George Fischer Middle School

Students from George Fischer Middle School and Carmel High School joined about 100 musicians from around the world to play holiday tunes at Rockefeller Center's 52nd Annual TubaChristmas in NYC on Sunday, December 14.  

This was the third consecutive year that George Fischer Middle School music teachers Erika Wahlers and Eric Pecor led Carmel students to participate in the event.  

“Tubas are not instruments that typically have melodic parts,” Ms. Wahlers said. “Tuba Christmas is an event that allows tuba players to make up an entire ensemble, meaning tuba players get to be the melody, the harmony and the bass. This provides a unique playing opportunity for the students that they do not get every day in school.” 

Carmel High School ninth grader Andrew returned for his third TubaChristmas and decorated his tuba by topping it off with a house with lights. Benjamin, an eighth grader, decorated his tuba with a holiday ribbon. It was the first time that seventh graders Evie and Claire got to play music in front of the world’s most famous Christmas tree, and they decorated their tubas with lights, garland and ribbons.  

The students got to play holiday classics like Deck the Halls, Joy to the World, Silent Night, Jingle Bells and We Wish You a Merry Christmas, but the event was about more than music.  

“The students are able to connect with other tuba players from Carmel but also get to meet tuba players from other schools, professional musicians and adults who have continued to play for the joy of making music,” Mr. Pecor said. “This is a fun performing opportunity where students get to share holiday cheer.” 

TubaChristmas (the name is trademarked) was conceived in 1974 by Harvey Phillips as a tribute to his teacher and mentor William J. Bell, who was born on Christmas Day 1902. Now, tuba and euphonium players from around the world gather in front of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center for one afternoon a year to play Christmas carols on their horns.  

Two 99-year-old Veterans of World War II spoke to eighth graders at George Fischer Middle School on Friday, and they didn't mince words. When students asked them to describe the experience in one word, Ralph J. Osterhoudt, Sr. who entered the U.S. Army before even graduating from high school and fought in the Battle of the Bulge, said "Hell." He described the scenes of destruction he saw in France and Germany and reminded the students that soldiers who fight wars are often just 18 years old. Nils Mockler, who served in the Marines Corp and fought at Iwo Jima, told students about the battle and the pride he felt when he finally saw, from a far distance, the American flag being raised at the top of Mt. Suribachi. "It was the size of a postage stamp, and it was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen in my life. I knew we were going to make it."  

Osterhoudt said he would always be proud of his service. "You are speaking English today," he said. "If we didn't win that war, you might not be speaking English."  

Several members of the Board of Education and local political leaders, including Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, attended the ceremony, and thanked the veterans for their service. Congressman Mike Lawler spoke by video from Washington D.C. 

In introducing the veterans, Superintendent of Schools Michael Plotkin said: "It's important to teach the next generation about history, so we don't repeat it. " He thanked George Fischer Middle School Social Studies Teacher Lisa Steiner and Assistant Superintendents Jeff Gorman and Ken Silver for arranging the program. 

The lesson had an impact on the auditorium full of eighth graders. Paul, a 13-year-old, said it made him think about his family.

"I wouldn't even be alive if it wasn't for them," Paul said. "My whole family is from France. My grandparents immigrated here after the war. It's crazy to think about. My family might have been caught up by the Nazis if it wasn't for the veterans who defended us." 

The New York State School Boards Association named October 13-18 as School Board Recognition Week, a time to promote awareness and understanding of the important work performed by local school boards.  

Since the Carmel Board of Education did not have a meeting that week, new Superintendent of Schools Michael Plotkin took the opportunity to extend the district’s thanks to the Board during the Tuesday, Oct. 21 meeting. It also happened to be Mr. Plotkin’s first meeting as Superintendent of Schools.  

“We pause to honor the extraordinary dedication of the Carmel Central School District Board of Education,” Mr. Plotkin said. “Each of you give countless hours, often behind the scenes, to ensure that every decision you make supports the success, safety and well-being of our Carmel students. Your leadership guides our vision and anchors our community in shared purpose. The progress we celebrate, which includes strong schools, innovative programs and caring classrooms, stands as a direct reflection of your commitment. For all of that, we want to say ‘Thank you.’” 

The district thanked the board members with a certificate of appreciation, drawings from elementary school students, tissue paper flowers made by art students and the gift of one service from the Carmel High School auto shop, where oil changes, tire rotations and detailing are all part of the curriculum.

The Board members, President Melissa Orser, Vice President John Curzio, II, Trustee Jordi Douglas, Trustee Frank Grasso, Trustee Nicholas Magliano, Trustee Michael Torpey and Trustee James Wise, all serve as volunteers in the unpaid Board positions. 

Michael Plotkin’s first day as Carmel’s Superintendent of Schools started out with a tour of George Fischer Middle School, where he seemed to already know just about everyone.  

That’s because Mr. Plotkin has been an active parent in the Carmel Central School District for decades.   

His walk through the middle school hallways was punctuated with hugs and handshakes as he rekindled old relationships and quickly made new ones.  

Fifth grade teacher Deanna Belascio reached out in greeting. 

“I had all of his daughters,” she said. “They grew up, but I stayed the same age; I have only taught here for 26 years.”  

Further down the hallway, Assistant Principal for fifth grade Joe Keenan offered a bear hug. 

“Thanks for taking this on,” Mr. Keenan said. “This is a big job, but you’re going to do really well here.”   

Up in the sixth-grade wing, even students called out to him.  

“Do you remember me?” sixth grader Giuliana asked. “I’m Kevin’s daughter.”  

“Of course, I remember you,” the new superintendent said. “Let’s take a selfie so I can send it to your father.” 

Her father served as the D.A.R.E. officer in Mr. Plotkin’s previous district, Croton-Harmon. 

Since it was a Friday, several middle school Carmel Rams Football fans were wearing their jerseys.  

“Are you going to the game?” Mr. Plotkin asked as he slid into a booth in the school library where a group was working on an independent study project. 

“Yes, my brother is on the team,” said a boy named Henry.  

“My son, Ben, is on the team,” Mr. Plotkin said. “I’ll tell him to say hi to your brother.”  

Then it was on to the building’s lowest level, where he spoke with the cafeteria manager about the day’s lunch (Taco Pizza), stopped to talk to the kids learning coding in the technology classroom, and checked into Head Custodian Terrence McQuade’s office to see the equipment that keeps the building humming.  

Of course, he knew Mr. McQuade from back in the day. 

“I used to do the youth wrestling program here, and he was instrumental in making sure that we didn’t kill ourselves,” Mr. Plotkin joked.  

Before he headed over to Carmel High School and the district’s three elementary schools, Mr. Plotkin stopped to hear the students in Erika Wahlers’ music class practice drumming to a Halloween song.  

“That teacher was friends with my daughter when they were in school,” he said.  

With his outgoing and friendly demeanor, it seems Mr. Plotkin will soon know everyone in the Carmel Central School District. 

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.” 

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.”

Upcoming Board of Education Committee Meetings:

Audit, Facilities & Operation:  December 16, 2025, Science Room #201, 5:30 p.m.
Special Education, Support & Wellness Committee:   December 16, 2025, Carmel High School, Library Lab, 5:30 p.m.
Policy Committee: December 15, 2025, Administrative Office, Executive Conference Room, 5:30 p.m.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Carmel High School.  The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Community members who wish to speak during the public comment section of the Board meeting are asked to sign up in advance using our Public Comment Sign-up Form here: https://forms.office.com/r/SnQBCFWYy8

Board meetings will continue to be live streamed on this page.  Committee meetings are open to the public.

Dear Carmel Central School District Community:

As I begin my work leading the Carmel schools, I’m eager to listen and learn from our community. I invite you to read my Entry Plan, which outlines my goals for understanding our district’s strengths and challenges

Please also take a few minutes to complete our community survey. Your feedback will help shape priorities and ensure we continue building on what’s working while addressing areas for growth.

Read the Entry Plan
Take the Superintendent's Community Survey by December 1, 2025

Respectfully,

Michael Plotkin
Superintendent of Schools 

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.  

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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. 

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