Monday, October 31, 2011

Sunday, October 30, 2011

W.A.G. Oct 31- Nov. 4


October 30, 2011
Dear BCS Community,
On November 18th, our students will be attending an assembly specifically designed to communicate the dangers of social media and the internet.  
It is a subject we feel is important at BCS since we value and embrace the learning environments the internet provides.  I want to make sure we are not just discussing the dangers of the internet as I do not want to push parents into a sense of paranoia that will deter our learners from using a tool that is relevant in today’s world.  The internet, when used safely and responsibly, can be an amazing resource for our children.  
As principal of BCS and a parent myself, I ask that all parents become familiar with the social media networks our children are using and to ask them how, when, and why they are using these sites.  BCS will try to provide you with the resources to assist you in discussing this subject with your children and the proper avenues in learning about the very environments your children are living in online.  
Recently, I have had to discuss proper use of technology and social networks with students in isolated situations where inappropriate content was published.  Content usually takes the form of video, pictures, and words shared from one student to another.  The common message I give to each student includes two main points:
Wrapped around our 3 E’s (Each Other, Education and Environment), our true character is how we act when no one is looking.  Making choices that are responsible and match our values is important no matter what environment we are in.  Whether we are on the playground, visiting the city park, or chatting online, our good character must be a priority.  That conversation always includes asking students what good character means to them.  After their definition is clear, we can connect their perspectives of good character to safe and responsible internet use.
When you post something on twitter, facebook, email, wikispaces, etc... EVERYONE is looking!  Our digital footprint is never erased.  What we post online, the pictures and videos we send via cellphones, or messages we send through email, knows no time and no boundaries.  The intended person may not be the only person to see the content and chances are, even though you have hit delete, the content remains somewhere out there for people to find.  Many times we assume our young learners understand this but over time I have found it is a constant message we must give our children.  
Parents and schools must continue to work together in keeping our students safe, no matter what environment they are in.  Online networks have created amazing learning opportunities just as playgrounds, field trips, and other innovations our children have experienced in school.  The key is to focus on collaborative ways to keep each opportunity safe for our learners and to build a culture of responsible internet users to lead the next generation.   The parent wiki should be helpful to you as you begin, or continue to, discuss internet usage with your child.  
G.E.E.K.ed about parents knowing what their child is doing on the internet,
Adam
WEEK AT A GLANCE –   Week of October 31- November 4, 2011
(Disclaimer:  Please check all your calendars and bcsonline.info in case we missed something) 
To submit an item for next week’s “WAG”, email mz07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us  by  THURSDAY 11PM 
Monday, October 31
  • GRADES 3-6-SIGN UP FOR CONFERENCES OUTSIDE YOUR CHILD’S HOMEROOM
  • 7-8 AM Cross Country Practice
  • 1:45 PM –HALLOWEEN PARADE and classroom celebrations
  • 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice
Tuesday, November 1
  • GRADES 3-6-SIGN UP FOR CONFERENCES OUTSIDE YOUR CHILD’S HOMEROOM
  • HALLOWEEN CANDY COLLECTING IN THE OFFICE-see below
  • 7-8 AM Cross Country Practice
  • 8 AM BAGELS for Sale- for $1.25 (cream cheese .25 cents)in front of the Media Center
  • DUE for 7/8-Permission Slips for ByeBye Birdie to the 7th hour teacher
  • 4PM Boys Soccer @ Cranbrook Middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school. 
  • 7:00 PM Board of Education Meeting-Administration Building
Wednesday, November 2
  • GRADES 3-6-SIGN UP FOR CONFERENCES OUTSIDE YOUR CHILD’S HOMEROOM
  • 5/6 Room Parent Meeting-Media Center
  • Delicious Popcorn sold during Choice Hour-only $ 1
Thursday, November 3
  • GRADES 3-6-SIGN UP FOR CONFERENCES OUTSIDE YOUR CHILD’S HOMEROOM
  • DUE- FLAMING0  FLOCKING orders due-see bcsonline.info for order form
  • 8:30-9:30 AM Rising Stars Performance for 3/4
  • 7 /8 going to Groves  to see BYE BYE BIRDIE-return by lunch
  • 3:15-4:05-7-8 Boys Soccer End of Season party during Choice Hour
  • 7:00 PM Friends of Different Learners Meeting-Managing Behaviors to Improve Learning-Media Center
  • End of First Quarter
Friday, November 4
  • No School-Records Day
  • District Wide Kids Club Program available Register at www.communityed.net or call 248-203-3800 for details
Saturday,November  5
  • 6 PM Proud Dads Tennis-Birmingham Racquet Club
Sunday,November 6
  • “FALL BACK” END OF DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME-Set your clocks back!!!
Hot EntrĂ©e menu for the week:  (subject to change, if necessary)
-          Available everyday: Salad Bar, Hamburgers, Chicken Patties, Pizza & Cheese Breadsticks
Monday – Baked Chicken Nuggets, Baked Potato Rounds, Steamed Broccoli, Mexican Pizza
Tuesday – French Bread Cheese Pizza on Wheat,Fresh Garden Salad,Fresh Fruit Cup,Cheese Quesadilla
Wednesday – Baked Mac and Cheese, Steamed Brocoli, Whole Grai Dinner Roll, Supreme Pizza
Thursday – Baked Chicken Rings,AuGratin Potatoes,Steamed Corn,Zesty Beef Burrito
Friday –No Meal Service 
PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR IMPORTANT FAMILY, SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION
ATHLETIC NEWS
Online registration is up and running for the Winter 1 season of athletics.  Please visit our BCS athletics page http://bcsonline.info/Athletics.html to register for Girls Swim or Boys Basketball!
SWIM COACH NEEDED
BCS is in need of a HEAD SWIM COACH and an ASSISTANT SWIM COACH for both the boys and girls swim seasons.  If you know of someone interested in this position, please have them forward their letter of interest including relevant coaching experiences to Patricia Chinn at pc02bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us.
Mr. Johansson’s 5/6 classes as well as Brown/Fitz 6th will be swimming during the 2nd Quarter (11/7-1/27).
Mr. Manchester’s classes as well as Cook/Wilkie 5th & Joberts 6th will be swimming during the 3rd Quarter (1/30-4/13).
CONFERENCE SIGN UP FOR MATH
Due to our flexible math scheduling at BCS, math conferences are organized differently. If your child has a math teacher who is not a part of their core team, you will have an opportunity to meet with their teacher on Thursday, November 17th. The 5/6 Math teachers will be in the Media Center from 7:45 am to 10:30 am. There will be no sign-up sheet. The teachers will meet with you on a first come, first served basis, so please feel free to drop by anytime that morning .
We look forward to seeing you! The 5/6 Team
DIGITAL BCS UPDATE
We are currently making the switch from DigitalBCS.com to www.BCSonline.info for all of our teacher websites. Please go to www.BCSonline.info and reset your teacher bookmarks from that page as they will no longer be correct with the DigitalBCS
DO YOU NEED TO CARPOOL FOR QUARTER II-????
We now have a private, unlisted Google map for BCS families who wish to find carpool partners.  To be included on the map and receive your link to the map, please email bcscarpool@gmail.com with your Family Name, Contact Person, Address, Phone, and Email.  This carpool map is only for the use of BCS families who would like to carpool.
Fall Book Fair Volunteers Needed!!  Helping at the Fair is lots of fun and 25% of the proceeds go directly to the Media Center to buy books, audio books, ipods, cameras, subscriptions, materials, and furnishings.!!
If you love books and have 2 hours to spare, please contact Shiva Motlagh  (shivamotlagh@comcast.net) to volunteer for the upcoming Fall Book Fair!  Upper class high school students who need community service hours are welcome.   
2 hour shifts are available during the following times:
Monday, November 14 - book fair set up - please e-mail Shiva at  shivamotlagh@comcast.net for the hours
Tuesday, November 15 - student preview times - 8:30 am to 3:00 pm
Weds. & Thurs. November 16 & 17 - student preview/public sale - 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
Thursday November 17 - book fair pack up - 7:50 pm to 9:00 pm
“Wii” NEED YOUR HELP!
The LINKS program is looking to acquire a Wii game system and age appropriate video games to use with the 5/6 grade students during lunch time in the game room. If you have a Wii system, Wii accessories (nunchucks, remotes,etc.) or any Wii games that you are looking to donate to a good cause, please drop them off in the office for Mr. Bodle!  We are also happy to accept any handheld gaming devices (PSP, DS, etc.) that you are look to donate to the game room!
Geography Bee is coming to BCS
BCS is going to hold a Geography Bee this year.  Students in grades 4-8 are eligible to participate.  The school-wide bee will be held on Tuesday, January 10th.  The winner of the school bee will take a written test to qualify for the National Geographic State Bee.  Any 4-8 student who wishes to compete in the GeoBee can sign up for the GeoBee in the Media Center starting November 1.
The National Geographic Society runs the National Bee and provides the materials for the school bee.  The website National Geographic Bee - National Geographic has a wealth of information and activities for students interested in the “Bee”.  There is also a very fun GeoBee Challenge app available for iPad, iPod touch, and other mobile devices that students can use to quiz themselves
NEWS FROM THE 8TH GRADE CELEBRATION COMMITTEE
8th Grade Celebration Committee wants to remind you this week is the deadline for Flamingo "flocking". Do not miss out on the fun.Go to bcsonline.info for order forms.
GOT CANDY?  
BCS will be collecting Halloween candy again this year to donate to a local charity.  If you have leftover Halloween candy, or if your child comes home with more Halloween candy than they can eat and would like to donate their extra candy to someone in need of a treat, then please donate that candy to the BCS Halloween Candy Collection.  Bring your extra Halloween candy (individually wrapped candy or bags of candy are fine) to the BCS office and put it into the collection box.  We will be collecting candy in the office from Tuesday, November 1st through Friday, November 11th. If you have questions, contact Becky Bachand at bachandfamily@att.net.  Thank you for your support.
BCS is joining forces with Gleaners Food Bank 
to battle hunger All BCS families are being offered the opportunity to help package food for those in need.  Each session can accommodate 40 people.  If you would like to start your Thanksgiving break by giving back to others, please sign up in the BCS office.  Please make sure you include the total number from your family who will be attending.  Sessions will be closed once the maximum number of 40 is met.  
Date:  Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Time:  9:00-10:30am, 11:00am-12:30pm, or 1:00-2:30pm
Location:  120 E. Columbia Avenue, Pontiac MI
District Wide Kids Club Program available 
Nov. 4 - Super Sleuths at Bingham Farms
Register at www.communityed.net or call 248-203-3800 for details.
Make a Splash!
Community Open Swim at Groves from 1 – 3pm on Sundays
All ages are welcome!  Lap lanes available. Children 10 and under must be supervised by an adult. 
Pre-purchased entry cards are required. Register at www.communityed.net or call 248-203-3800 for details.
Bye, Bye, Birdie at Groves!  
Groves Performing Arts Company proudly presents Bye, Bye, Birdie 
as this year’s musical extravaganza!  Come see over 120 Groves students on stage, in the orchestra and on the crew sing and dance their way into your heart in the main auditorium.
Tickets available in the main office. Student:$10, adults $12.Dates and times are: FRI, Nov 4 at 7:30 pm; SAT, Nov 5 at 7:30 pm; SUN, Nov 6 at 2:30 pm; FRI, Nov 11 at 7:30 pm; SAT, Nov 12 at 7:30 pm; SUN, Nov 13 at 2:30 pm Become a member of the Conrad Birdie Fan Club at  http://tinyurl.com/3oc3hf5  Location:  Groves auditorium
STUDENT JOURNALISM CONFERENCE
Are you interested in journalism?  Come to the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association’s Middle School Conference 2011 Friday, 11/4 at MSU!  For more information, please visit http://mipamsu.org/middle-school-conference-2011/

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Sunday, October 23, 2011

WAG Oct 24-28

October 23, 2011



Dear BCS Families,

I hope you enjoyed the weekend and again the beautiful Michigan weather! I am happy to be home with my family after two days in San Francisco for the Character Education Conference. The conference proved to be a worthwhile event and experiencing an earthquake (small in California’s eyes but a memorable 3 seconds for this Michigander!) was unforgettable. Our own Tamra Nast did a great job with her presentation, A Bird’s Eye View of Bullying. You can see a summary of her presentation on our parent wiki page at http://geekedmindsetforparents.wikispaces.com/Character+Education+Conference along with other session and keynote summaries I attended. I encourage you to poke around the website and see if there is anything that catches your attention. I have included links to other sites that may be of interest as well.

Out of all the inspiring sessions and keynotes, two people really made an impact on me. I created a page on the wiki to summarize their keynote speech but my page does not come close to their powerful message. Their story is inspiring and motivational but there was a message within their story that really hit me. The two speakers, Soeren Palumbo, a college student from Notre Dame and president of Notre Dame’s Special Olympics Club, and Danielle Liebl, a college student with cerebral palsy, came together to send a message to all of us on giving children opportunities to be human. Seems simple at first, we are all human and therefore know how to be human. But think about it, what is the one thing we all want and need as humans? Food?…yes, shelter?…yes, but beyond those?

Every human has the right to be treated humane, no matter the color of their skin, the amount of money in their pocket and just as Soeren and Danielle emphasized, regardless if they have physical or mental challenges. Their message of inclusion as being a vehicle to teaching students to be human was powerful. Treating one another the same no matter who we are or how we look is the key. I walked away wondering what can I do more as a principal, a father, and a member of the community to give young learners opportunities to be human. The first step for adults to begin helping students realize those opportunities is to take full advantage of them ourselves. Don’t let an opportunity for you to be human pass you by this week!!


G.E.E.K.ed about Leading,

Adam


*Dinner Conversation Starter – One idea from the conference that we would like to include in some of our W.A.G.’s are student written situations that are shared with families to discuss at home. These help students think about situations they may experience and allow you to give them advice! Conversations like these can give our learners the tools they need to be empowered!



Situation: Lindsey sees a girl get picked on and left to sit alone in the cafeteria every day. The girl looks sad and doesn’t say anything back to the bully. Lindsey thinks it is wrong for someone to be treated this way.

Dilemma: On one hand, Lindsey thinks she should report this and say something to a teacher or cafeteria lady and make the bully stop. On the other hand, Lindsey does not want to get involved in someone else’s problem and maybe cause the bully to make things worse.

Discussion: What should Lindsey do?



Let the information find you!

Twitter: bcscovington

“like” BCS on facebook

www.bcsonline.info





WEEK AT A GLANCE – Week of October 24-28, 2011

(Disclaimer: Please check all your calendars and bcsonline.info in case we missed something)

 To submit an item for next week’s “WAG”, email mz07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us by THURSDAY 11PM

Monday, October 24

• 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice

• 8:30AM 8th Grade Celebration Planning Meeting-Media Center

• 9:30 AM 3/4 Parent Coffee with the Principal

• 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice

Tuesday, October 25

• 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice

• 8AM BAGELS ARE BACK-Bagels can be purchased each week for $1.25 (cream cheese .25 cents)in front of the Media Center-check bcsonline.info for the form

• 4PM Boys Soccer @ East Hills middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school.

• 7 PM Annual Masquerade Orchestra Concert –Seaholm High School -8th Grade Orchestra students must be in the Seaholm High School Orchestra Room by 6PM for a brief rehearsal before the concert-appropriate costumes can be worn

Wednesday, October 26

• Picture Retake Day during Lunch time-Bring your picture envelope to return to the photographer-NOT THE OFFICE-2 parent volunteers are needed from 10:45-1:15- please email nb01bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us

• Delicious Popcorn sold during Choice Hour-only $ 1

• Market Day Pick-Up –entrance hallway

• 4:00PM Girls basketball game v. Bloomfield Hills Middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school.

• 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice

Thursday, October 27

• 4PM Boys Soccer @ Detroit Country Day Middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school.

• 4:00PM Girls basketball game Home v. Cranbrook Middle School.

• 3:20 PM Cross Country Choice Hour will be running to Strohs-Pick Up at Strohs at 430

Friday, October 28

• Today is “Hats on to Fight Hunger Day” Students and staff can participate by bringing $1 to donate to Kids Against Hunger. 7/8 Spirit Committee members will collect the money during the first class of the day.

• 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice

• 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice

• BCS Decal Order Form is Due-Don’t miss out “Drive” your school pride !!!

Saturday, October 15

• 6 PM Proud Dads Tennis-Birmingham Racquet Club





Hot Entrée menu for the week: (subject to change, if necessary)

- Available everyday: Salad Bar, Hamburgers, Chicken Patties, Pizza & Cheese Breadsticks

Monday – Whole Grain Pancakes or French Toast, Sausages, Fresh Fruit, Mexican Pizza

Tuesday – Whole Wheat Penne Pasta with Chicken and Alfredo Sauce, Garlic Toast, Steamed Broccoli

Wednesday – Home-style Turkey and Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Green Beans, Hawaiian Pizza

Thursday – BBQ Chicken, Side of Mac and Cheese, Flavorful Baked Beans, Beef Enchilada

Friday – Grilled Chicken or Veggie Caesar Wrap, Pasta Salad, Steamed Carrots, Meat Lovers Pizza



PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR IMPORTANT FAMILY, SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION





NOTES:

SCHOOL PICTURES INFORMATION: Picture retake day is October 26.

If you ordered pictures before or on picture day, they should have been given to your child . If you ordered after picture day, they will come back with the “RETAKES” sometime later in November. If you are not satisfied with your child’s photograph, the original picture packet needs to be returned to the photographer on RETAKE day. If you think you ordered pictures but did not receive them, please call the picture company, schoolpictures.com at 1-734-677-3400 or 1-800-482-0321.



HAT DAY!!!!Our first “Hats on to Fight Hunger” day is this coming Friday, October 28. Students and staff can participate by bringing $1 to donate to Kids Against Hunger, and then wear their hat on Friday. 7/8 Spirit Committee members will collect the money during the first class of the day.



NEWS FROM PE:

SWIM COACH NEEDED

BCS is in need of a HEAD SWIM COACH and an ASSISTANT SWIM COACH for both the boys and girls swim seasons. If you know of someone interested in this position, please have them forward their letter of interest including relevant coaching experiences to Patricia Chinn at pc02bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us.



Mr. Johansson’s 5/6 classes as well as Brown/Fitz 6th will be swimming during the 2nd Quarter (11/7-1/27).

Mr. Manchester’s classes as well as Cook/Wilkie 5th & Joberts 6th will be swimming during the 3rd Quarter (1/30-4/13).



DO YOU NEED TO CARPOOL FOR QUARTER II-????

We now have a private, unlisted Google map for BCS families who wish to find carpool partners. To be included on the map and receive your link to the map, please email bcscarpool@gmail.com with your Family Name, Contact Person, Address, Phone, and Email.THIS CARPOOL MAP IS ONLY FOR THE USE OF BCS FAMILIES WHO WOULD LIKE TO CARPOOL.

THE BCS DECAL IS BACK!

Place it on your car, your window, or your locker. The BCS decal is available for $5.00 and is removable, repositionable, and restickable. To order your decal(s), return the order form (available at www.bcsonline.info) along with cash or a check payable to the BCS PTSA on or before October 28th, 2011. Decals will be distributed to your child's homeroom the week of November 7th.

DIGITAL BCS UPDATE

We are currently making the switch from DigitalBCS.com to www.BCSonline.info for all of our teacher websites. Please go to www.BCSonline.info and reset your teacher bookmarks from that page as they will no longer be correct with the DigitalBCS

“Wii” NEED YOUR HELP!

The LINKS program is looking to acquire a Wii game system and age appropriate video games to use with the 5/6 grade students during lunch time in the game room. If you have a Wii system, Wii accessories (nunchucks, remote controls, etc.) or any Wii games that you are looking to donate to a good cause, please drop them off in the office for Mr. Bodle! We are also happy to accept any handheld gaming devices (PSP, DS, etc.) that you are look to donate to the game room!

BOYS TENNIS

We are hoping to start a boys tennis team for the 2012 spring season! If you a 6th, 7th or 8th grade boy interested in playing on the team, please email Mrs. Chinn at pc02bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us so that we can determine the level of interest!

BOX TOPS BOX TOPS BOX TOPS---Clip and bring to the office

There is a new promotion for box tops. Check out the boxtopsforeducation.com website. Ford has now partnered with box tops and is offering free eboxtops for watching videos, requesting brochures, and even buying a car.Teresa Rea –Box Tops Coordinator

GEOGRAPHY BEE IS COMING TO BCS

BCS is going to hold a Geography Bee this year. Students in grades 4-8 are eligible to participate. The school-wide bee will be held on Tuesday, January 10th. The winner of the school bee will take a written test to qualify for the National Geographic State Bee. Any 4-8 student who wishes to compete in the GeoBee can sign up for the GeoBee in the Media Center starting November 1.

The National Geographic Society runs the National Bee and provides the materials for the school bee. The website National Geographic Bee - National Geographic has a wealth of information and activities for students interested in the “Bee”. There is also a very fun GeoBee Challenge app available for iPad, iPod touch, and other mobile devices that students can use to quiz themselves

NEWS FROM THE 8TH GRADE CELEBRATION COMMITTEE

8th Grade Celebration Committee wants to remind you to get your orders in for flamingo "flocking" we have been busy nightly. Do not miss out on the fun make sure you turn in your sheets to flock your friends you never know when they are going to head South for the Winter!

THE ANNUAL MASQUERADE CONCERT IS TUESDAY OCT. 25TH WITH THE SEAHOLM ORCHESTRAS AND CHOIRS AT 7PM (SEAHOLM AUDITORIUM).

8th Grade Orchestra students must be in the Seaholm High School Orchestra Room at 6pm for a brief rehearsal with the Seaholm High School Orchestras. Please make sure to allow for travel time, parking, etc. It is VERY IMPORTANT that they arrive on-time because this is our only combined orchestra rehearsal!

Fun Stuff: Students may dress up in a school-appropriate costume. There will be a fantastic after-glow immediately following the concert and prizes for the best costume. Please stay to enjoy some delicious treats!

PARENTS OF 7/8 STUDENTS – our first 7/8 Dance of the year, Cobra Shore, is coming up on Friday, November 11, from 6:30-9 PM in the Cafeteria. We will need chaperones for this dance from 6:15-7:45 (1st shift) and 7:45-9:15 (2nd shift). There are cafeteria and hallway spots available. Please email Nicole Toth to let her know if you can chaperone for either shift, nt06bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us. Also, please encourage your children to come. They are invited to wear school-appropriate “beachy” themed clothing. Please remember if your family cannot afford this cost, you can email Mr. Hartley and he will provide funds from Nan’s Kids. Thank you for your help in advance! (This event is sponsored by the 7/8 Spirit Committee and supported by the PTSA).

BCS IS JOINING FORCES WITH GLEANERS FOOD BANK

TO BATTLE HUNGER All BCS families are being offered the opportunity to help package food for those in need. Each session can accommodate 40 people. If you would like to start your Thanksgiving break by giving back to others, please sign up in the BCS office. Please make sure you include the total number from your family who will be attending. Sessions will be closed once the maximum number of 40 is met.

Date: Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Time: 9:00-10:30am, 11:00am-12:30pm, or 1:00-2:30pm

Location: 120 E. Columbia Avenue, Pontiac MI

RED OUT for the AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Get your RED on at Groves/Seaholm Game! Charity Event for the American Heart Association.

Friday, October 21, 2011, 7:00 pm

Seaholm Football Field

Purchase an American Heart Association red $10 t-shirt at the game to help support a RED OUT where a sea of red fans will unite to raise awareness and funds for the American Heart Association! This event grew in response to the tragic loss of Seaholm’s football coach, Coach Deane, who passed away suddenly this summer. The event has expanded to promote an overall awareness of heart disease and demonstrate unity between the schools.

THERE’S STILL TIME TO SIGN UP FOR THE FUN!!!!! Scholarships are offered for this camp.Please contact Adam Hartley if you need assistance ah07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us

NANCY LIEBERMAN BASKETBALL CAMP- Co-sponsored with Birmingham Community Education

To enhance kids skills, competitiveness, confidence, self-esteem, decision making, and basic basketball fundamentals

WHEN: October 29, 2011

TIME: 9:00am-12:00 noon

WHERE: Seaholm High School 2436 West Lincoln Street Birmingham, Mi 48009

WHO: Boys and Girls ages 5-17

PRICE: $45.00 per camper. $30.00 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your child’s spot in camp. Includes camp T-shirt and signed Nancy Lieberman poster.

Camp is conducted by NANCY LIEBERMAN Basketball Hall of Famer, 2X Olympian, former Head Coach/GM for the Detroit Shock, NBA Development League Head Coach for the Dallas Mavericks Affiliate team (Texas Legends) in Frisco, TX

Things to remember: Please arrive 20 minutes early, bring your own basketball, and don’t forget your smile!! For more information, call (972) 473-2121, visit nancylieberman.com, or fax to 972-473-2139

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

See What's Going on at the National Character Education Conference

http://geekedmindsetforparents.wikispaces.com/Character+Education+Conference I am currently 30,000 feet in the air on my ipad2 getting ready to attend (and share my experiences) the Character Ed. Conference in San Francisco, CA. Our own Tamra Nast is presenting and a few Birmingham schools are receiving the national character education award! BCS was named a national school of character in 2007. Go to the link above for updates on the sessions I attend and other pertinent information regarding character ed and BCS. Get G.E.E.K.ed about the 3 E's -Environment -Each Other -Education

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

WAG Oct 17-21, 2011

Dear BCS Families,


This week we had the pleasure to hold our annual report discussion during the PTSA meeting. It was a quick summary of how BCS is doing in the areas of parent involvement, academic rigor, state assessments and expectations, and points of pride. Hard copies of our annual report our located in the main office. During the report, I stated that we should take a brief moment and pat ourselves on the back but to not spend too long as we should always focus on our improvement areas. I left the meeting to attend another meeting where we were preparing to finalize the district’s school accreditation report. The theme of the meeting was again, to point out our successes, but to continue focusing on the areas we need to improve upon throughout the district. After all, this is what the great leaders do…reflect…improve…reflect…improve! If you have read the W.A.G.’s in the past, you know we have discussed fostering a growth mindset and how it is crucial in being the best we can be. This week showed how BCS, and the district as a whole, fosters this mindset as we understand there will never be a time we sit back and say, “we made it, our work is done here”. Writing this W.A.G. within itself is patting ourselves on the back, not for what we have achieved, but for what we will achieve in the future because we are always becoming better!

To learn more about fostering a growth mindset go to the BCS parent wiki at http://geekedmindsetforparents.wikispaces.com/

Have a great week!

G.E.E.K.ed about Leading,

Adam and Patricia



WEEK AT A GLANCE – Week of October 17-21, 2011

(Disclaimer: Please check all your calendars and bcsonline.info in case we missed something)

 To submit an item for next week’s “WAG”, email mz07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us by THURSDAY 11PM



MEAP TESTING CONTINUES-PLEASE CHECK THE SCHEDULE

See Mr Hartley’s 10/7/11 email for the schedule



Monday, October 17

• 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice

• 4:00 PM Cross Country Meet Home (at Beverly Park)v. Derby and Berkshire Middle Schools

• 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice

Tuesday, October 18

• 7-8 AM Cross Country Practice

• 8AM BAGELS ARE BACK-Bagels can be purchased each week for $1.25 (cream cheese .25 cents)in front of the Media Center-check bcsonline.info for the form

• 4:00PM Girls basketball game Home v. Detroit Country Day Middle School.

• 4PM Boys Soccer HOME v. Detroit Country Day Middle School.

• 7 PM Board of Education Meeting-Administration Building

Wednesday, October 19

• 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice

• Popcorn sold during Choice Hour $ 1

• 4:00 PM 7th and 8thGrade- Top Seven- Cross Country All League Meet-@Cranbrook Middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school

• 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice

• 6:30 PM Technology Committee Meeting- Media Center

Thursday, October 20

• 4:00PM Girls basketball game Home v.Berkshire Middle School.

• 4PM Boys Soccer @ West Hills middle School.Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school.

• 3:15-Cross Country Choice Hour Practice-Turn in Uniforms

Friday, October 21

• 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice

•  4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice

• 6:30-8 PM 5/6 Game Night Night-$6.00 per person payable at the door

Saturday, October 15

• 6 PM Proud Dads Tennis-Birmingham Racquet Club



Hot Entrée menu for the week: (subject to change, if necessary)

- Available everyday: Salad Bar, Hamburgers, Chicken Patties, Pizza & Cheese Breadsticks

Monday – Grilled Hot Dog or Beef Chili Dog, Seasoned Baked Fries, Fresh Fruit Cup, Mexican Pizza

Tuesday – Chicken Parmesan, Toasted Garlic Bread, Steamed Carrots, Nacho Supreme

Wednesday – Chicken or Vegetable Stir Fry, Brown Rice, Oriental Blend Vegetables, Supreme Pizza

Thursday – Baked Chicken Drumstick, Au Gratin Potatoes, California Blend, Zesty Beef Burrito

Friday – Bacon Cheese Burger, Oven Roasted Potatoes, Fresh Peas and Carrots, Chicken Fajita Pizza



PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR IMPORTANT FAMILY, SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION

3/4 SWIM & GYM SCHEDULE for 1st Marking Period

Harvath and Maliszewski homerooms will be in GYM CLASS– students should be prepared with gym shoes .

Butzin, Frishman, Davis, Seley, Parkin, and Wallington will be in SWIM CLASS -students should be prepared with swimsuits and towels.



MORE NEWS FROM PE

Mr. Johansson’s 5/6 classes as well as Brown/Fitz 6th will be swimming during the 2nd Quarter (11/7-1/27).

Mr. Manchester’s classes as well as Cook/Wilkie 5th & Joberts 6th will be swimming during the 3rd Quarter (1/30-4/13).



DIGITAL BCS UPDATE

We are currently making the switch from DigitalBCS.com to www.BCSonline.info for all of our teacher websites. Please go to www.BCSonline.info and reset your teacher bookmarks from that page as they will no longer be correct with the DigitalBCS



“Wii” NEED YOUR HELP!

The LINKS program is looking to acquire a Wii game system and age appropriate video games to use with the 5/6 grade students during lunch time in the game room. If you have a Wii system, Wii accessories (nunchucks, remote controls, etc.) or any Wii games that you are looking to donate to a good cause, please drop them off in the office for Mr. Bodle! We are also happy to accept any handheld gaming devices (PSP, DS, etc.) that you are look to donate to the game room!



STUDENT ID CARDS

Student Identification cards were handed out this last week. These cards are linked to your child’s lunch and media center accounts. Please encourage your child to keep this card handy so that they can check out books and purchase their lunch in a speedy fashion



BOYS TENNIS

We are hoping to start a boys tennis team for the 2012 spring season! If you a 6th, 7th or 8th grade boy interested in playing on the team, please email Mrs. Chinn at pc02bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us so that we can determine the level of interest!



It's Here-5/6 Game Night!!!!!!!

Friday, October 21

6:30-8:00 p.m.

Price is $6.00 per person –Payable at the door

rsvpbcs.56game@bcsparent.com

Includes coney, chips, drink and dessert (and games and prizes)!

No family will ever be excluded for financial reasons.

Please contact Adam Hartley if you need assistance at ah07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us



BOX TOPS BOX TOPS BOX TOPS---Clip and bring to the office

There is a new promotion for box tops. Check out the boxtopsforeducation.com website. Ford has now partnered with box tops and is offering free eboxtops for watching videos, requesting brochures, and even buying a car.Teresa Rea –Box Tops Coordinator



TUESDAY MORNING BAGELS-Presented by the 8th Grade Celebration Committee

Hip Hip Hooray Tuesday Morning Bagel Sales Are On Their Way. The PTSA 8th grade Celebration Committee starts selling bagels this Tuesday, October 11th. Bagels can be purchased each week for $1.25 (cream cheese .25 cents) or can be pre-purchased for the year for $37.50.( includes cream cheese) To prepay, please download a form at www.bcsonline.info



SCHOOL PICTURES INFORMATION: If you ordered pictures before or on picture day, they should have been given to your child . If you ordered after picture day, they will come back with the “RETAKES” sometime later in November. Picture retake day is October 26. If you are not satisfied with your child’s photograph, the original picture packet needs to be returned to the photographer on RETAKE day. If you think you ordered pictures but did not receive them, please call the picture company, schoolpictures.com at 1-734-677-3400 or 1-800-482-0321.



THE BCS DECAL IS BACK!

Place it on your car, your window, or your locker. The BCS decal is available for $5.00 and is removable, repositionable, and restickable. To order your decal(s), return the order form (available at www.bcsonline.info) along with cash or a check payable to the BCS PTSA on or before October 28th, 2011. Decals will be distributed to your child's homeroom the week of November 7th.



CHOICE HOUR ANNOUNCEMENTS

QII CHOICE HOUR SELECTION SHEETS WERE DUE LAST FRIDAY OCTOBER 14TH. There are many students that have not turned in their selections. Please take care of this as soon as possible. QII begins Monday November 7th, 2011 and ends Friday January 27th, 2012! Visit www.bcsonline.info to view class offerings.



Please include proper payment if you are signing your child up for a 4th and/or 5th day of Choice Hour. Students will not be placed in classes without payment. Do not include payment for classes with materials fees. A separate billing will be made once students have been placed in their Choice Hour classes.



QII Sports Teams

6-8 Girls Swimming Choice Hour class will be on Monday and Wednesday – please select these classes if you intend to swim for the BCS girls’ swim team.

7-8 Boys’ Basketball will be on Tuesday and Thursday – team selections will take place after try-outs. See Coaches Bishop and Mixon if you have questions.



If you do not understand the Choice Hour process, call Jennifer Brown at 203-4426 regarding scheduling and Linda Stone at 203-4625 regarding class content, attendance policies, choice hour absences, or if you are interested in teaching a Choice Hour class.



Thank you for your continued support of the Choice Hour program.



YEARBOOK ORDERING INFORMATION

Yearbooks AND Proud Parent ads can be ordered online this year. Go to http://bcsonline.info/Parent_Resources/Yearbooks.html for more information. Online price of only $35 for a yearbook ends November 18, 2011. Deadline for Proud Parent ads is January 22, 2012



GEOGRAPHY BEE IS COMING TO BCS

BCS is going to hold a Geography Bee this year. Students in grades 4-8 are eligible to participate. The school-wide bee will be held on Tuesday, January 10th. The winner of the school bee will take a written test to qualify for the National Geographic State Bee.

Mr. Braisted has agreed to teach a Choice Hour class during 2nd Quarter for students in grades 4-8 who wish to learn more about Geography and prepare for the Bee together. However, anyone in grades 4-8 can sign up for the Bee - students do not need to be in the Geography Choice Hour in order to participate in the Bee.

The National Geographic Society runs the National Bee and provides the materials for the school bee. The website National Geographic Bee - National Geographic has a wealth of information and activities for students interested in the bee. There is also a very fun GeoBee Challenge app available for iPad, iPod touch, and other mobile devices that students can use to quiz themselves



RED OUT for the AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Get your RED on at Groves/Seaholm Game! Charity Event for the American Heart Association.

Friday, October 21, 2011, 7:00 pm

Seaholm Football Field

Purchase an American Heart Association red $10 t-shirt at the game to help support a RED OUT where a sea of red fans will unite to raise awareness and funds for the American Heart Association! This event grew in response to the tragic loss of Seaholm’s football coach, Coach Deane, who passed away suddenly this summer. The event has expanded to promote an overall awareness of heart disease and demonstrate unity between the schools.





NEWS FROM OUR BIRMINGHAM EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Birmingham Education Foundation is hosting a Family Fun Tailgate before the Seaholm/Groves football game on October 21, 2011. Enjoy FREE hotdogs, beverages and grab a pom pon compliments of Exclusive Sponsor Dean Sellers Ford, to cheer on your future team! Find our tailgate tent just inside Maple Stadium at Seaholm from 6:00 p.m. until game time. A special marching band performance will be part of the festivities. All are welcome. www.supportBEF.org



NANCY LIEBERMAN BASKETBALL CAMP- Co-sponsored with Birmingham Community Education

To enhance kids skills, competitiveness, confidence, self-esteem, decision making, and basic basketball fundamentals

WHEN: October 29, 2011

TIME: 9:00am-12:00 noon

WHERE: Seaholm High School 2436 West Lincoln Street Birmingham, Mi 48009

WHO: Boys and Girls ages 5-17

PRICE: $45.00 per camper. $30.00 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your child’s spot in camp. Includes camp T-shirt and signed Nancy Lieberman poster.

Camp is conducted by NANCY LIEBERMAN Basketball Hall of Famer, 2X Olympian, former Head Coach/GM for the Detroit Shock, NBA Development League Head Coach for the Dallas Mavericks Affiliate team (Texas Legends) in Frisco, TX

Things to remember:

Please arrive 20 minutes early, bring your own basketball, and don’t forget your smile!!

For more information, call (972) 473-2121, visit nancylieberman.com, or fax to 972-473-2139

Scholarships are offered for this camp.Please contact Adam Hartley if you need assistance ah07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us



BIRMINGHAM BLOOMFIELD COMMUNITY COALITION (BBCC)



Check out the latest edition of “Keeping Our Youth Safe & Substance Free” Newsletter featuring ParenTeen Communications, America’s #1 Public Health Problem and more. Click on http://tiny.cc/2nxsl• Substances in the News… A trend being used by youth to conceal alcohol is known as "Drunk Gummies" or "Boozy Bears." Youth are using Vodka, because of its mild odor, and making it taste better by soaking gummy bears or other candy in it. These candies easily absorb a large amount of the liquid. Read more at: http://tiny.cc/2nxsl

For more info on substance abuse prevention visit www.bbcoalition.org



FOOD SERVICE REACHES OUT TO THE COMMUNITY… During these challenging economic times we want to continue our commitment to the nutritional lunch meal that each student receives at Birmingham Public Schools. If a student or family lunch account becomes behind we will continue to provide students with a meal of milk, cheese and fruit – meeting all of the nutritive guidelines for dairy, protein and fruit / vegetable. Our goal is not to minimize what we are offering but to give the student foods with nutrition value for a limited time while we work with their parents to bring their accounts up to date or pack a lunch for them if necessary. We offer several alternatives for families to pay for meals at Birmingham Public Schools. Online pre-payment through www.mymealtime.com is an excellent alternative and is now available without a surcharge. Through an account at the mymealtime site you can also receive an email notification when your students’ account is low. If you would like to investigate the federal programs for providing student meals for free or at a reduced cost, the forms are available at any school office and as well at the www.mymealtime.com site. If you have any questions about the foodservices program at Birmingham Public Schools, please contact our foodservice department at 248-203-3966 or 203-3965.

NOTE TO BCS/BPS FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Comcast has introduced a program called Comcast Internet Essentials. This offer is for any BPS students receiving free lunches (not reduced lunches) through the National School Lunch Program. In an effort to bridge the “Digital Divide” it provides:

Home Internet Access for $9.95 per month

An Optional Netbook Computer for $149.00

Free Internet Training – Online, Print

Comcast has launched the program and is now accepting applications.For more information, see the Comcast website:http://internetessentials.com/

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Oct 10-14, 2011 W.A.G.

***Scroll down below the W.A.G. to see the Fall colors!
or go to the BCS facebook page to see the short slide show.
follow BCS on twitter: bcscovington



October 9, 2011
Dear BCS Families,
The weather may be trying to fool us (it was a beautiful weekend!) but we know change is coming!  Michigan is amazing this time of year!  I know two people that have recently moved here from Florida and both have told me on a number of occasions their short time in Michigan has been highlighted by making a trip to northern Michigan.  Change is never easy and is many times not as beautiful as the change in colors within our great state!  We all handle change differently and everyone, no matter what we do or who we are, experiences change.   How we approach change decides whether we will make it a positive or negative process.  Our attitude determines if change will make us better or will hold us back.  Like the change of seasons in Michigan, the school experience is often full of changes that can ultimately seem as though they repeat themselves, such as schedules, routines, change of grade levels, the progression of courses. The trick is to approach change, both predictable and unpredictable, with a positive attitude, embracing every opportunity to grow!  For the next few weeks, enjoy the colors, the great Michigan weather, and the time to prepare for the change that is inevitable.  Yes, cold weather and snow is coming, but our attitude will determine how we continue to move forward!
To see a few pictures of the change taking place, go to http://adamhartleybcs.blogspot.com/
Have a Great Week,
Adam

"like" BCS on Facebook
Follow us on twitter: bcscovington
www.bcsonline.info


WEEK AT A GLANCE –   Week of October 10-14, 2011
(Disclaimer:  Please check all your calendars and bcsonline.info in case we missed something) 
? To submit an item for next week’s “WAG”, email mz07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us  by  THURSDAY 11PM
MEAP TESTING BEGINS TUESDAY OCTOBER 11,2011
See Mr Hartley’s Friday 10/7/11 email regarding the schedule 
Monday, October 10
  • Quarter II Choice Hour Booklets Posted Online
  • 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice
  • 9:30 AM-FIRE DRILL please be aware when picking up your children
  • 12PM-2:45 Wilkie/Cook Rouge Field Trip
  • 4:00 PM Cross Country Meet-@Orchard Lake Middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school
  • 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice
Tuesday, October 11
  • 7-8 AM Cross Country Practice
  • 8AM BAGELS ARE BACK-Bagels can be purchased each week for $1.25 (cream cheese .25 cents)in front of the Media Center
  • 4PM Boys Soccer HOME v. Cranbrook Middle School
  • 4:00PM Girls basketball game @ Clarenceville Middle School, 8th grade game starts after 7th grade game is finished.  Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school 
  • 7 PM Blast Committee Meeting-Media Center
Wednesday, October 12
  • 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice
  • Popcorn sold during Choice Hour $ 1
  • 4:00 PM Cross Country Meet-North Division Meet-@Bloomfield Hills Middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school
  • 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice
  • 7PM BCS Web Team Meeting-Media Center
Thursday, October 13
  • 12:30 PM Lunch with the Principal
  • 1:15 PM BCS Annual Meeting
  • 1:15 PM PTSA Clearinghouse Meeting-Staff Development
  • 4PM Boys Soccer HOME v. East Hills Middle School
  • 4:00PM Girls basketball game v.Ferndale Middle School. 
  • 4:00 PM Cross Country Meet-@East Hills Middle School. Check highschoolsports.net for directions to the school
  • 7:00 PM Friends of Different Learners-Staff Development-see description below
Friday, October 14
  • 4 PM- DEADLINE TO TURN IN CHOICE HOUR SELECTIONS IN THE OFFICE
  • 6:45 -8 AM Girls Basketball Practice
  • 4:05-6PM-7-8 Boys Soccer Practice
  • 6:30-8 PM 3/4 Coney Bingo Night-$6.00 per person payable at the door
Saturday, October 15
  • 6 PM Proud Dads Tennis-Birmingham Racquet Club
Hot EntrĂ©e menu for the week:  (subject to change, if necessary)
-          Available everyday: Salad Bar, Hamburgers, Chicken Patties, Pizza & Cheese Breadsticks
Monday – Baked Pasta Marinara,Fresh Baked Garlic Roll, Steamed Carrots, BBQ Chicken Pizza
Tuesday – Chicken or Cheeseburger Sliderson Wheat Bun, Crispy Potato Wedges, Cole Slaw, Nacho Supreme
Wednesday – Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry, Rice Noodles, Steamed Snow Pea Pods, Hawaiian Pizza 
Thursday – Our Own Flakey Chicken Potpie, Mashed Potatoes and Chicken Gravy, Steamed Broccoli, Chicken Enchilada
Friday – Egg and Bacon Croissant Sandwich, Potatoes O’ Brian, Steamed Corn, Cicken Fajita Pizza

NOTES:
MEAP TESTING
MEAP Testing is coming up October 11th-19th this year with make-up testing October 20th-28th.  Please be sure to schedule appointments for your child outside of this window if possible.
DIGITAL BCS UPDATE
We are currently making the switch from DigitalBCS.com to www.BCSonline.info for all of our teacher websites. Please go to www.BCSonline.info and reset your teacher bookmarks from that page as they will no longer be correct with the DigitalBCS
 “Wii” NEED YOUR HELP!
The LINKS program is looking to acquire a Wii game system and age appropriate video games to use with the 5/6 grade students during lunch time in the game room.  If you have a Wii system, Wii accessories (nunchucks, remote controls, etc.) or any Wii games that you are looking to donate to a good cause, please drop them off in the office for Mr. Bodle!  We are also happy to accept any handheld gaming devices (PSP, DS, etc.) that you are look to donate to the game room!
STUDENT ID CARDS
Student Identification cards were handed out this last week.  These cards are linked to your child’s lunch and media center accounts.  Please encourage your child to keep this card handy so that they can check out books and purchase their lunch in a speedy fashion.
BOYS TENNIS
We are hoping to start a boys tennis team for the 2012 spring season!  If you a 7th or 8th grade boy interested in playing on the team, please email Mrs. Chinn at pc02bps@birmingham.k12.mi.usso that we can determine the level of interest!

Choice Hour Announcements
QII Choice Hour sign up will begin on Monday October 10th.    QII begins Monday November 7th, 2011 and ends Friday January 27th, 2012!  Visit www.bcsonline.info to view class offerings.  Each student will receive a selection sheet or you can print one from the BCS website.Selections are due by 4:00 PM Friday October 14th.  Each student will receive a BCS Now News application.  4thand 5th graders will receive an application and informational parent letter regarding 4-5 Science Olympiad.  Please read the instructions very carefully and return with your selection sheet by the deadline.
New QII Choice Hour Class Offerings
3-4 Pop Explorations on Mondays and Fridays, 3-6 WordMasters  on Mondays, 4-8 Geography Bee on Tuesdays, 3-4 and 5-6 Video Editing, 5-8 Spanish Support, and Orchestra.
QII Sports Teams
6-8 Girls Swimming Choice Hour class will be on Monday and Wednesday – please select these classes if you intend to swim for the BCS girls’ swim team.  See Mr.Johansson if you have questions.
7-8 Boys’ Basketball will be on Tuesday and Thursday – team selections will take place after try-outs.  See Coaches Bishop and Mixon if you have questions.
Don’t understand the Choice Hour process, call Jennifer Brown at 203-4426 for scheduling and Linda Stone at 203-4625 for class content, attendance policies, choice hour absences, or if you are interested in teaching a Choice Hour class.
Thank you for your continued support of the Choice Hour program.
TUESDAY MORNING BAGELS-Presented by the 8th Grade Celebration Committee
Hip Hip Hooray Tuesday Morning Bagel Sales Are On Their Way. The PTSA 8th grade Celebration Committee starts selling bagels  this Tuesday, October 11th.   Bagels can be purchased each week for $1.25 (cream cheese .25 cents) or can be pre-purchased for the year for $37.50.( includes cream cheese)  To prepay, please download a form at www.bcsonline.info 
 School Pictures Information:  If you ordered pictures before or on picture day, they should have been given to your child . If you ordered after picture day, they will come back with the “RETAKES” sometime later in November.  Picture retake day is October 26.  If you are not satisfied with your child’s photograph, the original picture packet needs to be returned to the photographer onRETAKE day.   If you think you ordered pictures but did not receive them, please call the picture company, schoolpictures.com at 1-734-677-3400 or 1-800-482-0321.
REQUEST FROM 7/8 ENGAGE 
Our 7/8 Engage group would like to ask for help in the success of our project, We have three surveys that we have created for students, teachers and parents.
Friends of Different Learners October Meeting
Is Your Child’s Education Plan Individual? IEP 101
October 13, 2011   7:00 p.m.  Birmingham Covington School (BCS)  1525 Covington Rd., Bloomfield Hills, MI  48301
Jennifer Greening, author of Opening Doors, Opening Lives: Creating awareness of advocacy, inclusion and education for our children with special needs, will offer strategies for creating a great Individual Education Plan (IEP) for your child.   Ms. Greening is a teacher and Response to Intervention (RTI) specialist in a local district, and is the mother of a different learner.  She was named the 2010 Person of the Year by ARC, and presented in August at the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education conference.  Ms. Greening's book will be available for purchase at the meeting.  Visit her website for more information: www.jennifergreeningbooks.com.  For further information regarding  this meeting contact Diana Moak 248-644-7222
BOX TOPS   BOX TOPS   BOX TOPS---Clip and bring to the office
There is a new promotion for box tops. Check out the boxtopsforeducation.com website.  Ford has now partnered with box tops and is offering free eboxtops for watching videos, requesting brochures, and even buying a car.Teresa Rea –Box Tops Coordinator

BCS BLAST MEETING- Co-Chairs Karen Best and Ken Gilbert
The BCS Blast committee will be having our second meeting on Tuesday, October 11th at 7:00PM in the media center. The BCS Blast is the biggest fund raiser of the year for our school. The BCS Blast is a fun filled afternoon and early evening of carnival games, bouncy inflatables, delicious food, prizes for the kids, cake walk, raffle and silent auction. If you're new to BCS, this is an event you won't want to miss.
The Blast has several committees and we invite all who would like to attend our meeting to join us. We have several openings that need to be filled for this year's event, including Blast Co-Chairs for next year. This is a great opportunity to meet and work with other BCS parents while helping our school raise much needed funds. Please get involved and join us on Tuesday, October 11th.
 
YEARBOOK ORDERING INFORMATION 
Yearbooks AND Proud Parent ads can be ordered online this year. Go to http://bcsonline.info/Parent_Resources/Yearbooks.html for more information. Online price of only $35 for a yearbook ends November 18, 2011. Deadline for Proud Parent ads is January 22, 2012
It's Here-3/4 Coney Bingo Night !!!!!
Friday, October 14
6:30-8:00 p.m.
Price is $6.00 per person –Payable at the door
rsvpbcs.34bingo@bcsparent.com
Includes coney, chips, drink and dessert (and of course Bingo and Prizes)!
No family will ever be excluded for financial reasons.
Please contact Adam Hartley if you need assistance at ah07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Coming Soon...
5/6 Game Night

Friday, October 21
6:30-8:00 p.m.
Price is $6.00 per person –Payable at the door
rsvpbcs.56game@bcsparent.com
Includes coney, chips, drink and dessert (and games and prizes)!
No family will ever be excluded for financial reasons.
Please contact Adam Hartley if you need assistance at ah07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us
Geography Bee is coming to BCS
BCS is going to hold a Geography Bee this year.  Students in grades 4-8 are eligible to participate.  The school-wide bee will be held on Tuesday, January 10th.  The winner of the school bee will take a written test to qualify for the National Geographic State Bee.  
Mr. Braisted has agreed to teach a Choice Hour class during 2nd Quarter for students in grades 4-8 who wish to learn more about Geography and prepare for the Bee together.  However, anyone in grades 4-8 can sign up for the Bee - students do not need to be in the Geography Choice Hour in order to participate in the Bee. 
The National Geographic Society runs the National Bee and provides the materials for the school bee.  The website National Geographic Bee - National Geographic has a wealth of information and activities for students interested in the bee.  There is also a very fun GeoBee Challenge app available for iPad, iPod touch, and other mobile devices that students can use to quiz themselves
Nancy Lieberman BASKETBALL CAMP- Co-sponsored with Birmingham Community Education
To enhance kids skills, competitiveness, confidence, self-esteem, decision making, and basic basketball fundamentals 
WHEN: October 29, 2011 
TIME: 9:00am-12:00 noon 
WHERE: Seaholm High School 2436 West Lincoln Street Birmingham, Mi 48009 
WHO: Boys and Girls ages 5-17 
PRICE: $45.00 per camper. $30.00 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your child’s spot in camp. Includes camp T-shirt and signed Nancy Lieberman poster. 
Camp is conducted by NANCY LIEBERMAN Basketball Hall of Famer, 2X Olympian, former Head Coach/GM for the Detroit Shock, NBA Development League Head Coach for the Dallas Mavericks Affiliate team (Texas Legends) in Frisco, TX 
Things to remember: 
Please arrive 20 minutes early, bring your own basketball, and don’t forget your smile!! 
For more information, call (972) 473-2121, visit nancylieberman.com, or fax to 972-473-2139
Scholarships are offered for this camp.Please contact Adam Hartley if you need assistance  ah07bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us
 Birmingham Bloomfield Community Coalition (BBCC)

·         Check out the latest edition of “Keeping Our Youth Safe & Substance Free” Newsletter featuring ParenTeen Communications, America’s #1 Public Health Problem and more. Click on http://tiny.cc/2nxsl
·         Substances in the News… A trend being used by youth to conceal alcohol is known as "Drunk Gummies" or "Boozy Bears." Youth are using Vodka, because of its mild odor, and making it taste better by soaking gummy bears or other candy in it. These candies easily absorb a large amount of the liquid. Read more at:  http://tiny.cc/2nxsl
For more info on substance abuse prevention visit www.bbcoalition.org  

Food Service Reaches Out to the Community… During these challenging economic times we want to continue our commitment to the nutritional lunch meal that each student receives at Birmingham Public Schools. If a student or family lunch account becomes behind we will continue to provide students with a meal of milk, cheese and fruit – meeting all of the nutritive guidelines for dairy, protein and fruit / vegetable. Our goal is not to minimize what we are offering but to give the student foods with nutrition value for a limited time while we work with their parents to bring their accounts up to date or pack a lunch for them if necessary. We offer several alternatives for families to pay for meals at Birmingham Public Schools. Online pre-payment through www.mymealtime.com is an excellent alternative and is now available without a surcharge. Through an account at the mymealtime site you can also receive an email notification when your students’ account is low. 
If you would like to investigate the federal programs for providing student meals for free or at a reduced cost, the forms are available at any school office and as well at the www.mymealtime.com site. 
If you have any questions about the foodservices program at Birmingham Public Schools, please contact our foodservice department at 248-203-3966 or 203-3965.
NOTE TO BCS/BPS FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Comcast has introduced a program called Comcast Internet Essentials. This offer is for any BPS students receiving free lunches (not reduced lunches) through the National School Lunch Program. In an effort to bridge the “Digital Divide” it provides:
Home Internet Access for $9.95 per month
An Optional Netbook Computer for $149.00
Free Internet Training – Online, Print
Comcast has launched the program and is now accepting applications.For more information, see the Comcast website:http://internetessentials.com/