George Fischer Middle School

For Elianna, a fifth grader, the best thing about middle school is that she feels so independent. 

“You get to move from class to class,” she said. “And you get lockers.” 

The students themselves may not notice it, but George Fischer Middle School’s new 5th Grade Academy, which launched in September, is designed to provide age-appropriate levels of independence while giving students a safe transition from the self-contained environment of elementary school. 

Rather than throw them fully into the middle school routine, the academy focuses on the academic and developmental needs of students on the cusp of adolescence.  

Adjusting to a middle school environment can be challenging, but fifth graders will have access to a schedule and support structures that reflect their developmental needs, with three core classes in the morning and the opportunity for specials and lunch in the middle of their school day. 

The changes in school routine start on the trip to school. Fifth graders must sit in the front rows of the school bus. They are the first to exit the bus in the morning and the first to depart in the afternoon.  

“We sit in the front of the bus because we are the youngest,” said Rylee, who is 10. “I like that.” 

The fifth graders enter and exit the school directly through the fifth-grade wing of the building. That wing is off limits to students in grades six through eight.  

“It’s been very helpful to not have students from the other grades in the fifth-grade hallway,” a teacher said. “It’s quieter. There is less disruption.” 

The academy offers more than physical separation from the older students. It includes activities that promote positive peer interactions, build self-esteem and support social development. 

Fifth graders will also receive instruction focused on digital literacy, including how to access online resources responsibly and understand the importance of managing their digital footprint.  

“I have heard only good things from parents,” said Joe Keenan, the assistant principal fifth grade. “The changes we have made, especially with the buses, have gone a long way toward protecting the fifth graders.”  

The academy can also foster stronger relationships between students, staff and families.  

“This is such a big school in comparison to our three elementary schools,” said George Fischer Middle School Principal John Fratto. “Keeping fifth graders separate and supported will help them build relationships with students who might be from the other side of town. Those friendships will keep them grounded throughout their school years.” 

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.” 

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!

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.” 

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.”

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.

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.”

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. 

Voters endorsed the Carmel Central School District Budget Tuesday and elected three new board members to the Board of Education.  

The budget passed by a vote of 1290 to 1113. Nicholas Magliano, Frank Grasso and Michael Torpey were elected to the Board of Education.   

“I’m so appreciative to the community for supporting students and allowing us to fulfill the mission of the district,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben said. “I also want to welcome the three new Board of Education members Nicholas Magliano, Frank Grasso and Michael Torpey.” 

The Board of Education results were:  

Nicholas Magliano -- 1390  
Frank Grasso -- 1252 
 Michael Torpey --1255 
 Prakash Tewari -- 1059 
 Nathaniel Query -- 740 

Board President Melissa Orser said she was grateful that the community approved the budget.  

“I want to thank the community for coming out to support our schools,” Board President Orser said. “I also want to thank the administration – both the superintendent of schools and the assistant superintendents – for upholding the board’s focus on fiscal responsibility.” 

If you like something a CCSD staff member has done, tell us at compliments@carmelschools.org. Likewise, if there is an area you think needs improvement, send an email to complaints@carmelschools.org. Both email addresses will go directly to the superintendent of schools and to the president of the Board of Education. 

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Community members who wish to speak during the public comment portion of a Board of Education meeting are asked to sign-up in advance using our Public Comment Sign-up Form or by contacting the District Clerk four (4) hours prior to the meeting at jstevens@carmelschools.org.  The sign-up form will also be available at the meeting for anyone who wishes to speak and did not sign up in advance.  

These individuals will be called upon during the scheduled public participation section on the agenda.  To facilitate follow-up, please provide your name, telephone number, email address, and mailing address, as well as the topic of your comments.  Speakers are limited to five (5) minutes each.  No district employee or student may be commented upon or identified by name or situation.

As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing safety, communication and equity districtwide, Carmel Central School District has launched a new communication tool, Anonymous Alerts®. This tool enables students or parents to report urgent information to school officials quickly, easily and anonymously across all our school campuses. 

Access the Anonymous Alerts portal.

Recordings of Board of Education meetings and presentations from those meetings are available to the public.   

View recordings from Board of Education meetings.