Sixth Grade
Ryan Allen
Brianna Brandon
Natalia Christiano
Andrew Colautto
Caitlin Conlon
Kayla Conway
Shannon Driess
Robert Ellegate
Joyce Endozo
Joseph Ferell
Austin Fischer
Katherine Fonte
Alexander Garey
Rebekah Gaydosh
Austin Mahoney
Ryan Marlin
David Mongan
Jacob Neuman
Jenna Reinard
Zachary Sikora
Rebecca Slowinski
Amara Wingrove
Seventh Grade
Jacob Athoe
Mike Battaglia
Sierra Besl
Alicia Bianco
Jack Boyko
Jacob Burford
Kirsten Burtch
Lianna Buscaglia
Ashley Butler
Emily Certo
Aaron Certo
Qian Chen
Tommy Corrao
Frank Derubes
Sarah Dollendorf
Josh Everett
Erika Ewert
Tyler Ford
Kevin Freedman
Harman Gill 
Emily Glose
Anthony Grana
Vanessa Haynie
Sala Islami
Amanda Jelonek
Zak Jones
Emily Kernin
Amanda Kinmartin
Frankie Koch
Katie LaMarco
Davis Madigan
Andrew Masiello
Justin McCarthy
Brentyn Mendel
Elliot Mitchki
Anna Nicola
Shawn Passero
Michael Paternostro
Josh Perez
Zoann Pittman
Danny Ray
Maren Russell
Ashley Serianni
Jillian Sheehan
Chelsea Sinicki
Lindsey Spiker
Kristen Stark
Jacob Stromberg
Jenna Stufkosky
Paul Sukmanowski
Chris Swagler
Max Tafelski
Emily Valient
Lillian Von Reyn
Jadon Wegryzn
Zoe Wilson
Matt Zabaldo
Eighth Grade
Rachael Bailey
Lydia Bernatovicz
Amanda Connel 
Jane Cooke
John Paul Endozo
Joe Fanara
Brianna Gibney
Zachary Harper
Sage Kashmanian
Mary Kneer
Ellen Lutnick
Michaela McDonald
Courtney Mergel
Rachel Orton
Catherine Otto
Kelsey Ruskowski
Rosalie Russell
Kevin Salonek
Marina Scerra
Matthew Seaman
Ashley Serianni
Matthew Sutton
Alex Tollner
Kim Yaeger

Connor Middle School Merit Roll - Dec. 2008
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the merit roll for the first quarter, 2008-2009 school year:
Grade 6: Alwareed Abdellatif, Devan Aponte, Michaela Bailes, Nicholas Brink, Michael Brown, Vincent Bruno, Alexa Calandra, Colin Carey, Abigail Chambers, Mariah Ciffa, Charles Corwin, Alexandra Cutting, Colton Czajka, Rajveer Dhaliwall, Daniel Edel, Ian Eisenberger, Alura Fike, Morgan Finn, Emily Fuoco, Zoanne Gebhard, Leah Geis, Keegan Hirtreiter, Alexander Hollatz-Guastella, Scott Holmes, Joshua Horvath, Andrew Husted, Benjamin Jensen, Grey Johnson, Jacqueline Kehoe, Tamara Khairallah, Joshua Less, Austin Mahoney, Thomas Major, Ryan Marlin, David Mongan, Jazmine Nijjar, Nicholas Paolini, Bryce Pfalzer, Miranda Phillips, Drew Pitts, Lauren Rogoza, Michael Rugg, Mackenzie Smith, Meghan Sonnenberg, Alexandra Sponn, Armand Swanson, Mark Valle, Brian Verso, Matthew Wellence, Amara Wingrove, Jillian Wohlfehrt, Jordan Yamonaco, Brenna Young, Alexander Zimmermann
Grade 7: Rana Abdelal, Michele Aronica, Griffin Atkinson, Grace Bolton, Kirsten Burtch, David Byrne, Jason Cichon, Aaron Cook, Hannah Corrao, Thomas Corrao, Michael Diletti, Jensen Dorey, Michael Dzielski, Kai Ellsworth, Brianna Farmer, Shawn Fermoile, Bianca Gowanny, Justin Graesser, Patrick Hall, Joseph Halpin, Kara Hazelet, Christine Herman, David Holler, Sala Islami, Madeline Jackson, Katlyn Jennings, Kristin Kalman, Alyssa Karb, Alexander Kelly, Michael Kleinschmidt, Stephanie Kowalak, Jacob Ladouceur, M Matthew Madigan, William Madigan, Andrew Masiello, Jacob McMahon, Emmalee McNamara, Wyatt Mock, Shane Paul, Dominic Prine, Sydney Quarantillo, Daniel Ray, Ryan Ross, Natalie Schultz, Jacob Stromberg, Timothy Sutton, Rebecca Symon, Raymond Tafelski, Max Tafelski, Mia Villani, Taylor Weis, Ashley Weiser, Amanda Weselak, Zoe Wilson, Madalyn Wright
Grade 8: Summer Alkhatib, Tanner Atkinson, Brittney Banks, Johnathan Boorady, Zachary Burns, Samuel Colao, Lauren Cook, Jacob Dixon, Timothy Doermer, Sarah Ernst, Christopher Foote, Michael Giambra, Kristen Greinert, Matthew Higgins, Jessica Hiser, John Holody, Megan Hoople, Anthony Huff, Robert Johnson, Stephanie Knight, Daniel Konopski, Jake Lawley, Heather Mallais, Alexia Malpica, Taylor Marino, Ayla Marino, Joseph Martin, Sean Mattrey, Brianna McGuire, Christina McGuire, Collin McMahon, Taylor Moran, Brianna Mysliwiec, Catherine Otto, Samantha Pangborn, Melanie Perla, Alyssa Pizzuti, Russell Potter, Katrina Rockwood, Daniel Rott, Alexa Santa Lucia, Aaron Schauger, Matthew Seaman, Cody Smith, Javier Solis, Jacob Sweeney, Gregory VanNorman, Megan Wendt, Kayleigh Weselak, Adam Wilk, Anthony Zogaria




Junior Job Search at Connor Middle School! - 2008
   
Photos from left - Jenna Hutzler and Rachel Ortan;    Viktoria Belous and Sarah Chamberlain;    Kodie Shamrock and Joshua Ungaro;    Nicholas Soos and Lauren Fonte
Click photos for larger view
    Job interview skills are important for all of us and Connor Middle School students, on Wednesday, December 3rd, learned first hand how to be confident on an interview. High School juniors and seniors in Mrs. Chamberlain's internship and portfolio classes took on the challenge of being the "interviewers" at the Junior Job Search event, while middle school students from Mrs. Fonte's and Mrs. McHenry's FACS classes answered many of the most common interview questions posed. Questions such as "What career do you think you will pursue and why?" and "Tell me a problem you faced and how you solved it?" were just a few examples of what FACS students had to answer. Many of the students dressed for success and had their own resume. This program continues to be successful and helps to prepare our students for the working world through authentic interview experience.




Food For Friends Drive - Dec. 2008
   Students and staff of Veronica E. Connor Middle School are collecting canned goods and non-perishable items from December 8th throught December 12th. Students may bring their items to school and all donations will be collected during lunches. Food donations will be distributed to families of Grand Island.




Middle School International Night - 2008
   
Kim Kernin Photos - Click photos for larger view
   Connor Middle School's 10th annual "International Night" was held Friday, November 21st. Many activities were available including dance performances, cultural demonstrations, music from the concert band, a theme basket raffle and a cake walk.




Connor’s Monthly Master - Katrina Rockwood - November 2008

Click photo for larger view.
   Veronica Connor Middle School eighth grade student, Katrina Rockwood, has been named “Connor’s Monthly Master” for the month of November. The designation is intended to highlight the achievements of students in grades 6, 7 and 8 for the exemplary artworks that they create. It is also hoped that their creative accomplishments will serve to inspire other students to use the visual arts in a positive manner to express their own unique thoughts and ideas.
   Katrina, who is currently enrolled in an accelerated art class at Connor Middle School, says that she has been interested in art for almost her entire life. She remembers drawing with her grandmother since she was little and she lists her grandmother as her biggest source of inspiration and her biggest fan. She says that her entire family is artistic and hopes that art will always be a part of her life. According to Katrina, art is an enjoyable creative outlet because it is a good way to express oneself; there are no limitations. Although she lists paint as her favorite medium, Katrina is equally adept with a wide variety of art materials. Here she is pictured with two ceramic tiles which she recently completed in class.




International Night At Middle School - November 2008
   Connor Middle School will host its 10th annual International Night from 6 pm. to 9 p.m. Friday, November 21 in the middle school. The Connor Middle School/PTA Family Book Fair will be held during the International Night event. Featured will be Irish dancers, Hawaiian dancers, African dancers/drummers, India dancers and country line dancers in the middle school gym. International crafts, raffle baskets and foods/beverages will be sold as well. Free admission and the public is invited to attend.




Poinsettia & Holiday Wreath Sale - November 2008
   The Veronica E. Connor Middle School PTA is taking orders for their annual Poinsettia & Holiday Wreath Sale. Prepaid orders must be received by Friday, November 21, 2008 and picked up on Monday, December 1, 2008 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the High School main hall. For large orders or questions call Amy Garten, 773-4164 or Carol Boudrow, 949-0943. Order Form

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Students Learn Sweet Lessons at Connor Middle School - Nov. 2008
Mrs. Obama’s Shortbread Democratic Cookies
vs.
Mrs. McCain’s Oatmeal-Butterscotch Republican Cookies


   Just before Election Day 2008, Veronica E. Connor Middle School’s Family and Consumer Science students baked Michelle Obama’s Shortbread Democratic Cookies and Cindy McCain’s Oatmeal-Butterscotch Republican Cookies. Students from the Life Skills class prepared bags that contained 1 of each cookie along with a ballot for 8th-graders to sample. Students were asked to cast a vote for their favorite during a Social Studies class. This delicious treat was meant to heighten awareness of the election process among citizens who are only four years away from voting in their own national election.
   Here at Veronica E. Connor Middle School Michelle Obama's cookies beat out Cindy McCain's cookies by a close 114 to 108 margin, while results for their husband's presidential races were a little more decisive with 147 votes for the Obama/Biden ticket vs. 99 votes for the McCain/Palin ticket.
   In addition, 8th-grade students from the Family and Consumer Science classes have been busy making and baking products to sell in the lunch room. Students have been enjoying a variety of treats prepared by different “companies” and the proceeds will benefit local and national charities chosen by the students. Some of the delicious treats included:
   Frenchies (apple and strawberry crepes) prepared by the mod 1 “Crepetopia, Co.” to benefit Roswell Park Cancer Institute
   Strawberry Temptations (chocolate covered strawberries) prepared by the mod 2 “Chocolate Falls, Inc.” to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation
   Whipped Cream Supreme (decaf cappuccino desserts) prepared by the mod ¾ “AB Caps, Co.” to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation
   Jammin’ Jitter Bugs” (krispy treats) prepared by the mod 10 “Jitter Bugs ‘R Us, Co.” to benefit Hospice
   Chocolate Oooooz (white chocolate chex mix) prepared by the mod 11 “OOOZCO” to benefit ASPCA
   T.J.’s Chocolate Oreos” (oreo truffles) prepared by the mod 12 “T.J.’s Chocolate Factory, Inc.” to benefit the ASPCA
   Throughout these projects, teachers Mrs. Fonte and Mrs. McHenry feel students learned valuable lessons about reaching out to others through charitable donation and national pride through fulfillment of the right and responsibility to vote.




Students’ Artworks on Display - October 2008
   Congratulations are in order for Grand Island art students Diana Boulden and Victoria Lewis. As eighth-grade students, Diana and Victoria created beautiful pastel paintings which were selected to represent the Grand Island Central School District at an art show jointly sponsored by The New York State Council of School Superintendents and the New York State Art Teachers Association. The display ran in conjunction with "The Council's" Fall Conference, Connecting Quality Curriculum to Manage Success. The artworks, created by both girls last year at Connor Middle School; were on display at the Saratoga Hotel & Conference Center, Saratoga Springs, NY, October 5-7, 2008. Diana and Victoria are currently enrolled in grade nine at GIHS.




Connor’s Monthly Masters - October 2008

Click photo for larger view.
   Eighth grade student Kevin Salonek says “sometimes it feels like I was born with a crayon in my hand,” when asked just how long he has been interested in art. Kevin, like many middle-level students, has much creative energy and a strong desire to express himself. He does so artistically and has been honored for his unique artistic voice and positive artistic accomplishments by being recognized as the first “Connor Monthly Master” of the 2008-2009 school year. The award showcases individual Veronica Connor Middle School art students, grades 6-8, and the works that they create.
   Kevin is pictured holding one of his favorite pieces, a shaded drawing of hands gently holding the earth. It is a piece that he created just this year. He lists his parents, friends and art teachers as being his source of inspiration and encouragement. Kevin is a student who never runs out of ideas. He says that he loves art and is inspired by it because it allows him to use his imagination to create brand new things. Currently an accelerated art student, Kevin hopes to continue to use his talents in the future as he aspires to become either an architect or an art teacher when he is an adult.




VCMS Artist Selected “Artist of the Month”
Manjinder Kaur - September 2008

Manjinder Kaur grade 8 with her Georgia O’Keeffe-inspired pastel.
   The Art Department of the Grand Island Central School District is pleased to continue its tradition of honoring exemplary student achievement. Initiated during the 2007-2008 school year, the K-12 “Student of the Month” award is designed to highlight the merits and achievements of ten student artists yearly; spotlighting one talented student each month. Honorees are selected for their unique artistic voices and visions as well as having used their creative capacities to enrich and improve their school environment and communities.
   Students featured during the 2008-2009 school year will spotlight individuals from each of the district’s five schools. As artistic success reflects cumulative achievement and sequential development by our student artists, the accomplishments of children of all age levels is equally recognized by the awarding of this honor.
   The first recipient of this award for the month of September is a Connor Middle School eighth grade student artist. Manjinder Kaur is a student who displays a great deal of natural artistic ability and promise. She is currently enrolled in an accelerated Studio In Art class at the middle school. Manjinder says that she enjoys art because it has taught her that she is capable of making things that she never thought were possible; a wonderful discovery! Pastel, like the artwork she is pictured with, is her favorite medium. She finds it easy to work with and to correct when mistakes have been made. Many people believe in Manjinder’s artistic potential, she reports. Among her supporters are her teachers, her friends and her family; most especially her dad. Artistic and creative thinking must run in her family because she says that her dad is artistic, also. Family and nature are frequent sources of inspiration for this student. While she does not think that she will professionally pursue art in the future, Manjinder says that art will most certainly always remain an important and enriching part of her life.
   The Art Department of the Grand Island Schools recognizes this student’s unique artistic voice and potential and is pleased to honor her achievements by naming her their first “Artist of the Month” for the new school year.




Middle School News - August 2008
Middle School Scheduling of New Students
   Scheduling of students in grades 6-8 who are new to the Grand Island Central School District will be held on Tuesday, August 12. Parents are encouraged to call the middle school at 773-8837 to set up an appointment with the school counselor. Students should have already registerd at the district office adjacent ot the middle school.
Middle School Parent/Student Orientation
   An orientation program will be held at noon Tues., August 12 for parents and students new to Veronica E. Connor Middle School. Parents and student are invited to meet with the principal, assistant principal and school counselors to become familiar with the middle school program and facilities. The program will be held in the Connor Middle School Little Theater. This orientation is a repeat of the programs done for parents and students in the spring.
Calendar of Activities
   Tuesday, August 12 - noon - Veronica E. Connor Middle School Orientation for parents and students in the Middle School Little Theater
   Tuesday, August 12 after 1 p.m. - Connor Middle School scheduling of students new to the District. Call 773-8837 for an appointment




Student Tour of Middle School - August 2008
   Many students get nervous about starting school in September. To help ease the anxiety of 6th, 7th and even 8th grades, students are invited to visit Veronica E. Connor Middle School for a self-guided tour. Parents and students are welcome to visit the building on Monday, August 25 and Tuesday, August 26. Students may obtain a map and tour the building, as well as practice opening a locker. Sample schedules will be available for each team for each grade level, for students to use as a guide. The building will also be open from 6-7 p.m. on August 26.
Calendar of Activities
• Monday, August 25 - Building open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. to tour
• Tuesday, August 26 - Building open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. to tour.




Connor Middle School Honor Roll - July 2008
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the honor roll for the fourth quarter, 2007-2008 school year:

High Honor Roll
Grade 6: Brian Ailinger, Natalie Argy, Jacob Athoe, Natalie Baldassarre, Michael Battaglia, Jack Boyko, Emily Certo, Magdalyn Chauby, David Cich III, Quinton Corrao, Brian DeRubes, Frank DeRubes, Sarah Dollendorf, Jenell Duxbury, Erika Ewert, Elizabeth Figler, Tyler Ford, Kevin Freedman, Emily Glose, Alyssa Heitman, Zachary Jones, Addison Joslyn, Kristina Kasprzycki, Emily Kernin, Julianne Lavallee, Justin Lavis, Emma MacIntyre, Justin McCarthy, Brentyn Mendel, Anna Nicolia, Jenna Paternostro, Michael Paternostro, James Pufpaff, Grace Scherrer, Kyle Schoener, Vincent Shores, Lucas Siebert, Tara Stewart, Brock Tetreault, Jackeline Wilson
Grade 7: Corey Adamshick, Alexandra Bahgat, Rachel Bailey, Lydia Bernatovicz, Jessica Brownschidle, Sara Carlson, Megan Carroll, Sarah Chamberlain, Alexis Cino, Alyssa Cino, Sam Clarke, Christopher Connors, Jane Cooke, Keelan Erhard, Meghan Federico, Brianna Gibney, Melissa Gibson, Madeleine Goc, Alexandra Griffin, Kourtney Hoppel, Mark Hughes, Manjinder Kaur, Bridget Kennedy, Zaineb Khawar, Mary Kneer, Christian Lamarco, Mandy Liesenfeld, Alexandria London, Stephanie LoTempio, Ellen Lutnick, Orendael Miller, Maggie Nobumoto, Marisa Phillips, Benjamin Purrington, Christina Richard, Dominica Roberts, Katelyn Ruszkowski, Kelsey Ruszkowski, Rachael Ruszkowski, Kevin Salonek, Marina Scerra, Lauren Shepard, Nicholas Soos, Adam Stanczyk, Joshua Tixier, Kimberly Yaeger
Grade 8: Gabrielle Ailinger, Amanda Blanton, Shannon Boreali, Diana Boulden, Sonia Brar, Christopher Brownschidle, Amber Carpenter, Alexandra Corrao, Maggie DeMarco, Sydney Dudish, Rebekah Evans, Alyssa Fuoco, Kaitlyn Gilbert, Jonathan Goc, Anmol Grewal, Katlyn Holt, Casey Jelonek, Samantha Kahn, Megan Karpie, Brendon Lutnick, Kallan McMillan, Nigel Michki, Joshua Miller, Ryan Miller, Dominic Morell, Samuel Railey, Sarah Ramsperger, Rachel Ripellino, Nicolette Scerra, Alexandra Seibert, Sarah Stanczyk, Jessica Ungaro, Jonathan Voyzey, Sarah Williams, Nathalie Winder, Jenny Xiang

Honor Roll
Grade 6: Kali Aronica, Griffin Atkinson, Marisa Atkinson, Alexander Baker, Keegan Belstadt, Sierra Besl, Alicia Bianco, Grace Bolton, Kevin Borowicz, Jacob Burford, Liana Buscaglia, David Byrne, Bryce Callen, Amanda Cancilla, June Chadima, Brian Cooper, Nicholas DeMita, Sean DeRubes, Jaskiran Dhaliwall, Matthew DiMura, Thomas Doctor, Heavyn Dreher, Alexandra Dzielski, Yousuf Eltagouri, Shawn Fermoile, Emma Garten, Joseph Gioeli, Benjamin Goc, Anthony Grana, Andrew Grinchishin, Ashley Gugino, Kara Hazelet, Ryan Held, Christine Herman, April Hippert, David Holler, Steven Howard, Ciara Howley, Madeline Jackson, Amanda Jelonek, Jessica Keller, Julia Kelly, Nicholle Kitkowski, Mary Frances Koch, Stephanie Kowalak, Kyle Krueger, Kathryn Lamarco, Gabriella Liberatore, John Lillian, Brittany Little, Elizabeth LoBrutto, David Madigan, M. Matthew Madigan, Johnna Marinello, Andrew Masiello, Jacob McMahon, Elliott Michki, Benjamin Morrish, Gregory Nicolia, Anna Niland, Aaron Noyes, James Osborn, Zoann Pittman, Macey Porter, Alessandra Price, Dominic Prine, Zachary Remers, Shannon Robillard, Marissa Ruffolo, Natalie Schultz, Derrick Schutrum, Jillian Sheehan, Jeremy Smith, Lindsey Spiker, Jenna Stufkosky, Christopher Swagler, Raymond Tafelski, Timothy Utz, Emily Valint, Lillian von Reyn, Stephanie Voyzey, Jadon Wegrzyn, Brigid Wilton, Brandon York, Nicholas Young, Matthew Zabaldo
Grade 7: Ciara Alcorn, Jennifer Amato, Jessica Amsdill, Conor Atkins, Kassandra Bennett, Casey Bolles, Johnathan Boorady, Alexander Brink, Alexandra Brown, Nathan Bundscho, Zachary Burns, Allysa Bush, Mitchell Cancilla, Samuel Colao, Courtney Collignon, Samantha Conner, Annaliese Corrao, Jenna DelSignore, Jamie Dobson, Laura Dolan, Katarina Eichel, Brittany Faulise, Alexandra Filips, Adam Heftka, Matthew Higgins, Sage Kashmanian, Hayley Keane, Shannon Kieffer, Christopher Komin, Daniel Konopski, Grace Kulikowski, Evan Leffler, Jessica LoBrutto, Vincent LoPresti, Michaela McDonald, Brianna McGuire, Collin McMahon, Samantha Oriani, Matthew Osinski II, Cassandra Oursler, Michelina Pariso, Russell Potter, Kelly Ruminski, James Rustowicz, Aaron Schauger, Taylor Scheuing, Taylor Schiffhauer, Christopher Serra, Javier Solis, Emily Steinbrenner, Matthew Sutton, Lillian Thompson, Joshua Ungaro, Elena Watt, Margaret Weiser, Megan Wendt, Kayleigh Weselak, Andrew Yarnes
Grade 8: Reem Abdellatif, Sumr Ali, Laura Amantia, Jessica Bamberg, Makallie Banker, Elora Bascello, Eric Bellanca, Alexandria Black, Conner Bolles, Sarah Brady, Alanna Cedrone, Emma Chambers, Andrew Chorey, Jesse Ciffa, Eric Colon, Mikaela Connors, Jordan Davis, Samantha DeMarco, Shannon Doctor, Allison Donahue, Brittney Ducette, Talia Fabiilli, Matthew Foote, Brent Fred, Matthew Gannon, Rebecca Gasiorek, Ashley Gorman, Olivia Graziano, Deanna Green, Morgan Green, Jonathan Grenda, Marissa Haley, Jessica Hall, Ryan Hughes, Mary Irving, Andrew Jasek, Morgan Kaczmarowski, Jonathan Kneer, Laura Kondziela, Victoria Kostenbauder, Elizabeth Kowalik, Victoria Kustra, Jenna Lee, Jodi Lee, Victoria Lewis, Kelsie Loos, Mark Lydle, Madelyne Mankowski, Marisa Marino, Rebecca Masse', Marissa Matthews, Mia Michael, Gabriela Nizialek, Alexis Pearce, Kristen Percival, Alyssa Pino, Corey Price, Ryan Proctor, Brittanee Ramallo, Danyelle Redmond, Kenneth Rogoza, Glenn Skelly, Cassidy Smith, Zachary Smith, Emily Sommer, Brittney Sonnenberg, Taylor Sweet, Bridget Thompson, Rachel Watt, Laurice Wilbert




Connor Middle School Merit Roll - July 2008
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the merit roll for the fourth quarter, 2007-2008 school year:
Grade 6: Michele Aronica, Robert Augugliaro, Kirsten Burtch, Jon Busch, Ashley Butler, Aaron Certo, Qian Chen, Jason Cichon, Jessica Cieri, Jonathan Colucci, Aaron Cook, Chandler Cooke, Thomas Corrao, Alexander Cousins, Daijia Digaetano, Michael Diletti, Jensen Dorey, Ashley Dragonette, Michael Dzielski, Hannah Edwards, Jack Gorman, Bianca Gowanny, Justin Graesser, Patrick Hall, Vanessa Haynie, Joseph Jarka, Kurtis Johnson, Shamus Johnson, Alexa Kalinowski, Alyssa Karb, Alexander Kelly, Amanda Kinmartin, Michael Kleinschmidt, Ashley Kroetsch, Jacob Ladouceur, Vincent Malpica, Jesse Miller, Wyatt Mock, Catherine Navagh, Nicholas Pino, Daniel Ray, Ryan Ross, Maren Russell, Peter Schuerholz, Chelsea Sinicki, Jacob Stromberg, Brianna Turello, Victoria VanNorman, Mia Villani, Ashley Weiser, Madalyn Wright
Grade 7: Cyle Alcorn, Kevin Aronica, Brittney Banks, Nicholas Bonarek, Eli Brennan, Danaegrace Busch, Ronald Clark, Cody Csendom, Jacob Dixon, Mark Dryfhout, Nicholas Egloff, Sarah Ernst, Joseph Fanara, Shannon Gallagher, Kristen Greinert, Nicole Hall, Emily Harnden, Megan Hoople, Anthony Huff, Tyler Jackman, Robert Johnson, Stephanie Knight, Carolyn Kruszona, Jake Lawley, Alexia Malpica, Zachary Manuszewski, Taylor Marino, Joseph Martin, Sean Mattrey, Tarandeep Mattu, Nicholas McKenna, Quinn Mikulski, Taylor Moran, Gurwinder Nijjar, Rachel Orton, Catherine Otto, Michael Palazza, Samantha Pangborn, Alexa SantaLucia, Ashley Serianni, Cole Smith, Codie Thomas, Tyler Yockey, Joshua Zernickel, Emily Ziurinskas, Anthony Zogaria
Grade 8: DaKota Abt, Nicolas Antonelli, Joshua Bastian, Brianna Beadles, Matthew Beauchamp, Korey Bennett, Marshall Cancilla, Emily Dauphin, Timothy Dyet, Carissa Finger, Michael FitzGerald, Sean Garten, Thomas Grenke, Brianna Guagliano, Joshua Gunn, Dylan Kelly, Paige Kippley, Mitchell Lariviere, Elise Lenzner, Michael Malaney, Shannon McDonough, John McGinty, Shannon McNaughton, Thalia Melendez, Kailah Moss, Chassity Nemeth, Hallie Nowak, Samuel Oursler, Kayla Pyc, Zackary Reese, Stefani Rhodes, Matthew Robinson, Eric Sander, Loretta Scherrer, Michael Sendlbeck III, Stephanie Senn, Ryan Sharrow, Tyler Smith, Jessica Spencer, Jessica Spiesz, Adam Stoddard, Angelina Stromberg, Katherine Studley, Erica Surdi, Harrison Thompson, Kathryn Turner, Rachel Ward, Alicia Zartman




Students Recognized at Eighth Grade Honors Breakfast - 2008

Click photos for larger view
   Seventy-one of Veronica E. Connor Middle School’s brightest and hardest working students were gathered together to celebrate the achievement of reaching honor or high honor roll status for the first three marking periods of their eighth grade year. The students attended a delicious buffet breakfast with delightful chamber music on May 15th. Mr. Robert Christmann, Superintendent of Grand Island Central School District, and Dr. Karen Karmazin, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, congratulated the students for their efforts. Words of welcome came from Mrs. Sandra Anzalone, High School Principal, and Mr. Christopher Swiatek, High School Assistant Principal. Mr. Bruce Benson, Connor Middle School Principal, expressed words of wisdom as the students begin their journey into high school.
   Each student received a certificate and photograph along with well wishes from numerous middle school teachers who attended the event in recognition of the dedication that is required to obtain excellence in education. Pictured are the eighth grade students recognized at this year’s honors breakfast.




Connor MS Modified Softball completes an Undefeated Season in the N.F.L. - 2008

(front left) Paige Kippley, Capt. Megan Karpie, Alexis Gilbert, Laura Amantia, Cassie Oursler; (middle row) Casey Jelonek, Asst. Capt. Melissa Gibson, Jessica Amsdill, Annie Corrao, Ciara Alcorn; (back row) Coach Art Meaney, Laurie Scherrer, Sarah Williams, Kallan McMillan, Cortney Collignon, Rosalie Russell
   Grand Island’s Modified Softball Squad completed a dominating season with a 14 win and zero loss effort in the Niagara Frontier League. Coupled with the recent successes of the JV and Varsity programs, we appear to be entering the golden era of Grand Island softball. Enjoy.
   This year’s squad improved on last year’s 13-1 performance with the addition of seven seventh graders, led by Assistant Captain Melissa Gibson. Melissa posted a .436 batting average (BA), but her true benefit was the quality work she put in behind the plate. She will certainly be a mainstay on the ’09 team. Jessica Amsdill and Ciara Alcorn at third base cooled down the “hot corner.” Jessica led the team in walks and Ciara gave the team three wins on the mound, posting a 2.13 ERA. Courney Collignon played OF/1B and batted .474. Cassie Oursler also played 1B/OF and led the league with five homeruns, some of which were of Ruthian proportions. More than one fielder said a quiet “thank you” to herself when Cassie’s ball sizzled towards a teammate instead. Rosalie Russell is a pitching star in the making. Rosalie faced 104 batters and surrendered one earned run, posting a minuscule 0.29 ERA. And then there was Annie Corrao. Annie did many of the little but necessary jobs that usually go unnoticed but make the machine run more smoothly. She truly loves the game and led the team in on-base pct. at .702. Annie played the field effortlessly and with confidence – she was a quiet, vital cog.
   This undefeated squad was also comprised of four first-year eighth graders. Casey Jelonek’s solid OF play and the pop in her bat were a big plus. Kallan McMillan provided a dependable OF/1B and did not strike out once. Sarah Williams was a teammate who always had an upbeat smile, a reliable glove, and a .457 BA. This group also included Paige Kippley, who proved to be a very capable left-handed hitter with some power and the owner of a trusty glove in the outfield.
   Our final four players were all returning from last year’s 13-1 powerhouse. Laura Amantia was determined to be the veteran rock of the pitching staff and was – she had five wins, struck out one of every three batters faced, and finished with a 1.31 ERA. Laurie Scherrer was the ballplayer – any position (technically sound in all), hits the ball hard, and smart on the basepaths. She is a pleasure to have on any team. And our final two – Alexis Gilbert and Captain Megan Karpie. Alexis “plays” with her opponents like a cat might “play” with a captured mouse. She led the team in batting (.617), RBI (32), stolen bases (24), and hits (29). In her final modified at bat at NT, with church bells tolling in the background (seriously) and bases loaded, Alexis rose to the challenge (as always) and bombed an opposite field grand slam. There certainly was joy in Mudville these past two seasons coaching Alexis. Captain Karpie was the maestro of this softball team. She had them all on task and everything went off as expected. Megan has played basketball and softball for two seasons each in the middle school, compiling a 52 and five career record. Megan is a winner. She was the leadoff hitter, mistake-free fielder, head cheer leader, team CEO – whatever it took. She taught herself to be a threat as a left-handed hitter through practice and study. Megan is a true professional and a coach’s dream player – team-first, dedicated, left it all on the field. She is competitive and compassionate, which is a rare combination.
   The 2008 Connor MS Modified Softball squad would like to thank parents and fans for their support and are looking forward to continuing their success in future seasons.




Connor Middle School Film Premier - June 2008
The Veronica E. Connor Middle School film crew has been working all year on a film, "Banana Fest," that premiers tonight (Friday, June 13) at 7 p.m. in the Grand Island High School auditorium.




"Cheerful" Students are Awarded Connor Character Connection for April - 2008

   Veronica E. Connor Middle School continues to recognized students through its Connor Character Connection (C3). "Cheerful" was the character trait selected this month. The recipients were chosen for their character traits such as good spirits, happy, willing, pleasantly bright, and likely to dispel gloom or worry. Student posters were displayed in the front hall for the duration of the month of April.
   The Connor Character Connection Program was implemented by the Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports Committee (PBIS) at Veronica E. Connor Middle School as a supplement to the district goals of providing opportunities for character education. All award recipients should be proud of their efforts.
   Award recipients pictured (not in order):
Joselyn Adams, Rachel Bailey, Natalie Baldassarre, Lydia Bernatovicz, Amanda Cancilla, Sarah Chamberlain, Germaine Davis, Jenna DelSignore, Samantha DeMarco, Maggie DeMarco, Chris Fadel, Zari Foster, Matt Higgins, Sala Islami, Ashley Johnson, Alyssa Karb, Jessica Keller Julie Kilmer, Austin Loveric, Micaela Mitchell, Taylor Moran, Sarah Dollendorf, Gregory Sarratorri, Grace Scherrer, Natalie Schultz, Rebecca Symon, Laurice Wilbert, Nick Winger, Madalyn Wright and Brandon York. Award recipients not pictured: Molly Smith, Katrina Rockwood, Jessica Cieri, Jamie Dobson, Bridget Doyle, Stephanie LoTempio and Kyle Meyer.




Connor Middle School Merit Roll - April 2008
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the merit roll for the third quarter, 2007-2008 school year:
Grade 6: Carla Aponte, Michele Aronica, Grace Bolton, Ashley Butler, Bryce Callen, Amanda Cancilla, Jessica Cieri, Darnell Cleveland, Jonathan Colucci, Aaron Cook, Hannah Corrao, Thomas Corrao, Michael Diletti, Jensen Dorey, Ashley Dragonette, Michael Dzielski, Emma Garten, Alex Grace Gormady, Justin Graesser, Joseph Halpin, Andrew Hannah, Amber Internicola, Madeline Jackson, Joseph Jarka, Kurtis Johnson, Shamus Johnson, Alyssa Karb, Michael Kleinschmidt, Stephanie Kowalak, Ashley Kroetsch, Jacob Ladouceur, Julianne Lavallee, David Madigan, Johnna Marinello, Catherine Navagh, Nicholas Pino, Macey Porter, Daniel Ray, Maren Russell, Peter Schuerholz, Natalie Schultz, Chelsea Sinicki, Molly Smith, Jacob Stromberg, Jenna Stufkosky, Victoria VanNorman, Taylor Weis, Ashley Weiser, Amanda Weselak, Madalyn Wright
Grade 7: Sammy Abdellatif, Cyle Alcorn, Kevin Aronica, Tanner Atkinson, Eli Brennan, Alexandra Brown, Danaegrace Busch, Allysa Bush, Meghan Carpenter, Jenna DelSignore, Jacob Dixon, Timothy Doermer, Mark Dryfhout, Sarah Ernst, Joseph Fanara, Alexandra Filips, Shannon Gallagher, Andrew Gilbert, Kristen Greinert, Nicole Hall, Emily Harnden, Jessica Hiser, Megan Hoople, Anthony Huff, Tyler Jackman, Jordan Jelks, Stephanie Knight, Daniel Konopski, Carolyn Kruszona, Jake Lawley, Cassondra LoBrutto, Zachary Manuszewski, Sean Mattrey, Tarandeep Mattu, Nicholas McKenna, Taylor Moran, Catherine Otto, Michael Palazza, Samantha Pangborn, Dalton Pitts, Katrina Rockwood, Daniel Rott, Javier Solis, Dallas Taft, Alexa Territo, Codie Thomas, Ashley Tillett, Kayleigh Weselak, Tyler Yockey, Joshua Zernickel, Anthony Zogaria
Grade 8: DaKota Abt, Brian Argy, Elora Bascello, Joshua Bastian, Brianna Beadles, Matthew Beauchamp, Korey Bennett, Katelyn Benns, Marshall Cancilla, Andrew Chorey, Eric Colon, Emily Dauphin, Samantha DeMarco, Brittney Ducette, Timothy Dyet, Brent Fred, Sean Garten, Jonathan Grenda, Manraj Grewal, Brianna Guagliano, Joshua Gunn, Marissa Haley, Jessica Hall, Mary Irving, Morgan Kaczmarowski, Paige Kippley, Laura Kondziela, Victoria Kostenbauder, Mitchell Lariviere, Kelsie Loos, Mark Lydle, Anthony Mallais, Marisa Marino, Shannon McNaughton, Lindsay Morano, Gabriela Nizialek, Samuel Oursler, Jamison Phillips, Alyssa Pino, Ryan Proctor, Brittanee Ramallo, Zackary Reese, Stefani Rhodes, Matthew Robinson, Eric Sander, Loretta Scherrer, Michael Sendlbeck III, Stephanie Senn, Emily Sommer, Brittney Sonnenberg, Jessica Spiesz, Angelina Stromberg, Katherine Studley, Taylor Sweet, Kathryn Turner, Rachel Ward, Samantha Warden, Alicia Zartman, Anthony Ziurinskas




Connor Middle School Honor Roll - April 2008
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the honor roll for the third quarter, 2007-2008 school year:
High Honor Roll
Grade 6: Brian Ailinger, Natalie Argy, Michael Battaglia, Jack Boyko, Jacob Burford, Liana Buscaglia, Emily Certo, Magdalyn Chauby, David Cich III, Quinton Corrao, Brian DeRubes, Frank DeRubes, Sarah Dollendorf, Jenell Duxbury, Erika Ewert, Elizabeth Figler, Tyler Ford, Kevin Freedman, Emily Glose, Zachary Jones, Addison Joslyn, Kristina Kasprzycki, Emily Kernin, Kathryn Lamarco, Justin Lavis, Elizabeth LoBrutto, Emma MacIntyre, Justin McCarthy, Brentyn Mendel, Benjamin Morrish, Anna Nicolia, Gregory Nicolia, James Osborn, Jenna Paternostro, Michael Paternostro, Alessandra Price, James Pufpaff, Kyle Schoener, Jillian Sheehan, Vincent Shores, Lucas Siebert, Tara Stewart, Brock Tetreault, Stephanie Voyzey, Jackeline Wilson, Nicholas Young, Matthew Zabaldo
Grade 7: Conor Atkins, Alexandra Bahgat, Rachel Bailey, Kassandra Bennett, Lydia Bernatovicz, Casey Bolles, Jessica Brownschidle, Sara Carlson, Megan Carroll, Sarah Chamberlain, Alyssa Cino, Sam Clarke, Courtney Collignon, Jane Cooke, Annaliese Corrao, Keelan Erhard, Brianna Gibney, Melissa Gibson, Madeleine Goc, Alexandra Griffin, Kourtney Hoppel, Mark Hughes, Manjinder Kaur, Bridget Kennedy, Zaineb Khawar, Mary Kneer, Christopher Komin, Grace Kulikowski, Christian Lamarco, Evan Leffler, Mandy Liesenfeld, Alexandria London, Stephanie LoTempio, Ellen Lutnick, Orendael Miller, Gurwinder Nijjar, Maggie Nobumoto, Marisa Phillips, Benjamin Purrington, Christina Richard, Dominica Roberts, Katelyn Ruszkowski, Kelsey Ruszkowski, Rachael Ruszkowski, Alexa SantaLucia, Marina Scerra, Lauren Shepard, Nicholas Soos, Adam Stanczyk, Joshua Tixier, Margaret Weiser, Kimberly Yaeger
Grade 8: Gabrielle Ailinger, Amanda Blanton, Shannon Boreali, Diana Boulden, Sonia Brar, Christopher Brownschidle, Alexandra Corrao, Maggie DeMarco, Matthew Foote, Kaitlyn Gilbert, Jonathan Goc, Anmol Grewal, Katlyn Holt, Samantha Kahn, Megan Karpie, Brendon Lutnick, Rebecca Masse', Kallan McMillan, Joshua Miller, Dominic Morell, Samuel Railey, Sarah Ramsperger, Rachel Ripellino, Nicolette Scerra, Alexandra Seibert, Sarah Stanczyk, Bridget Thompson, Jessica Ungaro, Sarah Williams, Nathalie Winder, Jenny Xiang,
Honor Roll
Grade 6: Kali Aronica, Jacob Athoe, Griffin Atkinson, Marisa Atkinson, Robert Augugliaro, Alexander Baker, Natalie Baldassarre, Keegan Belstadt, Sierra Besl, Alicia Bianco, Kevin Borowicz, Kirsten Burtch, David Byrne, June Chadima, Jason Cichon, Brian Cooper, Nicholas DeMita, Sean DeRubes, Jaskiran Dhaliwall, Matthew DiMura, Thomas Doctor, Heavyn Dreher, Alexandra Dzielski, Hannah Edwards, Yousuf Eltagouri, Shawn Fermoile, Joseph Gioeli, Benjamin Goc, Anthony Grana, Andrew Grinchishin, Ashley Gugino, Kara Hazelet, Alyssa Heitman, Ryan Held, Christine Herman, April Hippert, David Holler, Steven Howard, Ciara Howley, Amanda Jelonek, Alexa Kalinowski, Jessica Keller, Julia Kelly, Nicholle Kitkowski, Mary Frances Koch, Kyle Krueger, Gabriella Liberatore, John Lillian, Nathan Link, Brittany Little, M. Matthew Madigan, William Madigan, Vincent Malpica, Andrew Masiello, Jacob McMahon, Elliott Michki, Anna Niland, Aaron Noyes, Zoann Pittman, Dominic Prine, Alex Rallo, Zachary Remers, Shannon Robillard, Ryan Ross, Marissa Ruffolo, Grace Scherrer, Derrick Schutrum, Jeremy Smith, Lindsey Spiker, Christopher Swagler, Raymond Tafelski, Brianna Turello, Timothy Utz, Emily Valint, Mia Villani, Lillian von Reyn, Jadon Wegrzyn, Brigid Wilton, Brandon York
Grade 7: Corey Adamshick, Ciara Alcorn, Jennifer Amato, Jessica Amsdill, Brittney Banks, Nicholas Bonarek, Johnathan Boorady, Alexander Brink, Nathan Bundscho, Zachary Burns, Mitchell Cancilla, Alexis Cino, Ronald Clark, Samuel Colao, Samantha Conner, Christopher Connors, Jamie Dobson, Laura Dolan, Nicholas Egloff, Katarina Eichel, Brittany Faulise, Meghan Federico, Adam Heftka, Matthew Higgins, Robert Johnson, Sage Kashmanian, Hayley Keane, Shannon Kieffer, Jessica LoBrutto, Vincent LoPresti, Alexia Malpica, Taylor Marino, Joseph Martin, Michaela McDonald, Brianna McGuire, Collin McMahon, Samantha Oriani, Rachel Orton, Matthew Osinski II, Cassandra Oursler, Michelina Pariso, Russell Potter, Kelly Ruminski, James Rustowicz, Kevin Salonek, Aaron Schauger, Taylor Scheuing, Taylor Schiffhauer, Ashley Serianni, Christopher Serra, Cole Smith, Emily Steinbrenner, Matthew Sutton, Lillian Thompson, Alexander Tollner, Joshua Ungaro, Elena Watt, Megan Wendt, Andrew Yarnes
Grade 8: Reem Abdellatif, Alexander Ahne, Sumr Ali, Laura Amantia, Jessica Bamberg, Makallie Banker, Eric Bellanca, Alexandria Black, Conner Bolles, Sarah Brady, Amber Carpenter, Alanna Cedrone, Jesse Ciffa, Jordan Davis, Shannon Doctor, Allison Donahue, Sydney Dudish, Rebekah Evans, Talia Fabiilli, Alyssa Fuoco, Matthew Gannon, Rebecca Gasiorek, Ashley Gorman, Olivia Graziano, Deanna Green, Morgan Green, Ryan Hughes, Andrew Jasek, Casey Jelonek, Jonathan Kneer, Elizabeth Kowalik, Victoria Kustra, Jenna Lee, Jodi Lee, Michael Malaney, Madelyne Mankowski, Marissa Matthews, John McGinty, Mia Michael, Nigel Michki, Ryan Miller, Hallie Nowak, Alexis Pearce, Kristen Percival, Corey Price, Danyelle Redmond, Kenneth Rogoza, Glenn Skelly, Cassidy Smith, Zachary Smith, Jessica Spencer, Harrison Thompson, Jonathan Voyzey, Rachel Watt, Laurice Wilbert




Veronica E. Connor Middle School Girls Modified Basketball Season - April 2008
2008 Girls’ Modified Basketball Squad Wins N.F.L.

(left front) M. Connors, M. DeMarco, Captain S. Senn, S. Dudish, M. Karpie; (back) A. Gilbert, A. Brown, A. Black, K. Pyc. Middle: Scorekeeper J. Dudish, S. Knight, Asst. Capt. T. Moran, E. Nitkowski, A. Carpenter, Coach A. Meaney
Click photos for larger view.
   The Connor Girls’ Modified Basketball team posted an undefeated NFL season record of 11 wins and zero losses. Overall, the girls were 14 - 1. The ladies’ one loss was to another group of GI girls, St. Stephen’s Eagles. The two teams split their annual two-game “Pork Chop Classic.” On the whole, the girls often compassionately “let up on the gas pedal” and still ended up outscoring their opponents, on average, 35 – 17. It was a team with a great deal of basketball savvy athletes.
   The seventh graders were few and far between (three!), but learned a great deal and contributed to the team’s success. Stephanie Knight was a solid rebounder who worked hard to be the best she could be. Alex Brown was an inside player who often came out and showed off a very reliable mid-range jumper. Assistant captain Taylor Moran played with a great deal of heart, putting in a full effort from buzzer to buzzer. "We will be relying on these three quite a bit next season," Coach Arthur Meaney said this week.
   First year eighth graders turned out to be quite a bumper crop of able players. Emily Nitkowski and Amber Carpenter played solid guard positions, always putting in a full effort in both practices and games. Lexie Black proved to be a very strong forward who collected numerous rebounds and was often counted on at the end of games to help seal the victory. Kayla Pyc was a very athletic forward with good ball handling skills and solid mid-range shooting. Kayla also led the team from the charity stripe with 83% shooting. The final eighth grade “walk-on” was Alexis Gilbert, an outstanding softball player who, as it turns out, plays basketball almost equally as well.
   And, last but not least, were the five “veterans” returning from last year’s 11 and 3 squad. The lone forward in the group was Michaela Connors, who played a solid game under the boards. "A team is often lucky to have one or two guards who can dribble, pass, and shoot – we were fortunate to have four returning" Coach Meaney said. Sydney Dudish carried the Dudish name into battle and represented it well – always solid defense and a scoring touch, too. Maggie DeMarco’s outstanding play on both sides of the ball and her carefree attitude in practice helped the team stay serious in games and loose between them. She was a real asset. Finally, co-MVPs, Megan Karpie and captain Stephanie Senn -- Megan was the second highest scorer on the team and Stephanie won the prestigious Viking Centurion Award (100 points in a season). Previous Centurions have been Jenna Raepple, Andrea Monaco, Sara Hilliard, Lauren Nedwick, and Nicole Saxbury. Megan was a forward in a guard’s uniform… if there was going to be an offensive rebound, Megan was likely to go get it and put it back in. It is difficult to teach going in “there” and getting a ball – Megan just did it. Stephanie was always the calming force behind the team’s success – if it was a clutch basket on a drive through the lane or a defensive stop, she was usually there to provide it. Steph is a quiet captain who leads by example. She is a competitor and, if someone is keeping score, she wants to win.
   The team should feel very proud of their accomplishments. An undefeated season is a rarity in the Niagara Frontier League and a testimony to their skill and work ethic. The girls would like to thank their parents, fans, and most excellent scorekeeper, Jordan Dudish. The future continues to shine brightly for our high school girls’ basketball program – look for all of these outstanding players in the successful years to come.




"Mulan Jr." A Hit With Elementary Students - 2008
     
Left to right: Sons                                                Ancestors                                  Sage Kashmanian
     
Left to right: Daughters                           Katherine Studley                              Katherine, Zachary Jones & chorus.
  
(Left) Daughters                                             Mulan
Jodi Robinson Photos-Click for larger view
   The students of Huth Road and Kaegebein elementary schools were lucky enough to see a performance of "Mulan, Jr." by the Connor Middle School students on Monday, March 31st. It was standing room only and the audience enjoyed every minute of the show. Directors Mrs.Kelly Robertson and Mrs. Annalea Masiello should be very proud of the cast and themselves for a wonderful production. The musical was presented to the public on the Grand Island High School Stage on Tuesday, April 1, 2008.




Connor Middle School Presents Musical, "Mulan Jr." - 2008
        
  
Dress Rehearsal Photos

   The Veronica Connor Middle School students will present the musical, "Mulan Jr." at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 1 in the high school auditorium with tickets available at the door for $5.00 each. 'Mulan' will be played by Katherine Studley, and co-stars are Zach Jones as Mushu and Matt Seaman as Shang. Music teachers Annalea Masiello and Kelly Robertson are co-directing this year's musical. The students and teachers have been working on the play since returning to school from Christmas break. It is sure to be a wonderful production. Everyone is welcome to attend.




Connor Middle School Artists on Display - March 2008

Pictured proudly displaying her block print is eighth grade student Alex Corrao.
Click photo for larger view
   March is “Youth In Art Month” and Connor Middle School art teachers Nora Klein and Andrew Dulak are pleased to celebrate the occasion by inviting the community to view the works of many of their talented art students on display this Spring. Currently on view throughout the month of March at the Grand Island Memorial Library are works by eighth grade student artists. This display will be followed by a showing of works by sixth and seventh grade students during the month of April.
   The works on display reflect the wide variety of art learning experienced by students in their art classes and is designed to illustrate the ways in which middle school artists are meeting the rigorous New York State Learning Standards for the Visual Arts by knowing and using art materials and resources; creating, performing and participating in the arts, responding to and analyzing works of art, and understanding the cultural dimensions and contributions to the arts.
   Those students with artwork on display are: Gabrielle Ailinger, Katelyn Benns, Alexandria Black, Diana Boulden, Christopher Brownschidle, Marshall Cancilla, Shane Carroll, Alex Corrao, Emily Dauphin, Jordan Davis, Maggie DeMarco, Shannon Doctor, Timothy Dyet, Matthew Foote, Alyssa Fuocco, Anmol Grewal, Laura Kondziela, Elizabeth Kowalik, Jodi Lee, Shannon McDonough, Lindsay Morrano, Michelle Morgan, Kayla Pyc, Sarah Ramsperger, Rachel Ripellino, Brittanee Romallo, Mike Sendlbeck, Sarah Stanczyk, Keith Starke, John Turner, Natalie Winder, Elizabeth Yensan and Anthony Ziurinskas.




Connor Middle School Honor Roll - February 2008
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the honor roll for the second quarter, 2007-2008 school year:
High Honor Roll
Grade 6: Brian Ailinger, Natalie Argy, Jacob Athoe, Michael Battaglia, Emily Certo, Magdalyn Chauby, David Cich III, Quinton Corrao, Nicholas DeMita, Brian DeRubes, Frank DeRubes, Sarah Dollendorf, Erika Ewert, Elizabeth Figler, Tyler Ford, Kevin Freedman, Emily Glose, Ciara Howley, Zachary Jones, Addison Joslyn, Kristina Kasprzycki, Emily Kernin, Justin Lavis, Emma MacIntyre, Justin McCarthy, Brentyn Mendel, Benjamin Morrish, Anna Nicolia, Gregory Nicolia, Jenna Paternostro, Michael Paternostro, James Pufpaff, Kyle Schoener, Vincent Shores, Lucas Siebert, Tara Stewart, Christopher Swagler, Brock Tetreault, Timothy Utz, Stephanie Voyzey, Jackeline Wilson, Matthew Zabaldo
Grade 7: Corey Adamshick, Jessica Amsdill, Conor Atkins, Alexandra Bahgat, Rachel Bailey, Kassandra Bennett, Lydia Bernatovicz, Casey Bolles, Jessica Brownschidle, Allysa Bush, Sara Carlson, Megan Carroll, Sarah Chamberlain, Alyssa Cino, Sam Clarke, Courtney Collignon, Christopher Connors, Jane Cooke, Annaliese Corrao, Keelan Erhard, Brittany Faulise, Brianna Gibney, Melissa Gibson, Madeleine Goc, Alexandra Griffin, Kourtney Hoppel, Mark Hughes, Sage Kashmanian, Manjinder Kaur, Bridget Kennedy, Zaineb Khawar, Shannon Kieffer, Mary Kneer, Christopher Komin, Christian Lamarco, Evan Leffler, Mandy Liesenfeld, Alexandria London, Stephanie LoTempio, Ellen Lutnick, Brianna McGuire, Orendael Miller, Maggie Nobumoto, Michelina Pariso, Marisa Phillips, Benjamin Purrington, Christina Richard, Dominica Roberts, James Rustowicz, Katelyn Ruszkowski, Kelsey Ruszkowski, Rachael Ruszkowski, Kevin Salonek, Marina Scerra, Lauren Shepard, Nicholas Soos, Adam Stanczyk, Joshua Tixier, Elena Watt, Margaret Weiser, Kimberly Yaeger
Grade 8: Gabrielle Ailinger, Eric Bellanca, Amanda Blanton, Shannon Boreali, Diana Boulden, Sonia Brar, Alexandra Corrao, Maggie DeMarco, Matthew Gannon, Jonathan Goc, Anmol Grewal, Katlyn Holt, Samantha Kahn, Megan Karpie, Brendon Lutnick, Joshua Miller, Dominic Morell, Samuel Railey, Sarah Ramsperger, Rachel Ripellino, Nicolette Scerra, Alexandra Seibert, Sarah Williams, Nathalie Winder, Jenny Xiang
Honor Roll
Grade 6: Carla Aponte, Kali Aronica, Marisa Atkinson, Robert Augugliaro, Natalie Baldassarre, Keegan Belstadt, Sierra Besl, Grace Bolton, Kevin Borowicz, Jack Boyko, Jacob Burford, Liana Buscaglia, Amanda Cancilla, June Chadima, Aaron Cook, Brian Cooper, Sean DeRubes, Jaskiran Dhaliwall, Matthew DiMura, Thomas Doctor, Heavyn Dreher, Jenell Duxbury, Alexandra Dzielski, Hannah Edwards, Yousuf Eltagouri, Emma Garten, Joseph Gioeli, Benjamin Goc, Justin Graesser, Anthony Grana, Andrew Grinchishin, Kara Hazelet, Alyssa Heitman, Ryan Held, Christine Herman, April Hippert, David Holler, Steven Howard, Amanda Jelonek, Jessica Keller, Julia Kelly, Nicholle Kitkowski, Michael Kleinschmidt, Mary Frances Koch, Kyle Krueger, Kathryn Lamarco, Julianne Lavallee, Gabriella Liberatore, John Lillian, Nathan Link, Elizabeth LoBrutto, M. Matthew Madigan, Johnna Marinello, Andrew Masiello, Jacob McMahon, Elliott Michki, James Osborn, Nicholas Pino, Zoann Pittman, Alessandra Price, Dominic Prine, Zachary Remers, Shannon Robillard, Marissa Ruffolo, Grace Scherrer, Derrick Schutrum, Jillian Sheehan, Jeremy Smith, Lindsey Spiker, Jenna Stufkosky, Brianna Turello, Emily Valint, Mia Villani, Lillian von Reyn, Jadon Wegrzyn, Brigid Wilton, Brandon York, Nicholas Young
Grade 7: Jennifer Amato, Kevin Aronica, Nicholas Bonarek, Johnathan Boorady, Alexander Brink, Alexandra Brown, Nathan Bundscho, Zachary Burns, Mitchell Cancilla, Alexis Cino, Ronald Clark, Samuel Colao, Samantha Conner, Jenna DelSignore, Jamie Dobson, Timothy Doermer, Laura Dolan, Mark Dryfhout, Nicholas Egloff, Katarina Eichel, Sarah Ernst, Alexandra Filips, Michael Giambra, Kristen Greinert, Nicole Hall, Emily Harnden, Adam Heftka, Matthew Higgins, Anthony Huff, Stephanie Knight, Grace Kulikowski, Jake Lawley, Jessica LoBrutto, Vincent LoPresti, Alexia Malpica, Zachary Manuszewski, Taylor Marino, Michaela McDonald, Collin McMahon, Gurwinder Nijjar, Samantha Oriani, Cassandra Oursler, Michael Palazza, Samantha Pangborn, Kelly Ruminski, Alexa SantaLucia, Aaron Schauger, Taylor Scheuing, Taylor Schiffhauer, Ashley Serianni, Christopher Serra, Javier Solis, Emily Steinbrenner, Matthew Sutton, Codie Thomas, Lillian Thompson, Alexander Tollner, Joshua Ungaro, Megan Wendt, Kayleigh Weselak, Andrew Yarnes, Joshua Zernickel
Grade 8: Reem Abdellatif, Sumr Ali, Laura Amantia, Jessica Bamberg, Makallie Banker, Elora Bascello, Matthew Beauchamp, Alexandria Black, Sarah Brady, Christopher Brownschidle, Amber Carpenter, Alanna Cedrone, Jesse Ciffa, Jordan Davis, Shannon Doctor, Allison Donahue, Sydney Dudish, Rebekah Evans, Talia Fabiilli, Matthew Foote, Alyssa Fuoco, Rebecca Gasiorek, Kaitlyn Gilbert, Ashley Gorman, Olivia Graziano, Marissa Haley, Jessica Hall, Ryan Hughes, Mary Irving, Casey Jelonek, Jonathan Kneer, Elizabeth Kowalik, Jenna Lee, Jodi Lee, Kelsie Loos, Michael Malaney, Rebecca Masse', John McGinty, Kallan McMillan, Mia Michael, Nigel Michki, Ryan Miller, Kailah Moss, Hallie Nowak, Kristen Percival, Corey Price, Ryan Proctor, Danyelle Redmond, Zackary Reese, Kenneth Rogoza, Glenn Skelly, Cassidy Smith, Zachary Smith, Jessica Spencer, Sarah Stanczyk, Katherine Studley, Bridget Thompson, Jessica Ungaro, Jonathan Voyzey, Rachel Watt




Connor Middle School Merit Roll - February 2008
The following Veronica E. Connor Middle School students have been named to the merit roll for the second quarter, 2007-2008 school year:
Grade 6: Griffin Atkinson, Alexander Baker, Alicia Bianco, Kirsten Burtch, Ashley Butler, David Byrne, Bryce Callen, Joseph Chiaravalle, Jason Cichon, Hannah Corrao, Thomas Corrao, Michael Diletti, Jensen Dorey, Ashley Dragonette, Michael Dzielski, Brianna Farmer, Shawn Fermoile, Bianca Gowanny, Ashley Gugino, Patrick Hall, Joseph Halpin, Madeline Jackson, Katlyn Jennings, Kurtis Johnson, Alexa Kalinowski, Alyssa Karb, Stephanie Kowalak, Ashley Kroetsch, Jacob Ladouceur, Kyle Lindquist, Brittany Little, David Madigan, William Madigan, Vincent Malpica, Jesse Miller, Adam Missert, Catherine Navagh, Anna Niland, Aaron Noyes, Sydney Quarantillo, Alex Rallo, Daniel Ray, Maren Russell, Natalie Schultz, Chelsea Sinicki, Brandon Stevenson, Jacob Stromberg, Raymond Tafelski, Sarah Valvo, Ashley Weiser, Amanda Weselak, Zoe Wilson, Timo Worbs, Madalyn Wright
Grade 7: Ciara Alcorn, Cyle Alcorn, Brittney Banks, Eli Brennan, Danaegrace Busch, Cody Csendom, Aubrie DiTullio, Jacob Dixon, Joseph Fanara, Shannon Gallagher, Megan Hoople, Tyler Jackman, Jordan Jelks, Robert Johnson, Hayley Keane, Daniel Konopski, Carolyn Kruszona, Cassondra LoBrutto, Joseph Martin, Sean Mattrey, Tarandeep Mattu, Nicholas McKenna, Taylor Moran, Rachel Orton, Matthew Osinski II, Catherine Otto, Russell Potter, Zachary Re, Katrina Rockwood, Matthew Seaman, Cole Smith, Nicole Swiantek, Dallas Taft, Alexa Territo, Ashley Tillett, Dominic Tripi, Tyler Yockey, Anthony Zogaria
Grade 8: DaKota Abt, Alexander Ahne, Brian Argy, Joshua Bastian, Brianna Beadles, Korey Bennett, Katelyn Benns, Conner Bolles, Elliot Busch, Marshall Cancilla, Emma Chambers, Andrew Chorey, Eric Colon, Emily Dauphin, Bridget Doyle, Timothy Dyet, Michael FitzGerald, Sean Garten, Deanna Green, Morgan Green, Jonathan Grenda, Brianna Guagliano, Joshua Gunn, Andrew Jasek, Morgan Kaczmarowski, Dylan Kelly, Paige Kippley, Laura Kondziela, Victoria Kostenbauder, Mitchell Lariviere, Elise Lenzner, Mark Lydle, Anthony Mallais, Madelyne Mankowski, Marisa Marino, Marissa Matthews, Shannon McNaughton, Thalia Melendez, Kyle Meyer, Lindsay Morano, Connor Murray, Chassity Nemeth, Gabriela Nizialek, Samuel Oursler, Alexis Pearce, Jamison Phillips, Alyssa Pino, Brittanee Ramallo, Matthew Robinson, Michael Sendlbeck III, Stephanie Senn, Emily Sommer, Brittney Sonnenberg, Jessica Spiesz, Adam Stoddard, Angelina Stromberg, Erica Surdi, Taylor Sweet, Harrison Thompson, Laurice Wilbert, Jessica Young, Alicia Zartman




Connor Girls Modified Basketball Team Has Perfect Season - February 2008

Click photo for larger view
   The Grand Island Lady Vikings Modified Basketball Team finalized their perfect League Schedule with a 26 - 12 win on Thursday, February, 14, 2008 over North Park. The girls were undefeated in the Niagara Frontier League this season with a perfect 11 and 0. Their game schedule also included non league games, with an overall result of 14 and 1. This is another championship for Connor Middle School, led by 8th graders Emily Nitkowski, Amber Carpenter, Kayla Pyc, Lexi Black, Alexis Gilbert, Mikaela Connors, Maggie DeMarco, Sydney Dudish, Megan Karpie and Stephanie Senn. Special congratulations to Stephanie Senn, who cleared a milestone, surpassing 100 points on the season.
   "Connor Teacher and Coach Art Meaney, a HUGE thank you, your sarcastic humor and great coaching brought these girls to a wonderful season! "




Self-Esteem and Body Image Program For 8th Graders - January 2008
   So many difficult issues face today’s teens, even ones who reside on Grand Island. On Friday, January 18th, the eighth graders of Veronica E. Connor Middle School will get the answers to some of their concerns through a presentation on Self-Esteem and Body Image. Following an informational DVD on Eating Disorders, the Buffalo based company, Theatre for Change, starring our own Morgan Pulliam, will perform a live interactive production designed for and performed by middle school students. Included within the performance are three question and answer periods that will allow the eighth graders to interact with the actors/actresses as the performers remain in character. This special morning was arranged by the VCMS Health and Wellness Committee and was funded by the VCMS PTA and the Town Youth Board in conjunction with the “One Island, One Team, One Dream, To Be Drug Free” committee.




Connor Character Connection Recognizes 'Respectful' Students - January 2008

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   The recipients of December's Veronica E. Connor Middle School Character Connection (C3) have been been announced. This month, the character trait chosen was "Respectful" and student posters have been displayed in the front hall for the duration of the month of November. Those nominated were selected for their civil, courteous, gracious and polite actions. Teachers also selected students who were tolerant of differences, used good manners and did not use bad language. The Connor Character Connection Program was implemented by the Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports Committee (PBIS) at Veronica E. Connor Middle School as a supplement to the district goals of providing opportunities for character education. These award recipients should by proud of their efforts!
   Award recipents pictured (not in order) are Amin Amin, Jacob Athoe, Philip Boudrow, Tom Butcher, Joseph Chiaravalle, Adam Cummings, Maggie DeMarco, Donald Failing, Brianna Gibney, Madeline Goc, Kristen Greinert, April Hippert, David Holler, Bridget Kennedy, Ryan Kubik, Ellen Lutnick, Justin McCarthy, CK Niijar, Michael Palazza, Jacquelyn Phillips, Benjamin Purrington, Marissa Ruffalo, Taylor Schiffauer, Jacob Strombert, Jessica Sutter, Josh Ungaro, Nathalie Winder and Jenny Xiang. Recipients not pictured are Vincent, Malpica, Lindsey Morano, Ryan Hughes and Zachary Reese.