HKMS Family Newsletter

Covering the week of 9/2 - 9/5

A Message from Dr. Clapp
Classroom Peeks
HKMS Happenings
Policy Highlight
Get Involved!
Community Clicks
Upcoming Events

Dear HKMS Families,

What an incredible second week it has been at Keller! The HKMS campus is buzzing with activity, learning, and positive energy. I couldn't be prouder of how smoothly the start of the school year is unfolding. The smooth transition is a testament to the hard work of so many. A massive shout-out to our HKMS teachers and paraeducators! Their passion for teaching and the individualized care they provide set a very high bar. Likewise, thank you to all HKMS staff who ensure the building runs perfectly and who provide essential support every single day. Your efforts are noticed and deeply appreciated. And, of course, a huge round of applause for our students! They are showing up ready to learn, making new connections, and demonstrating the kind of maturity and responsibility that defines our school. They've made this second week feel like a confident stride into the year, not a hesitant step. We are so excited about the momentum we've built. Thank you for your partnership. Let's keep this momentum going!

Next week you are invited to come "back-to-school" yourselves! Our annual open house will be on Wednesday from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. We will start promptly at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria with an overview of the night and a message from the PTO. Mrs. Mohr and I will provide some insights about the amazing middle school journey you are on and how to give your child a competitive advantage in 2025! After our opening, you will follow your child's daily schedule. All students are filling out personalied open house schedule for their parents and guardians on Monday during ELT. They are being asked to bring them home and give them to you THAT NIGHT! You will need this schedule in order to visit your child's correct classes during our open house event. On Monday night, please remind your child to give this open house schedule to you so you are prepared for Wednesday night's event. Open House is a great time to get to know the team of teachers working with your children and a bit about what they will be learning this year.

Below you will find some great "peeks" into our classrooms, "happenings" that features new staff, extracurricular opportunities, and some pictures from recess this week, as well as ways to "get involved," "community clicks," a "policy highlight," and "upcoming events." Enjoy!

Sincerely,

Steve Clapp, Ed.D. & Annie Mohr

Principal Assistant Principal

Document cameras are great instructional tools that allow teachers to model practices and techniques they want students to use. Mrs. Piacente uses her doc cam with great success as students set up their science notebooks and work to understand the value of qualitative and quantitative analysis!

Mrs. Brodeur's mathematicians are taking on plotting points on a coordinate plain. Making sure to plot the X and Y axis correctly is tricky work. In the coordinate plane (8,-5), 8 is the X axis and must be plotted first (this is the horizontal line) . The -5 is the Y axis (vertical line) is plotted second. Mrs. Brodeur has some great memory tricks to help students remember. "You have to walk (move left to right) before you fly (up and down)." "You have to walk across the hotel lobby, before you take the elevator up or down."

In 6th grade Spanish classes today, students played the traditional card game "Mano nerviosa" to practice numbers. Often students can count in Spanish but they can't always identify each individual number out of sequence. This is a fun way to make sure you actually know the numbers. Students played it with traditional cards from Spain, but they realized that you could also play it with the playing cards we usually see here in the US.

It's annotation training time in 7th grade ILA! Mr. Rogers teaches students how to use coding to annotate text and pull more meaning from their reading.

Seventh Grade social studies classes are on a geography scavenger hunt to test out their map skills!

An awesome tradition lives on in Mr. Jockers' 8th grade ILA class...the pun of the day! As students learn more about the parts of speech, specifically homophones and Latin roots, they apply this understanding to solving puns!

Science journaling has begun! Mr. de St. Croix's classes are diving into how to record their data and then make an analysis of that data. They will maintain these science journals throughout the school year creating an invaluable resource that documents their learning journey.

Above: It was a "choose your own athletic adventure" on Thursday in PE! Students had a choice between ping pong, badminton, volleyball and basketball. There was something for everyone!

Below: What do you call a combination of basketball and ultimate frisbee? Ultimate Ball which students played today!

Video.mov

The first trimester students in Mr. Fearn's PLTW classes have the honor to be the first users of the brand new Mac lab!

New HKMS Staff!

This year Keller welcomes 12 new staff members! Most of the positions are new, one is from a retirement, one from a transfer, and another from a resignation. Here are their biographies and pictures so you'll get to know them!

Romy Castillo: SPED Paraeducator

Ms. Castillo brings a versatile skill set and a wealth of experience to our organization. With a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design from Southern Connecticut State University, Romy has a strong foundation in creative visual communication, which is evident in her freelance work creating logos, promotional materials, and digital art for various clients.

Her professional background also includes significant experience in both education and healthcare. For the past several years, Romy has worked as an ABA Paraprofessional, supporting the educational and behavioral needs of students with autism. Prior to this, she served in dental offices as a Receptionist, Dental Assistant, and even Office Manager, where she managed everything from financial spreadsheets and inventory to patient care and communication.

Ms. Castillo is a fluent Spanish speaker and has a history of volunteer work, having served as a dental assistant and translator for the Mission of Mercy.

Lou Dortenzio: Math Paraeducator

Mr. Dortenzio brings a strong background in education and a passion for social studies to our organization. He recently earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Connecticut, with a concentration in Secondary Social Studies Education. During his master's program, Mr. Dortenzio even traveled to the UK to study and teach, gaining international experience at both the University of Nottingham and Farnborough Spencer Academy.

His practical experience includes long-term substitute teaching at Helen Keller Middle School, where he developed project-based lesson plans and resources for 7th-grade social studies. Louis has also served as a student teacher at E.O. Smith High School, where he took on a lead role in U.S. History and Criminal Justice courses. His dedication to learning and his students is clear from his experience as an intern at both the Connecticut Historical Society and the UK National Civil War Center.

Louis's blend of academic achievement, dedication to students, and hands-on teaching experience makes him a wonderful addition to our team.”

Missy Hall: Paraeducator

Missy comes to us with a background in customer service and management. For over a decade, she was an Assistant Manager at Rite Aid, where she was responsible for overseeing daily operations, leading her team, and ensuring excellent customer service. Prior to that, Missy worked as a merchandiser for Crossmark.

She has a long history of enjoying work that involves helping and engaging with people, having previously worked at Stew Leonard's and Easthill Woods Retirement Living, where she focused on resolving issues and brightening people's days. Missy also brings a unique and valuable skill set as a speaker of Sign Language.

Missy took 13 years away from the workforce to raise her family and build a home, a period she feels helped her develop invaluable skills.

Donnel Lewis: Behavior Technician

Donnel brings a unique combination of experience to our team, blending a background in education, athletics, and a strong work ethic. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Sports & Exercise Psychology from The University of the West of England in Bristol, where he also played football and was part of a national championship-winning team. He previously earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Worcester State University. Donnel's professional experience includes working as a Paraprofessional Educator at Derby Public Schools, where he supported students' academic and emotional needs, co-taught lessons, and collaborated with teachers and parents.

He also has a diverse work history, including roles as an auto technician and a student worker supervisor at Worcester State University's Wellness Center, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to a variety of tasks.

A lifelong athlete, Donnel's resume highlights his discipline and perseverance as a student-athlete, having played football in both high school and college. He was also a state champion in both football and track and field in high school, which he feels demonstrates his ability to tackle any obstacle.

Katherine Lamothe: Paraeducator

Katherine comes to us with a background in both education and customer service. Most recently, she has been working as a 1:1 paraeducator at Bridgeport Learning Center, supporting a middle school student's learning and assisting with a kindergarten student. She also worked as a substitute paraeducator in Trumbull Public Schools, primarily in special education roles for students in grades K-8.

Before her recent work in education, Katherine had a long and successful career as a bookseller at Barnes & Noble for nearly two decades. In this role, she focused on customer service, ran children's story times, and sold books and other products.

Katherine holds a Master of Library & Information Science from Southern Connecticut State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Lisa Markelon: Paraeducator

Lisa is joining us with over two decades of experience in education. She has a deep background in literacy and is a strong advocate for The Science of Reading. Lisa has served as an ELA Instructional Coach in Bethel and a Literacy Coach in Stratford, providing side-by-side coaching, facilitating professional learning communities, and using data to plan targeted instruction. She has also worked as a Literacy Consultant and teacher in Trumbull, Bethany, and Bridgeport.

Beyond her coaching and classroom experience, Lisa has a diverse skill set, including her work as a private tutor and experience in business development. She is a lifelong learner, holding a Master of Science and a 6th-Year Degree in Reading and Language Arts from Southern Connecticut State University.

Lisa is known for being friendly, flexible, and an excellent communicator. We are excited to have her expertise and collaborative spirit on our team!

Chris Nagy: IT Paraeducator

Chris brings over 20 years of experience in the electrical field, working on residential, commercial, and industrial projects. He is a Journeyman Electrician and a working member of IBEW LU 488, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union in Monroe, CT. His most recent project was at the new Bassick High School in Bridgeport, CT.

In addition to his work as an electrician, Chris has experience in customer service and food service, including a "do everything" position at Nauti Dolphin Pizzeria. Chris is a high school graduate of Staples High School and attended the University of Connecticut and Colorado State University.

Steve Rountos: Grade 8 Math Teacher

Steve joins us with a diverse background that blends finance and education. During his early career in the investment consulting industry, he discovered a love of math and teaching and transitioned to a career in education. He spent nearly a decade as a high school teacher, most of this time at Joel Barlow, teaching everything from Calculus to web design and business courses. Most recently, Steve was busy as the "Chief Home Officer" for his family, managing a three year transcontinental move to and from Germany, providing a steady source of support and guidance for his children.

Steve holds a Master of Science in Mathematics from Fairfield University, a Master of Educational Technology from Boise State University, a Master of Science in Education from the University of Bridgeport, and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Marketing from Boston College.

Outside of work, Steve is deeply involved in his community, volunteering as the Chairman of the Investment Committee for his church. As a lifelong learner, he currently is working on a postbaccalaureate in Computer Science through Oregon State University.

Vienna Teixeira: Special Education Teacher

Vienna is an accomplished educator with a Master of Science in Special Education from the University of Southern Maine and a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Collaborative Education from Southern Connecticut State University. In 2024, she was recognized as Teacher of the Year at New Salem Elementary School in Marshville, NC, a testament to her dedication and skill.

She joins us with extensive experience as a Special Education Teacher, having worked with students with diverse needs, including Autism, Learning Disabilities, and Emotional Disabilities. Vienna is highly skilled in developing and implementing IEPs, analyzing data to track student progress, and collaborating with general education teachers to ensure all students receive the support they need. Her experience also includes co-teaching, designing behavioral plans, and administering educational evaluations.

Beyond the classroom, Vienna has a strong athletic background. She was a captain of the women's field hockey team at Southern Connecticut State University and has coached high school field hockey. She also has experience as a tutor and has volunteered for programs that empower young girls through sports and education.

Caidyn Wachnuik: School Intern

Caidyn Wachnuik joins our team as a dedicated intern with a strong educational background and practical experience. A recent graduate of Sacred Heart University, she majored in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Caidyn's experience includes student teaching at Multicultural Magnet School, where she designed and delivered lessons to 5th-grade students, and extensive clinical work at Dwight Elementary School. She also brings valuable leadership and mentorship skills from her time as the JR Guard Director for Bethel Winterguard and as Co-Captain of the Sacred Heart University Winterguard.

Bringing skills in creativity, communication, and collaboration, Caidyn is a passionate and well-rounded addition to our school community.

Jillian Zuch: 6th Grade Special Education Teacher

Jillian is a dedicated educator with a strong background in both general and special education. She recently graduated cum laude from Marist College with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and dual certification in Childhood Education and Special Education. She holds Initial Educator Certificates in both Connecticut and New York for elementary education and special education.

Her teaching philosophy centers on creating a collaborative, student-centered classroom built on kindness and responsibility. This approach is reflected in her recent experience as a Grade 2 Teacher at East Elementary School, where she built strong relationships and implemented engaging, standards-based instruction. Jillian has also served as a District Building Substitute and a Student Teacher, gaining experience across various grade levels.

In addition to her classroom experience, Jillian has a long history of working with children through the Wilton YMCA, where she held roles from a junior sports specialist to a specialist director, planning and managing all camp activities. An accomplished musician, Jillian also has a minor in music and a passion for singing, piano, and guitar.

Extracurricular Clubs and Activities!

HKMS Recess!

Last week we mentioned the new bike/scooter helmet laws that go into effect October 1st. We are seeing a tick up of e-bikes to campus. There are also new laws that regulate the use of these "vehicles." EPD is aware some of our students may be riding class 3 bikes and have asked us to inform parents and stop allowing them on our campus. Class 1 and 2 are fine for our students to use. Class 3 and unclassified cannot be used by children under 16.

Dear HKMS Parents and Guardians,

The climate of a community lives and breathes in the words we speak, the actions we display and a deep commitment to learning and connecting. Listening...truly listening to our students is the key to continuous growth and improvement of their learning environment. For the past several years, HKMS has run a school climate advisory committee made up of HKMS parent volunteers, HKMS staff volunteers and HKMS student representatives. This committee comes together a few times during the school year to listen to student voices, review climate data from surveys and brainstorm ideas for community improvements. It was an awesome experience these past years and we can't wait to get started for this year!!

We are in need of parent volunteers to be a part of our committee this year.

The committee will meet 5 times total throughout the school year. These meetings will take place during the school day so that students are able to attend.

Please email assistant principal, Annie Mohr if you are interested and able to participate on this committee this year. Her email address is amohr@er9.org.

The magic of HKMS is that we all feel a shared responsibility for the well-being of our students and believe that student voice is the key to creating a supportive and growth-minded learning environment.

Thank you in advance for your consideration of this request.

Sincerely,

Annie