Faust Newsletter

Dear Faust School Families,

Spring is finally here, and we are now entering the 4th and final marking period of the school year. Please take the time to read through our Wildcat Journal and see all the wonderful learning activities and projects that are taking place in the classrooms. It will be very busy from now until the end of the school year.

Below is a list of the upcoming events for Faust School:

Grades 6 through 8

• New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA) - May 6th-9th & May 13th-15th
• Spring Arts Showcase - May 20th
• Trills & Thrills Band & Choir Music Festival - June 6th
• Field Day - June 9th (Rain Date June 11th)
• Faust Middle School Commencement - June 12th
• Last Day of School - June 16th

As we wrap up the school year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the importance of your child's efforts in their learning journey. Encouraging them to stay committed to their studies not only helps them finish the year strong but also instills valuable skills such as responsibility and perseverance. Please remind them that every assignment is an opportunity to learn and grow. Together, we can make a significant difference in their motivation and success.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education.

Best regards,

Mrs. Barrale

The East Rutherford School District is thrilled to announce that Karen Lahullier is Faust School's Teacher of the Year!

Congratulations, Mrs. Lahullier, on receiving this esteemed award and for your passion, dedication, and hard work.

This honor is truly well deserved!

Our 6th-grade ELA students have been hard at work this marking period, diving into literature and refining their analytical skills. One of the highlights has been reading Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, a powerful novel set during World War II. Through this book, students have explored themes of bravery, friendship, and resilience while also deepening their understanding of the Holocaust through discussions and research.

In addition to our novel study, students have been preparing for the upcoming NJSLA state assessment. They have been tackling literary analysis tasks, research simulation activities, and practicing with released test materials to build their confidence and familiarity with the exam format. Their dedication and hard work will surely pay off on test day!

I am incredibly proud of our students’ efforts and look forward to seeing them continue to grow as readers, writers, and critical thinkers. Keep up the great work, 6th grade!

7th grade English Language Arts students have been diving deep into the practice of close-reading various informational texts, a crucial skill that helps unlock the meaning of more complex materials. By focusing on this strategy, they’re making challenging texts more accessible and understandable. In addition to close reading, students are honing their ability to identify the author's purpose, to analyze and elaborate on the author’s viewpoint, and to connect ideas across different texts.

At Faust School, students have been putting significant effort into strengthening their writing abilities. Whether it's using the RACE strategy for Constructed Responses or crafting Research Simulation essays, writing is a consistent focus. Recently, seventh graders completed a Research Simulation Task exploring the sinking of the Titanic, while Honors students engaged in an in-depth analysis of the impact of social media use on teens.

Ms. Bayeux and Mr. Colavito's ELA 8 classes have been very busy exploring drama and film during the third marking period. Students have been reading The Miracle Worker by William Gibson and exploring the moving story of Helen Keller in several ways. Students acted out scenes from the play and watched the 2000 Disney film version as well. As part of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards, students compared and contrasted text and film to evaluate choices made by the writer and director of the play and film. During the marking period research project, students learned about individuals with various disabilities and considered how individuals such as Helen Keller have contributed to society. At the culmination of this unit, students responded to a Literary Analysis Task focused on theme. Students participated in a Writer's Workshop as they worked their way through constructing an essay. Everyone enjoyed learning about Helen Keller while sharpening their acting and writing skills!

This week, students became science investigators as they explored strange claims about mysterious forces affecting motion in our town. Through three hands-on labs, they examined how force and mass impact motion and connected their findings to Newton’s Laws.

From testing toy car collisions to experimenting with different forces and weights, students collected digital evidence to uncover the real science behind the motion.

They observed how objects behave when at rest or in motion, discovered how greater mass or force changes acceleration, and explored what happens when objects collide—learning that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Students also saw how forces like gravity and magnetism can act at a distance.

It’s been a marking period full of discovery, teamwork, and critical thinking!

We’ve been diving into the fascinating world of heredity and genetics. Here’s a look at what we’ve been up to:

DNA Extraction – From Strawberries!

To kick off our heredity unit, students got hands-on with real genetic material! Using simple household items, we extracted DNA from a strawberry. Students were amazed to see the long, stringy strands of DNA appear right before their eyes. It was a great way to understand that DNA is in all living things—even strawberries!

March Mammal Madness – And the Winner Is...

This year’s March Mammal Madness tournament was packed with excitement, dramatic battles, and plenty of learning about animal adaptations and habitats. After intense rounds of matchups, the champion was none other than the Polar Bear! Students researched different animals, made predictions, and followed along with scientific storytelling as the battles unfolded.

Dominant & Recessive Traits

We explored how traits are passed down from parents to offspring by learning about dominant and recessive genes. Using clay, students created models showing how offspring would look based on parent traits. It was a fun and visual way to see how genetic combinations result in inherited traits.

Mrs. Yang’s eighth-grade students have been exploring energy transfer and the properties of waves—fundamental concepts in science. Using the OPEN SIED strategy (Observe, Predict, Explain, Investigate, and Discuss), students engage in hands-on learning that makes science interactive and exciting!

Students begin by observing wave behavior using a PHET simulation, adjusting frequency and amplitude to see how waves change. Next, they predict how waves will behave when passing through different materials. Through a hands-on activity, students create waves using slinkies and ropes to investigate energy movement. After experimenting, they explain their findings, making connections between wavelength, frequency, and energy transfer. Finally, a class discussion reinforces their understanding, making science both engaging and meaningful!

Our class had an exciting Community-Based Instruction (CBI) trip to ShopRite, where students experienced shopping in a real-world setting. Each student followed a list of items to purchase, interacted with store employees, and stayed within a set budget. We also completed a fun store scavenger hunt!

Students practiced polite communication, learned the importance of waiting patiently in checkout lines, and used product labels to locate items. This outing helped build confidence in navigating public spaces and reinforced practical life skills they’ll use every day.

On April 11th, we are hosting a special presentation by the NJ Coalition Against Human Trafficking, focused on prevention, safety, and protection. This important discussion will help students understand risks and empower them with strategies to stay safe. The presentation aligns with NJDOE expectations and standards, reinforcing our commitment to student well-being. It’s a valuable opportunity for students to learn from experts and ask questions in a supportive environment. We appreciate your partnership in keeping our school community informed and safe!

From May 6th to May 15th, Faust School will be administering the Spring NJSLA assessments. These tests are an important measure of student learning and help guide instruction, but we also want to emphasize the importance of overall well-being. A good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast, and a positive mindset can make a big difference in helping students do their best. Encouragement and reassurance go a long way in reducing test anxiety and building confidence. Thank you for your support in fostering both academic success and student wellness!

Consistent school attendance is key to academic success, and we encourage families to be mindful of the state allotment of 18 absences per year. With spring recess approaching and possible travel plans, please plan accordingly to ensure students are present for learning. Every school day matters, as regular attendance helps students stay engaged, build strong habits, and keep up with important instruction. Missing too many days—whether excused or unexcused—can impact progress and success. Thank you for prioritizing your child’s education and partnering with us to support their growth!

Seventh Grade is a pivotal and transitional time for many teens. It is a time when sports become more competitive and provide less opportunity for the average child to be involved in physical activity. It is also the time when teens are given more freedom to choose how they spend their free time. Habits that begin in the 7th grade are likely to continue into adulthood.

Spring is here, bringing with it allergy season, outdoor activities, and an increased focus on student health. Here are some important updates and reminders for this season:

Allergy Awareness

• Spring allergies can cause sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes.

• Encourage students to wash their hands and faces after outdoor activities.

• If your child takes allergy medication, please ensure you communicate with the school nurse.

Sun Safety Tips

• As temperatures rise, remind students to wear sunscreen and hats during recess.

• Encourage hydration—water bottles should be a daily essential!

• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness and excessive sweating.

Mental Health Check-In

• Spring can bring excitement but also stress due to testing and end-of-year activities.

• Encourage mindfulness practices like deep breathing and journaling.

• The school nurse’s office is always open for students who need a quiet moment to regroup.

Immunization & Physical Exam Updates

• Make sure your child’s immunizations are up to date for the next school year.

• Sports physicals are required for participation in school athletics—schedule appointments early!

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the school nurse’s office. Wishing everyone a happy and healthy spring season!

This marking period, students in grades 6–8 have been exploring Spanish in exciting and innovative ways, using digital tools like Formative, Canva, Edpuzzle, Padlet, and Pear Deck to make learning interactive and engaging.

Our 6th-grade students dove into an entertaining book, Brandon Brown Dice la Verdad, which tells the story of a relatable young character navigating a tricky situation with his cell phone. Through this story, students learned new vocabulary and explored fascinating topics like cyber-technology. They discovered Spanish texting abbreviations and learned how technology impacts communication in the Cyber Café unit. Currently, they are delving into the diverse celebrations of Spanish-speaking cultures, enriching their language learning with meaningful cultural insights.

Seventh graders spent the marking period learning about Hispanic Heritage Month with enthusiasm and curiosity. They explored the important difference between the terms "Hispanic" and "Latino" while researching incredible individuals who have made significant contributions to American society. Using technology to research and present, they developed not just language skills but also critical thinking and presentation abilities as they created digital posters.

Students were also actively engaged in various station activities to learn about different aspects of Día de los Muertos. They were able to explain the events leading up to the Day of the Dead in Mexico and compared cultural views of life and death—including their own—with those of other communities.

In 8th-grade Spanish, students traveled the world—virtually! They applied the preterite tense (a way of talking about past actions) while exploring different countries and resorts through an interactive WebQuest. Their vocabulary expanded to include summer activities like camping, beach trips, amusement parks, and various modes of transportation. Imagine learning Spanish by discussing exciting summer adventures—that's exactly what our 8th graders did during their Unit 1!

They are also actively engaging in discussions about family dynamics and describing their friends—and themselves—using their growing language skills in authentic and personal contexts.

Throughout these 10 weeks, students have been doing much more than just learning a language. They’ve been building bridges between cultures, developing global perspectives, and discovering the joy of communication. Language learning is a journey of discovery, and we're proud of how our students are embracing this adventure.

¡Seguimos aprendiendo! (We continue learning!)

Mrs. Gerity’s 6th grade math classes have been hard at work exploring the exciting world of 2D and 3D shapes! Students have been identifying, classifying, and calculating area, surface area, and volume as they build their geometry skills.

As we head into spring break, we want to wish all our students and families a fun, safe, and restful week! Be sure to keep reviewing math concepts and practicing strategies.

Keep up the great work, 6th graders—summer is just around the corner!

After successfully completing their unit on solving equations and inequalities, 7th-grade math students explored the concept of probability. They expanded their understanding by using tools such as tree diagrams, tables, and organized lists to visualize and analyze possible outcomes. We are proud of their achievements and continued progress!

In Pre-Algebra, students showed great dedication as they worked through their geometry unit. They explored cross-sections, calculated surface area and volume, and investigated angle relationships. In addition, they learned about both simple and compound probability, gaining a deeper understanding of how to calculate and interpret chances in real-world scenarios. Their hard work and curiosity were evident throughout these lessons!

This marking period, our 8th graders have been exploring an introduction to geometry by studying transformations—how shapes move. This shift from earlier algebra-based concepts has been a refreshing change and a great success, especially for many of our visual learners.

In Algebra class, students have been diving deep into quadratic functions: learning how to graph them, understand their real-world applications, and use them to solve problems. Many students have created outstanding real-world projects related to parabolas. Two excellent examples are shown below!

During the third marking period, our ELL students focused on demonstrating their language growth by taking the annual ACCESS for ELLs assessment, which measures skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. As we transition into the next phase of the school year, students are now preparing for the upcoming NJSLA testing. In class, we’ve been strengthening academic vocabulary and practicing structured essay writing to support their success across all subject areas.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, students also learned about inspiring women such as Ida B. Wells and Oprah Winfrey, engaging in meaningful discussions about leadership, perseverance, and the impact of strong female role models.

We’re proud of our students’ hard work and continued growth!

During the third marking period, our 8th graders at Faust continued to deepen their understanding of lifetime fitness through engaging units on Yoga and Pickleball. In the Yoga unit, students collaborated in self-selected groups to design and lead their own yoga presentations. They thoughtfully planned and practiced a series of poses, ranging from beginner to advanced, and did an excellent job guiding their peers through mindful movement and breathing exercises.

Following Yoga, students jumped into one of the fastest-growing sports in the country: Pickleball. This unit brought energy and excitement as students developed their skills at their own pace. Whether learning the basics or participating in friendly, tournament-style games, all students had the opportunity to enjoy this accessible and dynamic sport.

In Health class, students built upon their understanding of substance abuse prevention and the importance of making healthy decisions. Lessons combined vocabulary building with real-life scenarios, allowing students to reflect on challenges they may face and how to respond with confidence and responsibility. Through open discussion and critical thinking, students strengthened their awareness of the power of hope, smart choices, and placing themselves in situations that lead to long-term success.

Grade 6 students dove into the exciting world of money by comparing checking accounts and debit cards from local financial institutions! They discovered the key differences between debit cards (linked to checking accounts) and credit cards (which involve borrowed money that must be repaid). Students got hands-on experience balancing a check register and writing checks, all while learning the importance of a proper signature in financial transactions. These lessons are a fantastic start to helping students make confident and informed financial decisions in the future.

Grade 7 students took their financial skills to the next level by mastering the basics of personal finance! They explored how to calculate sales and income taxes and understand their real-life impact. Through interactive budgeting activities, students learned how to manage income, savings, expenses, and taxes. They calculated the percentage each category contributes to a budget and used a family budget estimator to determine the minimum income needed to support a household in their area. This knowledge is essential for making smart, responsible financial choices as they plan for the future.

Grade 8 students delved into the world of credit by comparing interest rates and loan terms. They practiced calculating loan repayments and gained a deeper understanding of the financial consequences of borrowing. Students also explored the exciting potential of small investments growing over time by calculating both simple and compound interest. To top it off, they estimated college costs and created a savings plan to help prepare for future education expenses. These valuable lessons are designed to empower students to make informed, savvy financial decisions as they move forward in life.

The 6th grade began by exploring the origins of theater in ancient Greece and then moved into the importance of body language and nonverbal communication. Students worked on pantomime and improv, as well as storyboarding and ensemble building, laying a strong foundation for theatrical expression and collaboration.

The 7th grade started by learning about the various technical roles in theater and then applied that knowledge by taking on the roles of different professionals in a movie pitch meeting. This activity was a fantastic way to build ensemble skills and deepen their understanding of storytelling from multiple perspectives.

The 8th grade embarked on a large-scale project connecting leadership roles in theater with students' individual strengths, values, and goals. Students assessed their learning and personality styles and cross-referenced these with their top five personal values to determine which theater roles—or even careers outside the arts—might be a good fit for them. This self-inquiry encouraged meaningful introspection and reflection, offering valuable insights into their futures.

March is Youth Art Month, and WOW, did Faust students celebrate in style this marking period! Twenty Faust students were represented in the Youth Art Month show in Maywood, where our Wildcats proudly displayed their artwork. Two of our Wildcats were even featured in the NJPAC winter show, which will be on display until April 2nd at NJPAC.

Additionally, two students completed entries for the "Healing Through Color" and Flag Contest, while five students in grades 6–8 submitted entries for the Bergen County Stigma-Free Contest. Students are excited to see their work on display at the Bergen County Mental Health Symposium!

In 7th grade, students used Photopea, a free online Photoshop tool, to create unique and intricate digital kaleidoscopes using their Chromebooks.

The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) members have been shining brightly this marking period, spreading the love for reading and fostering school spirit through their dedicated efforts. Here's a glimpse of their impactful initiatives:

Promoting Literacy with Read Across America Events: Our NJHS members took the lead in organizing a series of engaging Read Across America events, igniting a passion for reading among students and fostering a love for literature. Through interactive activities, book discussions, and reading challenges, they inspired fellow classmates to embark on literary adventures and explore the magic of storytelling.

Designing Spirit Weeks: With creativity and enthusiasm, NJHS members continued to design exciting spirit weeks that brought our school community together in celebration.

Monthly School Reports: Our dedicated 8th-grade representatives have upheld their responsibility of delivering monthly school reports at our Board of Education meetings with professionalism and poise. They provide valuable insights into our school's achievements, initiatives, and student accomplishments, ensuring that our voices are heard and our achievements celebrated at the highest levels.

This marking period, the 6th grade Creative Writing class has been busy exploring their imaginations!

Students started by writing 6 word memoirs, telling powerful stories in just six words. They also created mind maps to help brainstorm ideas for future writing.

The most exciting project was writing stories about a magical toy box. Each student came up with a fun and creative story filled with adventure, mystery, and magic. From toys that come to life... to secret missions and time travel, the stories were full of surprises!

Our 6th grade writers did an amazing job, and we can’t wait to see what they come up with next!

The 7th and 8th-grade students have successfully completed their semester-long Creative Writing course. Throughout the semester, students delved into various writing genres, honing their skills and exploring their creativity.

As a culminating assignment, the 7th-grade students selected two quotes from the "7 Rules of Life" and crafted reflective pieces on how these rules resonate with their daily experiences as middle schoolers, navigating through trials and tribulations.

Furthermore, to assist the incoming group of 8th graders, the previous semester's 8th-grade class devised writing prompts and choice boards for their peers, providing guidance and inspiration for their writing endeavors.

Mrs. Fox and Mr. Majsiak express immense pride in his students' achievements and wishes them all the best as they transition into their World Language studies.

This marking period our 8th grade Creative Writing class has explored story telling and researched topics that interest them as growing young teens. 8th graders created several narratives as a class by playing the “Imagery Chain” game. Students were timed for five rounds of writing. Each round the students were asked to add a specific element or character to their story and use their imagination. Moreover, as March comes to a close, students explored topics that interest them and had the option to write a short research paper or create a narrative. Most importantly, as peers, they have had the opportunity to share both assignments in pairs or in small groups. This has allowed them to improve their writing this semester.

The Faust band is excited to welcome our student teacher, Ms. Liller! Together, we’ve been working hard in preparation for our Spring Concert. Some of the highlights of the program include “Sweet Caroline” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.” We look forward to performing for you on May 20th.

The 8th band members are also preparing for their performance and adjudication at the Bergen County Teen Arts Festival on May 16th.

In addition, the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade band members are gearing up for the “Trills and Thrills” Music Festival on June 6th. Professional musicians at Jackson Memorial High School will adjudicate the students. Afterward, they’ll attend Six Flags Great Adventure, joining peers from schools across various counties and states.

We cannot wait to perform for you and truly appreciate your encouragement and support!

It’s hard to believe we’re already ending the 3rd marking period! The Faust students really know how to keep a beat! The 6th graders have been having a great time with rhythm sticks, playing rhythms to a variety of songs, and even creating their own music patterns. The 7th graders have thoroughly enjoyed working with our student teacher, Miss Liller, who has been teaching them about composers and musical notes. The 8th graders have been diving into the history of rock and roll, enjoying the sounds of Chuck Berry, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. The Faust Show Choir is busy practicing and rehearsing songs for the upcoming Spring concert on May 20th. We hope to see everyone there!

In February, the 6th Grade Social Studies students celebrated Black History Month by creating unique One-Pager Projects. They researched an influential African American figure and designed a visually engaging page showcasing their contributions and quotes. Students added symbolic illustrations to enhance their posters. The project promoted critical thinking and artistic expression while deepening students' understanding of Black history. Through classroom discussions, students shared facts about the historical figure they chose as well as what inspired their research.

In Mr. Majsiak's 7th-grade Social Studies class, students explored African American history in the 1800s, delving into the disparities between American ideals and the realities faced by African Americans. They then examined the factors that divided the nation and led to the Civil War, gaining insight into the complexities of this pivotal period in American history.

To conclude their studies, students pitched a Netflix series based on three key events leading to the Civil War, showcasing their understanding of historical significance and their creative storytelling abilities. Through this hands-on approach, students not only deepened their understanding of the past but also honed their critical thinking and presentation skills, preparing them for future academic endeavors.

Mr. Barone’s students took a deep dive into one of Ancient Rome’s most influential—and controversial—figures: Julius Caesar. Through an engaging lesson on the rise, rule, and assassination of Julius Caesar, students explored how his leadership changed the course of Roman history.

To begin the lesson, students read an informative passage detailing Caesar’s journey from a skilled military general to a powerful dictator. They learned about the key events that led to his rise in power, his reforms during his rule, and the growing fears that ultimately led to his tragic assassination on the Ides of March in 44 BCE.

As part of their learning process, students participated in thoughtful class discussions, sharing their perspectives and making connections to themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal. Mr. Barone guided the class through a series of comprehension and critical thinking questions, allowing students to deepen their understanding and express their ideas with evidence from the text.

To support all types of learners, the lesson also included visuals and historical images that helped students visualize important moments in Caesar’s life. These pictures helped students check for comprehension and sparked meaningful conversations about Roman society and politics.

By the end of the lesson, students had not only gained a clearer understanding of Julius Caesar’s role in Roman history but also developed stronger skills in reading, analysis, and discussion. The class’s enthusiasm and curiosity made the lesson a great success!