Middle School Newsbite: October 14th, 2025

Posted Date: 10/14/25 (04:07 PM)

Camp Fairview

The 5th grade trip to Fairview was an exciting and memorable experience for everyone. High school counselors joined the students and played an important role in guiding activities and offering support throughout the day.

One of the highlights was the Ridge hike, where students worked together to stay on the trail, encourage one another, and reach the top. The teamwork and cooperation shown made the experience even more meaningful. When we finally arrived at the top of the ridge, we were rewarded with a beautiful view that everyone enjoyed together, making it a special moment to remember.

The trip also gave students the chance to learn about the weather and how it affects outdoor activities. They practiced basic survival skills, which taught them the importance of preparation and safety in nature. Most importantly, everyone came together around the campfire to sing songs, laugh, and create lasting memories. Students were rewarded with a sweet treat and some pets from Lemon!

Checking in with Ms. Carril

Ms. Zoe Carril is new to South Hunterdon but she's been creating art since she was a young child. She looks forward to utilizing art as a medium to connect with students in a special way. We caught up with Ms. Carril to learn more about her teaching philosophy.

Q: What inspired you to enter the field of education?

ZC: This might sound a little silly because I was so young, but my first inspiration to become a teacher came from my preschool teacher, Ms. Patti. Even at that age, she had such a powerful impact on me. She made me feel like I was capable of anything, no matter how small or big the task was. I never felt judged in her classroom—only supported and encouraged. That sense of safety and belonging sparked my love of learning and showed me how meaningful it can be when a teacher truly believes in you.

The feeling I had when I walked into her classroom each morning and left each afternoon has stayed with me ever since. It was a mix of excitement, comfort, and confidence, and it’s the same feeling I hope to create for my own students today. I want them to know that the art room is a place where they can be themselves, take risks, and feel proud of their growth. In many ways, Ms. Patti planted the seed that grew into my passion for teaching, and I’m grateful every day that I get to pass that same gift along to my students.

What is your first impression of South Hunterdon?

My first impression of South Hunterdon is how incredibly kind and welcoming everyone is! From the moment I stepped into the building, I felt a genuine sense of warmth and friendliness. It’s such a wonderful experience to walk into school each day and be greeted by so many smiling faces, not only from teachers and staff but also from the students. That positive energy sets the tone for the entire day and makes the school feel like such a special place to be.

Having recently moved here from New York City, I’ve especially come to value the small-town, close-knit sense of community that South Hunterdon offers. The shift from a fast-paced environment to one where people truly look out for one another has been refreshing and uplifting. There’s a real sense of connection here, where people take the time to get to know you and make you feel like you belong.

What is the most important thing you hope students learn from you?

The most important thing I hope my students learn from me is that art is about the process, not just the final product. I want them to understand that making mistakes is part of creativity and that every “mess-up” can lead to something new and exciting. Middle school is such an important time for building confidence, and the art room can be a place where students feel free to express themselves without fear of being “wrong.”

I also hope my students see the art room as a fun and safe space where they can relax, recharge, and feel supported. Art class should be a place where laughter, imagination, and curiosity are encouraged, and where students know they are valued for who they are. My goal is to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected, and inspired to share their ideas without hesitation.

Above all, I want them to feel joy in the process of making art. If they can carry with them a love of creativity, an openness to new experiences, and the confidence to express who they are, then I know I’ve done my job.

Athletics

The South Hunterdon Middle School Girls Soccer team may be facing tough opponents this season, but they’re not backing down. From after-school practices to game days, these players have built strong friendships and a supportive team culture. This team is proving that success isn’t always measured on the scoreboard. While the season has been a challenging one, the players have shown tremendous growth, resilience, and team spirit. Each game has given the team new lessons in teamwork, communication, and hustle and their hard work is beginning to show on the field!

Academy Students Enjoy Nature Trip

Middle School Academy students enjoyed a nature trip where Jennifer Bulava, Principal Park Naturalist with Burlington County Parks System created and presented an engaging hands-on pollinator lesson. South students were able to see three of the four stages (larva, chrysalis, adut) of the butterfly life cycle happening in the host plant and nectar sections of the butterfly garden. They also observed a diversity of native bee and butterfly pollinators as they flew from flower to flower.

What's Coming Up?

October 22 Make-Up Picture Day
November 6-7 School Closed: NJEA Convention

Click HERE to see the High School Newsbite
Click HERE to see the Elementary School Newsbite