part even in elementary school, as music teachers lead students in performances for events throughout the year. 

  Carmel’s music program helps introduce our students to a larger music community. Carmel hosted state and countywide functions this year and brought additional music opportunities to our students. The department sets the groundwork for our students to have a lifetime of music.

  District News

• Soup from a Stone at Kent Primary

  Lisa Chase’s second grade class at Kent Primary School proudly presented a delightful Readers Theater musical titled “Stone Soup,” based on the classic folktale.

  The students brought the story to life with spirited narration, charming dialogue, and catchy songs that captured the magic of sharing and community. Each child played an important role, whether as a narrator, a villager, or the clever traveler, showcasing their enthusiasm and teamwork. The simple yet heartfelt performance was a wonderful celebration of kindness and cooperation, leaving the audience smiling and inspired.

  Juliana Schultz, Kent Primary's retired music teacher, came back to school and volunteered her time as "musical director" to help prepare the students for the production. Schultz and Chase have been collaborating on a musical performance each year since 2012. 

  After the show, the class came together to celebrate their accomplishments and a wonderful second grade year.

  Kent Primary School News

• Learning to Solve Crimes While Getting College Credit

  After a fire alarm went off at Carmel High School, investigators came to the scene and found a burned stack of math finals in a garbage pail and a pack of matches.

  This was a job for the SUPA Forensics students at Carmel High School.

  For their final project, the students had to investigate one of three mock crime scenes in the high school’s Casey Hall. The mock crimes involved arson, a classroom stabbing and money stolen from a safe.

  Natalie, a senior, decided to take SUPA (Syracuse University Project Advance) Forensics, after her counselor told her she could earn four college credits.

  “I like crime shows, so I thought it would be really cool,” Natalie said. “And it has been great. Today we are processing evidence like it’s an authentic crime scene. Next week, we present it as if we are in a court of law.”

  The exercise is the culmination of applying all they have learned in the class, said Eugene Pepe III, who teaches Forensics, SUPA Forensics and Chemistry at the high school.

  “This is a very hands-on class," Pepe said. "The only way they learn this is if they do it." 

  He should know, he’s been a teacher for 22 years.

  “They don’t have to solve the crime; they just have to process it,” Pepe said. “They have to collect the evidence, preserve it and document it.”

  Investigators from the Putnam County Sheriff's Office came to the class to guide students in how to process crime scene evidence. The presence of three investigators and School Resource Officer Mike Gray certainly gave the mock crime scenes a feeling of legitimacy.

  “I think it’s eye-opening for them,” Senior Investigator Randel Hill said. “It brings a real-life perspective to what we do. It’s not like TV.”

  Hill was working with students on the mock stabbing incident.

  As students gathered around a bloody desk with tape measures in hand, the investigator showed them how to get the most accurate measurements at a crime scene.

  “Don’t worry, the blood is not real,” Pepe whispered to an onlooker.

  Carmel High School News

• Technology Whiz Kids Help Others

  Most seventh graders might spend their lunch periods relaxing and socializing, but not the A Team from Technology Teacher Jeff Naso’s class.

  Alissa, Lyndsey and Emma rush to the technology lab during their free periods to help other students create projects with the 3d printer, laser cutter or other high-tech tools.

  “We help Mr. Naso with the sixth graders’ projects,” Alissa said.

  “It’s so much fun,” said Emma, who always enjoyed making things in art class.

  Recently, they also made new signs for some George Fischer Middle School offices.

  “The existing wooden guidance office sign has been here for decades,” Counselor Lisa Jackson said. “We are so glad to get an upgrade while also helping the kids who work with Mr. Naso extend their skills.”

  Though she’s only 13 years old, Lyndsey said the technology class has made her think about becoming an engineer in the future.

  “I might go into engineering,” Lyndsey said. “I’m considering it. It’s a little too early to decide for sure.”

  George Fischer Middle School News

• Cookbook Unites Kent Primary Community

  Families who are looking for a tasty meal have a new resource to turn to: The Kent Primary School Community Cookbook.

  The book features nearly 50 recipes that range from Irish Soda Bread, to Zeppoles to Chiles Rellenos and Marry Me Chicken.

  “A community cookbook in a diverse neighborhood is more than just a collection of recipes – it’s a celebration of culture, connection and shared stories,” said Third Grade Teacher Alison Spunt. “By bringing together dishes from different backgrounds, it fosters inclusion, preserves traditions and builds community pride, all while introducing neighbors to new flavors and traditions.”

  Read more

  Kent Primary School News

• Matthew Paterson Gets a Little Lending Library

  Students at Matthew Paterson Elementary School now have another place to find great books to read.  

  The school just opened a Little Lending Library, which sits right by the main entrance and is open to all.   

  Teaching Assistant Leslie Maher came up with the idea.  She had seen little lending libraries – built like tiny houses on top of a post – and thought it would be great if Matthew Paterson could have one of its own.  

  “When teachers reorganize their classrooms, they often have a lot of books that they no longer need,” Maher said. “I just thought this would be a great way to make those books available to our students.”  

  Principal Jenn Darling loved the idea of giving students yet another fun way to fall in love with reading. 

  “Lots of families come here after school, to the playground or for sports,” Darling said. “Now they can stop and pick up a book. We are happy to do anything that promotes a love of reading.” 

   But who could build the tiny library?  

  Diana McDermott, who teaches third and fourth grade at Matthew Paterson, knew just the guy. Her husband, Bill, built both of their homes. She volunteered him.  

  “He was volun-told,” she joked. “But he didn’t mind. He was happy to build a little library for the school, and he doesn’t do anything half-way. Look at all the detail. It’s really beautiful.”  

  When Principal Darling cut the ribbon on the Little Lending Library this week, the school already had close to 300 books collected to fill it.  

  “I just live down the block,” Maher said. “In the summer, I can just stop by and restock it.”  

  Matthew Paterson Elementary School News

• No Place for Hate -- See Video

  Congratulations to GFMS for earning the designation of a "No Place for Hate" school.

  This year-long, student-led effort will help make the middle school an affirming, welcoming and safe learning environment for all. Members of the school's Equity Club went to the city on Tuesday, May 20 to give a presentation on all the work they did to help GFMS become a member of the "No Place for Hate" school community.

  See the GFMS No Place for Hate video to find out more about the program. 

  George Fischer Middle School News