Wednesday, May 2, is Walk to School Day. Watertown schools will join schools across the Commonwealth for Massachusetts Walk to School Day.
All students can participate. Watertown will be among more than 2,000 schools across the state participating!
Join Safe Routes to School and walk, ride, or scooter to school on Wednesday, May 2!
--May 1, 2012--
MCAS a test for
students -- and teachers
By BANDNA K. and CHRISTINE Z.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
MCAS is a work-filled time at the Cunniff School in Watertown.
The English section of the MCAS was done before April vacation, and the math section is coming up in two weeks.
Teachers need to prepare their students for the MCAS -- the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System test. Only students in grades 3-5 can take the MCAS, it is not for little kids.
Barbara Barry, a third-grade teacher, says that the third-graders have a mix of short and long answers, just like the fourth-graders. In fifth grade, however, the whole ELA (English Language Arts) test is filled with long answers or open-responses.
Julie Erwin, a fifth-grade teacher, tells students to analyze the selection on an ELA test and get at least four details to get the best score, a 4.
“Four details to get a 4,” says Mrs. Erwin.
The other fifth-grade teacher, Jen SanAngelo, explained that teachers don’t score the test, that machines or MCAS people do.
Third-grade students have math and ELA. Fourth-graders have a long composition (a five-paragraph story), ELA, and math. Fifth-graders have ELA, math, and science.
The teachers say that their students aren’t worried or nervous and that they have been prepared very well.
Students strictly use No. 2 pencils. It should be completely quiet in the classrooms that they take the tests in. Usually the desks are arranged in rows to prevent cheating and the students take little breaks to eat snacks. They can also chew gum.
The pressure is on the high-schoolers though, because they have to get a certain score to graduate.
The MCAS is a very important test, but students have been prepared by the Cunniff teachers.
--April 29, 2012--
Cunniff Kids News reporters ham it up with Cunniff PTO representative Shannon Lawn (back row center)
in preparation for the fifth annual Cunniff Comedy Night and Silent Auction on Friday, April 13.
More funny business!
Fifth annual Cunniff Comedy Night
and Silent Auction set for Friday, April 13
By Cunniff Kids News staff
The fifth annual Comedy Night and Silent Auction will be Friday, April13, at 7 p.m.
The Comedy Night is a fund-raiser for the Cunniff School PTO, said Shannon Lawn, a parent who volunteers for the PTO.
The show will be held at Hibernian Hall at 151 Watertown St. in Watertown.
Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
Mrs. Lawn said the event is for adults only, so kids have to stay home. There will be four comics performing. There will also be unique items at the auction.
The money raised is for the PTO and goes to support many kids programs at the Cunniff School.
Amy Donohue (back row center, in black coat) poses with Cunniff Kids News reporters in
the newsroom on Dec. 13, 2011. Amy is president of the Watertown Education Foundation,
which will run the annual Watertown Spelling Bee on Jan. 29.
Bee there!
Time for young students to sign up
for Watertown Spelling Bee on Jan. 29
By ARUSHI I., CHARLOTTE D., SOPHIE B., EMMA G., ANNA M., CAMILLE P., CHRISTINE Z., NATTY K., MAEVE W., ZACHARY P., DYLAN D., ISABEL M., LETICIA S., CHIPEGO N., ADAM H., AND EMMA G.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
So, you think you can spell?
The Townwide Spelling Bee will be held Sunday, Jan. 29, in the Watertown Middle School auditorium. It starts at noon and ends at 5 p.m.
The Spelling Bee is open to all Watertown students from Grade 1 through Grade 5. There will be teams of three students and there will be winners in every grade. Each person on the winning teams will get a trophy. The trophies have little bees on them.
The Spelling Bee is being held to raise money for the Watertown Education Foundation.
“We raised almost $9,000 last year, and our goal is to raise more money than last year,” said Amy Donohue, who is helping to run the event. Amy is the president of the Watertown Education Foundation.
Amy said money will go into the grant foundation, and that gives money to teachers for special things.
T-shirts will also be sold to raise money. Students can design what the T-shirt will look like. The most creative entry will be chosen. Designs can be put into the Bee Hive box in the elementary schools. The three art teachers will judge the T-shirt contest.
The Spelling Bee applications were sent home this week. They can be dropped off in the Bee Hive box or emailed to Amy.
There will be a mix of boys and girls in the Spelling Bee and everyone will get a goody bag.
(To signup for the Town-Wide Spelling Bee, to submit a T-shirt design, to volunteer to help, or for questions, contact Amy Donohue at ahowie@verizon.net. For information about the Watertown Education Foundation, go to http://watertowned.org/.)
--Dec. 15, 2011--
A scary scene
Accident at skating rink sends a Cunniff student
to the hospital for emergency surgery
By SOPHIA G. Cunniff Kids News staff reporter On a foggy day, I went to the ice rink to skate with my sister. I put my gear on and went on the ice. When I was skating, I tripped over my skates and fell. When I fell down, I forgot that my ice skate had a sharp blade, and I cut my wrist. There was blood everywhere and two ice skating teachers came and picked me up and took me out of the rink. I was really scared because I cut myself close to my vain. My mom came rushing to me, and the teachers said I had to go to the emergency room. We hopped into the car and rushed there right away. The nurse checked my wrist. She put a wrap and a pad on it to keep me comfortable. Then I went to the operating room so I could get checked. A doctor said it was a deep cut and that I needed stitches. My dad and sister came to see me. I was happy that they came and I wasn’t afraid anymore. The doctors came to give me the stitches. Before they did it, they put numbing medicine on my wrist. Then they started. I was awake, but didn’t look. My sister and dad kept me entertained. My sister put her Angry Bird in my face and my dad kept me company. It didn’t hurt when I got my stitches, it tickled. After, we went to John Brewer’s restaurant. Now, I will never go ice skating because I am afraid it will happen again.
--Nov. 30, 2011--
Wet your
appetite!
Fifth-graders to run dunk tank
at Faire on the Square Sept. 24
By BRENDAN G., BANDNA K., CAMILLE P., HALEY M., and CHRISTINE Z.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Bang! Splash! Someone just fell into the dunk tank. The Cunniff School fifth-graders are running the dunk tank at the Watertown Faire on the Square Saturday, Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The dunk tank will be behind the Watertown Boys and Girls Club. The fifth-graders are running the dunk tank so they can raise money for special events this year. Cunniff teachers and other well-known Watertown figures will be in the dunk tank -- and they will all fall into the ice-cold water.
--Sept. 20, 2011--
Spring into action!
Cunniff's annual Spring Fling is Friday, June 17,
features unveiling of new community garden
By Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
Jenny Howard has helped in a community garden. She is also helping at Spring Fling.
Jenny is planning on building a community garden, a butterfly garden, and a compost area in the kindergarten courtyard. At Spring Fling, Jenny is planning on having people bring some rocks so they can paint them and put them in the garden.
Gore Place donated all of the flower, vegetable, and strawberry plants for free, and Mrs. Fitzpatrick has started the garden. Most of the plants are perennials. other things that were planted were cucumbers, zucchini, summer squash, eggplant, basil and sage.
Russo’s donated wood that was used for the compost bins.
At Spring Fling, Jenny is going to give people tours.
A possible idea for the community garden is that the fruits and vegetables can be donated to a charity.
Jenny is going to have a sign-up sheet for people who want to help in the garden during the summer. She is also looking for a lot of people to donate more plants. She also needs wheelbarrows and rain bins.
At last year's Spring Fling, Jenny helped students paint the mural on the wall by the playground.
The Cunniff School’s annual Spring Fling will be held Friday, June 17, from 5-7 p.m. (rain or shine). The event is free for Cunniff students and families. (Kids must be accompanied by an adult.)
Other events at Spring Fling will be free pizza and Lizzy’s ice cream, games, magic acts, fast pitch machines, an obstacle course, inflatable slide, and more.
To volunteer to help at Spring Fling, email organizers Susie Hughes (susiehughes1@gmail.com) or Marisa Petrillo (petrillo25@comcast.net). To volunteer to help with the community garden or to donate materials, email Jenny Howard (jennyhoward0@gmail.com).
-- June 16, 2011--
New second-grade teacher Mandy Wolf (in striped shirt) was front and center
when she met reporters from the Cunniff Kids News on a recent visit to the newsroom.
Her best role yet
The show goes on in second grade
as Mrs. Wolf stands in for Mrs. Sauder
By GIOVANNI R., SAM C., SEAN L., JENNY L., and TIMMY C.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Mandy Wolf is the new second-grade teacher at Cunniff Elementary School. She is substituting for Mrs. Sauder, who had a baby in February but will be back in September. Mrs. Wolf is from Los Angeles and she went to New York University. “I went to school to study acting,” she said. “I liked teaching kids how to act. It made me realize that I wanted to be a teacher.” Mrs. Wolf has blonde hair and wears nice clothes. She was born on April 7 and she has a brother named Gabe. Her husband’s name is Jonathan. Before she was married, her last name was Adams. She said she is related to Samuel Adams, from the American Revolution. She has a dog named Cassidy, who is 9 years old. Mrs. Wolf said she also likes yoga, reading, and dancing. Mrs. Wolf said she is going to teach her students a lot more before the end of the year.
--May 8, 2011--
A delicious way to help
Cunniff fourth-graders to run treat table
at Opening Day April 30 to aid Japan
By ARIANNA P., JOE B., BRENDAN G., JAROD D., and BANDNA K.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Have you heard about the earthquake and tsunami in Japan? Do you want to help? Well, now you can. The Cunniff School fourth-graders are having a fund-raiser at Casey Park on Saturday, April 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The park is located at 124 Watertown St., Watertown, on the Newton line. The fund-raiser is during the Little League Opening Day. The Cunniff School fourth-graders will be selling baked goods, such as brownies, cookies, and other fun, delicious desserts. On March 11, an earthquake hit japan. It caused a tsunami, which swept cars and buildings away. Thousands of people died, were injured, or went missing. So come over to Cunniff School table at Casey Park and buy some treats and your donations will help make a difference in Japan!
--April 29, 2011--
Adam (right), an ensemble skater with Disney on Ice's "Toy Story 3", talks with Cunniff Kids News reporters
prior to the Boston premiere at TD Garden Feb. 18.
Cool customer
Skater in Disney on Ice's "Toy Story 3"
talks before his first big performance
By OLIVIA L. and JULIA F.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Adam was tall and skinny. He had black hair and talked with a real British accent. This was about to be Adam’s first time skating in front of a big crowd. He was interviewed in Legends restaurant at TD Garden in Boston before the opening performance of “Toy Story 3 on Ice.” It was very crowded, with people walking in and out of the room. Cindy Fitzgibbon from Fox 25 news (pictured at right with black shirt) was in the restaurant. She was with her two sons and her mother, and she posed for pictures, too. Adam is from England and he said he has been skating for four years. He was going to be an ensemble character that was in Woody’s round-up. “I love it and think that you will love it, too,” Adam said. It took them five whole weeks to learn the dance. Next year, he is doing it again. Adam was a fascinating person. The show was very stimulating. It was fun-filled with characters such as Buzz Lightyear flying high in the sky. It was very entertaining when the robot started to fire lasers, too. The show was exhilarating.
--April 5, 2011--
The Cunniff School's Sheila Doherty (left, and below) answers questions from Cunniff Kids News reporters about the Pet Haven fund-raiser, an idea which came from two third-graders.
Change for the good
Third-graders adopt cause in local Pet Haven;
schoolwide fund-raiser ends Friday, March 18
By CAMILLE P., BRENDEN D., SANA S., and CAILEIGH S.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
The two third-grade classes at Cunniff Elementary School are running a fund-raiser for Pet Haven on Mount Auburn Street in Watertown. Pet Haven is a non-profit animal shelter and has veterinary services. It helps abandoned, rescued, and neglected animals find loving homes.
Two third-graders had the idea to have a fund-raiser and came to Ms. Doherty, Mrs. Erwin, and Mrs. Munger to see if they could have permission to do it.
“This raises money and builds awareness for pets,” said Ms. Doherty. “We have a very kind and loving community here at the Cunniff who wanted to reach out to help animals. I think this shows great respect and responsibility!”
The fund-raiser began Feb. 28 and goes until Friday, March 18. The students are asking for spare change and there collection buckets in each classroom. Every day the third-graders make an announcement after the Pledge of Allegiance. The third grade has raised more than $150 so far.
The third grade will either be going to the shelter, or Pet Haven will be visiting the school. (For information about Pet Haven in Watertown, go to http://www.bostonpethaven.org/index.html.)
--March 14, 2011--
Welcome to the family!
Parker James Sauder born on Feb. 3
By LAUREN A. and BRIANNA W.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Did you hear Shannon Sauder had a baby? His name is Parker James Sauder, and he is adorable! Parker James was born on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was born at 11:58 a.m. Mrs. Sauder is a second-grade teacher at Cunniff Elementary School. She has a husband named Jayme, a 3-year-old son named Jameson, a dog named Cole, another dog named Sasha, and two cats named Loca and Lily, and now a newborn son named Parker. She is doing well at home with her family in Ashland. Mrs. Sauder will not be teaching again this year, but she said she will visit once or twice.
--March 6, 2011--
Woody (left) and Buzz (right) pose with reporters from the Cuniff Kids News before going on to perform in the Boston premiere of Disney On Ice's "Toy Story 3" (below).
You’ve got a friend ...
on skates!
Cunniff Kids News reporters at Disney On Ice premiere
Reporters from the Cunniff Kids News were behind the scenes Friday, Feb. 18, at the Boston premiere of the latest Disney On Ice show, “Toy Story 3”. Characters from all three “Toy Story” movies talked with reporters and then hit the ice for the first of their 18 shows at TD Garden. “Toy Story 3” runs through Sunday, Feb. 27. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster or by calling the box office at (800) 745-3000. Come back soon for another new Cunniff Kids News story -- and pictures -- about the show, the skaters, and the stars!
-- Feb. 19, 2011 --
Cars prepare for the new rolling afternoon dismissal at the Cunniff School by lining up on Warren Street -- behind the giant snow banks. (Below) A view from the front entrance.
Cunniff rolls with it
Watertown's snow emergency forces
students, staff to change afternoon dismissal
By the Cunniff Kids News staff
Beep! Beep! Beep! Back it up! There is a new dismissal procedure at the Cunniff School.
It started on Feb. 3 because of the snow emergency in Watertown. There was a lot of snow on the sidewalks and parents couldn’t park on the streets.
Students in pre-K, kindergarten, and first grade now get out at 2:10 p.m., instead of 2:30. They are released with any older brothers and sisters in the school. Second- and third-graders get out at 2:20, and fourth- and fifth-graders get out at 2:30.
Students are walked outside to the curb, where their parents drive up and pick them up.
The Cunniff Kids News talked to a lot of students in every grade. Some kids like it because they get to miss subjects and get out early. Some kids find it confusing because several lines leave at different times.
Kids in pre-K like Center Time, but, sadly they have to miss it. They say they get their stuff and then they get out and have to wait with the teachers until they find their parents.
Two second-grade girls said they didn’t like the new dismissal plan because it is confusing.
A second-grade girl said, “It’s not fair that they get to leave. And it’s boring [waiting to go home].
A boy in the grade who has a brother in kindergarten said he liked it, “because I can go home earlier.”
A fourth-grade girl said, “I hate it because other people leave and I have to sit there and don’t do anything.”
Melissa Rabbitt, a fourth-grade teacher, said, “I think the dismissal process has both advantages and disadvantages. Kids get out safely, but it cuts into academics.”
Principal Cynthia Crimmin said when the snow emergency was called, she met with the school’s crisis team to come up with a plan.
“I am so please at how hard everybody worked,” she said. “All of the snow is hard on everyone. This is a testament to how fantastic and supportive the Cunniff community is.
“The faculty has been so good. They didn’t blink an eye. Everybody’s picked up a new duty.”
She said the School District’s central office and the Watertown Department of Public Works talk every day. She said she did know how long the dismissal plan would be in use.
She said the Cunniff, Lowell, and Hosmer are all doing a rolling pick-up, but that each school is adjusting it every day to make it work best for them. She said it is getting better every day.
“We had everyone gone by 2:37 today,” she said on Tuesday.
(Story reported and written by Dyanne B., Sophie B., Alexis C., Charlotte D., Hailey D., Meagan K., Jia Yi L., James M., Camille P., Beth P., Giovanni R., Julian R., Emari S., and Brianna S.)
--Feb. 8, 2011--
Inside the WGBH studios, Watertown students pose after viewing a sneak peek of the new PBS show
"Design Squad Nation,"
with Molly (left) and Margaret (back row in white) from the show's production team.
Building a following
Watertown students help design
new PBS show, "Design Squad Nation"
By JIE SEN L. EMARI S., and RYAN L.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
Judy and Adam go around the world, finding kids with special talents, and doing outrageous stunts with them.
Judy and Adam are the hosts of “Design Squad Nation,” a new show on PBS that will premiere Sunday, Jan. 30, at 10:30 a.m.
On Oct. 6, reporters from the Cunniff Kids News and other students from Watertown schools went to the WGBH studios on Guest Street in Brighton to see “Design Squad Nation.”
Nobody had seen this show before!
In the screening room from the show were Margaret and Molly. The Watertown students watched the show and answered questions so the producers could make the show better.
“The feedback will help us,” Margaret said. “There’s some things we need to fix, and we know that. We’ll fix them later on.”
In the show, Adam and Judy helped a girl make a big Frankenstein cake for a cast party for the play “Young Frankenstein.” It is robotic, moving with the cake on it. They had to make the shoes and everything. There were also doors with extra food in it, like eyeballs and extra hands. It all was done in two days.
After the show, Margaret asked for help with the introduction, and played four different versions of music and asked which one people liked better.
The “Young Frankenstein” episode will be broadcast Feb. 6.
(For information on “Design Squad Nation,” go to http://www.wgbh.org/programs/Design-Squad-Nation-1338.)
--Jan. 29, 2011---
Growing up
Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice
talks
about her new book and being raised
during segregation in Birmingham, Ala.
By FATIMA B., SHARIEL J., and SHAMA J.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
At the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston on Oct. 28, 2010, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice gave a talk about her new book, “Extraordinary, Ordinary People.” The book is about the time when she was growing up.
Ms. Rice was born and raised during segregation, when blacks and whites were separated from each other. She was raised in Birmingham, Ala. Education was very important in her family. She was taught that she had to be “twice as good” as everyone else. She wasn’t even the first doctor in the family.
One day in Birmingham, Condoleezza and her family were leaving their house to go to church when suddenly they heard a boom! Her dad turned the car around and was going to drive to the police station, but her mom said, “You don’t have to go. They probably started it.”
The sound came from an African-American church. A bomb had gone off. Four children were killed.
It was a scary time. One time she came home to find her dad siting on the porch with a gun on his lap, protecting the house.
During her talk, she also talked about her family and politics.
Her final message was to never take yourself as a victim and to work hard.
By HAILEY D., MEAGAN K., JIESEN L., BRIANNA S., BRENDEN D., JACOB D., and CHARLOTTE D.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
Students at the Cunniff School learn words in different ways.
The kindergarten has word study every week. Ms. D says, “Spell the word ____,” and the students do it three times. They have words like “cat,” “dog,” and “mouse.”
Once a week the kindergarten has word study homework. Each week the students get a different letter and they have to draw a picture of something that starts with that letter.
There is an alphabet picture on the wall. Each letter has a picture. For example, A is for apple.
Charlotte, a kindergartner, said, “This is my favorite subject. I love it! Not all kids like it though.”
In first grade, the words for word study are just right for each student. They get at least eight words to study each week.
“We get words to study on Monday and have a test on Friday,” one first-grader said.
Mrs. Kearney and Mrs. Lacy give the tests.
The students are assigned to write the words in a sentence. They get different words each week.
In Mrs. Kearney’s class, there is an alphabet on the wall.
Brenden, a first-grader, says it s his favorite subject. Jacob, another first-grader, says it’s in-between.
In second grade, Mrs. Sauder’s and Mrs. Rono’s classes both have word study homework and tests on Fridays. Both classes get a packet each week, and the words are always at the right level.
In Ms. SanAngelo’s fifth-grade class, the students have to study 10 words and words that they got wrong on tests before. But in Ms. Appugliese’s classs, the students have 12 words or more.
Both classes get their words on Monday.
In Ms. SanAngelo’s class, the students say there is a balance of building vocabulary and working on spelling skills.
Homework is a little different in the classes. Ms. Appugliese has nightly assessments and sometimes packets. In Ms. SanAngelo’s class, the students get packets every week. They have to do dictionary practice, illustrations, alphabetical order, meaningful sentences, and a word search in every packet.
--Jan. 10, 2011--
A few of their favorite
things
(2010)
The staff of the Cunniff Kids News asked many people -- students, teachers, family, and friends -- one question: “What was your favorite thing that happened in 2010?”
Here are some of their answers:
“My grandson, Colin, was born.” -- Gordon Shaw
“My nephew, Colin, was born and I am an aunt for the first time!’’ -- Kim MacNeill
“I learned to ride my bike with training wheels.” -- Laila S., 3
“My vacation in Dubai and riding a camel.” -- Laurie Grossman, senior product specialist
“Going to the Boston Pops. Going to Cape Cod. Going to kindergarten. Playing with our dog and cat.” -- Charlotte D., sister
“When I and my family went to New Hampshire with all my friends.” -- Michael Amedio, construction
“When I got my new car and it is grey. It is a Mazda 6.” -- Joseph Pratt, auto detailer/student
“When I went on a cruise in February and October on the Crown Princess.” -- Ann-Marie Pratt, receptionist
“When I went on vacation to Lake George with my family and friends.” -- Susan Amedio
“My family stayed healthy and safe.” -- Dad
“Eating a ladybug.” -- Kathryn
“Our summer on Cape Cod.” -- Melanie Deveikas, mother
“Summer on Cape Cod. The Red Sox getting good players. Going to California. Going to a Patriots game with my son. Celebrating the holidays.” -- Chuck Deveikas, dad
“Three minutes of fame [at the Bruins game] -- Alex E.
“Three minutes of fame [at the Bruins game] -- Jack L.
“Playing in the Watertown baseball all-star game.” -- Liam M.
“My favorite thing that happened was when we moved up to Boston and when we moved into our new house around November 2010. Also, when when I married Stephanie. My ceremony was not like the usual and we got married with someone we just met in their backyard.” -- Harry Tugurian
“When I married Harry.” -- Stephanie Tugurian
“Going to New York City for a vacation with my family.” -- Mikayla P., seventh-grader
“My baby’s first tooth.” -- Mike
“My favorite thing that happened in 2010 was in May or June. We went to a lake with ziplines, slides, pools, hot tubs, volleyball, lunch, and a blob -- all leading to the water. The blob is a cushion in the lake. You jump on it from a high point and crawl to the edge. Someone with a higher weight would jump on it, leaving you going into the air real high and then into the water.” -- Eva M., fifth-grader
“Christmas.” -- Ben F.
“When my uncle said he was coming to visit. I have not seen my uncle in two years.” -- Julia C., fifth-grader
“My daughter is finally old enough to be really excited about Santa!’’ -- Katie Sbay
“I got in to BC Law School!’’ -- Jeff Corbett, research coordinator at Dana-Farber
“My family vacation in Maine.” -- Julie Childress, regulatory coordinator at Dana-Farber
“All the Legos that I got this year.’’ -- Alex M., third-grader
“My summer vacation in North Carolina.” -- Carol Shaw, grandmother
“My cousin had a baby boy.’’ -- Mandy Moore, cousin
“Seeing my daughters playing together.” -- Rachid Sbay
“It’s that I went to Florida and Disney, SeaWorld, Epcot, and Busch Gardens!” -- Zakary B., second-grader
“Nothing good happened in 2010.” -- Wahiba Babali, teacher
“The best thing was when my mom got out of the hospital.” -- Khadija Benmimoune, mom
“Having fun with my family and friends.” -- Fatima B., fifth-grader
“We got the new black Wii.” -- Yassmine B., third-grader
“I got a new car!” -- Yassine Benmimoune, taxi driver
“Getting a new hip.” -- Charlotte Fiorentino
“My mom coming to visit me!” -- Hamid Mezhoud, college student
“My favorite moment in 2010 is when I got to go to my country of origin and saw my family, and my baby Adam got to see them for the first time!” -- Hanane Haoulani, journalist
“Going to the Holy Land.” -- Nana
“My favorite thing that happened was when my mom came out of the hospital from her surgery all right.” -- Mehdi Haoulani, taxi driver
“New porch.” -- Grampa
“There are so many things that happened, but my most favorite thing was watching my daughter Christina enter into second grade. She does so well in school and enjoys all the subjects. She makes me very proud!” -- Anastasia Varsamis, mom
“My birthday.” -- John S.
“My birthday.” -- Luke M.
“Larry King was retiring. He has interviewed many famous and not-so-famous people over the course of his 25-year career. He is well known by everyone. He was a great talk show host on CNN and will be missed.” -- Chrisoula Varsamis, processor at MassHealth
“I’m happy about the Patriots doing so well this season. They will easily win their division title and the chances of them going to the Super Bowl look very good. Let’s go Patriots!” -- Peter Varsamis, dad
“Meeting my cousin Gracie.” -- Lis
“Christmas.” -- Stefen
“Disney.” -- Rachel Loughran
“Florida.” -- Ryan L., student
“Camping in August.” --- Brendan Loughran
“I went to the KISS concert in the spring.” -- Michaela, fifth-grader
“Going to Aunt Dorothy’s 100th birthday party.” -- Thomas Strukel, production control manager
“A visit from my children and grandchildren in April, August, and October.” -- Eleanor Strukel, manager of a title company
“My cruise to the Mediterranean and the Vatican in Rome.” -- Susan St. Jean, hair stylist
“My cruise to Alaska and going kayaking in Ketchikan.” -- Leonard Wayne St. Jean, marketing executive
“Visiting Israel and swimming in the warm Mediterranean Sea.” -- Carlos Cerqueira, technician
“Skateboarding.” -- Bryan
“New Hampshire.” -- Seamus
“Going to my nephew’s first birthday party and playing football with my older nephew.” -- Joe Cerqueira, mechanic
“Going to Aruba -- and it was warm.” -- Joanne Kelly, business analyst
“Christmas.” -- Jake M.
“Visiting the desert in Tucson.” -- Lisa Cerqueira, consultant
“Going to New Orleans, with the food and the history.” -- Horacio Cerqueira, fleet mechanic
“I got to come to the Cunniff with my sisters and cousins and have fun!” -- Khaled B., kindergartner
--Jan. 1, 2011--
Former Cunniff principal Stephen Billhardt (seated, front row, center) poses with some of his
former students after an interview
in the newsroom of the Cunniff Kids News.
Home schooled
Mr. Billhardt happy with his choice to leave the Cunniff
Stephen Billhardt is happy to be working from home. He does the shopping, laundry, cooking, and small jobs around the house, like making a shelf.
Mr. Billhardt used to be the principal at the Cunniff School. He left in June after spending five years at the Cunniff. He came back earlier this month for an interview with the Cunniff Kids News.
“I miss the kids the most. All of you,” he said.
Since he’s not working now, his wife has a full-time job.
“I left to explore other education jobs,” he said.
Mr. Billhardt is 45. He was raised in Connecticut and lives in Cambridge with his wife, Joan, and two kids, a third-grader and a fourth-grader. They have two kittens: Cleo and Lexi.
He is very happy at home. He said his misses the Cunniff teachers. But he said he doesn’t miss everything about being the Cunniff principal.
“I miss the meetings the least,” he said.
--Dec. 21, 2010--
Save your place (in line)
Family Night a highlight of Scholastic book fair this week
By TIMMY C., GIOVANNI R., MICHAEL M., and EOIN M. Cunniff Kids News staff reporters This week, from Nov. 15 to Nov. 19, the Scholastic book fair will be held in the Cunniff cafeteria. The book fair has many good books for people of all ages. There are books, toys, pencils, and many other cool things for sale. There are many kinds of books available, such as sports books, cookbooks, action books, and tons of others. All purchases benefit the Cunniff School. The book fair wll be open every morning from 7:45 a.m. to 8:20 a.m. It will also be open Wednesday 12:15-1:15 p.m., Thursday 2:30-3:30 p.m., and Friday 2:30-3:30 p.m. The book fair is also open for Family Night on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. Watertown author Kristin Kladstrup will be there to read and sign copies of her new book, “A Night in Santa’s Great Big Bag.” We hope you come and benefit our school!
--Nov. 16, 2010--
A familiar haunt
Annual Cunniff Halloween party scheduled for Friday, Oct. 29
By DYANNE B., JIA YI L., GIOVANNI R., JULIAN R., ARYA T., and IRENE K.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
Welcome trick-or-treaters!
The Cunniff School is having its annual Halloween party and Haunted House on Friday, Oct. 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission is $2 per child with a maximum of $5 per family. (Adults are free.)
Kids can wear their costumes, but to make it a safe party, please leave your accessories, like guns, swords, and lacrosse sticks, at home. They will not be allowed in the building.
Allergy-free food will be available. There will also be free games and prizes.
If you would like to volunteer, or if you have any questions, please contact Marie Gendron at vitti@rcn.com.
--Oct. 28, 2010--
Dr. Cynthia Crimmin (center in grey suit) poses with some Cunniff Kids News reporters in the newsroom.
Learning a new face
Principal Crimmin and Cunniff students
getting to know each other
Dr. Cynthia Crimmin is the new principal of the Cunniff School. She replaced Stephen Billhardt.
Principal Crimmin attended three colleges: Wheaton (which is in Norton, Mass.), Boston University, and Boston College. After she finished, she received her PhD.
When she was 7 years old, she played teacher in her her basement. There was a secret door with a blackboard on it, and she used to make her 5-year-old brother be the student.
She worked in Boston schools, teaching science and spanish in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades, at Fessenden School in Newton, and in Weston. She has been a teacher for 35 years. This is her first time being a principal.
"This is my favorite elementary school I've been a principal of, so far," she said recently while she was being interviewed in the Cunniff library.
Dr. Crimmin said she does not have a favorite student or teacher, but she she says, "The teachers [at the Cunniff] are some of the best teachers I've ever worked with."
Her favorite football team is the New England Patriots and she says she has a "nephew who looks like Tom Brady."
She is married and has three children and a beagle named Phoebe, who "everyone thinks is part of the family, but who is not very bright."
The Cunniff students have already learned a lot about Principal Crimmin since she started in September, and they are only going to get to know each other better.
(Story reported and written by Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Fatima B., Alexis C., Timmy C., Hailey D., Meagan K., Michaela K., Jie Sen L., Eva M., Beth P., Emari S., Brianna S., Isabella V., PeterA., Joseph B., Shay D., Brendan G., Shariel J., Jake M., Arianna P., Lauren A., Yassmine B., Ryan L., Sana S., Caileigh S., Dyanne B., Sam C., Shamaelle J., Jia Yi L., Sean L., James M., Giovanni R., Julian R., Asad S., Christina V., Zachary B., Kira C., Jacob D., Brenden D., Sophia G., Michael M., Eoin M., Khaled B., Charlotte D., and Matthew M.)
--Oct. 20,2010--
Spring Fling tonight!
By ASHLEY M., SHARIEL J., SHAMA J.,
ELIZABETH A., and SOPHIA G.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
The Cunniff School is having a party!
The Cunniff PTO is setting up Spring Fling. It will be held Friday, June 18, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. behind the Cunniff School.
Spring fling is free! There will be fun and exciting games, food, and lots more. There will be a big inflatable obstacle course and slide and other fun and exciting thing in the field including a tattoo booth. There will be a fast-pitch booth and a DJ. There will be food and water.
You may bring games, drinks, and blankets, if you would like to.
The PTO will be selling pizza slices for $1 each.
Have fun! See you there!
--June 18, 2010--
Cunniff School second-graders Anthia Vrahlioti (left) and Katelynn O’Connor pose with their winning essays
at the Curiosity Awards ceremony at MIT May 2.
The write stuff O'Connor, Vrahliotis honored for science essays
By RYAN O.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporter
Two second-graders from Mrs. Sauder’s class, Katelynn O’Connor and Anthia Vrahlioti, were winners of the Cambridge Science Festival 2010 Curiosity Awards.
All of the students in Mrs. Sauder’s class wrote essays about something they were curious about. All of those essays were entered into the competition, and Katelynn’s and Anthia’s entries were chosen.
Read the second-graders’s winning entries below!
On Sunday, May 2, Katelynn and Anthia attended the Curiosity Award ceremony held at MIT, where their work was showcased.
Katelynn said, “I was really excited when I got there!”
The ceremony included a brunch and exhibition of all winning entries.
Congratulations to them both!
Sharks Teeth
By Anthia Vrahliotis, age 7
Is it true that if a shark loses a tooth another one grows in? Yes it is true! I learned it from a library in a book called Sharks. I learned many people are afraid of sharks, but most sharks don’t attack people. Did you know sharks teeth break off easily? Sharks swim by swinging their tails from side to side. Do you know a shark may wear out and regrow a thousand teeth during a lifetime? And that’s all for today’s essay.
Pluto The Dwarf Planet
By Katelynn O’Connor, age 8
Why is Pluto not a planet? Why is Pluto cold too? I am curious because it used to be a planet. I read Updated Pluto Dwarf Planet by Christine Taylor Butler. Pluto is not a planet anymore because it is too small. Most of Pluto’s pictures are painted by artists. Big space telescopes can barely see it because Pluto is so small. Pluto is the farthest from the sun. I wonder if there are any other dwarf planets?
Shannon Sauder (middle) poses with Anthia Vrahliotis (left)
and Katelynn O'Connor in her Cunniff classroom.
--June 8, 2010--
You can do it, Miss D!
Kindergarten teacher publishes first book, prepares for wedding
By RENEE S., SHAMA J., LUKE M., CAILEIGH S., CHRISTINE Z.,
RYAN L., DYANNE B., AYMEN B., JACOB D., SOPHIA G., BRYAN H.,
MICHAEL M., and ZACHARY P.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
Allison DiDomenico is very busy.
DiDomenico, a kindergarten teacher in Room 116 at the Cunniff School in Watertown, has just published her first book and is getting married this summer.
DiDomenico – or Miss D. – has been a teacher for six years and at the Cunniff for three. Her students think she is nice.
Last month she published, “You Can Do It, Fiona!” which she wrote and illustrated. She said it took her about a month to write it. She said she wrote it because she wants to make kids be themselves.
When asked how it feels to have her words in print, she said, “It feels great.”
The book is about a fox that wants to be on a poodle soccer team and tries to dress up as a poodle. The fox does not get on the team. But when the fox practices a lot, she makes it on the team.
The book is for kids 3 to 9 years old, but everyone can read it.
“The book is for all ages because it talks about being yourself and everyone can relate to that,” Miss D. said.
She has already read it to the Cunniff kindergarten classes. She said her favorite book is “Is Your Mama A Llama?”
Her students say there were some characters in the story, like a bear, that did not make it into the final book. She said she knew she wanted poodles to be in the book, but then she listed all of the other animals before she decided on a fox to be Fiona.
Miss D. went to Merrimack College and studied teaching and had a minor in studio art. Then she got her Masters in teaching at Cambridge College.
On July 10, Miss D. is going to get married to Jeff Lane, who sells software. They are going to get married in Cambridge and have the reception at the Park Plaza.
She said she will be coming back to the Cunniff in September.
Cunniff Kids News reporters pose with Marisa Petrillo (back left) and Susie Hughes (second from right), this year's Cunniff P.T.O. presidents.
Working together
Comedy Night the latest event staged by Cunniff P.T.O.
JAROD D., OLIVIA L., JAKE M., and ASHLEY S.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
Susie Hughes and Marisa Petrillo are the Cunniff School P.T.O. presidents this year.
The P.T.O. is a group of parents and teachers that set up the field trips and other seasonal events at the school.
There are a lot of P.T.O. positions open for next year.
The group meets the first Tuesday of every month at the Cunniff School library and all are welcome!
One of the events was an open skate for the people at the Cunniff, Hosmer, and Lowell schools March 24. The P.T.O had a raffle and snacks were for sale.
The next event is the third annual Comedy Night and Silent Auction. It will be on Thursday, April 8, at Hibernian Hall, 151 Watertown St., Watertown, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 and will be available at the door. Comic Dena Blizzard will be the star of the show.
There are many special items up for auction this year, many with teachers, including pizza with Mr. Billhardt., skating with Ms. Fitzpatrick, munchkins with Ms. Munger, and a pirate treasure hunt with Ms. DiIeso.
There are more than 50 other auction items, including Red Sox tickets, Patriots tickets, a tour of Fox 25, cooking lessons, gift certificates, and passes to amusement parks.
Framed class portraits are also for sale at $35.
For information on the Comedy Night and Silent Auction, call Nancy Muldrew (617-923-9215) or Susie Hughes (617-923-3552).
--April 7, 2010--
Billhardt
to leave
Principal discusses future with CKN reporters
after spending five years at Cunniff Elementary
Stephen Billhardt is leaving the Cunniff School, but even he doesn’t know where he is going next.
“I don’t know exactly, but I want to work with children and families. I’m going to look around, but I’m not going to start looking until the summer,” he said. “I want to explore different places and cultures.
“I would like to explore working at a homeless shelter and with kids. And I’d like to spend more time with everyone -- and less time in my office.”
Mr. Billhardt answered questions about his decision during a news conference Tuesday with Cunniff Kids News reporters. Mr. Billhardt announced last Thursday that he was leaving the Cunniff after five years as its principal.
He grew up in Connecticut. He likes all sports, including ice hockey, bowling, and bike riding. His favorite subject growing up was art, but he said he wasn’t very good at it. He said he became interested in working in education when he was a Big Brother to a boy in Pennsylvania. He said he has spent the last 16 years as a principal, and the last 22 in education.
He said he is not going to leave until the school year is over in June. He was asked if the rest of the spring will be any different at the Cunniff.
“I will extend recess an hour each day and there will be candy for snacks ... and then I wake up from my dream,” he said with a laugh.
He said everything will be the same while he is here. The students will still take MCAS and go on field trips. He said the school might also celebrate Arbor Day this year and the students might plant saplings.
He said he doesn’t know who the next principal will be. He said Dr. Ann Koufman, the district superintendent, will make the choice. But Mr. Billhardt promised that no mean substitute teachers will get the job.
“I’ve already been invited to come and visit you next year,” Mr. Billhardt said. “But I will come back before then.”
(Interview conducted by and story written by Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Julia L., Alexis C., Timmy Ca., Timmy Co., Christine S., Isabella V., Jalen M., Ryan L., Ashley S., Dyanne B.,Sam C., Declan G., Bryan H., Giovanni R., Julian R., Shane S., Jacob D., Sophia G., Michael M., and Eoin M.)
--March 2, 2010—
Open for business Cunniff School store offers something for everybody
By ARIANNA P. and RYAN L.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
Jump ropes, bracelets, and much more! Mrs. Rono's class is opening the school store again!
The Cunniff School's school store will be in the second- and third-grade hallway, in front of Room 161. It will be open from 8 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. Items range in cost between 10 cents and $1.
Hurry up! The sale ends on Friday, Feb. 12!
--Feb. 11, 2010--
Working together Fifth-graders make, sell bookmarks to aid Haiti
JULIA L. and SHANNON M.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
The fifth grade is having a bookmark sale to help the people in Haiti. The bookmarks are $1 each and are being sold in the Cunniff School lobby through Friday from 8-8:15 a.m.
The goal is to make $500 and after two days the class made about $300. All of the money that the students make will go to the people in Haiti, which just had an earthquake.
Every single fifth-grader is involved. There are six teams of students: workers (who make the bookmarks); sellers (who sell the bookmarks); advertising; bankers; stock-keepers; and managers.
So far the students have made 200 bookmarks. If you want, you can get your bookmark personalized. All you have to do is place an order. They can be any color and any design.
The fifth-graders hope this bookmark sale will help many people.
--Jan. 26, 2010--
A few of their favorite things (2009)
What was the best part of 2009? It depends on the person. The staff of the Cunniff Kids News asked many people -- students, teachers, family, and friends -- one question: “What was your favorite thing that happened in 2009?”
Here are some of their answers:
“My favorite part about it was going to Six Flags. I went on a roller coaster and it was fun, and I didn’t throw up.”
-- Rebecca S., fourth-grader
“I went to Gore Estate and collected acorns.”
-- Teagan, sister
“Going to Florida.”
-- Michael Shaughnessy, electrician
“Going to York Beach to visit friends.”
-- Tia P., fourth-grader
“When I went to my beach house for the summer.”
-- Sam
“When I went to Florida to visit my grandparents.”
-- TJ P., first-grader
“Going on a family vacation on the Disney cruise.”
-- Jimmy Lentini, manager of Bose
“I think going to Ireland.”
-- Liam W., ninth-grader
“Vacationing in Ipswich.”
-- Dave McDonald, biologist
“Going to the Harry Potter Exhibit [at Boston’s Museum of Science].”
-- Randy K., father
“Going to the Harry Potter Exhibit with the Cunniff Kids News.”
-- Isabella V., fourth-grader
“When I visited New York City.”
-- Chris Paone, father
“My favorite thing that happened in 2009 was getting a weekend getaway to Connecticut.”
-- Janis Ann Tisor, Tufts Health Plan manager
“Spending the summer with my children in Moultonborough, N.H.I enjoyed spending quality time with each child. We fished, read books, went running, hiking, swimming, and spending lazy days on the beach.”
-- Patricia Connors, instructional assistant
“I traveled to Mexico in April and it was my favorite vacation ever! I went snorkeling in the ocean and swam with lots of colorful fish. The best part was swimming with a sea turtle. I had such a fun time I am going back this January!”
-- Sharon Hemenway, researcher
“When my cousins came from Newfoundland and we celebrated our birthdays together.”
-- Ann Gilman
“My favorite thing was that I was able to take a trip to Ireland to visit with my family. While I was there, my parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. It was a very special celebration. It was the first time in 13 years all five of us brothers and sisters had been together at home.”
-- Marilyn O’Connor, mother
“My favorite thing was when I went on vacation to Portugal over the summer. I played mini golf on the roof of the hotel I stayed in.”
-- Ciara O., kindergartner
“I went to Italy.”
-- Elizabeth Uccello, teacher
“My favorite thing that happened in 2009 was going to Canobie Lake Park with school.”
-- Charlotte V., seventh-grader
“My favorite things were starting high school and going to D.C.”
-- Brenna M., ninth-grader
“Going to high school.”
-- William
“My son’s high school graduation.”
-- Michael Kenny
“Finishing college.”
-- Jeff Corbett, awesome person
“When [my daughter] Brenna got the principal award. My second one was when [my son] Jimmy got on the honor roll.”
-- Peggy McDonald, teacher
“Winning my first wrestling match.”
-- Jimmy M., seventh-grader
“My brother got the bronze medal.”
-- Luke M., third-grader
“My favorite thing that happened in 2009 was going to a swim meet then going out to dinner.”
-- Tim McDonay, Gillette chemist
“Dancing with my dance studio at the Boston Celtics game.”
-- Kaitlyn M., seventh-grader
“Going to Gillette Stadium for a Revolution soccer game with my whole soccer team.”
-- Shannon M., fifth-grader
“Going to the Cape and driving faster than everyone in a Go-Kart.”
-- Marie Gendron, mother of a fourth-grader and a seventh-grader
“I had a very fun summer and spent lots of time on the beach. I played lots of volleyball with my friends. I went swimming and I even learned how to surf.”
-- Laurel Kagan, clinical research coordinator
“My favorite part was when I got all my bills paid, and because I kept my job after others didn’t.”
-- Paulina Saroufim, mother
“My favorite thing that happened to me in 2009 was when I helped my friend at a yard sale and hung out with my friends. Also going to Fenway Park.”
-- Natilie S., seventh-grader
“Easter.”
-- Ashley S., second-grader
“Christmas.”
-- Brianna W., second-grader
“Having a new baby cousin.”
-- Meagan K., fourth-grader
“My favorite thing that happened in 2009 was having a baby named Lily.”
-- John G. Moudarri, ADP payroll/HR consultant
“When I became a registered nurse in April.”
-- Fran Paone, mother
“My mom was sick and now she is getting better.”
-- Carol
“When I went to my nephew’s wedding.”
-- Mark
“Making a snowman.”
-- Maeve W., kindergartner
“Making honor roll.”
-- Bryanna L., 10th-grader
“My husband’s surgery went perfect and he is doing great, and things are going great.”
-- Beth Amedio, mother
“My surgery went very successful.”
-- John Amedio, truck driver for a lumber yard
“Horseback riding in Jamaica with Timmy and Catherine.”
-- Nick Camelio, manager at Salary.com
“My favorite thing that happened in 2009 was moving to a new house and taking a trip to Rhode Island.”
-- Danika Johnsky, teacher
“My favorite thing that happened in 2009 was moving into a [new house] so that I can see [my neighbor’s] cute face every day.”
-- Marci Jean Lanzoni, Tufts Health Plan project manager
“My favorite thing in 2009 was that I made a new friend.”
-- Katie G., third-grader
“I was able to go to New Hampshire and to see my Dad’s and Mom’s rebuilt Rhode Island house near the ocean, but it was too cold to go swimming.”
-- Olivia L., third-grader
“Playing with my friend.”
-- Bruce, kindergartner
“Spending time with my grandkids.”
-- Grandpa, scientist
“The inauguration of Barack Obama.”
-- Kim MacNeill, mother
“Meeting the president of Ireland.”
-- Cathy Morrison, unemployed
“Riding my motorcycle.”
-- Gordon Shaw, grandfather
“I went on a cruise.”
-- Carol Shaw, grandmother
“My birthday.”
-- Alex, brother
“We went on a family vacation to Disney World.”
-- Joe Morrissey, father
“I took a trip to Ireland and really, really enjoyed it.”
-- Fergal Breannock, engineer
“My favorite part of 2009 was the summer. I took a lot of trips to Cape Cod. I really enjoyed going to the beach.”
-- Barbara Breannock, employee at pharmaceutical company
“I had my best friend visit for two weeks with her family. Both families got to vacation together.”
-- Patricia S. Meara, office manager
“Building the deck on the house.”
-- Gary Murphy, parent
“Well, I went to concerts, I liked those.”
-- Elizabeth A., fifth-grader
“My family reunion in Cape Cod.”
-- Patricia Murphy, parent
“Going down to Cape Cod with some friends I went to school with.”
-- Sheryl L., stay-at-home mom
“Going to New Hampshire during the summer.”
-- Meghan M., 10th-grader
“My favorite thing was going to Disney World.”
-- Mom, mother
“I went to the Bahamas.”
-- Brian Leonard, Shaw’s supermarket
“I won $1,000.”
-- Nanny, homemaker
“Getting my cat, Bluebell.”
-- Julia L. fifth-grader
“My daughter got married.”
-- Dr. McKenzie, doctor
“I went to a concert in August at Patriots place.”
-- Ashley, 11th-grader
“When I got my braces off, Oct. 13.”
-- Meghan, 11th-grader
“We launched several products to the market.”
-- David Bonyuet, engineer
“I kept my job.”
-- Damaris Bonyuet, billing clerk
“I got my driver’s license.”
-- Darien B., 11th-grader
“When I bought my house.”
-- Shannon Sauder, teacher
“When I was in the Waltham Day parade. People threw lollipops at us.”
-- Rose M., second-grader
“Being in the Watertown Memorial Day parade riding on the hockey truck.”
-- Ryan L., second-grader
“Buying the Xbox 360 Elite.”
-- Liam M., second-grader
“I got a DS.”
-- Melanie S., second-grader
“Getting a broken arm.”
-- Toni C.
“Kathryn’s first birthday.”
-- Sean L., first-grader
“Going to the circus and sitting in the luxury boxes.”
-- John Vitti, person who runs Cunniff Kids News
“When I went to Canobie Lake Park.”
-- Anthia V.
“When I went on a cruise to Bermuda.”
-- Lauren A., second-grader
“Having summer vacation.”
-- Bella B.
“Our family camping trip along the Saco.”
-- Rachel Loughran, mother
“My favorite thing was the birth of my grandchild, Emma Theresa, born July 18. It’s my first grandchild. She lights up our lives with love and happiness.”
-- Lois Flinn, grandmother
(Story reported by Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Brian A., Daniel D., Julia L., Domenic M., Shannon M., Ryan O., Patrick W., Alexis C., Timmy Ca., Timmy Co., Julia C., Owen G., Meagan K., Tia P., Beth P., Christine S., Ryan S., Renee S., Isabella V., Elizabeth A., Catherine C., Jalen M., John M., Arianna P., Mairead W., Ryan L., Ashley S., Dyanne B., Sam C., Declan G., Bryan H., TJ P., Giovanni R., Julian R., Shane S., Jacob D., Sophia G., Michael M., and Eoin M.)
-- Dec. 31, 2009--
Don't lose your place
Scholastic Book Fair returns to Cunniff's main stage
By SHANNON M. and PATRICK W.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
If you like interesting books, colorful pens, and cute pencils, then you should check out the Scholastic Book Fair in the Cunniff School's cafetorium.
The Book Fair has book series, activity books, cookbooks, and Christmas books for sale. The most popular book sold are "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" books, "Dog Days" and Do-It-Yourself.
Other big sellers are the posters. There are puppy posters, "Star Wars" posters, sports, and Jonas Brothers’ posters.
Each year, the Cunniff PTO sets up Book Fairs. It is held once in the fall and again in the spring.
This week, the Book Fair will be open during Bingo Night, Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. On Wednesday, Nov. 18, it will be open from 7:50 a.m. to 8:20 a.m. and in the afternoon from noon to 1 p.m. On Thursday, Nov. 19, and Friday, Nov. 20, it will be open from 7:50 to 8:20 a.m., and in the afternoon from 2:20 to 2:45 p.m.
--Nov. 18, 2009--
Reporters from the Cunniff Kids News met with (left to right) Whitney, Lynne, and Taylor in the offices of Charlesbridge Publishing in Watertown Square.
The story about the stories
Charlesbridge brings books to life in Watertown
The Mr. Potato Heads sat on the bookcase shelf, next to all of the books ever published by Charlesbridge Publishing.
The company started in 1980, publishing text books. Now they publish all kinds of books, including kids’ picture books, books for babies, nature and science books, and chapter books. There are about 30 people who work at Charlesbridge Publishing in third-floor offices in Watertown Square across from the fire station.
(Story continues below)
Saturday, Oct. 17 A day to celebrate books and friends of Cunniff Kids News!
9 a.m.-1 p.m. -- Charlesbridge Publishing Fall Warehouse Sale
117 Beaver St., Waltham.
Dozens of titles for readers 0-12! Paperbacks just $1, hardcover only $2!
For information, call 617-926-0329
Taylor, who works in marketing, said, “The first books were textbooks, but we got bored of that, so we started publishing picture books [in 1989].”
The first picture book they published was The Icky Bug Alphabet Book, illustrated by the Icky Bug Man, Ralph Masiello. That book is in the bookcase with the Mr. Potato Heads in the editorial library. The company has made about 400 books since it started.
Charlesbridge publishes books twice a year -- in the “spring” (Feb. 1) and the “fall” (July 1). It makes about 30 books a year. The amount of copies depends on the book. Sometimes it makes 10,000, 7,500, or 5,000 copies. Sometimes the book is made in paperback and hard cover at the same time.
Lynne works in editorial. She said the editors are the first people to work with authors. Editorial is in charge of fact checking.
“We especially do it for science books,’’ said Lynne. “Part of our job is to make sure that everything is correct.’’
The editors work closely with the design department. Whitney, who works in design, said design organizes pages and works with the illustrators. When the book is ready, the sales and marketing department makes sure the public knows about the books.
Not just one person at Charlesbridge decides to make a book. A team meeting with all of the editors and designers picks the books.
About 200 pieces a month come from authors who want Charlesbridge to read and publish their stories. They go into a “slush pile.”
“Sometimes there are stories and authors that are really, really good,’’ said Lynne.
“What REALLY happened to Humpty’’ was a typewritten story by Jeanie Franz Ransom that came into the slush pile in 2003. “Humpty” went back and forth with the author four times. It took six years to publish. Each project is different, Lynne said, but the average time for a book to be published is three years.
“Humpty” is a funny story about Humpty Dumpty, so Charlesbridge wanted drawings that fit the story. Whitney said design has its own slush pile and it has a file with pictures. She said design tries to match the story with the illustrator.
“We said, ‘Who is a funny illustrator?’ That's how we found Stephen Axelsen,” said Whitney. “We sent him the story and he said, ‘It could be like a comic book.’
“He sent character sketches and he had a good idea of what it would look like.”
Whitney said design determines where words and art will go on each page. Design has to also pick a font for the cover and the words inside. A font is what the letters look like.
Whitney said design works with the illustrator. The artist sends along a first set of drawings and then a second set, and then sends “final art,” which is scanned onto computers and sent to Singapore. Many of Charlesbridge’s books are printed in China.
Taylor said one year before the book is ready, marketing sits down and makes a plan.
“We get it to the bookstores and tell people about it,’’ Taylor said.
Book are sent out for reviews to newspapers and magazines, and authors do interviews on talk shows, like “Oprah,’” and news shows, like “The Today Show.’’
Books are sold to bookstores, schools, museum gift shops, parents, teachers, schools, and libraries. Marketing also makes posters, T-shirts, bookmarks, and catalogues.
Whitney, Taylor, and Lynne had a hard time picking a favorite Charlesbridge book. Taylor and Whitney had the same favorite new book, “Unite or Die,” which is about the Constitution.
“It's drawn as a play and it has really funny drawings,’’ said Whitney. “And it has information about history, which is my favorite subject.’’
(Story reported and written by Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Charlotte V., Shannon M., Caroline D., Owen G., Jie Sen L., Tia P., Beth P., Christine S., Renee S., Isabella V., Shay D., Julia F., Mairead W., Ryan L., Rose M., Dyanne B., Sam C., Jia Yi L., and TJ P.)
(For information about Charlesbridge Publishing and its titles, go to www.charlesbridge.com.)
--April 3, 2009--
Spring Fling’s just the thing
Free Cunniff outdoor celebration on for June 18
By MEAGAN K. and DANIEL D.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters
The Spring Fling’s back and better than ever!
(Plus, it’s free.)
Marie Gendron and Marisa Petrillo are the chair people this year. Marie has ensured reporters that this year’s Spring Fling will be the best that the Cunniff has ever had.
There will be a DJ. Some of the other events are a giant slide, an obstacle course, a photo booth, and a fast-pitch baseball game.
The Spring Fling will be on Thursday, June 18, from 5-7 p.m. The rain date is June 19. It will be held on the field behind the school. All Cunniff students and families are invited.
Families can bring a picnic or preorder pizza on forms that will be sent out a week before the event.
--June 2, 2009--
Stage set for Book Fair
Cunniff Cafetorium to host weeklong sale
By SHAY D. and MAIREAD W.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters There will be another exciting Scholastic Book Fair from June 1 to June 5. The Book Fair will take place on the stage in the Cunniff Cafetorium.
There will be a lot of good books for sale. During school, classrooms will be able to go to the Book Fair.
There will be nonfiction books, picture books, chapter books, fantasy books, and even cookbooks. There will also be trinkets, posters, and toys for sale.
The Scholastic Book Fair takes place two times each year and it is a fund-raiser for the Cunniff PTO (Parent Teacher Organization).
The last Book Fair was Dec. 1-5. The most popular book then was “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.” What book do you think will be the most popular this time?
(Schedule for the Scholastic Book Fair: Monday, June 1, 2:20–3 p.m.; Tuesday, June 2, 7:50–8:30 a.m. and 2:20–3 p.m.; Wednesday, June 3, 7:50–8:30 a.m. and 2:20–3 p.m.; Thursday, June 4, 7:50–8:30 a.m., 2:20–3 p.m., and a Special Family Event at 6:30-8 p.m.; Friday, June 5, 7:50–8:30 a.m. and 2:20–3 p.m.) (Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Shannon M., Owen G., Meagan K., Jie Sen L., Tia P., Beth P., Isabella V., Elizabeth A., Julia F., Ryan L., Jia Yi L., and TJ P. contributed to this report.)
--May 28, 2009--
Teachers on the move
Four grade switches planned for Cunniff in September
By SHANNON M. and PATRICK W.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporters Mena Ciarlone, who is now a teacher in fourth grade at the Cunniff School, is going to be a teacher in fifth grade in September.
“It will be a wonderful experience,” said Ciarlone, who has taught fifth grade before for one year. “Some of the same students I will already know will be with me next year, so I will know what they’re strong at and what they need to work on.”
Ciarlone said she is very excited to be working with the other fifth-grade teacher, Erin Sees.
Three other teachers will be moving grades: Ann Palermo (fifth to fourth), Christine Rono (fifth to second), and Elizabeth Uccello (second to first-second).
Ciarlone will be keeping the same room, Room 210, but she will give out different projects. For example, she won’t be having the rock and mineral museums.
Some of the same students in fourth grade will be moving up with her to fifth grade. She’s moved up a grade before with the same students, from third to fourth, but not from fourth to fifth. Ciarlone said she thinks it will be a challenge.
Maybe it will be a challenge for the students who get her as a teacher.
--May 22, 2009--
Funny you should ask ...
Tickets for annual Comedy Night fund-raiser on sale
By DANIEL D.
Cunniff Kids News staff reporter Guess who's going to make you laugh your pants off?
It's Frank Santorelli, from the "Sopranos." You can catch him Thursday, April 30, at a fund-raiser for Cunniff Elementary School. The comedy night and silent auction will be at American Legion Post 440 at 295 California St., Newton.
Each ticket is only $15 -- but they are for adults only!
There will also be an auction, including tickets to Santa's Village, gift cards to stores and restaurants, and a self-portrait poster from each class. You can also win a lunch Cunniff principal Stephen Billhardt.
Tricia Connors, who said she did not go to the comedy night last year, was at the table in the Cunniff lobby buying her tickets.
"I'm looking forward to having some laughs,'' she said.
So if you are looking for some laughs, get your tickets now. Tickets are available now for Cunniff families only. Tickets will be available to the public after April 1 or at the door.
(For tickets or information, contact Susie Hughes by e-mail at susiehughes1@gmail.comor by phone at 617-923-3552, or by contacting a PTO representative.)
acter that was in Woody’s round-up.
work with children and families. I’m going to look around, but I’m not going to start looking until the summer,” he said. “I want to explore different places and cultures.
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