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8
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn February 2013 W E ’ RE ON THE W EB ! ADELPHINYC . ORG President’s Address By Dr. Roy J. Blash Inside this issue: Students of the Month 2 Good News! 2 From the Desk of the Assistant Head of School 3 Professional & Parent of the Month 6 Calendar 8 Adelphi Academy Of Brooklyn Founded 1863 8515 Ridge Boulevard Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, New York 11209-4307 Phone: 718-238-3308 Fax: 718-238-2894 [email protected] Pride ~ Tradition Spirit ~ Excellence setting where the culture is marked by acceptable societal behaviors and politeness. We feel this is essential in our development as a civil school functioning in a civil society. In much the same manner, a basic tenet of the Academy’s Code of Ethics is honesty. We feel as an organization that this quality goes to the heart of what the Academy stands for these past one hundred and fifty years. The rules and regulations governing Adelphi Academy that are enforced have been crafted, reviewed and revised when necessary each year by a faculty committee to ensure their relevance. The digital age has led us to rethink some policy areas such as the bringing to school of cell phones – our policy mandates are based upon what is best for the continuance of the school’s educational mission. In order to achieve our academic goals, the Academy requires a civil climate that will enhance the teacher’s opportunity to teach, as well as each child’s I n order for the Academy to create a caring, responsible and productive school; parents and teachers agree that part of a school’s mission in addition to the teaching of the academics is to teach and illustrate to students what rules to follow so they can become productive citizens of their community. The time is now, if not in school then where? The pathway to a quality education is to create and promote a civil school. Adelphi Academy, Brooklyn takes this challenge as seriously as we do of all our academic endeavors. In a recent magazine article entitled; “Cheating in the 21 st Century ”, an accurate description of student behavior was described. The article mentioned that tests spurred students to cheat for passing and attaining better grades. An alarming quoted statistic noted that fifty percent of all questioned high school students in a recent poll admitted to cheating. The cheating was glancing at another’s paper, plagiarism or the utilization of a digital devise like an I-Phone. The Academy or any school could spend an inordinate amount of time designing an anti-cheating program, without any guarantee that it would be successful. A retiring superintendent of West Point was asked about the honor system utilized and he remarked that “it worked best when under supervision”. The Academy has initiated for many years a preventive strategy which is to create a culture where cheating is not tolerated. The Academy has a zero tolerance policy on cheating and in the school’s code of ethics there is a clear delineation of the consequences of anyone caught cheating. The Academy is vigilant in enforcing this policy as it goes to the core of what a civil school should reflect. The Academy prides itself as a venue that exhibits good manners and common courtesies. We work in a Adelphi Today RESTORING SCHOOL CIVILITY
Transcript of Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn Adelphi Todayadelphiacademy.org/OldSite/news/articles/February...
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
February 2013
W E ’ R E O N T H E W E B !
A D E L P H I N Y C . O R G
President’s Address By Dr. Roy J. Blash
Inside this issue:
Students of the
Month 2
Good News! 2
From the
Desk of the
Assistant Head
of School
3
Professional &
Parent of the
Month
6
Calendar
8
Adelphi Academy
Of Brooklyn
Founded 1863
8515 Ridge Boulevard
Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, New York
11209-4307
Phone: 718-238-3308
Fax: 718-238-2894
Pride ~ Tradition Spirit ~ Excellence
setting where the culture is
marked by acceptable societal
behaviors and politeness. We
feel this is essential in our
development as a civil school
functioning in a civil society.
In much the same
manner, a basic tenet of the
Academy’s Code of Ethics is
honesty. We feel as an
organization that this quality
goes to the heart of what the
Academy stands for these past
one hundred and fifty years.
The rules and regulations
governing Adelphi Academy
that are enforced have been
crafted, reviewed and revised
when necessary each year by a
faculty committee to ensure
their relevance. The digital
age has led us to rethink some
policy areas such as the
bringing to school of cell
phones – our policy mandates
are based upon what is best
for the continuance of the
school’s educational mission.
In order to achieve
our academic goals, the
Academy requires a civil
climate that will enhance the
teacher’s opportunity to
teach, as well as each child’s
I n order for the
Academy to create a
caring, responsible and
productive school;
parents and teachers agree
that part of a school’s mission
in addition to the teaching of
the academics is to teach and
illustrate to students what
rules to follow so they can
become productive citizens of
their community.
The time is now, if
not in school then where?
The pathway to a quality
education is to create and
promote a civil school.
Adelphi Academy, Brooklyn
takes this challenge as
seriously as we do of all our
academic endeavors.
In a recent magazine
article entitled; “Cheating in
the 21st Century”, an accurate
descr ipt ion of student
behavior was described. The
article mentioned that tests
spurred students to cheat for
passing and attaining better
grades. An alarming quoted
statistic noted that fifty
percent of all questioned high
school students in a recent
poll admitted to cheating. The
cheating was glancing at
another’s paper, plagiarism or
the utilization of a digital devise
like an I-Phone. The Academy
or any school could spend an
inordinate amount of time
designing an anti-cheating
p ro g ram , w i th ou t any
guarantee that it would be
successful . A retiring
superintendent of West Point
was asked about the honor
system utilized and he
remarked that “it worked best
when under supervision”.
The Academy has
initiated for many years a
preventive strategy which is to
create a culture where cheating
is not tolerated. The Academy
has a zero tolerance policy on
cheating and in the school’s
code of ethics there is a clear
d e l i n e a t i o n o f t h e
consequences of anyone caught
cheating.
The Academy is
vigilant in enforcing this policy
as it goes to the core of what a
civil school should reflect. The
Academy prides itself as a
venue that exhibits good
m ann e r s a nd co m mon
courtesies. We work in a
Adelphi Today
RESTORING SCHOOL CIVILITY
2013
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
Black History
Month Begins
February Parent
Newsletter Online
February Calendar
Online
1 National
Freedom Day
Ms. Gutarra’s Birthday!
$3.00 Student
Government
Sponsored Dress
Down Day!
2 Groundhog Day
Candlemas
3 Superbowl Sunday
4
5 Admin Meeting
Period 5
6 Mr. Mieses’ Birthday!
Staff Meeting
4:00pm
7
8 Boy Scout Day
Annual Adelphi
Brown & Gold Day! (Spirit Day # 4)
Registration
Deadline for
03/19/13 SAT
9
10 Chinese New Year
11 Annual
Adelphi-Scholastic
Book Fair Begins!
Parent/Teacher
Conference #2 6:00pm-9:00pm
12 Lincoln’s Birthday
Mardi Gras
Admin Meeting
Period 5
13 Ash Wednesday
Last Day for
Student Government
Valentine’s Day
Gift Sales
14 St. Valentine’s
Day
15 Annual
Adelphi-Scholastic
Book Fair Ends
$3.00 Student
Government
Sponsored Dress
Down Day!
16 Mr. Melo’s Birthday!
17
18 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess Begins
President’s Day
19 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess
20 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess
21 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess
22 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess Ends
Washington’s
Birthday
Late Registration
Deadline for
03/19/13 SAT
23
24 Purim
25 CLASSES RESUME
All Copy for March
Parent Newsletter Due
26 Admin Meeting
Period 5
27
28 Black History
Month Ends
2013
February
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
2
Arber Kadiu
Lower School
Students of the Month
Thomas Kwiecien
Middle School
Susan Mishiyev
Upper School
opportunity to learn. The creation of this balance
is at the core of restoring school civility.
7
On Tuesday, January 8th, the Adelphi Academy
Middle School Basketball team traveled to Roosevelt Island
to face the Childs School and came away with an impressive
38-33 road victory. The Panthers came out in an aggressive
2-1-2 defense and held their opponent to just four first
quarter points in taking a 12-4 lead. The tenacious Adelphi
defense forced the Childs School into 8 first quarter
turnovers, two of which they converted into easy lay-ups.
“We were very active in the first quarter and did a
nice job of forcing them to shoot from the outside.” said
Panthers coach Howard DeVennish.
Adelphi kept the pressure on in the 2nd quarter and
ran out to a 20-4 lead on an elbow jumpshot by 7th grader
Mitchell Urin with 4:20 left in the half. Urin was instrumental
in the 8-0 run along with 8th grader Abdul Johnson who
finished the game with 11 rebounds.
“It was a nice team effort today. Everyone
contributed and it made the game much easier for Kap.” said
Adelphi Academy Athletic Director James Pristouris.
“Kap” as Pristouris calls him is 8th grader Kaplan Cekiq, who
led the Panthers with 26 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks
while sitting out all of the 4th quarter. Cekiq had his way
with the Childs defense either dominating down low with an
impressive array of post moves or powering his way to the
basket from the perimeter.
“Kaplan has all the tools to become a very good
player. If he continues to work hard, the success he is having
will carry over to the high school level.” Pristouris said.
The Panthers got a nice defensive effort from 8th
graders Agustin Melo and Devron Woodson with four and
three steals, respectively. Sixth grader Anthony Iglesias
scored his first two points in his middle school debut. With
the win, the Panthers improve to 1-1 on the season. They
return to action on Friday, January 25th in a non-league
contest against Kimisis Theotokou.
The cold winter weather has finally arrived!
Although freezing temperature may deter us from spending
time outdoors, there are many other ways to spend our time
during these cold months. While at home it is inventible for
our children to stay away from television, video games and
other devices. Many of us use these gadgets to keep busy
while at home, but, we cannot forget the importance of
spending time quality time with family while at home. When
at home, students are encouraged to speak to their family
members and engage in a meaningful conversation. Speaking
to each about our responsibilities and other demands can
help lessen our stress. Spending quality time together at
home will manifest into being a support to your child. Part of
being successful at school stems from having a supportive
and nurturing home life, this gives students the motivation to
do well and demonstrate their abilities to those that love
them the most.
Moreover, upholding the principles of academic
success at home reinforces the importance of respect and
civility. Activities that include family communication will help
transfer the communication skills that are targeted during
school hours. Playing fun family home games such as Go Fish,
Scripture Cards, Life and/or Monopoly helps children
develop and practice effective communication skills. A game
that is less challenging and fun for everyone is Do You Love
Your Neighbor? To win this game, your neighbor loves you,
and you’ll have to be quick or you’ll be “it.” These games are
a great opportunity to converse upon college readiness,
career goals, and life dreams.
We hope you all have a wonderful, safe, warm and
fun-filled winter.
Scholar / Athlete of
the Month
Hamzah Chaudhry
Adelphi clothing. Only appropriate attire will be
permitted and any student not participating must be
in full school uniform. Please encourage your
children to show their school spirit and “Panther
Pride” for Brown & Gold Day and for their school!
The Annual Adelphi – Scholastic Book Fair
will be taking place at the Academy from Monday,
February 11th, 2013 to Friday, February 15th, 2013.
All students in Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade
will be given the opportunity to visit the book fair
and enjoy some educational shopping!!! Parents,
friends and family are all welcome to attend and the
Academy will be extremely grateful to families for
any book fair purchases that are donated to the
school library or your
child’s classroom library.
A n n u a l
Valentine’s Day Holiday
Festivities will take place
this year on Thursday,
February 14 th, 2013.
Lower School students
will be having their own
special holiday party. As
has been tradition for all
previous holiday student
parties, we ask that all
Lower School parents
please see the posted list
requesting specific party
supplies for the various
grades. This list can be
found on our website
(adelphinyc.org).
We ask that all
p a ren t s p l e a se be
reminded that Thursday,
February 14th, 2013 is a full day of school and
instruction for all students. No student should use
the excuse of a special holiday, seasonal event or
school activity as a reason to miss classes. All
students are expected and required to be present.
Please look for Re-Enrollment Letters and
Applications for the 2013-2014 academic year in
Good News! By Mr. Albert C. Corhan
The cold and icy weather of February is here so
button up!
Some reminders for this month:
Student Government Officers will
continue selling Valentine’s Day gifts until
Wednesday, February 13th, 2013. Students may
purchase holiday gifts for
their fellow students,
teachers or to take home
to Mom and Dad! All
gifts must be pre-ordered
and pre-purchased. Gifts
will be delivered to their
recipients throughout the
day on Thursday ,
February 14th, 2013 in
time for Valentine’s Day!
Please see a Student
Government Officer for
m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n
including a price list, gift
options and order forms.
$3.00 Student
Government Sponsored
Dress Down Days
continue on Friday,
February 1st, 2013 and
Friday, February 15th,
2013. Please support the
good work of the Student Government!
Our next spirit themed dress down day –
“Brown & Gold Day” takes place on Friday,
February 8th, 2013. All students and staff are
permitted to come to school for the day in dress
down, provided that they are dressed in the
traditional school colors of brown & gold and/or in
By: The Project Succeed Team
Projecting Success!
By Mr. James Pristouris
Adelphi Athletics
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn February 2013
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
6 3
Congratulations to our
January
Professional of the Month
Ms. Vicino
Administrative “Above
and Beyond”
Mr. Robert Bates
and
Parent of the Month
?
Thank you for all of your
hard work
and dedication
to the Academy!
Despite the fact that we have arrived at an extremely
segmented portion of the school year, it is of utmost importance
that all students remain focused on what is really the most
important issue in their lives next to family—i.e. doing the best
they can in school to ensure a bright, promising future. The
world stage is now more competitive than ever, and the time to
lay the groundwork for success and prosperity is NOW!
Adelphi Academy is committed to this mission, as we try our
best to provide the necessary ingredients for this success, one
student at a time.
Adelphi Academy strongly believes in differentiated
learning and modified instruction. Since every student learns
differently, it is crucial that different teaching tools and modes of
instruction are used. Our trip coordinator Ms. Apostolakis has
been working diligently with all of the teachers to plan various
trips that are not only enjoyable for the students but also offer
academic enrichment and coincide with the core curriculum.
We all feel that it is so important to provide children with hands
on learning experiences.
Please be reminded that our latest round of progress
reports have been mailed, which you should receive this week.
Also, our second evening of Parent-Teacher Conferences will
take place shortly. Once again, the highways of communication
are open, so please take every opportunity to consult with us
concerning the academic progress of your child.
One of the reasons that I love teaching
both English and history is that both subjects will
spark a considerable amount of curiosity, allowing
you to dig deeper into the events or information
that are being studied. I remember being in high
school many years ago and flipping through my
history textbook, reading up on events such as the
French Revolution and the Russian Revolution.
Whatever the assigned reading was, I would usually
pause, think for a moment, and then wonder what
other types of information I could gather from the
particular historical event.
Now that I am on the opposite side of the
classroom, I still find myself doing the same thing,
probably at a much higher degree than ever before.
Even though I can diligently recite a nice little
overview of the French Revolution, and even
though I’ve taught this particular era of history
numerous times all ready, I’m still fascinated in how
virtually a whole country was turned on its heels by
97 percent of its population—and the reforms and
turmoil that had followed. I’m not too afraid to ask
myself many times, “I wonder what it would have
been like if I lived during that time period?”
Case in point: history is not just important
to right the wrongs of the past, but it is also
something that can be much more stimulating to
the senses: you literally speculate as to what it
might have been like during a given historical era, be
it the American Revolution or any of the world
wars, and mentally picture yourself living through
those times.
Adelphi is in the midst of its 150th
anniversary, and I oftentimes wonder what it was
like to be a teacher here in 1863, right when the
United States was in the midst of the greatest
challenge it had to face: the Civil War. How were
classes conducted? Did the students and teachers
discuss the possibilities of going to war? What did
they teach in English and history class back then?
From the Assistant Head of School
By Ms. Iphigenia Romanos
The school has such a rich and vibrant history, and I
think of that every day as I am carrying out my
administrative and instructional duties.
I have been mentioning this rich history
that Adelphi possesses to my students, as it is
something that must not—cannot—be ignored in
this very special year. The teachers of the upper
school division and I have all ready been
communicating with parents during our weekly
correspondences regarding the 150th Anniversary
Gala, which will be taking place on Thursday, April
25th. People always mention that we are living
history, and I agree: what better way to revisit and
make history than by attending this extraordinary
event on April 25th? I can’t wait to see you all there.
“The farther backward you look, the farther
forward you are likely to see.” –Winston
Churchill
Uppermost Matters By Mr. Robert Assante
the next few days. Please be advised that all families
interested in Adelphi Academy for their children for the
2013-2014 academic year are asked to pay very serious
attention to the guidelines and deadlines indicated in the
forthcoming letter and application. Please be advised that
due to a very strict policy administered by Adelphi’s Board of
Trustees exceptions to those guidelines and deadlines cannot
and will not be made under any circumstances.
Please also expect formal invitations to arrive
within the next month or so for Adelphi Academy of
Brooklyn’s 150th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, April 25th,
2013, 6:30pm at Gargiulo’s Restaurant in the historic Coney
Island section of Brooklyn. This year is a very special one for
Adelphi and the event will serve as the Academy’s major
fundraiser of the year. Parent participation and support is
extremely important for the continued success of our
school!
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
4 5
As the academic year continues to soar, we find
ourselves at the end of January, and most of us have grown
accustomed to the cold weather. Adelphi Academy’s activities
are in full swing, and the middle students are being challenged to
advance their critical thinking, writing, verbal, and mathematic
skills. It is imperative that we keep challenging our students so
that they may avoid any regression and continue to move
forward.
Although the holidays have passed we find ourselves
in yet another month which has a great deal to celebrate. Black
history month takes place every year during February, and it is a
time to explore and draw inspiration from great men and
women of color. The middle school students will be learning and
exploring about African American men and women who have
significantly contributed to our quality of life. These topics do
not just apply to history, but to all subject areas such as science,
English, mathematics, and physical education.
In addition, our students will be celebrating Presidents’
Day. Although Presidents’ Day was originally designated to
celebrate President George Washington’s Birthday, it has
become a holiday in which we celebrate Washington, Lincoln,
and all the other great American Presidents which have served
this country.
Teaching children is a partnership between the parents
and the school and we must all work together to teach,
monitor, and assess progress. Communication between parents
and the school is extremely important and must occur regularly.
We encourage open communication through weekly phone
calls, parent teacher conferences, and regular progress reports.
As always, Adelphi Academy mandates that students with
academic deficiencies (i.e. any grade lower than a C) attend
tutorials as necessary, until they are maintaining a passing
average for the year in every subject. Let me again stress that
tutorials should NOT be viewed as a “punishment.” On the
contrary, they should be perceived as an opportunity for your
children to obtain additional help as needed, thereby preventing
future struggles with their studies.
Most importantly, I must close with a reminder about
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn's annual Gala which will take place
on Thursday April 25th, 2013. Being that this year marks
Adelphi Academy's 150th Anniversary, the Gala will be like no
other. Please support the event and the school by purchasing
tickets to our Black Tie event! Corporate sponsorships and
journal advertisements are also available. This is your chance to
be a part of a great historical event! Looking forward to seeing
you all there!
class.
Well, the first main event in February is the Parent/
Teacher Conference. It will take place on Monday, February
11, 2013. All parents are expected to attend. This is when
parents have the opportunity to talk to their child’s teacher
one on one. They will be able to sit in their child’s classroom
and talk about their child’s progress and how they are
performing academically and socially. So, bring all your
questions and concerns.
During this month of February we are celebrating
Black History Month. We are reflecting and celebrating the
lives of many African Americans who paved the way for
many people. So, they can have a better way of life and have
opportunities that were granted to all people. We are also
celebrating Valentine’s Day. The Lower School will be
showing their love to the parents and siblings by making
Valentine’s Day crafts. Student Government will be selling
chocolate hearts, beautiful carnations and huggable monkeys
for Valentine’s Day. The lower school students will be sure
to support them by buying a gift for a special person.
The Afterschool Enrichment program is up and
running and all of the lower school students are excited
about the many fun activities we have planned. This month
we will start bowling. The students will be escorted to and
from the Bowling Alley. They will enjoy; Cosmic Bowling,
learning the fundamentals of bowling, and especially the pizza
party at the last bowling session.
As the month comes to an end, the Lower School
students will be completing assignments and projects
pertaining to Presidents Week, since we have a week off in
honor of the Presidents. What a better time to do a project
or a research assignment on your favorite President?
The Lower School is working very hard in all the
endeavors that they do and accomplish. They are the young
Adelphians of Adelphi starting their life long journey.
During mid-February the middle school will be having
their annual Valentine’s Day party. Each grade will be held
responsible for contributing specific items to make the party a
huge success. Furthermore, all flowers and chocolates will be
delivered to middle school classrooms by student government.
Finally, Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn will be holding
parent-teacher conferences in February. I look forward to
meeting with all the parents in the middle school so that we may
work as a team to develop the best possible plan for your child.
It is essential for you to discuss your child’s progress with each
individual teacher so that your child’s academic, behavioral, and
social progressed may be assessed.
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans
and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history.
By Ms. Agatha Apostolakis
In the Middle
By Ms. Tanisha Williams
Lower School Lowdown
It is the 2nd month of this New Year. We are in the
midst of this blistery cold weather so we welcome the snow.
The Lower School students of Adelphi Academy
are all bundled up from the cold weather but very excited
and showing up with much enthusiasm as they enter their
classrooms. Once inside they feel the warmth from the
teacher and anticipate the new lesson that will be taught in
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
4 5
As the academic year continues to soar, we find
ourselves at the end of January, and most of us have grown
accustomed to the cold weather. Adelphi Academy’s activities
are in full swing, and the middle students are being challenged to
advance their critical thinking, writing, verbal, and mathematic
skills. It is imperative that we keep challenging our students so
that they may avoid any regression and continue to move
forward.
Although the holidays have passed we find ourselves
in yet another month which has a great deal to celebrate. Black
history month takes place every year during February, and it is a
time to explore and draw inspiration from great men and
women of color. The middle school students will be learning and
exploring about African American men and women who have
significantly contributed to our quality of life. These topics do
not just apply to history, but to all subject areas such as science,
English, mathematics, and physical education.
In addition, our students will be celebrating Presidents’
Day. Although Presidents’ Day was originally designated to
celebrate President George Washington’s Birthday, it has
become a holiday in which we celebrate Washington, Lincoln,
and all the other great American Presidents which have served
this country.
Teaching children is a partnership between the parents
and the school and we must all work together to teach,
monitor, and assess progress. Communication between parents
and the school is extremely important and must occur regularly.
We encourage open communication through weekly phone
calls, parent teacher conferences, and regular progress reports.
As always, Adelphi Academy mandates that students with
academic deficiencies (i.e. any grade lower than a C) attend
tutorials as necessary, until they are maintaining a passing
average for the year in every subject. Let me again stress that
tutorials should NOT be viewed as a “punishment.” On the
contrary, they should be perceived as an opportunity for your
children to obtain additional help as needed, thereby preventing
future struggles with their studies.
Most importantly, I must close with a reminder about
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn's annual Gala which will take place
on Thursday April 25th, 2013. Being that this year marks
Adelphi Academy's 150th Anniversary, the Gala will be like no
other. Please support the event and the school by purchasing
tickets to our Black Tie event! Corporate sponsorships and
journal advertisements are also available. This is your chance to
be a part of a great historical event! Looking forward to seeing
you all there!
class.
Well, the first main event in February is the Parent/
Teacher Conference. It will take place on Monday, February
11, 2013. All parents are expected to attend. This is when
parents have the opportunity to talk to their child’s teacher
one on one. They will be able to sit in their child’s classroom
and talk about their child’s progress and how they are
performing academically and socially. So, bring all your
questions and concerns.
During this month of February we are celebrating
Black History Month. We are reflecting and celebrating the
lives of many African Americans who paved the way for
many people. So, they can have a better way of life and have
opportunities that were granted to all people. We are also
celebrating Valentine’s Day. The Lower School will be
showing their love to the parents and siblings by making
Valentine’s Day crafts. Student Government will be selling
chocolate hearts, beautiful carnations and huggable monkeys
for Valentine’s Day. The lower school students will be sure
to support them by buying a gift for a special person.
The Afterschool Enrichment program is up and
running and all of the lower school students are excited
about the many fun activities we have planned. This month
we will start bowling. The students will be escorted to and
from the Bowling Alley. They will enjoy; Cosmic Bowling,
learning the fundamentals of bowling, and especially the pizza
party at the last bowling session.
As the month comes to an end, the Lower School
students will be completing assignments and projects
pertaining to Presidents Week, since we have a week off in
honor of the Presidents. What a better time to do a project
or a research assignment on your favorite President?
The Lower School is working very hard in all the
endeavors that they do and accomplish. They are the young
Adelphians of Adelphi starting their life long journey.
During mid-February the middle school will be having
their annual Valentine’s Day party. Each grade will be held
responsible for contributing specific items to make the party a
huge success. Furthermore, all flowers and chocolates will be
delivered to middle school classrooms by student government.
Finally, Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn will be holding
parent-teacher conferences in February. I look forward to
meeting with all the parents in the middle school so that we may
work as a team to develop the best possible plan for your child.
It is essential for you to discuss your child’s progress with each
individual teacher so that your child’s academic, behavioral, and
social progressed may be assessed.
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans
and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history.
By Ms. Agatha Apostolakis
In the Middle
By Ms. Tanisha Williams
Lower School Lowdown
It is the 2nd month of this New Year. We are in the
midst of this blistery cold weather so we welcome the snow.
The Lower School students of Adelphi Academy
are all bundled up from the cold weather but very excited
and showing up with much enthusiasm as they enter their
classrooms. Once inside they feel the warmth from the
teacher and anticipate the new lesson that will be taught in
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn February 2013
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
6 3
Congratulations to our
January
Professional of the Month
Ms. Vicino
Administrative “Above
and Beyond”
Mr. Robert Bates
and
Parents of the Month
Mr. and Mrs. Beltre
Thank you for all of your
hard work
and dedication
to the Academy!
Despite the fact that we have arrived at an extremely
segmented portion of the school year, it is of utmost importance
that all students remain focused on what is really the most
important issue in their lives next to family—i.e. doing the best
they can in school to ensure a bright, promising future. The
world stage is now more competitive than ever, and the time to
lay the groundwork for success and prosperity is NOW!
Adelphi Academy is committed to this mission, as we try our
best to provide the necessary ingredients for this success, one
student at a time.
Adelphi Academy strongly believes in differentiated
learning and modified instruction. Since every student learns
differently, it is crucial that different teaching tools and modes of
instruction are used. Our trip coordinator Ms. Apostolakis has
been working diligently with all of the teachers to plan various
trips that are not only enjoyable for the students but also offer
academic enrichment and coincide with the core curriculum.
We all feel that it is so important to provide children with hands
on learning experiences.
Please be reminded that our latest round of progress
reports have been mailed, which you should receive this week.
Also, our second evening of Parent-Teacher Conferences will
take place shortly. Once again, the highways of communication
are open, so please take every opportunity to consult with us
concerning the academic progress of your child.
One of the reasons that I love teaching
both English and history is that both subjects will
spark a considerable amount of curiosity, allowing
you to dig deeper into the events or information
that are being studied. I remember being in high
school many years ago and flipping through my
history textbook, reading up on events such as the
French Revolution and the Russian Revolution.
Whatever the assigned reading was, I would usually
pause, think for a moment, and then wonder what
other types of information I could gather from the
particular historical event.
Now that I am on the opposite side of the
classroom, I still find myself doing the same thing,
probably at a much higher degree than ever before.
Even though I can diligently recite a nice little
overview of the French Revolution, and even
though I’ve taught this particular era of history
numerous times all ready, I’m still fascinated in how
virtually a whole country was turned on its heels by
97 percent of its population—and the reforms and
turmoil that had followed. I’m not too afraid to ask
myself many times, “I wonder what it would have
been like if I lived during that time period?”
Case in point: history is not just important
to right the wrongs of the past, but it is also
something that can be much more stimulating to
the senses: you literally speculate as to what it
might have been like during a given historical era, be
it the American Revolution or any of the world
wars, and mentally picture yourself living through
those times.
Adelphi is in the midst of its 150th
anniversary, and I oftentimes wonder what it was
like to be a teacher here in 1863, right when the
United States was in the midst of the greatest
challenge it had to face: the Civil War. How were
classes conducted? Did the students and teachers
discuss the possibilities of going to war? What did
they teach in English and history class back then?
From the Assistant Head of School
By Ms. Iphigenia Romanos
The school has such a rich and vibrant history, and I
think of that every day as I am carrying out my
administrative and instructional duties.
I have been mentioning this rich history
that Adelphi possesses to my students, as it is
something that must not—cannot—be ignored in
this very special year. The teachers of the upper
school division and I have all ready been
communicating with parents during our weekly
correspondences regarding the 150th Anniversary
Gala, which will be taking place on Thursday, April
25th. People always mention that we are living
history, and I agree: what better way to revisit and
make history than by attending this extraordinary
event on April 25th? I can’t wait to see you all there.
“The farther backward you look, the farther
forward you are likely to see.” –Winston
Churchill
Uppermost Matters By Mr. Robert Assante
the next few days. Please be advised that all families
interested in Adelphi Academy for their children for the
2013-2014 academic year are asked to pay very serious
attention to the guidelines and deadlines indicated in the
forthcoming letter and application. Please be advised that
due to a very strict policy administered by Adelphi’s Board of
Trustees exceptions to those guidelines and deadlines cannot
and will not be made under any circumstances.
Please also expect formal invitations to arrive
within the next month or so for Adelphi Academy of
Brooklyn’s 150th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, April 25th,
2013, 6:30pm at Gargiulo’s Restaurant in the historic Coney
Island section of Brooklyn. This year is a very special one for
Adelphi and the event will serve as the Academy’s major
fundraiser of the year. Parent participation and support is
extremely important for the continued success of our
school!
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
February 2013 Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
2
Arber Kadiu
Lower School
Students of the Month
Thomas Kwiecien
Middle School
Susan Mishiyev
Upper School
opportunity to learn. The creation of this balance
is at the core of restoring school civility.
7
On Tuesday, January 8th, the Adelphi Academy
Middle School Basketball team traveled to Roosevelt Island
to face the Childs School and came away with an impressive
38-33 road victory. The Panthers came out in an aggressive
2-1-2 defense and held their opponent to just four first
quarter points in taking a 12-4 lead. The tenacious Adelphi
defense forced the Childs School into 8 first quarter
turnovers, two of which they converted into easy lay-ups.
“We were very active in the first quarter and did a
nice job of forcing them to shoot from the outside.” said
Panthers coach Howard DeVennish.
Adelphi kept the pressure on in the 2nd quarter and
ran out to a 20-4 lead on an elbow jumpshot by 7th grader
Mitchell Urin with 4:20 left in the half. Urin was instrumental
in the 8-0 run along with 8th grader Abdul Johnson who
finished the game with 11 rebounds.
“It was a nice team effort today. Everyone
contributed and it made the game much easier for Kap.” said
Adelphi Academy Athletic Director James Pristouris.
“Kap” as Pristouris calls him is 8th grader Kaplan Cekiq, who
led the Panthers with 26 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks
while sitting out all of the 4th quarter. Cekiq had his way
with the Childs defense either dominating down low with an
impressive array of post moves or powering his way to the
basket from the perimeter.
“Kaplan has all the tools to become a very good
player. If he continues to work hard, the success he is having
will carry over to the high school level.” Pristouris said.
The Panthers got a nice defensive effort from 8th
graders Agustin Melo and Devron Woodson with four and
three steals, respectively. Sixth grader Anthony Iglesias
scored his first two points in his middle school debut. With
the win, the Panthers improve to 1-1 on the season. They
return to action on Friday, January 25th in a non-league
contest against Kimisis Theotokou.
The cold winter weather has finally arrived!
Although freezing temperature may deter us from spending
time outdoors, there are many other ways to spend our time
during these cold months. While at home it is inventible for
our children to stay away from television, video games and
other devices. Many of us use these gadgets to keep busy
while at home, but, we cannot forget the importance of
spending time quality time with family while at home. When
at home, students are encouraged to speak to their family
members and engage in a meaningful conversation. Speaking
to each about our responsibilities and other demands can
help lessen our stress. Spending quality time together at
home will manifest into being a support to your child. Part of
being successful at school stems from having a supportive
and nurturing home life, this gives students the motivation to
do well and demonstrate their abilities to those that love
them the most.
Moreover, upholding the principles of academic
success at home reinforces the importance of respect and
civility. Activities that include family communication will help
transfer the communication skills that are targeted during
school hours. Playing fun family home games such as Go Fish,
Scripture Cards, Life and/or Monopoly helps children
develop and practice effective communication skills. A game
that is less challenging and fun for everyone is Do You Love
Your Neighbor? To win this game, your neighbor loves you,
and you’ll have to be quick or you’ll be “it.” These games are
a great opportunity to converse upon college readiness,
career goals, and life dreams.
We hope you all have a wonderful, safe, warm and
fun-filled winter.
Scholar / Athlete of
the Month
Hamzah Chaudhry
Adelphi clothing. Only appropriate attire will be
permitted and any student not participating must be
in full school uniform. Please encourage your
children to show their school spirit and “Panther
Pride” for Brown & Gold Day and for their school!
The Annual Adelphi – Scholastic Book Fair
will be taking place at the Academy from Monday,
February 11th, 2013 to Friday, February 15th, 2013.
All students in Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade
will be given the opportunity to visit the book fair
and enjoy some educational shopping!!! Parents,
friends and family are all welcome to attend and the
Academy will be extremely grateful to families for
any book fair purchases that are donated to the
school library or your
child’s classroom library.
A n n u a l
Valentine’s Day Holiday
Festivities will take place
this year on Thursday,
February 14 th, 2013.
Lower School students
will be having their own
special holiday party. As
has been tradition for all
previous holiday student
parties, we ask that all
Lower School parents
please see the posted list
requesting specific party
supplies for the various
grades. This list can be
found on our website
(adelphinyc.org).
We ask that all
p a ren t s p l e a se be
reminded that Thursday,
February 14th, 2013 is a full day of school and
instruction for all students. No student should use
the excuse of a special holiday, seasonal event or
school activity as a reason to miss classes. All
students are expected and required to be present.
Please look for Re-Enrollment Letters and
Applications for the 2013-2014 academic year in
Good News! By Mr. Albert C. Corhan
The cold and icy weather of February is here so
button up!
Some reminders for this month:
Student Government Officers will
continue selling Valentine’s Day gifts until
Wednesday, February 13th, 2013. Students may
purchase holiday gifts for
their fellow students,
teachers or to take home
to Mom and Dad! All
gifts must be pre-ordered
and pre-purchased. Gifts
will be delivered to their
recipients throughout the
day on Thursday ,
February 14th, 2013 in
time for Valentine’s Day!
Please see a Student
Government Officer for
m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n
including a price list, gift
options and order forms.
$3.00 Student
Government Sponsored
Dress Down Days
continue on Friday,
February 1st, 2013 and
Friday, February 15th,
2013. Please support the
good work of the Student Government!
Our next spirit themed dress down day –
“Brown & Gold Day” takes place on Friday,
February 8th, 2013. All students and staff are
permitted to come to school for the day in dress
down, provided that they are dressed in the
traditional school colors of brown & gold and/or in
By: The Project Succeed Team
Projecting Success!
By Mr. James Pristouris
Adelphi Athletics
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn
February 2013
W E ’ R E O N T H E W E B !
A D E L P H I N Y C . O R G
President’s Address By Dr. Roy J. Blash
Inside this issue:
Students of the
Month 2
Good News! 2
From the
Desk of the
Assistant Head
of School
3
Professional &
Parent of the
Month
6
Calendar
8
Adelphi Academy
Of Brooklyn
Founded 1863
8515 Ridge Boulevard
Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, New York
11209-4307
Phone: 718-238-3308
Fax: 718-238-2894
Pride ~ Tradition Spirit ~ Excellence
setting where the culture is
marked by acceptable societal
behaviors and politeness. We
feel this is essential in our
development as a civil school
functioning in a civil society.
In much the same
manner, a basic tenet of the
Academy’s Code of Ethics is
honesty. We feel as an
organization that this quality
goes to the heart of what the
Academy stands for these past
one hundred and fifty years.
The rules and regulations
governing Adelphi Academy
that are enforced have been
crafted, reviewed and revised
when necessary each year by a
faculty committee to ensure
their relevance. The digital
age has led us to rethink some
policy areas such as the
bringing to school of cell
phones – our policy mandates
are based upon what is best
for the continuance of the
school’s educational mission.
In order to achieve
our academic goals, the
Academy requires a civil
climate that will enhance the
teacher’s opportunity to
teach, as well as each child’s
I n order for the
Academy to create a
caring, responsible and
productive school;
parents and teachers agree
that part of a school’s mission
in addition to the teaching of
the academics is to teach and
illustrate to students what
rules to follow so they can
become productive citizens of
their community.
The time is now, if
not in school then where?
The pathway to a quality
education is to create and
promote a civil school.
Adelphi Academy, Brooklyn
takes this challenge as
seriously as we do of all our
academic endeavors.
In a recent magazine
article entitled; “Cheating in
the 21st Century”, an accurate
descr ipt ion of student
behavior was described. The
article mentioned that tests
spurred students to cheat for
passing and attaining better
grades. An alarming quoted
statistic noted that fifty
percent of all questioned high
school students in a recent
poll admitted to cheating. The
cheating was glancing at
another’s paper, plagiarism or
the utilization of a digital devise
like an I-Phone. The Academy
or any school could spend an
inordinate amount of time
designing an anti-cheating
p ro g ram , w i th ou t any
guarantee that it would be
successful . A retiring
superintendent of West Point
was asked about the honor
system utilized and he
remarked that “it worked best
when under supervision”.
The Academy has
initiated for many years a
preventive strategy which is to
create a culture where cheating
is not tolerated. The Academy
has a zero tolerance policy on
cheating and in the school’s
code of ethics there is a clear
d e l i n e a t i o n o f t h e
consequences of anyone caught
cheating.
The Academy is
vigilant in enforcing this policy
as it goes to the core of what a
civil school should reflect. The
Academy prides itself as a
venue that exhibits good
mann e r s a nd co mmon
courtesies. We work in a
Adelphi Today
RESTORING SCHOOL CIVILITY
2013
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
Black History
Month Begins
February Parent
Newsletter Online
February Calendar
Online
1 National
Freedom Day
Ms. Gutarra’s Birthday!
$3.00 Student
Government
Sponsored Dress
Down Day!
2 Groundhog Day
Candlemas
3 Superbowl Sunday
4
5 Admin Meeting
Period 5
6 Mr. Mieses’ Birthday!
Staff Meeting
4:00pm
7
8 Boy Scout Day
Annual Adelphi
Brown & Gold Day! (Spirit Day # 4)
Registration
Deadline for
03/19/13 SAT
9
10 Chinese New Year
11 Annual
Adelphi-Scholastic
Book Fair Begins!
Parent/Teacher
Conference #2 6:00pm-9:00pm
12 Lincoln’s Birthday
Mardi Gras
Admin Meeting
Period 5
13 Ash Wednesday
Last Day for
Student Government
Valentine’s Day
Gift Sales
14 St. Valentine’s
Day
15 Annual
Adelphi-Scholastic
Book Fair Ends
$3.00 Student
Government
Sponsored Dress
Down Day!
16 Mr. Melo’s Birthday!
17
18 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess Begins
President’s Day
19 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess
20 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess
21 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess
22 School Closed
President’s Week
Recess Ends
Washington’s
Birthday
Late Registration
Deadline for
03/19/13 SAT
23
24 Purim
25 CLASSES RESUME
All Copy for March
Parent Newsletter Due
26 Admin Meeting
Period 5
27
28 Black History
Month Ends
2013
February
