Bethel Public Schools Newsletter 6-6-25

Bethel Public Schools Superintendent's Weekly Newsletter June 6, 2025 Clifford J. Hurgin Municipal Center Bethel Board of Education 1 School Street Bethel, CT 06801 (203) 794-8601 www.bethel.k12.ct.us     Administration Offices Office Hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8601 Business Office Office Hours 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8604   District Calendars / Schedules   Dr. Carver's Message Christine Carver, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools Bethel Public Schools 2025 Connecticut Superintendent of the Year carverc@bethel.k12.ct.us   Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, and Community Members, Making Reading & Mathematics a Delightful Part of Summer As the school year draws to a close and summer is just around the corner, I wanted to take a moment to wish you and your families a joyous and rejuvenating break. Summer is a time for relaxation, exploration, and creating precious memories with your family. And amidst all the fun-filled adventures that lie ahead, we would like to emphasize the importance of reading to your children and encouraging independent reading. When you take the time to read to your children, you are not just sharing a story and inspiring a love for reading, but also building a strong foundation for their academic success and personal growth. During these long summer days, reading becomes an even more essential activity. It helps combat the dreaded "summer slide," a phenomenon where students lose some of the progress made during the school year. By reading regularly, your children can maintain and even enhance their reading skills, ensuring a smoother transition back into the classroom when the new academic year begins. To make reading a delightful part of your summer routine, here are a few suggestions: Visit the local library: Explore the treasure trove of books available at your neighborhood library. Encourage your children to select books that pique their interests, and make it a weekly or bi-weekly family outing. The Bethel Public Library has a variety of programs, including a Summer Reading Challenge for all grades! Please get your child to the library soon, or the summer will slip away.   Set a reading time: Establish a regular reading time in your daily schedule. It could be before bedtime, during breakfast, or in the afternoon. Make it a ritual and encourage everyone in the family to participate, even if it's just by silently reading their own books. Start a family book club: Select a book that the entire family can enjoy together and discuss. Make it an interactive experience by sharing thoughts, asking questions, and exploring different perspectives. You can even take turns reading aloud to each other. Take books on your summer adventures: Whether you're going on a road trip, vacationing at the beach, or simply spending a lazy day at the park, bring along a selection of books to keep your children engaged and entertained during downtime. Remember, reading is not only an academic exercise but also enhances children's creativity, critical thinking skills, and empathy. So let this summer be filled with the magic of books and the joy of reading. In addition to reading, the State Department of Education is launching a Governor's Summer Math Challenge. Berry, Rockwell, and Johnson School have included resources on the flyers below of games, computer apps, and other resources to maintain skills over the summer! The Berry, Rockwell, and Johnson flyers even contain the supply lists! Check them out!   Berry/Rockwell Summer Resources Johnson Summer Resources Wishing you and your family a summer filled with sunshine, laughter, and wonderful stories. BHS Graduation can be viewed LIVE The Bethel High School Class of 2025 graduation ceremony will take place on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Bethel High School DeSantis Field. Bethel High School will be live-streaming the graduation ceremony for family members and friends who are unable to attend in person. Join us via live stream by using the link below. Graduation Walk (between schools), & Scholarship Day Photos are also available on Flickr https://bethelct.devosvideo.com/show?video=3d24764caf27 Live-Stream Link for BMS Moving Up BMS Moving Up Ceremony will also be live-streamed at: https://bethelct.devosvideo.com/show?video=3d24764caf27   BPS District Dashboard   Upcoming Calendar Events June 12 - BMS 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony June 13 - Last Day of School - Early Dismissal K-12 June 13 - BHS Graduation June 14 - RAIN DATE - BHS Graduation School Calendar Reminder - Last Day of School - Friday, June 13th Currently, the last day of school is Friday, June 13th. (If we have no additional emergency closings.) It is also an Early Dismissal day. Health Office News & Information March 28, 2025 IMPORTANT HEALTH OFFICE INFORMATION If your child has any medication in the school health office, it MUST be picked up on or before Friday, June 13th, no later than an hour before dismissal, by a parent/guardian. EpiPens and inhalers may remain in the health office to be used next school year. If your child is attending a BPS ESY program, the medications will be sent to the school where the program is taking place. Please note that any over-the-counter medication, as well as any expired rescue medication, will be disposed of.  2025 - 2026 school year information: If your child eeds medication administered i.e. daily medication, EpiPen, inhaler, any over the counter medications, etc., a new/current "Administration of Medication by School Personnel" form is required; this form can be found on the Bethel Public School District website by going to "Departments" - "School Health" - "Forms"   Non-Compliance The Connecticut General Statutes (Section 10-204a and Section 10-206) require local boards of education to ensure that each child attending school be adequately immunized and have an up-to-date health assessment (physical) on file. The Bethel Public School District requires that all students who enter Grades 7 and 10 must have a mandated health assessment dated on or after July 1, 2024 in order to be compliant. These forms can be found below:  STATE OF CT - HEALTH ASSESSMENT RECORD: Age 5 - Grade 12 Your child can also pick up a blank form during the school day at either the BMS or BHS Health Offices. Because the school district must comply with the state regulations, your child will not be allowed to enter school on the first day of the 2025 - 2026 school year, unless you provide the school with an updated health assessment and/or documentation with the necessary immunizations completed before that date. Please provide the proper documentation to your child’s school. Paperwork can be mailed, faxed or emailed to your child’s school. Bethel High School   Nurse Lisa Davenport, RN    Jill Kurtz, RN                                     300 Whittlesey Drive  Bethel, CT 06801   Phone: 203-794-8600 ext. 1262                          davenportl@bethel.k12.ct.us                        kurtzj@bethel.k12.ct.us               Bethel Middle School Nurse Lydia Petitti, RN Nurse Nicole Fry, RN 600 Whittlesey Drive Bethel, CT 06801 Phone: 203-794-8669 Fax: 203-794-8083 petittil@bethel.k12.ct.us fryn@bethel.k12.ct.us   News & Reminders Board of Education Sets 2025-2026 School Lunch Prices At its last meeting, the Board of Education set the 2025 - 2026 School breakfast/lunch prices. Elementary (Berry/Rockwell/Johnson): $3.40 Middle/High School: $3.75 breakfast for all schools: $2.50   Adult breakfast: $3.75 Adult lunch: $5.25 The Free/Reduced Lunch Applications for 2025-2026 will be updated and posted in August on our website, along with being made available at the schools. For students who qualify for either free or reduced-price meals, breakfast will be free. Friends of Bethel Parks and Recreation Want to Hear from YOU!!   Graduation Date for Class of 2025 The Graduation Date for the Class of 2025 is Friday, June 13, 2025, and Saturday, June 14, 2025, would be the rain date.    Kindergarten Registration & Circle of Friends Kindergarten Registration and Preschool Screening Information 2025-2026 Kindergarten Registration Attention Families!!! Do you have children who will be 5 on or before September 1, 2025, and ready to join the Bethel Public Schools family?     If the answer is yes, please complete the registration process for your child to attend kindergarten in the fall.  Please see the info below for our process.  Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is open! To access the kindergarten registration site, go to our district website, www.bethel.k12.ct.us, scroll down, and click on the “Registration Information & Procedures” quicklink in the center of the page (in the blue box). Click on the link BPS Pre-Registration Form K-12. There you will fill out and submit a short form to begin the online process to formally register your child for kindergarten. Please be sure to choose the 2025-2026 school year. At the completion of your online registration, an email will be sent to confirm that the parent portal account has been created AND all of the online enrollment forms have been filled out. At this time, we anticipate that in-person appointments will take place in March & April (no registration appointments will take place until all of the online registration is complete). This appointment will take approximately 15 minutes as long as all of the required paperwork is provided. Students do not need to attend this appointment with their parents. Parents/guardians will be contacted using the email provided during online registration to make a kindergarten screening appointment, which usually takes place at the end of May. More information will follow on this step of the process. If you are a parent of a current Circle of Friends student, you do not need to complete the online registration. Kindergarten registration instructions will be sent home with your child.  If you have any questions about the process or need help, please contact the District Registrar at (203) 830-7355. 2025-2026 How to Register for Kindergarten   Celebrate & Recognize Boys Track & Field Earned Runner-Up Congratulations to Bethel Boys Track & Field on an outstanding performance at the Class MM State Championships. The boys' team was within 0.5 points of first place and earned runner-up status. Great Job!   BPS Instagram BPS Facebook   Schools & Community Bethel Public Schools Flyers Bethel Community Flyers   Non-Discrimination Statement

Friday, Jun 06 2025

Bethel Public Schools Newsletter 5-30-25

Bethel Public Schools Superintendent's Weekly Newsletter May 30, 2025 Clifford J. Hurgin Municipal Center Bethel Board of Education 1 School Street Bethel, CT 06801 (203) 794-8601 www.bethel.k12.ct.us     Administration Offices Office Hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8601 Business Office Office Hours 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8604   District Calendars / Schedules   Dr. Carver's Message Christine Carver, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools Bethel Public Schools 2025 Connecticut Superintendent of the Year carverc@bethel.k12.ct.us   Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, and Community Members, Graduation Walk Yesterday, we celebrated the Class of 2025 with the annual Graduation Walk. We do this walk for two reasons: to remind our Seniors of their journey through the Bethel Public Schools and to be role models to the rest of our students on achieving the goal of graduation. We look forward to graduation and the celebrations for the Class of 2025! Grad Walk photos will be posted on our Flickr. Class of 2025 BHS Scholarship Recipients Earn $1,858,950 BHS had the privilege of providing 72 seniors with over $1.8 million in community, ROTC, and Service Academy Scholarships! Congratulations to all of the recipients.   Bethel Education Foundation Annual Family Summer Kick-Off - TODAY! The BEF annual Summer Kickoff is a fun event for all family members to come and celebrate the start of summer. Today, May 30th, 5-8 PM at the BHS Track & Football Field.  All proceeds fund grants to Bethel Teachers. TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR! $8 per person, $30 family max (cash and credit card accepted) Purchase your dinner at the snack shed run by All Sports Boosters   Board of Education Sets 2025-2026 School Lunch Prices At its last meeting, the Board of Education set the 2025 - 2026 School breakfast/lunch prices. Elementary (Berry/Rockwell/Johnson): $3.40 Middle/High School: $3.75 breakfast for all schools: $2.50   Adult breakfast: $3.75 Adult lunch: $5.25 The Free/Reduced Lunch Applications for 2025-2026 will be updated and posted in August on our website, along with being made available at the schools. For students who qualify for either free or reduced-price meals, breakfast will be free.   Help the Post Prom Committee Reach Fundraising Goal Post Prom is a free overnight event for all BHS Seniors, whether or not they attend prom; prom dates are also welcome. It is a night of food, games, raffles, and other fun activities with friends. The goal is to keep our kids and community safe on prom night! Use the link below to find the donation items needed. https://sites.google.com/view/bhspostprom2025?usp=sharing   BPS District Dashboard   Upcoming Calendar Events June 12 - BMS 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony June 13 - Last Day of School - Early Dismissal K-12 June 13 - BHS Graduation June 14 - RAIN DATE - BHS Graduation School Calendar Reminder - Last Day of School - Friday, June 13th Currently, the last day of school is Friday, June 13th. (If we have no additional emergency closings.) It is also an Early Dismissal day. Health Office News & Information March 28, 2025 IMPORTANT HEALTH OFFICE INFORMATION If your child has any medication in the school health office, it MUST be picked up on or before Friday, June 13th, no later than an hour before dismissal, by a parent/guardian. EpiPens and inhalers may remain in the health office to be used next school year. If your child is attending a BPS ESY program, the medications will be sent to the school where the program is taking place. Please note that any over-the-counter medication, as well as any expired rescue medication, will be disposed of.  2025 - 2026 school year information: If your child eeds medication administered i.e. daily medication, EpiPen, inhaler, any over the counter medications, etc., a new/current "Administration of Medication by School Personnel" form is required; this form can be found on the Bethel Public School District website by going to "Departments" - "School Health" - "Forms"   Non-Compliance The Connecticut General Statutes (Section 10-204a and Section 10-206) require local boards of education to ensure that each child attending school be adequately immunized and have an up-to-date health assessment (physical) on file. The Bethel Public School District requires that all students who enter Grades 7 and 10 must have a mandated health assessment dated on or after July 1, 2024 in order to be compliant. These forms can be found below:  STATE OF CT - HEALTH ASSESSMENT RECORD: Age 5 - Grade 12 Your child can also pick up a blank form during the school day at either the BMS or BHS Health Offices. Because the school district must comply with the state regulations, your child will not be allowed to enter school on the first day of the 2025 - 2026 school year, unless you provide the school with an updated health assessment and/or documentation with the necessary immunizations completed before that date. Please provide the proper documentation to your child’s school. Paperwork can be mailed, faxed or emailed to your child’s school. Bethel High School   Nurse Lisa Davenport, RN    Jill Kurtz, RN                                     300 Whittlesey Drive  Bethel, CT 06801   Phone: 203-794-8600 ext. 1262                          davenportl@bethel.k12.ct.us                        kurtzj@bethel.k12.ct.us               Bethel Middle School Nurse Lydia Petitti, RN Nurse Nicole Fry, RN 600 Whittlesey Drive Bethel, CT 06801 Phone: 203-794-8669 Fax: 203-794-8083 petittil@bethel.k12.ct.us fryn@bethel.k12.ct.us   News & Reminders Friends of Bethel Parks and Recreation Want to Hear from YOU!!     Graduation Date for Class of 2025 The Graduation Date for the Class of 2025 is Friday, June 13, 2025, and Saturday, June 14, 2025, would be the rain date.    BHS Legacy Wall coming soon! Forever commemorate your time at BHS permanently - Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcats!  Fully customizable bricks are ordered online, will be installed by a professional mason, (who is a Bethel alum), and will be forever on display at the DeSantis Field snack shed. Open to ALL students past and present and will sell fast - order today!  All proceeds go directly to our complete renovation of the weight room.  Email questions to bhsgridiron2020@gmail.com https://donate.brickmarkers.com/bhs/   Kindergarten Registration & Circle of Friends Kindergarten Registration and Preschool Screening Information 2025-2026 Kindergarten Registration Attention Families!!! Do you have children who will be 5 on or before September 1, 2025, and ready to join the Bethel Public Schools family?     If the answer is yes, please complete the registration process for your child to attend kindergarten in the fall.  Please see the info below for our process.  Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is open! To access the kindergarten registration site, go to our district website, www.bethel.k12.ct.us, scroll down, and click on the “Registration Information & Procedures” quicklink in the center of the page (in the blue box). Click on the link BPS Pre-Registration Form K-12. There you will fill out and submit a short form to begin the online process to formally register your child for kindergarten. Please be sure to choose the 2025-2026 school year. At the completion of your online registration, an email will be sent to confirm that the parent portal account has been created AND all of the online enrollment forms have been filled out. At this time, we anticipate that in-person appointments will take place in March & April (no registration appointments will take place until all of the online registration is complete). This appointment will take approximately 15 minutes as long as all of the required paperwork is provided. Students do not need to attend this appointment with their parents. Parents/guardians will be contacted using the email provided during online registration to make a kindergarten screening appointment, which usually takes place at the end of May. More information will follow on this step of the process. If you are a parent of a current Circle of Friends student, you do not need to complete the online registration. Kindergarten registration instructions will be sent home with your child.  If you have any questions about the process or need help, please contact the District Registrar at (203) 830-7355. 2025-2026 How to Register for Kindergarten   Celebrate & Recognize BHS Boys Baseball Wins SWC Championship!   Adhwaitha Devasani, a BHS Gr. 10 student, did an exemplary performance at the 2025 Karate National Competition conducted by the North American Federation of Martial Arts on May 24th, 2025. Adhwaitha has won First place in 15-17 Age group Karate Black Belts division for Traditional Kata forms, First place in 15-17 Age group Karate Black Belts division for Point Sparring. Also, a Grand Champion award for Martial Arts Traditional Kata Forms.   Congratulations to the Bethel High School students who earned recognition from the American Association of Teachers of French Grand Concours Contest! Avni Sha-Gold, Joseph Sacchinelli-Silver, Abbigail May-Williams-Bronze. Honorable Mention: Kat Kechejian, Max Salvestrini, Emelia Messinger, Joseph Corigliano. Merite: Elinor Schenkel, Henley Gow, Ayaan Kasam, Eden Kopreski   BPS Instagram BPS Facebook   Schools & Community Bethel Public Schools Flyers Bethel Community Flyers   Non-Discrimination Statement

Friday, May 30 2025

Bethel Public Schools Newsletter 5-23-25

Bethel Public Schools Superintendent's Weekly Newsletter May 23, 2025 Clifford J. Hurgin Municipal Center Bethel Board of Education 1 School Street Bethel, CT 06801 (203) 794-8601 www.bethel.k12.ct.us     Administration Offices Office Hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8601 Business Office Office Hours 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8604   District Calendars / Schedules   Dr. Carver's Message Christine Carver, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools Bethel Public Schools 2025 Connecticut Superintendent of the Year carverc@bethel.k12.ct.us   Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, and Community Members, As you are aware, every year we survey our parents by school on their general perceptions across all of our schools. Your thoughtful responses provide us with crucial insights into our schools' strengths and areas for growth, directly informing our continuous improvement efforts and school climate goals. We feel that it is important to summarize the themes of results that will drive our future work.   Secondary 2025 Parent Survey Results  We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all 473 parents and guardians (216 from Bethel Middle School and 257 from Bethel High School) who participated in the recent Bethel Middle and High School Parent/Guardian Feedback Surveys for 2025. We are pleased to share some key takeaways from the combined survey results for grades 6-12: Shared Strengths Across Bethel Middle and High Schools: Across both our middle and high schools, we observed consistent strengths that foster a positive learning environment: Welcoming Environment: An overwhelming majority of parents feel their child feels welcome at school. For grades 6-8, 93.52% agreed or strongly agreed, and for grades 9-12, this figure was 94.16%. This indicates a strong sense of belonging for our students across all grades. Supportive Learning Environment: Parents widely perceive our school environments as supportive of learning. 91.21% of middle school parents and 90.28% of high school parents agreed or strongly agreed. Safety at School: We are very encouraged that a high percentage of parents feel their child is safe at school. This was affirmed by 90.74% of middle school parents and 92.22% of high school parents. Student safety remains our top priority. High Expectations: Parents largely believe that their children are challenged to meet high expectations, with 88.43% of middle school parents and 85.99% of high school parents agreeing or strongly agreeing. Access to Academic Help: Most parents reported that their child has access to academic help outside of the classroom (86.11% for middle school and 84.82% for high school). Positive Adult Relationships: A significant majority of students have a positive and supportive relationship with at least one adult at their respective schools (90.74% for middle school and 89.10% for high school). Overall Satisfaction: Parents expressed high overall satisfaction with their child's education at Bethel Middle School (89.82%) and Bethel High School (84.83%). Shared Areas for Growth Across Bethel Middle and High Schools: While we celebrate these successes, the surveys also illuminated areas where we can collectively focus our efforts for improvement: Teacher Communication: Across both schools, there is a clear need to enhance consistency and clarity in communication from teachers to parents. While generally positive, 14.81% of middle school parents (12.96% disagreed, 1.85% strongly disagreed) and 18.68% of high school parents (14.01% disagreed, 4.67% strongly disagreed) expressed concerns in this area. Clarity of Grading Practices: Ensuring that grading policies and practices are transparent and easily understood by all families is an area for improvement. 11.57% of middle school parents (9.26% disagreed, 2.31% strongly disagreed) and 19.85% of high school parents (15.18% disagreed, 4.67% strongly disagreed) indicated a need for greater clarity. Student Respect Towards One Another: This is a significant area of focus for promoting a more respectful student culture across both schools. 28.71% of middle school parents (18.52% disagreed, 10.19% strongly disagreed) and 29.58% of high school parents (19.46% disagreed, 10.12% strongly disagreed) indicated a concern in this area. Elementary 2025 Parent Survey Results  We also want to express our sincere appreciation to all 457 parents and guardians (100 from Anna H. Rockwell School, 236 from R.M.T. Johnson School, and 121 from Frank A. Berry School) who participated in the recent Parent/Guardian Feedback Surveys for 2025. We are pleased to share some key takeaways from the combined survey results for grades K-5: Shared Strengths Across Our Elementary Schools: Across all three of our elementary schools, we observed consistent strengths that foster a positive learning environment: Welcoming Environment: An overwhelming majority of parents feel their child feels welcome at school. Rockwell reported 97% (74% strongly agree, 23% agree), Johnson reported 95.34% (48.73% strongly agree, 46.61% agree), and Berry reported 97.52% (66.94% strongly agree, 30.58% agree). This indicates a strong sense of belonging for our students across all elementary grades. Teacher Communication: A high percentage of parents reported that their child's teachers communicate effectively with them. Rockwell reported 95% (72% strongly agree, 23% agree), Johnson reported 94.49% (55.51% strongly agree, 38.98% agree), and Berry reported 91.74% (63.64% strongly agree, 28.10% agree). Positive Adult Relationships: A significant majority of students have a positive and supportive relationship with at least one adult at the school. This was affirmed by 97% of Rockwell parents, 95.34% of Johnson parents, and 95.87% of Berry parents. Student Safety: We are very encouraged that a high percentage of parents feel their child is safe at school. This was affirmed by 96% of Rockwell parents, 91.95% of Johnson parents, and 95.87% of Berry parents. Challenged to Meet High Expectations: Students are perceived as being challenged to meet high expectations. Rockwell reported 90% (53% strongly agree, 37% agree), Johnson reported 82.2% (31.78% strongly agree, 50.42% agree), and Berry reported 90.09% (47.11% strongly agree, 42.98% agree). Academic Growth: Parents generally believe their child is growing academically, with Rockwell reporting 98% (69% strongly agree, 29% agree), Johnson reporting 91.1% (39.41% strongly agree, 51.69% agree), and Berry reporting 95.86% (61.98% strongly agree, 33.88% agree). Overall Satisfaction: Parents expressed high overall satisfaction with their child's education. Rockwell reported 97% (68% strongly agree, 29% agree), Johnson reported 85.6% (35.59% strongly agree, 50.00% agree), and Berry reported 94.21% (60.33% strongly agree, 33.88% agree). School Administrator Communication: Parents generally feel that school administrators communicate effectively with them. Rockwell reported 90% (61% strongly agree, 29% agree), Johnson reported 87.28% (41.95% strongly agree, 45.34% agree), and Berry reported 91.74% (61.16% strongly agree, 30.58% agree). Areas for Growth: While we celebrate these numerous successes, the surveys also highlighted areas where we can focus our efforts for improvement: Sensitivity to Diversity Issues: While generally positive, there's room for improvement in ensuring all families feel our schools are consistently sensitive and inclusive regarding culture, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and disabilities. Rockwell reported 4% disagreed or strongly disagreed, Johnson reported 8.05% (5.93% disagreed, 2.12% strongly disagreed), and Berry reported 5.78% (4.13% disagreed, 1.65% strongly disagreed). Your feedback is truly invaluable as we strive to create the best possible learning environment for our students. These survey results will be thoroughly analyzed and directly incorporated into our respective school improvement plans as climate goals. We are committed to working collaboratively with our students, staff, and families to address these areas for growth and continue building strong and supportive communities across all of our schools. Thank you once again for your dedication and partnership in your child's education. CABE Student Leadership Awards The CABE Student Leadership Awards are given to recognize student achievement and potential. These students were picked from among their peers for exhibiting leadership qualities as defined by the criteria developed by CABE. The Board recognized the level of achievement of these students at Tuesday's meeting. Congratulations to the following students on receiving the CABE Student Leadership Award for 2025:  Bethel High School, Luke Richardson and Annabelle Souza; Bethel Middle School, Olivia McMurray and Zahra Khan. Staff Awards I am deeply grateful for all of our staff. Their individual and collective contributions make the Bethel Public Schools a superior school system, which I am extremely proud to lead.   Yesterday, we celebrated what we do well as a system. Our staff awards highlight excellence in our field, our dedication to improving teaching and learning, celebrating the excellent programs we provide our students, strong leadership within our Board of Education, and recognizing individuals who contribute to our system in extraordinary ways. Please join me in congratulating the following honorees: 2025 Pillars of the Year   Bethel High School – Kristan Giroux, Social Worker Bethel Middle School – Danelle Egan, Library Media Specialist Ralph M.T. Johnson School - Julia Malota, School Psychologist Frank A. Berry School – Bernadette Apellaniz-Bryant, Special Services Secretary Anna H. Rockwell School – Dr. Carolyn Keller, Social Worker Bethel Public Schools –  Michael Tonucci, BCBA, Johnson School & Bethel Middle School Cyndi Giordano-Donati, BCBA, Johnson School & Bethel Middle School Lindsay Jankun-Harsch, BCBA, Rockwell School Brittany Pizzano, BCBA, Berry School 2025 Rookie Teachers of the Year Bethel High School – Lori Spero, Mathematics Teacher Bethel Middle School – Brianna Ferraro, School Psychologist Ralph M.T. Johnson School - Nicole Bentson, Grade 3 Teacher Frank A. Berry School – Kayleigh Murphy, Grade 2 Teacher Anna H. Rockwell School – Noemi Gristina, Kindergarten Teacher 2025 Teachers of the Year Bethel High School – Dr. Reine Issa, Mathematics Teacher Bethel Middle School –Marie Jowdy, Mathematics Teacher Ralph M.T. Johnson School - Gregory Reid, Grade 4 Teacher Frank A. Berry School - Aimee Bajor, Special Education Teacher Anna H. Rockwell School – Elaine O'Keeffe, Special Education Teacher 2025 Friends of Bethel Award Greg Henry, Parent, All Sports Booster Club 2025 CHAMP Award Brandon Husvar, Network Administrator 2025 Retiree Diane Kinkade, Literacy Specialist, Ralph M.T. Johnson School Bethel Service Recipients for Years of Service 10-Year Honorees  Eleni Caffrey, Mark Caron, Grant Cox, Kathleen Darrah, Kylie D'Arcangelo, Katherine Edwards, Amber Kane, Linda Siladi, Meghan Stabile, Michael Tonucci, Ivelisse Velez 20-Year Honorees Christopher Ciparelli, Michelle DeBenedetto, Marjorie Dilworth, Laura Dobrindt, Cheryl Hallock, Eugene Hellmann, Anthony Liberati, Catherine McCabe, John Poapst, Lois Tamburino, Bryan Watson 30-Year Honorees Margaret Genuario, Ann Martinelli, Janet Murray, Debra Tierney 40-Year Honorees Albert Robinson Creativity, Innovation, & Excellence in Education Aimee Bajor Diana Bernardo Christy Bibb Zachary Craybas Irene Drake Melissa Dube Catherine Emerick Heather Farisello Robyn Gerety Danielle Legnard Sheila Levine Sabrina Luis Danielle Lynch Taryn McCormick Gina McKenzie Laura Montero Jeff Moscowitz Kelly Muckell Kit Nielsen Joe Perreault Donna Rick Debbie Tierney Samatha Tisi Danielle Troetti Kim Trombetto     Help the Post Prom Committee Reach Fundraising Goal Post Prom is a free overnight event for all BHS Seniors, whether or not they attend prom; prom dates are also welcome. It is a night of food, games, raffles, and other fun activities with friends. The goal is to keep our kids and community safe on prom night! Use the link below to find the donation items needed. https://sites.google.com/view/bhspostprom2025?usp=sharing   BPS District Dashboard   Upcoming Calendar Events May 26 - Memorial Day Observed - Schools Closed June 12 - BMS 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony June 13 - Last Day of School - Early Dismissal K-12 June 13 - BHS Graduation June 14 - RAIN DATE - BHS Graduation School Calendar Reminder - Last Day of School - Friday, June 13th Currently, the last day of school is Friday, June 13th. (If we have no additional emergency closings.) It is also an Early Dismissal day. Health Office News & Information March 28, 2025 Non-Compliance The Connecticut General Statutes (Section 10-204a and Section 10-206) require local boards of education to ensure that each child attending school be adequately immunized and have an up-to-date health assessment (physical) on file. The Bethel Public School District requires that all students who enter Grades 7 and 10 must have a mandated health assessment dated on or after July 1, 2024 in order to be compliant. These forms can be found below:  STATE OF CT - HEALTH ASSESSMENT RECORD: Age 5 - Grade 12 Your child can also pick up a blank form during the school day at either the BMS or BHS Health Offices. Because the school district must comply with the state regulations, your child will not be allowed to enter school on the first day of the 2025 - 2026 school year, unless you provide the school with an updated health assessment and/or documentation with the necessary immunizations completed before that date. Please provide the proper documentation to your child’s school. Paperwork can be mailed, faxed or emailed to your child’s school. Bethel High School   Nurse Lisa Davenport, RN    Jill Kurtz, RN                                     300 Whittlesey Drive  Bethel, CT 06801   Phone: 203-794-8600 ext. 1262                          davenportl@bethel.k12.ct.us                        kurtzj@bethel.k12.ct.us               Bethel Middle School Nurse Lydia Petitti, RN Nurse Nicole Fry, RN 600 Whittlesey Drive Bethel, CT 06801 Phone: 203-794-8669 Fax: 203-794-8083 petittil@bethel.k12.ct.us fryn@bethel.k12.ct.us   News & Reminders     Board of Education Sets Graduation Date for Class of 2025 The Graduation Date for the Class of 2025 is Friday, June 13, 2025, and Saturday, June 14, 2025, would be the rain date.    BHS Legacy Wall coming soon! Forever commemorate your time at BHS permanently - Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcats!  Fully customizable bricks are ordered online, will be installed by a professional mason, (who is a Bethel alum), and will be forever on display at the DeSantis Field snack shed. Open to ALL students past and present and will sell fast - order today!  All proceeds go directly to our complete renovation of the weight room.  Email questions to bhsgridiron2020@gmail.com https://donate.brickmarkers.com/bhs/   Kindergarten Registration & Circle of Friends Kindergarten Registration and Preschool Screening Information 2025-2026 Kindergarten Registration Attention Families!!! Do you have children who will be 5 on or before September 1, 2025, and ready to join the Bethel Public Schools family?     If the answer is yes, please complete the registration process for your child to attend kindergarten in the fall.  Please see the info below for our process.  Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is open! To access the kindergarten registration site, go to our district website, www.bethel.k12.ct.us, scroll down, and click on the “Registration Information & Procedures” quicklink in the center of the page (in the blue box). Click on the link BPS Pre-Registration Form K-12. There you will fill out and submit a short form to begin the online process to formally register your child for kindergarten. Please be sure to choose the 2025-2026 school year. At the completion of your online registration, an email will be sent to confirm that the parent portal account has been created AND all of the online enrollment forms have been filled out. At this time, we anticipate that in-person appointments will take place in March & April (no registration appointments will take place until all of the online registration is complete). This appointment will take approximately 15 minutes as long as all of the required paperwork is provided. Students do not need to attend this appointment with their parents. Parents/guardians will be contacted using the email provided during online registration to make a kindergarten screening appointment, which usually takes place at the end of May. More information will follow on this step of the process. If you are a parent of a current Circle of Friends student, you do not need to complete the online registration. Kindergarten registration instructions will be sent home with your child.  If you have any questions about the process or need help, please contact the District Registrar at (203) 830-7355. 2025-2026 How to Register for Kindergarten     BPS Instagram BPS Facebook   Schools & Community Bethel Public Schools Flyers Bethel Community Flyers   Non-Discrimination Statement

Friday, May 23 2025

Bethel Public Schools Newsletter 5-16-25

Bethel Public Schools Superintendent's Weekly Newsletter May 16, 2025 Clifford J. Hurgin Municipal Center Bethel Board of Education 1 School Street Bethel, CT 06801 (203) 794-8601 www.bethel.k12.ct.us     Administration Offices Office Hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8601 Business Office Office Hours 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (203) 794-8604   District Calendars / Schedules   Dr. Carver's Message Christine Carver, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools Bethel Public Schools 2025 Connecticut Superintendent of the Year carverc@bethel.k12.ct.us   Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, and Community Members, Celebrations & Student Recognition As we wind down the school year, we have a variety of activities, awards, celebrations, BHS Grad Walk, BEF Summer Kick-Off. The official countdown is that there are nineteen days left of school. We look forward to our senior prom, BMS Moving Up Ceremony on June 12th, and BHS graduation on June 13th (rain date June 14th).  Western Connecticut Superintendent Association Student Recognition Awards Two students from Bethel Middle School and two from Bethel High School will be recognized at a ceremony on Monday, May 19th. The Western Connecticut Superintendent’s Awards are given to students who exhibit a commitment to community service, demonstrate academic prowess, and provide leadership in the school community. These students’ outstanding work ethic in the classroom, generosity in the community, passion for the arts, and leadership within their schools, are among the reasons they have been chosen for this prestigious honor. This year's recipients are:   Bethel High School - Emma Yale and Yuvraj Soni Bethel Middle School - Nicholas Gusitsch and Mackenzie Messinger     Help the Post Prom Committee Reach Fundraising Goal Post Prom is a free overnight event for all BHS Seniors, whether or not they attend prom; prom dates are also welcome. It is a night of food, games, raffles, and other fun activities with friends. The goal is to keep our kids and community safe on prom night! Use the link below to find the donation items needed. https://sites.google.com/view/bhspostprom2025?usp=sharing   BPS District Dashboard   Upcoming Calendar Events May 23 - Professional Learning Day - Early Dismissal K-12 May 26 - Memorial Day Observed - Schools Closed June 12 - BMS 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony June 13 - Last Day of School - Early Dismissal K-12 June 13 - BHS Graduation June 14 - RAIN DATE - BHS Graduation School Calendar Reminder - Last Day of School - Friday, June 13th Currently, the last day of school is Friday, June 13th. (If we have no additional emergency closings.) It is also an Early Dismissal day. Health Office News & Information March 28, 2025 Non-Compliance The Connecticut General Statutes (Section 10-204a and Section 10-206) require local boards of education to ensure that each child attending school be adequately immunized and have an up-to-date health assessment (physical) on file. The Bethel Public School District requires that all students who enter Grades 7 and 10 must have a mandated health assessment dated on or after July 1, 2024 in order to be compliant. These forms can be found below:  STATE OF CT - HEALTH ASSESSMENT RECORD: Age 5 - Grade 12 Your child can also pick up a blank form during the school day at either the BMS or BHS Health Offices. Because the school district must comply with the state regulations, your child will not be allowed to enter school on the first day of the 2025 - 2026 school year, unless you provide the school with an updated health assessment and/or documentation with the necessary immunizations completed before that date. Please provide the proper documentation to your child’s school. Paperwork can be mailed, faxed or emailed to your child’s school. Bethel High School   Nurse Lisa Davenport, RN    Jill Kurtz, RN                                     300 Whittlesey Drive  Bethel, CT 06801   Phone: 203-794-8600 ext. 1262                          davenportl@bethel.k12.ct.us                        kurtzj@bethel.k12.ct.us               Bethel Middle School Nurse Lydia Petitti, RN Nurse Nicole Fry, RN 600 Whittlesey Drive Bethel, CT 06801 Phone: 203-794-8669 Fax: 203-794-8083 petittil@bethel.k12.ct.us fryn@bethel.k12.ct.us   News & Reminders   Bethel's Memorial Day Parade Mark your calendar for Bethel's Memorial Day Parade on Sunday, May 18th! The parade kicks off at 2 pm in front of Whitlock’s Restaurant, travels east on Greenwood Ave., turns onto PT Barnum Square, and ends on School St. with a ceremony in front of the Municipal Center. Don’t miss this hometown event!   Board of Education Sets Graduation Date for Class of 2025 The Graduation Date for the Class of 2025 is Friday, June 13, 2025, and Saturday, June 14, 2025, would be the rain date.    BHS Legacy Wall coming soon! Forever commemorate your time at BHS permanently - Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcats!  Fully customizable bricks are ordered online, will be installed by a professional mason, (who is a Bethel alum), and will be forever on display at the DeSantis Field snack shed. Open to ALL students past and present and will sell fast - order today!  All proceeds go directly to our complete renovation of the weight room.  Email questions to bhsgridiron2020@gmail.com https://donate.brickmarkers.com/bhs/   Kindergarten Registration & Circle of Friends Kindergarten Registration and Preschool Screening Information 2025-2026 Kindergarten Registration Attention Families!!! Do you have children who will be 5 on or before September 1, 2025, and ready to join the Bethel Public Schools family?     If the answer is yes, please complete the registration process for your child to attend kindergarten in the fall.  Please see the info below for our process.  Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is open! To access the kindergarten registration site, go to our district website, www.bethel.k12.ct.us, scroll down, and click on the “Registration Information & Procedures” quicklink in the center of the page (in the blue box). Click on the link BPS Pre-Registration Form K-12. There you will fill out and submit a short form to begin the online process to formally register your child for kindergarten. Please be sure to choose the 2025-2026 school year. At the completion of your online registration, an email will be sent to confirm that the parent portal account has been created AND all of the online enrollment forms have been filled out. At this time, we anticipate that in-person appointments will take place in March & April (no registration appointments will take place until all of the online registration is complete). This appointment will take approximately 15 minutes as long as all of the required paperwork is provided. Students do not need to attend this appointment with their parents. Parents/guardians will be contacted using the email provided during online registration to make a kindergarten screening appointment, which usually takes place at the end of May. More information will follow on this step of the process. If you are a parent of a current Circle of Friends student, you do not need to complete the online registration. Kindergarten registration instructions will be sent home with your child.  If you have any questions about the process or need help, please contact the District Registrar at (203) 830-7355. 2025-2026 How to Register for Kindergarten   Celebrate & Recognize 2025 Connecticut Scholastic 4th GRADE Champion - Rayan Mathivanan Congratulations to Rayan Mathivanan! He won the 2025 CT 4th grade championship tournament on Monday, held at Manchester High School, CT. This is the state-level chess championship tournament held for each school grade individually. The participants play 4 rounds SS (Swiss style), and each round is for 25 minutes with 5 5-second delay (G/25 d5). The tournament is conducted by the CT State Chess Association, and all chess players from CT are eligible to attend this tournament.   BPS Instagram BPS Facebook   Schools & Community Bethel Public Schools Flyers Bethel Community Flyers   Non-Discrimination Statement

Friday, May 16 2025

Help Send Johnson School Team to Odyssey of the Mind...

Wednesday, May 14 2025