Sunday, February 28, 2010

WAG March 1-5

February 28, 2010


If you are a college football fan you may have heard of Tim Tebow. Tim has been the quarterback for the Florida Gators for the past four years. During that time he won the Heisman trophy and two national championships. In all, he became one of the greatest quarterbacks to play the game at the University of Florida. His accomplishments however may not have been enough for NFL teams to make him one of their draft picks this upcoming April. There are many experts that are now saying that even though Tim Tebow excelled on the college field, his mechanics and style of play are not enough to catapult him to the next level. To take the debate further, some are saying that the coaches at the University of Florida are to blame. There are people that believe the coaches failed Tim for their own benefit. It raises a valid question. Are coaches responsible for teaching within the system and using players’ talents for the benefit of the University, or should they prepare each player individually for the next level?
The Tebow debate that has been heard on every sports radio station from here to Gainesville can be also debated from the perspective of an educator. What exactly is the best way to approach education today? School districts deliver rigorous curriculum, write and follow policy, and try to uphold high standards in order to maintain their excellent reputations. Much like the University of Florida’s football program was hesitant to change their star player’s mechanics, school districts are cautious in changing certain programs, personnel, or “ways of doing things” in fear it may not be the best decision for the organization.
Coach Urban and his staff at the University of Florida stated that they felt it was too risky to change Tim’s playing style at the risk of the team’s success. Hearing this debate unfold, it made me question what our responsibilities in preparing students for the next level. MEAP scores are high and students are excelling in the classroom but are we preparing them for the real world? What is expected from our students as they go off to college and into the workplace is not something they can learn from a textbook or test. Coach Urban did what was expected with Tim Tebow. He coached within the system and reached the goals that were set forth by his superiors and fans. School Districts, especially Birmingham, should be commended for the same efforts and accomplishment s they have in reaching goals set forth by the school board and the community. The Tebow debate points out, however, that while we should be maintaining the same high standards and expectations, we need to also find ways to adapt to the ever changing skills that are needed for our students to be successful when they leave BCS.
I believe that we are doing both here at BCS. We are working within the system, maintaining high scores, and delivering rigorous curriculum. At the same time, we are looking at each student’s individual skill set and adapting to meet their needs. The BCS staff is taking steps that Coach Urban and his staff would not, they are sacrificing their own agendas for the benefit of their students.
No matter what side you are on in the Tebow debate, no one can argue the efforts that each BCS team member puts in to “winning a championship” and preparing their star players for the next level!




WEEK AT A GLANCE – MARCH 1 –5, 2010
(Disclaimer: Please check all your calendars and bcsonline.info in case we missed something)

 To submit an item for next week’s “WAG”, email nb01bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us by FRIDAY 7AM

Monday, March 1
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 5th graders in Mr. Burdick & Mrs. Brown’s class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• 4:30PM –Girl’s Volleyball game vs. Ferndale MS @ home. 7th grade game begins at 4:00PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.
• 5:30PM–Boys swim team meet vs Bloomfield Hills Middle School and West Hills Middle School @ Andover High School

Tuesday, March 2
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• 7-8AM – Proud Dads Volleyball for 6th Grade Girls
• 8-8:20AM – Bagel sale in front of the media center by the 8th grade celebration committee
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 6th graders in Mr. Burdick & Mrs. Brown’s class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• 3:15-4:00PM – School store is open in the main hallway during choice hour
• 4:00PM –Girl’s Volleyball game vs. Derby @ home. 7th grade game begins at 4:00PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.
• 6:30-8:00PM – Proud Dad’s CO-ED Basketball – 3rd-6th grades
• 7:00PM – BLAST Committee meeting – Media Center
• 7:00PM - BPS Board of Education meeting at the BPS Administration building, 550 West Merrill Street, Birmingham. Watch it live on Comcast channel 17.

Wednesday, March 3
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 5th graders in Mrs. Maliszewski & Mrs. Fitzgerald’s class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• 9:15AM – 5/6 Room Parent Meeting – Media Center
• Popcorn Day – freshly popped popcorn is sold during choice hour for $1 in the main hallway.
• 3-4PM-Market Day pick-up in the entrance hall.
• 4:15PM–Boys swim team meet @home versus Berkshire
• 4:00PM –Girl’s Volleyball game vs. Cranbrook @ home. 7th grade game begins at 4:00PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.

Thursday, March 4
• Fiesta Latina Field Trip – Chicago, IL – for 7/8 students previously signed up.
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• 7-8AM – Proud Dads Volleyball for 6th Grade Girls
• 8:15 – 9:30AM – 8th Grade Farewell Celebration Planning Meeting-media center
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 6th graders in Mrs. Maliszewski & Mrs. Fitzgerald’s class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• 3:20-4:05PM ––7th & 8th grade Girls Volleyball practice during choice hour.
• 6:30-8:00PM – Proud Dad’s CO-ED Basketball – 3rd-6th grades
• 7 PM – Friends of Different Learners Meeting – “Understanding Dyslexia” in the BCS Media Center


Friday, March 5
• Fiesta Latina Field Trip – Chicago, IL – for 7/8 students previously signed up.
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• 7 – 8:00 AM–7th grade Girls Volleyball practice
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip – 5th graders in Mr. Bishop & Mrs. Cook’s class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.

Hot Entrée menu for the week: (subject to change, if necessary)
- Available everyday: Salad Bar, Hamburgers, Chicken Patties, Pizza & Cheese Breadsticks
Monday –Sloppy Joe on Wheat bun -Chips, Corn
Tuesday –Mini Corn Dogs-Butter Noodles, Peas and Carrots
Wednesday –Pizza Bagels or Greek Salad-Small salad
Thursday – Baked Chicken Tenders-Mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables
Friday –Egg Roll/Chicken or Vegetable-Rice or broccoli


7/8 WINTER BAND CONCERT
The BCS 7th & 8th grade winter concert was postponed because of the snow day on Wednesday, February 10. The concert has been re-scheduled for Wednesday, March 10, 2010 in the BCS cafeteria. The concert begins at 7:00pm.

JUMP ROPE FOR HEART – 3rd & 4th GRADERS
Attention 3rd and 4th graders and their families!!!! It’s time for Jump Rope For Heart and all of the information will be coming to you this week! This 3rd /4th grade event will take place during your child’s physical education class March 10th through 12th. We will be in need of numerous parent volunteers on those days so please check your schedules. You can contact Mr. Johansson (wj01bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us) or Mrs. Kelmigian (jk11bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us) if you are interested in helping on those days. The class days/times are as follows:

Wednesday, March 10th 2:20-3:10 Parkin/Wallington
Thursday, March 11th 1:25-2:20 Frishman/Butzin
Thursday, March 11th 2:25-3:10 Burns/Harvath
Friday, March 12th 1:35-2:20 Davis/Seley

Your children will be bringing home a letter from the American Heart Association and a collection envelope for donations from family and friends. Cardiovascular disease and strokes are America’s number one and number three killers and touch all of our lives. Jump Rope For Heart raises funds for research and programs to reduce heart disease, stroke and their risk factors and improve health in people of all ages. Please support your child’s efforts in raising money and participating in this fun and worthwhile event.


THE BCS BLAST - Visit the Blast tab on www.BCSonline.info for up-to-date information on THE BLAST
Attention all BCS Families: the BLAST is right around the corner and we are excited to offer these wonderful opportunities to our community:
• Corporate Sponsors - donations with a value of $250 - $499 will receive advertisement on the Corporate Sponsor banner to be displayed in the cafeteria during the Blast. Corporate sponsors will be mentioned on the www.bcsonline.info website and is listed in the 2010 auction booklet and on the Blast T-shirt.
*Donations with a value of $500 or more will receive advertisement on the Platinum Corporate Sponsor banner to be prominently displayed in the cafeteria during the Blast and in the school for the remainder of the school year. Platinum Corporate Sponsor receives a one year advertisement on the www.bcsonline.info home page and is listed in the 2010 auction booklet and on the Blast T-shirt.
• Family Patron - $100 gets you valet parking, priority auction checkout, and a t-shirt.
• We are also looking for donations to our auction:
1) Tickets to sporting events you, or your company, or vendor(s), have access to always work well at the auction.
2) Your company’s product or service.
3) Golf or hunting outings are very popular
4) Sports memorabilia.
5) Access to Houses / Condominiums / Timeshares in resort areas are a huge auction cash generator!

Please email Laura Meso at laurameso@comcast.net or Therese Fortney at therese521@comcast.net with any item you would like to donate to the 2010 Blast auction. Download donation forms at www.bcsonline.com/blast . Thank you all for your continued support to BCS and your children! You’re the best! From your Blast co-chairs, Karen Best & Ken Gilbert.



Football Opportunity at Seaholm
8th graders who are interested in playing football at Seaholm for the Fall 2010 season are invited to attend the Seaholm Football Kick Off Meeting on Sunday, March 28 at 1:00 pm in the Seaholm Cafeteria. For more information, send an email to seaholmFB2010@aol.com or call Booster President Craig Frye at 248.790.0049.

Remember Carpool Thursdays and Trash Free Fridays

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Feb 22-26 WAG

February 21, 2010

Dear BCS Families,

I hope all of you enjoyed a week away from BCS! I am hoping, however, that you are all as excited as I am to begin a crucial part of the 2009-10 school year! There are many exciting things happening at BCS this spring as we look to prepare our students for next year. The staff is very proud of every BCS student and the growth we have seen. We would like to say thank you for sending us your children every day!

The past week served two purposes for me. One, I was able to spend a lot of time at home working on both my school assignments and work for BCS. Mrs. Hartley was working and our three children had school! I forgot what a quiet house was like! Two, I was able to spend some time at my 4th grade son’s school. February is Black History Month so I decided to teach a mini lesson on slavery and the Underground Railroad to Cameron’s class. My plan was to read Henry’s Freedom Box and discuss the events that took place in the story. What transpired, however, was a life lesson for the students, and for me!

I am a firm believer that we all need to sometimes step in the shoes of others and look at things in a different perspective. This is tough for us to do as adults, but is even more difficult for children to look through a different lens. I wanted the students to experience what unfortunately many Americans go through on a daily basis, discrimination. I thought if I could have them step in others’ shoes, it could possibly help them be better citizens in the future!

I entered the classroom to 25 smiling and happy students. They were glad to see their old principal and were ready to have an hour of fun. Their smiles soon turned to frowns when I told them that the room I was taking them to could only hold half of the class. I then proceeded to tell them that since I have blue/green eyes that I would take only the students with blue or green eyes to the other room for the activities. I lined the blue/green eye students up at the door and walked them down. The students that were left in the class with their teacher were given a math assignment to complete while we were gone. After a few minutes I walked back down and brought the rest of the class back with me to join us. That is when the real learning started taking place.

In groups, the students talked about how they felt and what was going through their minds. They then connected their feelings to how Henry and his family would have felt during the events that took place in the book. What was to be a lesson for the kids, turned out to be a lesson for me as well. The groups reported out what they discussed and I soon learned that kids can see through a different lens, we just need to allow them the opportunity!

The group that was left out at first reported they felt sad, that is was unfair, and that they didn’t understand why they were being treated so poorly. The blue/green eye group reported that yes, at times they felt good but they were mad about leaving friends behind. One student, stated, “I felt like a king but knew it was wrong.” The lesson turned out to be an hour of deep conversation on slavery, equal rights, and what they can do to make sure they are not making others feel the way they felt that day. I would like to share what came out of the lesson and ask all of us to step in others’ shoes in order to see the world from another perspective.

Adam

The students were asked to complete the following sentence - Slavery is…
Here are a few examples of 4th grade students looking through the lens of Henry- In the Book Henry’s Freedom Box.

Slavery is violent.

Slavery is wrong.

Slavery is unfair and violent.

Slavery is discrimination, evil, and horrible.

Slavery is harmful.

Slavery is very bad and should not have existed.

Slavery is really really mean.

Slavery is heartbreaking.

Slavery is when it is impossible for you to breathe or move.

Slavery is sad and mean.

Slavery is a crime.

Slavery is when you are not free to have your own family.





WEEK AT A GLANCE – FEBRUARY 22 – FEBRUARY26, 2010
(Disclaimer: Please check all your calendars and bcsonline.info in case we missed something)

Monday, February 22
• 6:45-8:00AM –8th grade Girls Volleyball practice
• 3:15-5:30PM - Boys swim team practice
• 3:15PM – Sports pictures for Girl’s volleyball and Boy’s swimming
• 4:15-5:30PM –7th grade Girls Volleyball practice

Tuesday, February 23
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• E-Bugle published today!
• 7:30-8:00AM - BCS Diversity Committee meeting in Room 505 – All are welcome
• 8-8:20AM – Bagel sale in front of the media center by the 8th grade celebration committee
• Music Assembly for 4th grade students conducted by Anderson Music Company-see comments
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip – 5th graders in Mr. Bishop & Mrs. Cook’s class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• 3:15-4:00PM – School store is open in the main hallway during choice hour
• 3:30PM – SNOW CLUB bus leaves for Pine Knob. Students return to BCS at 8:30PM and need to be picked up.
• 4:30PM –Girl’s Volleyball game vs. Norup Middle School @ home. 7th grade game begins at 4:30PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.
• 6:30-8:00PM – Proud Dad’s CO-ED Basketball – 3rd-6th grades
• 6:30PM – Technology Committee Meeting- Media Center
• 7:00PM – BLAST Committee Meeting – Media Center

Wednesday, February 24
• 6:45-8:00AM –8th grade Girls Volleyball practice
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 6th graders in Mr. Bishop & Mrs. Cook’s class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• Popcorn Day – freshly popped popcorn is sold during choice hour for $1 in the main hallway.
• 4:15-5:30PM –7th grade Girls Volleyball practice
• 4:15PM–Boys swim team meet @home versus Derby

Thursday, February 25
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• DEADLINE: BLAST Auction items listed in the Auction Book-see comment below
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 5th graders in Mr. Joseph & Mrs. Roberts class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• Market Day internet orders due by midnight. If you are unable to complete your order online, please contact Lori Croad at 248-348-4390.
• 4:00PM –Girl’s Volleyball game @ West Hills Middle School. 7th grade game begins at 4:00PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.
• 6:30-8:00PM – Proud Dad’s CO-ED Basketball – 3rd-6th grades

Friday, February 26
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• 8:45-11:50AM - Field Trip - 6th graders in Mr. Joseph & Mrs. Roberts class go to the Environmental Center. Please ensure children are dressed for the weather – jackets/coats, gloves/mittens, rain gear, hats & boots may all be needed.
• Lunchtime - Dad’s Eat and Run – Please get a nametag at the sign-in table and join your child for lunch in the cafeteria during the normal lunchtime.
Lunchtimes: 3/4 - 11:00 – 11:40AM
5/6 – 11:55 - 12:35PM
7/8- 12:35 - 1:15 PM

• 4:00PM –Girl’s Volleyball game @ Country Day Middle School. 7th grade game begins at 4:00PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.

Sunday, February 28
• Last day to preorder a BCS yearbook for 09-10 school year – read directions to order on www.bcsonline.info


Hot Entrée menu for the week: (subject to change, if necessary)
- Available everyday: Salad Bar, Hamburgers, Chicken Patties, Pizza & Cheese Breadsticks
Monday –Beef Burritos, Brown Rice, Green Beans
Tuesday –Soft Taco Day with Toppings or Taco Salad, Corn
Wednesday –Salad Bar Day with Popcorn Chicken or Julianne Turkey
Thursday – Baked Chicken Nuggets, Roasted Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables
Friday –Baked Fish Sticks, Tater tots, Broccoli

 To submit an item for next week’s “WAG”, email nb01bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us by FRIDAY 7AM


PHYSICAL EDUCATION AT BCS
Please remind your children in 3rd – 6th grade that they must bring athletic shoes for gym class. Boots and non-athletic shoes are not allowed on the gym floor. Please send in athletic shoes on appropriate days or to keep in the student’s locker.

Please remind your children in 7th-8th grade that they need to change into athletic clothing and shoes to properly prepare for gym class.


MUSIC ASSEMBLY FOR FOURTH GRADE - Tuesday, February 23
During the assembly 4th grade students will be introduced to band and orchestra instruments. Sometime during the day, they will also have an opportunity to experiment with the various instruments in small groups. They will also be given a short music aptitude test. At that time, professionals from Anderson Music Company will make suggestions about which instruments your children are interested in playing and which instruments they seem well-suited to play. Anderson Music Company has a great track record for placing students with the appropriate instruments. Obviously, the final decision will be made by each family.

Later in the week, your child will bring home a form indicating which instrument was recommended by Anderson Music. You will have until March 8, 2010 at 4 PM to return the form, indicating whether or not your child will participate in band or orchestra and which instrument your family has chosen.

The BCS instrumental music program takes place during the school day and occurs two days per week. Children who do not choose to play an instrument in fifth grade have an opportunity to participate in an elective. We do not know what that elective will be next year.

Since our music teachers are only in the building on Wednesdays and Thursdays for half a day, if you have any questions about band or orchestra, please address them to Counselors Tamra Nast or Karen Sivwright. You will be responsible for renting or buying an instrument by the first day of the 2010-2011 school year. Information from Anderson Music Company will follow after you have decided whether your child will take band or orchestra in 5th grade.


CHOICE HOUR REQUEST
The 3-4 Cookie Baking and Desserts Choice Hour class and its future bakers and taste testers are looking for donations for their class! They are in need of:

• Mixers, rolling pins, mixing bowls, microwave safe bowls, spatulas, wooden spoons and baking sheets
• Flour, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla and salt
• Zip-loc baggies, paper plates, paper towels, napkins, hand soap and wipes

Your contributions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for always supporting the Choice Hour program!
A huge thanks to those that have already donated items to this class!!


HEART to HEART DRIVE
There are only a FEW days left to join the 7/8 Spirit Committee in donating gently used HOUSEWARES, CLOTHING and TOILETRIES to the needy, underprivileged and/or homeless people of the NSO Tumaini Shelter in Detroit. All you have to do is look around your home! Thank you for your generosity!

Please donate THESE items by Wednesday, Feb 24 to the blue bins in the front lobby
* TOLIET PAPER (This is a great need!)
* Hats, mittens, gloves and scarves – ADULT size only (no children’s)
* ADULT X-Large/XX-Large warm coats, clothing and socks – mostly men’s (no children’s)
* ADULT snow boots (size 8 and above)
* Bathroom accessories (soap dispensers, trashcans, etc.)
* Pots/pans
* Rugs, Towels, Blankets/sheets (twin size), Pillows/cases
* Travel-size toiletries
* Dish detergent, Laundry detergent/bleach
* New toothbrushes
* Old glasses/Reading glasses
* Mops/brooms/dust pans
* Clock radios
*Sleeping bags

Bring THESE items to room 503 on Wednesday, Feb 24 ONLY
*Small housewares
* Small TV’s
* Lamps
* Small appliances (microwaves, coffee pots, etc.)
* Dishes/cups/silverware sets/glasses
* Chairs/Bean-bag chairs
* Framed Art


BLAST OPPORTUNITIES
Attention all BCS Families: the BLAST is right around the corner and we are excited to offer these wonderful opportunities to our community:
• Corporate Sponsors - donations with a value of $250 - $499 will receive advertisement on the Corporate Sponsor banner to be displayed in the cafeteria during the Blast. Corporate sponsors will be mentioned on the www.bcsonline.info website and is listed in the 2010 auction booklet and on the Blast T-shirt.
*Donations with a value of $500 or more will receive advertisement on the Platinum Corporate Sponsor banner to be prominently displayed in the cafeteria during the Blast and in the school for the remainder of the school year. Platinum Corporate Sponsor receives a one year advertisement on the www.bcsonline.info home page and is listed in the 2010 auction booklet and on the Blast T-shirt.
• Family Patron - $100 gets you valet parking, priority auction checkout, and a t-shirt.
• We are also looking for donations to our auction:
1) Tickets to sporting events you, or your company, or vendor(s), have access to always work well at the auction.
2) Your company’s product or service.
3) Golf or hunting outings are very popular
4) Sports memorabilia.
5) Access to Houses / Condominiums / Timeshares in resort areas are a huge auction cash generator!

Please email Laura Meso at laurameso@comcast.net or Therese Fortney at therese521@comcast.net with any item you would like to donate to the 2010 Blast auction. If you are interested in your donations being in the auction book, the deadline is February 25th. Dowload donation forms at www.bcsonline.com/blast .
Thank you all for your continued support to BCS and your children! You’re the best!
From your Blast co-chairs, Karen Best & Ken Gilbert.




Remember TRASH FREE Fridays!

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Windspire at BCS



Dear BCS Families,

In order to take advantage of the break and not having students at BCS, construction will begin on our Windspire this week! The first step is to break ground and begin installing the footings and the wiring. If you drive by BCS this week you are most likely to see people working hard to make sure it is up and running soon!

Please enjoy your break!

Adam

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Due to the snow day...
The Battle of the Books will take place on February 24th!

Snow Day! Text Your Vote!

Sunday, February 7, 2010

WAG Feb 8-12

February 7, 2010

Dear BCS Community,

Over the course of the year I have used many quotes on my staff meeting agendas, emails to staff or parents, and even the WAG. These quotes are meant for to inspire, motivate, and spark reflection. Recently, I was asked by a teacher if I could share these quotes with her so she could use them with her students. As I was collecting the quotes I have used to send to her, I thought that it could be beneficial to share them with everyone. There have been many wise people before us that without these quotes, we would never have the privilege to learn from them. If you have a favorite quote, print it out and hang it on your refrigerator at home or your desk at work. I also love for you to send me a quote that I could use in my newsletters. Quotes can be a powerful way to jump start our day and remind us of our purpose in life! Enjoy!

Adam


Knowing your peace of mind is up to you, not the world, is the most powerful and secure state of mind you can achieve.
~ Dr. Lee Jampolsky

You never know when a moment and a few sincere words can have an impact on a life.
~ Zig Ziglar

You get the best efforts from others not by lighting a fire beneath them, but by building a fire within.
~ Bob Nelson

Joy is not in things; it is in us.
~Richard Wagner

Commit to taking total responsibility for everything that happens to you. This one change in thinking has the power to launch
you to the world-class level faster than any other single idea.
~Steve Siebold




If each Monday morning, you make a choice to move into the new work week with renewed commitment and passion, you can change all areas of your life. You can truly change your Mondays and change your life.
~David Cottrell

Your life changes the moment you make a new, congruent and committed decision.
~Anthony Robbins

No act of kindness is ever wasted.
~Aesop

Keep true, never be ashamed of doing right, decide on what you think is right and stick to it.
~George Eliot

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.
~Benjamin Franklin

Success doesn't come to you — you go to it.
~Marva Collins

I always tried to turn every disaster into an opportunity
~John D. Rockefeller

Just one person taking action can inspire others to do the same.
~Leslie C. Aguilar

Attitudes truly are contagious, and from time to time we need to ask ourselves, "Is mine worth catching?"
~Mac Anderson

The single best predictor of overall excellence is a company's ability to attract, motivate, and retain talented people.
~Fortune magazine





WEEK AT A GLANCE – FEBRUARY 8 – FEBRUARY 12, 2010
(Disclaimer: Please check all your calendars and bcsonline.info in case we missed something)

Monday, February 8
• 9:15AM – 3/4 Room Parents Meeting
• 3:15-5:00PM - Boys swim team practice

Tuesday, February 9
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• 7:30-8:00AM - BCS Diversity Committee meeting in Room 505 – All are welcome
• 8-8:20AM – Bagel sale in front of the media center by the 8th grade celebration committee
• 9:30 AM – BBFA Meeting – “Bottom Line: Self-Respect” at the Gary M. Doyle Center
• 3:15-4:00PM – School store is open in the main hallway during choice hour
• 3:30PM – SNOW CLUB bus leaves for Pine Knob. Students return to BCS at 8:30PM to be picked up.
• 4:00PM –Girl’s Volleyball game vs. Berkshire @ home. 7th grade game begins at 4:00PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.
• 6:30-8:00PM – Proud Dad’s CO-ED Basketball – 3rd-6th grades
• 7 PM – BBFA Meeting – “The Importance of Dads” at the Gary M. Doyle Center
• 7PM – BLAST Meeting – Media Center

Wednesday, February 10
• COUNT DAY – please make sure absences or tardies are reported promptly
• 9:00AM- Bus leaves for Battle of the Books at Pierce Elementary school- (4th & 5th graders registered for the Battle)
• Popcorn Day – freshly popped popcorn is sold during choice hour for $1 in the main hallway.
• 4:15PM–Boys swim team meet @home versus Cranbrook
• 7:00 PM Band Concert for 7/8 grades –Cafeteria – students report at 6:30PM

Thursday, February 11
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• AM – Hearing Screening for 4th graders
• 5/6 Field Trip to the IMAX THEATRE at The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn – all students should bring a brown bag lunch with disposable containers.
• 12:30PM – Lunch with the Principal in Staff Development I (located down 600 Hall). Bring your lunch for this informal time with the principal to ask questions and learn his perspectives.
• 1:15PM – PTSA Clearinghouse Meeting in Staff Development I-All are invited to learn about the operations of the PTSA at BCS. Bring a friend or meet new friends.
• 4:00PM DEADLINE to make a teacher request for the 2010-2011 school year. Please email your request to Tamra Nast, tn01bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us
• 4:00PM –Girl’s Volleyball game @ Cranbrook Middle School. 7th grade game begins at 4:00PM and 8th grade game immediately follows.
• 6:30-8:00PM – Proud Dad’s CO-ED Basketball – 3rd-6th grades

Friday, February 12 – Classroom Valentine Day Parties
• 6:35 – 8:00AM –Boys swim team practice
• AM – Hearing Screening for 4th graders
• Deadline: Articles for E-Bugle due today kyraeg@wowway.com


REMEMBER - NO SCHOOL FEBRUARY 15-19 DUE TO WINTER BREAK

Hot Entrée menu for the week: (subject to change, if necessary)
- Available everyday: Salad Bar, Hamburgers, Chicken Patties, Pizza & Cheese Breadsticks
Monday –Baked Boneless RiB-B-Ques, Baked Potato, Wedges, Green Beans
Tuesday –Meat Loaf, Mashed Potatoes, Calif. Blend
Wednesday –Salad Bar Day with Popcorn Chicken or Julianne Turkey
Thursday – Cheese Ravioli, Corn, Wheat Roll
Friday –Baked Potato Bar, Choice of toppings-Broccoli, Cheese or Bacon

 To submit an item for next week’s “WAG”, email nb01bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us by FRIDAY 7AM

BCS 3RD & 4TH GRADE “SOUPER BOWL” FOOD DRIVE – FEBRUARY 5-12
During this next week the goal of the team of 3-4 students is to collect over 800 cans of high-protein food, which will be donated to Baldwin Center and Gleaners Food Bank. Desired canned items include: canned tuna, salmon or other fish; canned chicken breast; heat and serve canned beef; beef or chicken stew; roast or corned beef hash; canned chicken & dumplings; chunky soups; baked beans; peanut butter. Please no glass or out-of-date cans. Students are asked to bring their food donations to their 3-4 classrooms. All BCS families are invited to participate.

HEART TO HEART DRIVE
Please join the 7/8 Spirit Committee in donating gently used HOUSEWARES, CLOTHING and TOILETRIES to the needy and underprivileged people of Detroit. We are assisting the Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO), which is a community center and shelter that helps those who are homeless get off the streets and into a place to live. Items needed from now through February 24 are listed below and can be placed into the collection boxes in the entrance hall.
• Hats, mittens, gloves and scarves in ADULT size (no children sizes)
• ADULT X-Large/XX-Large warm coats, clothing and socks – mostly men’s
• ADULT snow boots 0 size 8 and above
• Bathroom accessories-soap dispensers, trashcans, etc.
• Pots/Pans
• Rugs,Towels, Blankets, Pillows
• Travel-size toiletries, New Toothbrushes
• Old glasses/Reading glasses

Also to coincide with our 7/8 ID theme for this year, we will be making bags of non-perishable food items to give to the homeless people at the NSO shelter. From now until Wednesday, February 10, please have your child bring in the following items according to your child’s homeroom:
• Mixon – Granola/Nutrigrain/Protein bars
• Braisted – Fruit leather/fruit snacks/dried fruit
• Muhammad – Individual cracker packs (with PB/cheese)
• Brown – Canned meat/Vienna sausages (peel-off lid only)
• Emmi – Napkins, Individually wrapped utensil sets, paper bags (equal amount of each)
• Huff – Individual snack-size chips/pretzel bags
• Cruz – Water bottles
• Share – Applesauce/Fruit cups (peel-off lid only)

Everyone – please bring in reusable bags from Kroger, Meijer, Whole Foods, etc. (not plastic bags, but the ones made out of recycled material.) We would like to donate these to the homeless because they are sturdy enough to carry their items. Thank you in advance for your donations! (As always, also remember that you are not obligated to donate items, it is only a request, as we understand that many families are hurting financially and may not be able to donate.)


VACATION ON A SCHOOL DAY
Please, please remember to let the BCS attendance office know if your child will be out of school due to an extended vacation, before or after the upcoming break. As always, absences and tardies should be emailed to bcsattendance@birmingham.k12.mi.us . If email is unavailable, please call 248.203.4444, press 2 to leave your message. Also, an Advanced Notice of Absence form can be completed and turned it into the main office. We surely appreciate your efforts to let us know when your child will be absent or tardy!

ENGINEERS WEEK CELEBRATED BY BCS ON FEBRUARY 22 (MONDAY) AND 23 (TUESDAY)
We are recruiting engineering and technology professionals to speak to 7th and 8th grade Engage students. It’s an opportunity for engineers to talk about the profession and inspire kids to consider engineering as a career option. It takes dozens of volunteers to make this day a success. We need not just engineers, but scientists, web designers, architects, programmers, doctors, builders, and more. Why do you do what you do? What advice do you have to future talent? How have things changed? What does the future hold?
Do you want to volunteer for an hour? A day? Do you want to help us recruit volunteers and plan the
events? To volunteer, please send an email to tech@bcsparent. National Engineers Week Foundation sponsors national events and they have a website specifically for middle school students to learn more about engineering, technology, math, and science: www.discoverengineering.com. There are interactive games and some entertaining videos about engineers making a difference.

Attention all BCS families, the Blast needs you to CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSETS!!
We are currently looking for anything you would like to get rid of for our Blast Prize room. Maybe you have an unopened game or some trinkets and trash that are taking up way too much space in your closet. What a great way to do some house cleaning - just bring it to the clear plastic bin inside the office and it will be put into the Blast prize room. If for any reason we are unable to use your item, it will be delivered to a local children's charity. The Blast carnival committee thanks you!

BLAST OPPORTUNITIES
Attention all BCS Families: the BLAST is right around the corner and we are excited to offer these wonderful opportunities to our community:
• Corporate Sponsors - donations with a value of $250 - $499 will receive advertisement on the Corporate Sponsor banner to be displayed in the cafeteria during the Blast. Corporate sponsors will be mentioned on the www.bcsonline.info website and is listed in the 2010 auction booklet and on the Blast T-shirt.
*Donations with a value of $500 or more will receive advertisement on the Platinum Corporate Sponsor banner to be prominently displayed in the cafeteria during the Blast and in the school for the remainder of the school year. Platinum Corporate Sponsor receives a one year advertisement on the www.bcsonline.info home page and is listed in the 2010 auction booklet and on the Blast T-shirt.
• Family Patron - $100 gets you valet parking, priority auction checkout, and a t-shirt.
• We are also looking for donations to our auction:
1) Tickets to sporting events you, or your company, or vendor(s), have access to always work well at the auction.
2) Your company’s product or service.
3) Golf or hunting outings are very popular
4) Sports memorabilia.
5) Access to Houses / Condominiums / Timeshares in resort areas are a huge auction cash generator!

Please email Laura Meso at laurameso@comcast.net or Therese Fortney at therese521@comcast.net with any item you would like to donate to the 2010 Blast auction.

Thank you all for your continued support to BCS and your children!
You’re the best! From your Blast co-chairs, Karen Best & Ken Gilbert

FEBRUARY BREAK - SPORTS SHORTS CAMP –February 15-19, 2010
Visit the BPS Community Education website (www.communityed.net) to get details and registration information of the Sports Camp offered during February break , or call 248-203-3800. Registration deadline is 12:00 NOON on February 11.

Remember Trash-Free Fridays!!!!












2010 International Academy Invitational
Science Olympiad Results

On Saturday, February 6th, our Middle School Science Olympiad Team competed against 10 schools from around the area. We tied for 1st place overall! The kids showed great team spirit and worked hard.
The following students took home medals:

1st Place
• Junkyard Challenge – Chris Kompus & Clark Kingston
• Trajectory – Bryce Owens & Bogdan Manga
• Elevated Bridge – Brianna Williams & Alison John
• Experimental Design – Maria Roma, Natalie Kozak & Bassel Salka
• Bio-Process Lab – Lillian Lu & Natalie Kozak
• Road Scholar – Adam Smith & Bogdan Manga
• Dynamic Planet – Hannah Diehl & Will Trask
• Ecology – Lillian Lu & Aaron Levett

2nd Place
• Shock Value – Maria Roma & Nitin Kumar
• Anatomy – Noah Smith & Bassel Salka
• Wright Stuff – Nadia Hakim & Nicole Floyd-Stancil
• Battery Buggy – Adam Smith & Graham Ross

3rd Place
• Elevated Bridge – Maria Roma & Aaron Levett
• Physical Science Lab – Maria Roma & Bassel Salka
• Write-It Do-It – Hannah Diehl & Lillian Lu
• Can’t Judge a Powder – Hannah Diehl & Will Trask
• Disease Detectives – Maria Roma & Natalie Kozak
• Fossils – Graham Ross & Bryce Owens
• Compute This – Aaron Levett & Lillian Lu
The following students took home ribbons:

4th Place
• Compute This – Michael Kmiec & James Rivard
• Ornithology – Nitin Kumar & Bogdan Manga
• Pentathlon – Bryce Owens, Noah Smith, Aaron Levett & Graham Ross

5th Place
• Junkyard Challenge – Noah Smith & Will Trask
• Meteorology – Adam Smith & Shounak Vale
• Wright Stuff – Hannah Diehl, Lillian Lu & Will Trask