Eighth-graders at Robert M. Finley Middle School bid farewell to teachers and administrators during the school’s moving up ceremony on June 20.

The ceremony began with the seventh-grade band playing “Pomp and Circumstance” as students processed into the school’s auditorium. It continued with Emmanuel Marquez-Chalen leading those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance.  Finley’s top two eighth-graders, Doris Serrano and Colleen Coelho, addressed their classmates at the ceremony. Doris’ speech, “A Walk Through Middle School” reflected on the class’ growth since sixth grade, while Colleen’s focused on the “540 Days” of middle school, and encouraged peers to make every day count now and in the future. 

“We are a powerhouse of unlimited potential. We will continue to inspire generations, embrace our individuality and push boundaries set by those too afraid to make every… day… count,” Colleen said.  

Assistant Principal Lawrence Carroll spoke about the three short years the students have spent at Finley.  

“Coming to the middle school is hard,” he said. “All of us working here remember when you first started here, looking somewhat overwhelmed by the whole experience, but we were the lucky ones because we had the privilege of watching you grow, not only in your studies, but as individuals.”  

Mr. Carroll also encouraged the students to continue to give back to the community and to reach out to others in positive ways. 

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maria Rianna also addressed the graduating eighth-graders and their families, congratulating them on their outstanding achievements. Dr. Rianna also urged the students to be kind. 

“You are so amazing, each and every one of you in your own special way. Respect yourself and respect those around you,” Dr. Rianna said. “Be happy. My wish for you tonight and always is that your future be filled with choices and that kindness will always lead your way.” 

After Dr. Rianna’s comments, students were presented with certificates marking their completion of the eighth grade. They were also treated to a musical performance by a select group of eighth-graders, who sang “I Lived” and later enjoyed dancing and taking photos at the annual eighth-grade dance. 

Introduction to Research sixth-graders at Finley Middle School recently completed final projects as part of the course curriculum. Students selected their own subject of research and ultimately explored topics such as the history of rap music, school shootings and gun control, and North Korea and its nuclear weaponry.

The students began their projects in January and worked extensively on them all year. Sixth-graders usually present their projects in Google Slides or exhibit panel form, but teacher Maggi Ibrahim offered students the option of doing something more advanced that might mimic the format of the eighth-grade research project. The older students have the option of completing an exhibit, paper, performance, website or documentary.
 
Sixth-grader Lila Santamaria took on the more advanced option of documentary and focused on the topic of anorexia nervosa. Lila was very interested in making students aware of the possible signs and symptoms of the emotional disorder. 

When asked why she chose this specific topic, Lila said, “If people know about how the media makes people feel about their bodies, they might be more aware of its dangers. Anorexia affects a lot of young people, both men and women, and I want to help people and spread awareness.” 

“I am so proud of her,” Ms. Ibrahim said of Lila. “She is so talented and did a wonderful job.”

Ms. Ibrahim expressed her pride in all of the students’ work, commending them for their dedication and thorough research.  

To view Lila’s video, please click on the following link, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLNd2OA4v_s

Robert M. Finley Middle School has accepted the challenge of helping to find a cure for blood cancer. This year, over a span of three weeks, students were able to collectively raise $776.71 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society during the Pennies for Patients fundraiser. Ms. Meredith Murolo’s eighth-grade homeroom was the leader, raising $131.37 to contribute towards the very worthy cause. For their efforts, they received a pizza lunch donated from Domino’s Pizza.

Sixth- and seventh-grade students at Finley Middle School are using Chromebooks in physical education classes as part of a new initiative led by teachers Matt Carbone, Steven Tripp and Angela Zupa.

The teachers, at the direction of Principal Nelson Iocolano, developed an eight-minute fitness video for students to complete at home. The workout routine was comprised of various exercises, including crunches, push-ups, wall sits and running in place. They would then enter what they completed onto a Google Sheet created by their teachers. During the same eight-week period, teachers would begin each physical education class with the same routine to monitor the students’ progress and to provide them with an additional opportunity to record their results.

“We really want our students to realize that fitness and exercise is not an every other day activity. It’s something they should do every day,” Mr. Tripp said. 

Mr. Carbone said using the Chromebooks to enhance physical education class was a no-brainer.  

“Anytime the students can implement technology in class it’s a win because the students love it,” he said.

The teachers are looking towards creating an assignment for students to take part in over the summer months as a way to encourage daily health and fitness.  

The Robert M. Finley Middle School concert band, string orchestra and chorus, under the direction of their conductors, Keith Schmidt, Chris Lippe and Joy Sullivan, respectively, participated in the 2018 Music in the Parks Festival in Hershey, Pennsylvania. All three ensembles took home first-place trophies in their categories. The orchestra received a Superior rating, while the concert band and chorus received Excellent ratings. The competition took place at Lebanon Valley College, with an award ceremony at Hershey Park. The band, orchestra and chorus performed for a panel of judges that were impressed with the musicianship displayed during the performance. Congratulations to all participants!