April 30- May 4, 2012 W.A.G.

April 29, 2012

Dear BCS Families,

More examples of finishing strong at BCS!

Friday marked our “Fight Against Hunger” event that helped package 22,464 meals!!!  It was amazing!!  We should all be proud to be part of this event and be proud of what our students accomplished!  Among other organizations, the packaged meals will go to Gleaners, Baldwin Center and Forgotten Harvest.  Thank you to the families that helped with this.

Our Science Olympiad Team completed an amazing year by almost making it to Nationals!  Their goal was to exceed all expectations and they did that.  Thank you to Mrs Brown, Mrs. Jacobs, and Mr. Emmi for their efforts- Great job team!  We are improving each year and the national competition is not out of our reach!

May 4th BCS will stand4change (see W.A.G. below)

Students and staff will stand with others across the nation on Friday and pledge:

“Today as a BCS student, I Stand for Change to treat others respectfully by supporting others and pledging to help create a better learning environment, free of fear, humiliation, and disrespect. Today, I am taking a stand with all other BCS students to create a positive educational experience for all students!”

Thank you to BCS parent Lisa Fisher and our character eduction committee for taking the lead on this event.

Our PTSA continues to work diligently to provide funding and support for our curricular and social programs at BCS.  BCS is a great place to be because of the PTSA!  The 2012-13 budget is being planned and will be ready soon.  Thank you parents!

BCS parent Christy Gates has taken the lead in organizing and cleaning up our lost and found.  Thank you Christy!  As many of you know, this was long overdue and will help families when looking for lost items.

Finally, our teaching staff continues to educate the whole child here at BCS.  Our interdisciplinary approach, our creativity and focus on autonomy in learning, and our continued focus in building character will always be on the forefront.  Finishing strong means to be energized and engaged-for students and staff!

I had the pleasure to speak at the Governor’s Summit in East Lansing last Monday due to our status as a “Beat the Odds” school.  During my presentation, I showed a variety of projects/student work/examples of learning our staff and students have completed or are completing right now.  The educators in the session were blown away at what BCS learners and staff are doing to make learning relevant and rigorous.  Thank you for your support and leadership in fostering such a positive and safe environment to teach and learn!

Have a great week,

Adam

WEEK AT A GLANCE –   Week of April 30- May 4

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

Monday, April 30

• 6 MILLION PENNIES FOR 6 MILLION LIVES BAKE SALE AT 7/8 LUNCH
• 1:50 PM-FIRE DRILL-please be aware when coming to pick up your child
• 3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE-TEAM PICTURES AT 3:30 PM
• 4:05-6PM-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria
• 4:15PM-6^th- 8^th CO-ED TRACK Meet-HOME@GROVES
• 4:00 PM –GIRLS SOCCER GAME –AWAY Bloomfield Hills Middle School

Tuesday, May 1

• DELAYED START DAY-CLASSES BEGIN AT 9:50 AM-your child must be registered for kids club to be in the building early
• NO CO-ED TRACK PRACTICE due to delayed start
• NO BAGELS TODAY-Bagels will be back soon
• DUE-Registration for 7/8 Washington D.C. Inaugural Trip
• 3:15-5:30 PM BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria
• 4:15PM-BOYS TENNIS MATCH @ Derby Middle School(match at Birmingham Racquet Club courts)
• 4:05-6:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE
• 7PM-Board if Education Meeting-Administration Building

Wednesday, May 2

• 9-10AM-5/6 Room Parent Meeting-Media Center
• 3:15PM-Delicious Popcorn sold during Choice Hour-only $ 1

• 3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE
• 3:15 PM-SCHOOL STORE OPEN –-School Store has moved to Wednesdays in Mrs Martins room-rm 303
• 4:00 PM –GIRLS SOCCER GAME –AWAY@ Derby Middle School
• 4:05-6PM-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria
• 4:15PM-6^th- 8^th CO-ED TRACK Meet-HOME@GROVES

Thursday, May 3

• 6:45-8AM-6^th- 8^th CO-ED TRACK PRACTICE
• 3:15-5:30 PM BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria
• 4:15PM-BOYS TENNIS MATCH @ Cranbrook Middle School550 Lone Pine Road, next to ice arena)
• 4:05-6:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE

Friday, May 4

• 6:45-8AM-6^th- 8^th CO-ED TRACK PRACTICE
• 12PM-STAND 4 CHANGE-join BCS on this important day-see below for more information
• 3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

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

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

Monday – Whole Grain Spaghetti and Meatballs, Steamed Broccoli, Garlic Breadstick, Chicken Enchilada

Tuesday –Baked Chicken Tenders, Mashed Potatoes and Gravey, Steamed Corn, Antipasto Salad 

Wednesday – Grilled Turkey Ruben,Au Gratin Potatoes,California Blend,Chicken Salad Sandwich on Wheat

Thursday – Baked Mac & Cheese, Whole Wheat Roll, Steamed Broccoli, Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap

Friday –Chicken Fajitas with Grilled Peppers/Onions,Spanish Rice,Refried Beans,Zesty Taco Salad 

DELAYED START INFORMATION-Our next delayed start is Tuesday,May 1.  All schools start time delayed 90 minutes. REGISTRATION FORM is at bcsonline.info.  Due date is Friday,April27 Transportation will be running 90 minutes later than the normal pick up time. If your child is normally picked up by the bus at 7:50 a.m. they will be picked up at 9:20. Pickup locations are the same.  

STAND 4 CHANGE DAY

On Friday May 4, 2012 at 12PM, BCS will participate in the first annual "Stand 4 Change" Day! This is a NATIONWIDE event bringing thousands of students in schools across the United States together to take a literal stand against bullying. We will all stand together, at the same time, for 5 minutes, showing our united support against bullying. In doing so, BCS will show its commitment to the three Es: Each Other, Environment and Education. Our students will take a stand to support Each other, pledging to help create a better learning Environment, free of fear, humiliation and disrespect, which in turn allows for a positive Educational experience. Plus, if we all participate, we can help set the record as the largest group of people standing for a single cause at one time! Please plan to participate and show that you will no longer tolerate bullying in our schools and in our community.      http://stand4change.org//

PE  UPDATE-4^th QUARTER-

Monday April 16-Friday May 11-Harvath and Mali will SWIM-pack appropriate clothing

Butzin,Frishman,Davis,Seley.Parkin,Wallington will be in the GYM-PACK SHOES-NO FLIP FLOPS!

Monday May 14-Friday June 15- Butzin,Frishman,Davis,Seley.Parkin,Wallington will SWIM-pack appropriate clothing

Harvath and Mali will be in the GYM-PACK SHOES-NO FLIP FLOPS!

LOST AND FOUND-The office has some electronic items in our “Valuables” Lost and Found.In addition to 2 sers of valuable car keys we have an iPod Classic and an iPod Touch, a Bluetooth, various charging cables, some Headphones, and some Flip phones.Please see a staff member to view these items and hopefully a lost item can make its way home.

CHOICE HOUR PLANNING FOR 2012-2013 SCHOOL YEAR:

Choice Hour planning for the first quarter of the 2012-2013 school year has begun.   Several parents have already volunteered to teach some very interesting Choice Hour classes next year that highlight their talents and interests.    

If you would like to share your time and talents with a small group of students during Choice Hour please contact Linda Stone at 248-203-4625 or email her at ls06bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us for more information.  As always, thank you for supporting the Choice Hour program.

6 MILLION PENNIES FOR 6 MILLION LIVES-Every Monday, our “6 Million Pennies for 6 Million Lives” Bake Sale fundraiser Please donate baked goods for our cause to remember those that died in the Holocaust and to help out to raise money for our Kids Against Hunger – 1 out of 7 people go to bed hungry  and we would like to help make a change!

When: During 7/8 Lunch and afterschool if there are leftovers (EVERY MONDAY!)

Where: right outside of the cafeteria How Much: $1 or less (no change will be given and ALL money will go our cause!)

Why: How do we change the world = 1 act of Kindness at a time

BCS IS JOINING FORCES WITH GLEANERS FOOD BANK TO BATTLE HUNGER!

 Saturday, May 19, 2012  9:00-10:30am,11:00am-12:30pm,or 1:00-2:30pmLocation: 120 E. Columbia Avenue, Pontiac MI

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 volunteer your time and give back to others, please sign up at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E084CA4A62EA46-gleaners . 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. 

THE FLAMINGO FLOCKING FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT THE 8TH GRADE CELEBRATION IS BACK!!! 

Check bcsonline.info for more information and form

BCS SPRING BAND CONCERTS 

The 5th & 6th grade bands will perform their spring concert on Wednesday evening, May 30^st  in the BCS cafeteria. The performance will begin at 7:00pm. The 7th & 8th grade bands will perform their spring concert on Wednesday, June 6^th in the BCS cafeteria. The starting time for the 7th & 8th grade band performance is 7:00pm. 

TO CURRENT 6TH AND 7TH GRADE BCS FAMILIES,
We have organized a Washington D.C. Inaugural Trip for next year’s 7th and 8th grade students.  Please note, the deadline for registration is this Tuesday, May 1, 2012. Go to bcsonline.info for more information. We need the registration and $62 deposit  by that date in order to lock in the airfare. There is a very limited number of spots remaining and registration is ond on a first come first served basis. A wait list will be started after the May 1 cutoff date. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.Cindy Balicki248-203-4448Cb15bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us

Science Olympiad State Competition Results

On Saturday, April 28^th the BCS Middle School Science Olympiad Team competed against the top 48 teams from across the state of Michigan at Michigan State University. It was an amazing day filled with great success!

1^st place

Dynamic Planet – Don R. & James R.

Forestry – Jacob D. & Bogdan M.

2^nd place

Disease Detectives – Indy A. & Bogdan M.

Road Scholar – Don R. & Adam S.

3^rd place

Anatomy – Nadia H. & Noah S.

Microbe Mission – Aaron L. & Leila O.

Mission Possible – Jacob D., Nadia H. & Leila O.

4^th place

Compute This – Ben F. & Aaron L.

5^th place

Awesome Aquifer – Jacob A. & James R.

6^th place

Green Generation – Nick C. & Jacob D.

7^th place

Experimental Design – Michael K., Varsha K. & James R.

Rocks & Minerals – Aaron L. & Adam S.

9^th place

Meteorology – Michael K. & Adam S.

10^th place

Write It – Do It – Bogdan M. & Noah S.

11^th place

Bottle Rockets – Jacob D. & Michael K.

Food Science – Nick C. & Varsha K.

Keep the Heat – Varsha K. & Noah S.

13^th place

Storm the Castle – Jacob A. & Bogdan M.

The team took 5^th place overall in the state of Michigan!!!

Way to go BCS!

WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY FOR TRAVEL AND EXCHANGE FOR TWO 7/8 BOYS TO MODENA, ITALY.
Looking for two boys,13 or 14, who want to change the world by building global friendships. The opportunity is for two boys to participate in an interchange with young people in Modena, Italy -- the other Motor City, home to Ferrari and Maserati (and balsamic vinegar).This program run by the nonprofit CISV, which stands for Children's International Summer Villages.For more information contact Emilia Askari,BCS Proud Mom. 248-229-2990 or esa22@columbia.edu

From the Birmingham Education Foundation

Birmingham Public School students will have the unique opportunity to speak directly with flight engineer, Joe Acaba, on the International Space Station, May 23. The Birmingham Education Foundation is holding a fundraiser next Thursday, May 3, 2012, Toast de Mayo, at TOAST Birmingham. Proceeds raised at this fiesta, featuring a strolling dinner with a Latin American theme, will directly benefit this once in a lifetime NASA downlink. The NASA district-wide event will include guest speakers, science activities, and a STEM Career Fair all underwritten by the BEF. Please purchase your ticket today at www.supportbef.org to support innovation and excellence in Birmingham Public Schools.

Also don’t forget to make all your AMAZON purchases through the BEF LINK

Expedition 2012 May 23 6-8pm

On May 23, 2012, Birmingham Public Schools will host a downlink with the International Space Station during the school day. This is an incredible honor and we are one of only six organizations selected to participate in this expedition. Save the date now to participate in our evening family event where you can watch a replay of the downlink. You and your family will be able to visit individual stations that highlight microgravity, space station information and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Younger space explorers will have the opportunity to build a straw rocket. This event is free to all BPS community members and there is no need to RSVP. This great event is made possible through the generosity of the Birmingham Education Foundation. Location: Seaholm gym

BEF EVENING!

The Birmingham Education Foundation and Toast Restaurant 

are pleased to invite you to a Toast de Mayo Fiesta
on May 3rd to celebrate and support Birmingham Public Schools. Enjoy Latin beverages and a 

strolling dinner from their award winning chief, live Mariachi music, and a unique silent auction, 

all in the company of good friends as the warm weather allows for open doors, while music 

and laughter spill out to the streets.

With events like the Toast de Mayo fundraiser, the BEF is able to provide support and 

enrichment opportunities to all Birmingham students. It could be a trip to the DSO, or the interactive 

white boards placed in many classrooms, maybe the literacy libraries in the first grade classrooms or the 

exciting NASA International Space Station event coming May 23rd, all of which are funded from 

the BEF with your generous donations. 

Please visit the BEF web site for a list of all the grants awarded throughout the district 

and purchase tickets to the Toast de Mayo Fiesta to benefit 

Birmingham Public Schools. Last year’s pricing is held through this Friday.

www.supportbef.org

SIGN UP FOR SUMMER CAMPS NOW  !!!!!!!

Summer Camp Guide is now available on-line at www.communityed.net,  Also a booklet is available in the office

Check out the wide variety of youth enrichment and recreation camps!

SUMMER SCHOOL

This is a friendly reminder that online registration for ACADEMIC SUMMER SCHOOL HAS BEGUN!!  Summer school is a great opportunity to replace undesirable grades, credit recovery, or to earn new credits!  Some classes fill quickly and there are discounts for registering early!

Registration opened to BPS residents on Thursday on March 1, 2012 and are accepted online only at www.communityed.net*  If you need assistance with the registration process, please call Birmingham Community Education at (248) 203-3800.

*Classes will not appear on the website until 12:01 AM on March 1st.  If you would like to preview a list of class offerings or get more information, a link to the complete high school brochure is shown below. To paste into your browser

http://birmingham.augusoft.net/customers/birminghamps/files/SUMMER%20SCHOOL%20BROCHURE(1).pdf

April 23, 2012




Dear BCS Families,



I hope you enjoyed another beautiful weekend in the Birmingham area!
Finishing strong is our motto and that is exactly what we are doing!
Here are a few ways we are finishing strong at BCS.
-We were fortunate to have a Rachel’s Challenge assembly for our 7/8 students last week. Many of our 7/8 students have accepted Rachel’s Challenge and have signed the banner indicating so. At the 7/8 Open Gym/Dance this past Friday, some of the students began a “chain of kindness.” The chain is now located in the main hallway, and all BCS students, staff, parents and visitors are welcome to add to the chain.

As we continue to finish strong with living by our 3 E’s (Education, Each other, Environment), I am asking families for collaboration. The movie “BULLY, PG-13 Version” is being shown through the end of April at the Birmingham 8 Theater on Old Woodward. I encourage families to go see this movie together. I have heard from a number of families that say it is a great movie about empathy and treating others in a respectful way.

Additionally, the Diversity Committee will begin showing a monthly Friday evening movie on the subject of peer mistreatment. Families are invited to BCS this Friday, April 27 at 7pm, for a free showing of “The Mighty” (PG-13) starring Kieran Culkin, Elden Henson and Sharon Stone.

-The Spring Forensics Tournament was held yesterday at Wayne State University with 21 Michigan Middle Schools competing. We had 16 students participate in 7 different categories. The following students placed:



Ben F. Impromptu

Nick C. Impromptu

Leah W. Declamation (perfect score)

Alex G./Chance S. Duo

Hannah S./Emma S./Caitlin M. Multiple

Haley W./Sarah C./Julia D./Meaghan F. Multiple (perfect score)



Congratulations! Way to Go Cobras!



-The Kids’ Against Hunger Mobile Packaging Unit will be at BCS on Friday, 4/27/12. If you are available for any of the following times, please notify Cindy Balicki at cb15bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us.

9:15am-11:00: 10 volunteers to assist the students during the packaging. There will be one parent volunteer/station. Training will be provided.

11:30-1:15: 10 volunteers to assist students during the packaging. Training will be provided.

1:15-2:00: 10 for clean up

Parent volunteers are more than welcome to sign up for consecutive volunteer slots.

For example, they may sign up to unload and then assist with the packaging, therefore, volunteer from 8:30-11:00am.

Thank you, in advance, for your help. I know this will be a truly meaningful experience for our students

-Our teachers continue to work hard to educate each learner and have been working collaboratively on action plans to identify areas of improvement for our learners using both in class and state assessment data!

G.E.E.K.ed about Finishing Strong!

Adam









How to finish strong as a parent?

Follow the parking lot procedures-

We MUST keep our students safe! We are still having students cross in front of cars to be picked up/dropped off. You must be in the outside lanes to drop off/pick up.

Also- The entrance/exit to Covington has 2 exits (going right and going left) and only 1 entrance (right hand side coming off of Covington). Please refrain from using the exit lanes as an entrance. This has caused major backups and the Police have stated they will write tickets.

Thank you for keeping our students (and your children) safe!

WEEK AT A GLANCE – Week of April 23-27, 2012

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

Monday, April 23

• 4:15PM-6th- 8th CO-ED TRACK Meet-HOME@GROVES

• 6 MILLION PENNIES FOR 6 MILLION LIVES BAKE SALE AT 7/8 LUNCH

• 3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

• 3:15-4:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE-TEAM PICTURE on the field at 3:20

• 4:05-6PM-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

Tuesday, April 24

• 6:45-8AM-6th- 8th CO-ED TRACK PRACTICE

• 3:15-5:30PMBCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

• 4:00 PM –GIRLS SOCCER GAME –AWAY@East Hills Middle School

• 4:15PM-BOYS TENNIS MATCH @ Detroit Country Day

Wednesday, April 25

• 6:45-8AM-6th- 8th BOYS TRACK PRACTICE AT BCS

• 6:45-8AM-6th-8th GIRLS TRACK PRACTICE –DROP KIDS AT GROVES

• 3:15PM-Delicious Popcorn sold during Choice Hour-only $ 1

• 3:15 PM-SCHOOL STORE RE-OPENS –-School Store is moving to Wednesdays

• 3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

• 4:00 PM –GIRLS SOCCER GAME –AWAY@ Cranbrook Middle School

• 4:05-6PM-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

Thursday, April 26-

• TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK DAY – please, please notify the attendance office if your child will not be in school at 8:20am. A late arrival (tardy) or absence can be emailed to bcsattendance@birmingham.k12.mi.us or call 248.203.4444, press 2. Thank you very much!!

• 6:45-8AM-6th- 8th GIRLS TRACK PRACTICE AT BCS

• 6:45-8AM-6th-8th BOYS TRACK PRACTICE DROP KIDS AT GROVES

• 8AM-Diversity Champions Breakfast-Community House

• 3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

• 4:05-6:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE

• 3:15-5:30PM-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

• 7:30PM-Instrumental Music Concert-4th Graders/ Parents-Groves Auditorium-see below for more information

Friday, April 27

• KIDS AGAINST HUNGER MOBILE PACKAGING EVENT

• DUE-4PM-Choice Hour Change Slips-Changes begin Mon April 30

• DUE-REGISTRATION FOR DELAYED START KIDS CLUB

• 3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

• 4:05-6:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE

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

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

Monday – Grilled Turkey or Corned Rueben on Whole Wheat, California Blend, Sweet Potato Fries, Bacon Cheeseburger

Tuesday – Chicken Pot Pie, Whole Wheat Roll, Steamed Peas, Nachos Deluxe

Wednesday – Grilled All Beef Hotdog on Whole Wheat, Baked Potato Wedges, Steamed Vegetable, Pepperoni Calzone

Thursday – Chicken Alfredo on Whole Wheat Penne, Steamed Broccoli, Garlic Breadstick, Cheese Quesadilla

Friday – Baked Potato Bar, Home Style Chili, Green Beans, Hawaiian Pizza



KIDS AGAINST HUNGER MOBILE PACKAGING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! -Friday 4/27/12. (see above)



BCS Student Speaks at the MGM as Youth Ambassador

-BCS would like to share a special event that took place last night. Cameron R. spoke at the MGM Grand Detroit as the 2012 Youth Ambassador for the American Diabetes Association (Michigan). A momentous occasion for him and his family! Here is a video his family has allowed us to share! Nancy Best was a guest of Cameron’s family as he spoke to more than 500 people.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcZ1w4FMTFA



DELAYED START INFORMATION-Our next delayed start is Tuesday,May 1. All schools start time delayed 90 minutes. REGISTRATION FORM is at bcsonline.info. Due date is Friday,April27 Transportation will be running 90 minutes later than the normal pick up time. If your child is normally picked up by the bus at 7:50 a.m. they will be picked up at 9:20. Pickup locations are the same.

BCS teachers will report at the normal time and will be participating in professional development.

PE UPDATE-4th QUARTER-

Monday April 16-Friday May 11-Harvath and Mali will SWIM-pack appropriate clothing

Butzin,Frishman,Davis,Seley.Parkin,Wallington will be in the GYM-PACK SHOES-NO FLIP FLOPS!

Monday May 14-Friday June 15- Butzin,Frishman,Davis,Seley.Parkin,Wallington will SWIM-pack appropriate clothing

Harvath and Mali will be in the GYM-PACK SHOES-NO FLIP FLOPS!





DRESS CODE REMINDER

As the weather gets warmer and shorts, skirts, and tank tops come out, please take a moment to review the dress code with your child (http://www.bcsonline.info/Documents/2011-2012StudentHandbookPlanner.pdf ) on page 9 of the student handbook. Please help your child to remember that shorts/skirts must be below the child’s fingertips and tank tops must have wide enough straps so that undergarments cannot be seen. If a student is not wearing the appropriate clothing to meet dress code, a call will be placed to a parent to have an appropriate item of clothing brought up for the student to change into. Thank you for helping!



STUDENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MS SOCIETY WALK-APRIL28

The National MS Society is hosting a walkathon at BCS on Saturday, April 28. They are looking for student volunteers to stand at the finish line and welcome the walkers in. Students may show up any time between 9:30am and 1:00pm. They may stay for as little or long as they would like. Students should check in at the volunteer check in table and parents will need to sign a waiver. This is primarily to approve the publication of photos should they be taken during the event.



MESSAGES TO STUDENTS FROM HOME

We are asking parent cooperation in minimizing the number of messages to be delivered to students during the school day. We recognize, of course, that there are situations where you must get a message to your child.

IN THE EVENT YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY REQUIRING A MESSAGE TO YOUR CHILD, PLEASE DIAL 248-203-4426 for the school receptionist or 248-203-4474 for the parent volunteer at the reception desk. Please be patient and do not leave a message in voice mail but rather call back until you reach a person. We will deliver emergency messages to students if they are received before 2:45 pm. We appreciate the message called in as soon as possible.

Please be sure your child is aware of unusual transportation or pickup arrangements BEFORE leaving for school in the morning. A successful strategy used by parents is to write transportation arrangements or other important information in your child’s planner.Our very busy office staff thanks you!!



IMPORTANT REMINDER

Please ensure that your student has and USES a lock on their GYM locker and that all valuables are secured there. Some students have lost valuable items. Locking them is the best protection for everyone



6 MILLION PENNIES FOR 6 MILLION LIVES

Every Monday, starting this Monday, April 16th, our “6 Million Pennies for 6 Million Lives” Bake Sale fundraiser begins. Please donate baked goods for our cause to remember those that died in the Holocaust and to help out to raise money for our Kids Against Hunger – 1 out of 7 people go to bed hungry and we would like to help make a change!

When: During 7/8 Lunch and afterschool if there are leftovers (EVERY MONDAY!)

Where: right outside of the cafeteria

How Much: $1 or less (no change will be given and ALL money will go our cause!)

Why: How do we change the world = 1 act of Kindness at a time



BCS IS JOINING FORCES WITH GLEANERS FOOD BANK TO BATTLE HUNGER!

Date: Saturday, May 19, 2012

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

Location: 120 E. Columbia Avenue, Pontiac MI

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 volunteer your time and give back to others, please sign up at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E084CA4A62EA46-gleaners . 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.



THE FLAMINGO FLOCKING FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT THE 8TH GRADE CELEBRATION IS BACK!!!

Check bcsonline.info for more information and form

CHOICE HOUR INFORMATION: for Q IV

4th Quarter Choice Hour classes began on Monday April 16th. Choice Hour selections are posted on the Choice Hour board in the main hallway and in each homeroom.

The deadline for requesting a Choice Hour class change is Friday April 27th by 4:00 PM. Choice Hour class change request forms are available in the main office. Classes with openings are listed on the back of the Choice Hour class change request form. Please read the change form very carefully.

Students requesting a change are expected to attend their originally assigned classes for the first two weeks of the new quarter. ALL Choice Hour changes that are approved will go into effect on Monday April 30th. You will receive timely notification if your Choice Hour change request is denied.

Choice Hour drop refunds will be processed for classes dropped during the official Choice Hour change period which ends at 4:00 PM on Friday April 27th. No refunds will be processed after the Friday April 27th deadline.

No Choice Hour drops, adds and/or changes will be accepted over the phone or via email. All Choice Hour change requests require a parent’s signature. Please pick up the proper paperwork in the office.

Thank you for supporting the Choice Hour program!

Choice Hour Planning for 2012-2013 School Year:

Choice Hour planning for the first quarter of the 2012-2013 school year has begun. Several parents have already volunteered to teach some very interesting Choice Hour classes next year that highlight their talents and interests. If you would like to share your time and talents with a small group of students during Choice Hour please contact Linda Stone at 248-203-4625 or email her at ls06bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us for more information.

Choice Hour Reminders:

Students that do not have Choice Hour on any given day need to be picked up by 3:20 PM. Students that do not have a Choice Hour class and are not picked up by 3:30 will be charged a $5.00 fee.

If your student has Choice Hour but will not be attending their Choice Hour class please call the Choice Hour attendance line (248-203-4625) to have them excused at 3:15, email Linda Stone at ls06bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us or pick up a pink slip in the office to have them released from choice hour.

Choice Hour attendance can be a very time consuming job. The safety of your children is always our priority. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions regarding Choice Hour attendance please feel free to call Linda Stone at 248-203-4625.



ITS TIME FOR BOKS Space is Limited

BOKS is a fun, physical activity program that wakes up your brain and body for school and teaches you healthy habits.

The program runs approximately an hour before the start of school. Each session involves a functional, fun and interactive approach to physical activity and ends with a quick and easy nutrition tip.

Registration:

Where: Birmingham Covington School

When: Monday and Fridays Starting April 13th at 7:15 am

8 week session ending June 1, 2012

Cost: $35.00 (Write checks payable to BCS) If assistance is needed contact Adam Hartley or Patricia Chinn no one is ever excluded for financial reasons







The Birmingham Education Foundation Brings Author Gary Schmidt to Secondary Schools as its 2011 Author-In-Residence April 23-25, 2012

MEET AUTHOR GARY SCHMIDT!

BCS 6, 7, and 8th grade Students

Date & Time: Monday Morning April 23, 2012

Parents we will not be purchasing books in advance to sell to students for autographing. Instead we want to support the BEF. Please go the the BEF web page (www.supportbef.org) and order Gary Schmidt books via the BEF Amazon link in the upper left hand corner of the page. Have your child bring his/her book to school or to the community program. Each book purchase supports the BEF who funds our Author & Artist in Residency Program each year which links, books children and authors. Learn more about Mr. Schmidt at http://bitgsquad.ning.com/page/bef-author-gary-schmidt. This online Glogster has a Skype interview with Mr. Schmidt, a 3 minute overview of him at home talking about his latest book OKAY For Now, and info about his other honors as well as the reading connection to our district programs .

Gary Schmidt is a National Book Finalist, Newbery Author, and English Professor at Calvin College in Michigan.

BCS 4th & 5th Graders are invited to the Community Program/Reception for 4th-12th graders

Date & Time: Tuesday, April 24, 2012 7:00-8:00pm

Location: Baldwin Public Library, 300 West Merrill Street, Birmingham, MI 48009

The Role of the Writer for Today’s Young Readers”

The Community Program at the Baldwin Public Library will be a time of stories. Students will get an inside look at how stories do what they do: how they entertain and what they mean. Parents and students are invited to this program and reception. Free raffle tickets will be available at the door for a chance to win an autographed copy of a Schmidt book and a photo with the author. Books will be for sale by Book Beat.

INSTRUMENTAL INFORMATION FOR 4TH GRADE FAMILIES FROM BPS INSTUMENTAL INSTRUCTORS

Dear Fourth Grade Parents,

In the fall of each school year, Birmingham Public Schools offers the opportunity for every fifth grader to participate in beginning band/orchestra class. This is in addition, at the 5th grade level, to their vocal music instruction. We recommend that every 4th grader and a parent plan on joining us on Thursday, April 26th at 7:30pm in the Groves High School Auditorium for a concert presentation on instrumental music. Please mark this date on your calendar. This presentation will give students an opportunity to hear each instrument and gain a better understanding of the various groups of instruments. This performance will be presented by our high school students and the instrumental music staff.



In April and May a representative from Anderson Music Company will be coming to each elementary school to test and fit students towards being involved in the instrumental music program. Each child will have the opportunity to try two - three instruments of their choosing from the strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion. If, for some reason, you do not want your child tested, please send a letter to your child’s classroom teacher. A letter will be sent home naming the instruments that your child tried and the one that was recommended for them with their input.



When students go on to middle school, they continue their music performance education in choir, band, or orchestra. Being part of a performance group is such a rewarding and educational experience. Singing in a choral ensemble or playing in a band or orchestra are all amazing experiences. Performing builds self confidence, leadership skills and also helps to keep students focused and happy. We know that music students represent the top of the academic scale in our schools. We also know music students average higher scores on standardized tests then their peers, go on to college and become the leaders in our society.





WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY FOR TRAVEL AND EXCHANGE FOR TWO 7/8 BOYS TO MODENA, ITALY.

Looking for two boys,13 or 14, who want to change the world by building global friendships. The opportunity is for two boys to participate in an interchange with young people in Modena, Italy -- the other Motor City, home to Ferrari and Maserati (and balsamic vinegar).This program run by the nonprofit CISV, which stands for Children's International Summer Villages.For more information contact Emilia Askari,BCS Proud Mom. 248-229-2990 or esa22@columbia.edu



DOWNLINK ACTIVITY WITH THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

Save the date! We are very excited to announce that on May 23, 2012, Birmingham Public Schools will host a downlink with the International Space Station during the school day. This is an incredible honor and we are one of only six organizations selected to participate in this expedition. Please save the date now to participate in our evening family event where you can watch a replay of the downlink from earlier in the day. You and your family will also be able to visit individual stations that highlight microgravity, space station information and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Younger space explorers will also have the opportunity to build a straw rocket. Mark your calendar now for Wednesday, May 23 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Seaholm High School Gymnasium. This event is free to all BPS community members and there is no need to RSVP. This great event is made possible through the generosity of the Birmingham Education Foundation



SIGN UP FOR SUMMER CAMPS NOW !!!!!!!

Summer Camp Guide is now available on-line at www.communityed.net, Also a booklet is available in the office

Check out the wide variety of youth enrichment and recreation camps!



SUMMER SCHOOL

This is a friendly reminder that online registration for ACADEMIC SUMMER SCHOOL HAS BEGUN!! Summer school is a great opportunity to replace undesirable grades, credit recovery, or to earn new credits! Some classes fill quickly and there are discounts for registering early!

Registration opened to BPS residents on Thursday on March 1, 2012 and are accepted online only at www.communityed.net* If you need assistance with the registration process, please call Birmingham Community Education at (248) 203-3800.

*Classes will not appear on the website until 12:01 AM on March 1st. If you would like to preview a list of class offerings or get more information, a link to the complete high school brochure is shown below. To paste into your browser

http://birmingham.augusoft.net/customers/birminghamps/files/SUMMER%20SCHOOL%20BROCHURE(1).pdf

Tech Cafe' Follow up- Twitter 101

Parents-
For those that attended the twitter 101 #thank you!
For those that missed it- we will be having a monthly twitter chat with the principal beginning in May.
The twitter chat will occur online using twitter.  Chat with me from the comfort of your own home!

Last months twitter chat was of course focused on twitter and how it can be used in the classroom.  Next month we will discuss the learning hub mindset.  Taking learning outside of the four walls!  These chats are two-fold.  It is a way for you to keep up on education and BCS and it's a way for me to gain valuable feedback from parents-

Looking forward to it!

new to twitter? see below...
email me with questions



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zfj-jlqVEQ&feature=related
Go to this link to learn how to set up a twitter!

BCS Learning by Doing!

Recently a few activities have taken place here at BCS that reminds me of how this is truly a great place to be!  The saying, "learn by doing" is evident across all of the grade levels and subject areas.  Our 5th/6th grade students participated in a field trip that was not a typical field trip.  Each year our young scientist visit the Rouge River to conduct test, take measurements, and help keep helpful information up to date.  Our teachers are not simply placing a textbook in front of our students and asking them to read about the living things in our rivers, they are giving them opportunities to hold creatures, look underneath rocks, and truly learn about the ecosystems in our backdoor!
Learning by doing is a true learning hub concept. 
The learning hub mindset takes the learning outside of the four walls and into the real world!

BCS is a true learning hub!



Learner holdinig a crawfish



Mr. Bodle joins in the fun!



April 16-20 WAG Post (Mrs. Chinn)

Dear BCS,


This last week was very exciting as we returned from break to some very interesting weather, reminding us that we live in Michigan and one minute it can be sunny and mild and the next it is snowing. Fortunately at BCS, things were sunnier this last week as we had our first ever tennis match, BCS Team 1 took first place in the Elementary Science Olympiad, the volunteers of the year were selected at the PTSA meeting, and plans began for our mobile packaging unit with Kids Against Hunger, thanks to the amazing funds raised by our students. This week, we look forward to even sunnier weather as we kick off our first bake sale to benefit the 6 million pennies for 6 million lives initiative, hold our annual alumni breakfast, welcome Rachel’s Challenge for our 7/8 students, send the 5/6 for River Rouge testing, and finish the week off with a 7/8 dance. Exciting things are happening at BCS…Let’s keep it up!

Have a G.E.E.K.ed Week,

Patricia

WEEK AT A GLANCE – Week of April 16-20, 2012

Monday, April 16-FOURTH QUARTER –NEW CHOICE HOURS START TODAY

•1:05PM FIRE DRILL-RESCHEDULED-PARENTS PLEASE BE AWARE WHEN PICKING UP YOUR CHILD

•6 MILLION PENNIES FOR 6 MILLION LIVES BAKE SALE AT 7/8 LUNCH

•3:15-4:05- 6th-8th Coed Track Practice-Team Picture at3:20-Parent Meeting at 4:05PM in Room 101

•3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

•3:15-4:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE-TEAM PICTURE on the field at 3:20

•4:05-6PM-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

•6:30-7:30 p.m. TWITTER 101- Media Center-Presented by the BCS Technology Committee

Tuesday, April 17

•6:45-8AM-6th- 8th CO-ED TRACK PRACTICE

•7:15AM BCS ALUMNI BREAKFAST-Media Center

•11 AM-Rachel's Challenge Presentation-see below for Family Presentation Information

•11:50-3:00PM-River Rouge Testing @ Linden Park -Brown/Fitz homerooms,

•3:15-5:30-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

•4:15PM-BOYS TENNIS MATCH-@Bloomfield Hills Middle School

•4:05-6:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE

•7PM-Board of Education Meeting-Administration Building

Wednesday, April 18

•6:45-8AM-6th- 8th BOYS TRACK PRACTICE AT BCS

•6:45-8AM-6th-8th GIRLS TRACK PRACTICE –DROP KIDS AT GROVES

•7:30AM BYA Youth In Service breakfast

•11:50-3:00PM-River Rouge Testing @ Linden Park-Cook/Wilkie homerooms

•3:15 PM-NO SCHOOL STORE –inventory day -School Store is moving to Wednesdays starting NEXT WEEK

•3:15PM-Delicious Popcorn sold during Choice Hour-only $ 1

•3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

•4:00 PM –GIRLS SOCCER GAME -HOME vs. West Hills Middle School

•4:05-6PM-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

Thursday, April 19

•6:45-8AM-6th- 8th GIRLS TRACK PRACTICE AT BCS

•6:45-8AM-6th-8th BOYS TRACK PRACTICE DROP KIDS AT GROVES

•11:50-3:00PM-River Rouge Testing @ Linden Park- Joseph/Roberts homerooms

•3:15-5:30-BCS PLAY Rehearsal-Cafeteria

•4:15PM-BOYS TENNIS MATCH-@West Hills Middle School

•4:05-6:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE

•7 PM-Washington, D.C. Parent Information Meeting-Media Center - information below

Friday, April 20

•Report Cards for 5th-8th released

•DUE=7/8 FIELD TRIP PERMISSION SLIPS

•11:50-3:00PM-River Rouge Testing @ Linden Park- Burns/Burdick homerooms

•3:30-4:40-BOYS TENNIS PRACTICE

•3:15 -4:05PM Staff vs Student Volleyball Game

•4:05-6:05 PM –GIRLS SOCCER PRACTICE

•6-9PM -7/8 DANCE-“The Night Club”-OPEN GYM 6-7PM-DANCE 7-9PM CAFETERIA-$5 at the door

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

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

Monday – Pancakes, French Toast, Oatmeal, Turkey Sausage, Hash brown patty, Zesty Beef Burrito

Tuesday – Meatballs and Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Small Salad, Spicy Chicken Buffalo Wrap

Wednesday – Baked Chicken Nuggets, Steamed Vegetables, Baked Onion Ring, Chicken Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce

Thursday – Cheese Lasagna, Garlic Breadstick, Steamed Corn. Italian Sub on Wheat

Friday – Chicken Sir Fry w/ Mixed Vegetables and Lo Mein Noodles, Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

BUS EVACUATION DRILLS

Durham services will be running bus evacuation drills on 4/18 at BCS during AM drop off. This will not make students late for class and is a precautionary measure in case of emergency.

WASHINGTON DC TRIP PARENT MEETING

Attention all current 6th and 7th grade parents interested in having your child travel to Washington DC with BCS for the inauguration next year: the parent meeting for more information on this trip will be held on Thursday, 4/19 at 7 PM in the Media Center. A representative from our tour company will be available to answer questions and give more detailed information regarding cost/financing options, itinerary information, and travel arrangements. Space is limited for this trip, so please be sure to attend this meeting. For more information, please contact Cindy Balicki at cb15bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us.

PE UPDATE-4th QUARTER-

Monday April 16-Friday May 11-Harvath and Mali will SWIM-pack appropriate clothing

Butzin,Frishman,Davis,Seley.Parkin,Wallington will be in the GYM-PACK SHOES-NO FLIP FLOPS!

Monday May 14-Friday June 15- Butzin,Frishman,Davis,Seley.Parkin,Wallington will SWIM-pack appropriate clothing

Harvath and Mali will be in the GYM-PACK SHOES-NO FLIP FLOPS!

BCS TECH CAFÉ Twitter 101 Monday, April 16th

Join the BCS Technology Committee from 6:30-8:00 PM in the BCS Media Center for an informal open discussion about social networking topics: How to Twitter 101? Learn how twitter is used as a professional tool, join a twitter chat with Principal Adam Hartley and more! Bring your laptop if you have one. You are welcome to send us a question or topic of interest. email tech@bcsonline.info

BCS VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR

"The broadest, and maybe the most meaningful definition of volunteering: Doing more than you have to because you want to, in a cause you consider good." ~Ivan Scheier

Congratulations to our BCS Volunteers of the Year, Ken Gilbert and Lynnette Kennedy, as well as all of our nominees: Ted Brown, David Cryberg, Kyra Grathwohl, Gina Herdegen, Rob Lawrence, Cyrus and Shiva Motlagh, Elizabeth Robbins, Melinda Stone and Dawn Walton. Your contributions, as well as those of so many others, are what make BCS an incredible place to be. The PTSA sincerely thanks each and every volunteer who gives selflessly of their time, talent, and resources on behalf of our school. We are truly fortunate to be a part of such an amazing community!

KIDS AGAINST HUNGER MOBILE PACKAGING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! 4/27/12.

The Kids’ Against Hunger Mobile Packaging Unit will be at BCS on Friday, 4/27/12. We are in need of parent volunteers for the day. If you are available for any of the following times, please notify Cindy Balicki at cb15bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us.

8:30-9:30am: 10 volunteers to assist in unloading the KAH truck and setting up in the gym

9:15am-11:00: 10 volunteers to assist the students during the packaging. There will be one parent volunteer/station. Training will be provided.

11:30-1:15: 10 volunteers to assist students during the packaging. Training will be provided.

1:15-2:00: 10 for clean up

Parent volunteers are more than welcome to sign up for consecutive volunteer slots. For example, they may sign up to unload and then assist with the packaging, therefore, volunteer from 8:30-11:00am.

Thank you, in advance, for your help. I know this will be a truly meaningful experience for our students

FROM THE CO-CHAIRS OF THE BOOK FAIR Thanks to Everyone for generously supporting the Spring Book Fair!!

We would like to extend our appreciation to the BCS community for their strong support by either volunteering or purchasing a book at our Spring Book Fair. We made a little over $1,900 in cash, $778 in books (distributed to the Media Center, 24 locker gift certificate winners and Volunteer gift certificates) and $335 in Scholastic dollars to be used for purchase of more books and materials for the Media Center. We really do have wonderful families!

We could not have done it without you! Shiva Motlagh, Theresa Valentine – Book Fair Co-Chairs



TO 7/8 PARENTS AND GUARDIANS-DANCE INFORMATION

The last 7/8 dance of the year is coming up next Friday, April 20th, The Nightclub. New for this dance will be an Open Gym time from 6-7 PM, with the DJ spinnin’ tunes, and then the dance in the cafeteria from 7-9 PM.We need chaperones for Open Gym and for the dance. The shifts are listed below – can you please help out? If your child says they’d rather you not chaperone, tell them you can be in one of the “hallway” spots (monitoring the halls to make sure students don’t go anywhere). We also need parents at the door and inside the cafeteria to help with drinks/food. Please email me, Nicole Toth nt06bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us, to tell me which shift you can do! You can also volunteer to stay for 2 shifts, or the whole time!



SHIFT 1 – 5:45-7:00 – Entrance/collect $, chaperone Open Gym/hallways

SHIFT 2 – 6:45-8:00 – Chaperone transition from Open Gym to Dance in cafeteria, chaperone dance/hallways

SHIFT 3 – 8:00-9:15 – Chaperone dance/hallways and clean up

Also, please encourage your kids to attend the dance – they always have lots of fun! It is $5 at the door (anytime they show up, whether during Open Gym or just for the dance).

Thank you for your help in advance!Sincerely,Nicole Toth

CHOICE HOUR INFORMATION: for Q IV

4th Quarter Choice Hour classes begin on Monday April 16th. Choice Hour selections are posted on the Choice Hour board in the main hallway and in each homeroom.

The deadline for requesting a Choice Hour class change is Friday April 27th by 4:00 PM. Choice Hour class change request forms will be available in the main office after 4:00 PM on Friday April 20th. Classes with openings will be listed on the back of the Choice Hour class change request form. Please read the change form very carefully.

Students requesting a change are expected to attend their originally assigned classes for the first two weeks of the new quarter. ALL Choice Hour changes that are approved will go into effect on Monday April 30th. You will receive timely notification if your Choice Hour change request is denied.

Choice Hour drop refunds will be processed for classes dropped during the official Choice Hour change period which ends at 4:00 PM on Friday April 27th. No refunds will be processed after the Friday April 27th deadline.

No Choice Hour drops, adds and/or changes will be accepted over the phone or via email. All Choice Hour change requests require a parent’s signature. Please pick up the proper paperwork in the office.

Thank you for supporting the Choice Hour program!

Choice Hour Planning for 2012-2013 School Year:

Choice Hour planning for the first quarter of the 2012-2013 school year has begun. Several parents have already volunteered to teach some very interesting Choice Hour classes next year that highlight their talents and interests. If you would like to share your time and talents with a small group of students during Choice Hour please contact Linda Stone at 248-203-4625 or email her at ls06bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us for more information.

Choice Hour Reminders:

Students that do not have Choice Hour on any given day need to be picked up by 3:20 PM. Students that do not have a Choice Hour class and are not picked up by 3:30 will be charged a $5.00 fee.

If your student has Choice Hour but will not be attending their Choice Hour class please call the Choice Hour attendance line (248-203-4625) to have them excused at 3:15, email Linda Stone at ls06bps@birmingham.k12.mi.us or pick up a pink slip in the office to have them released from choice hour.

Choice Hour attendance can be a very time consuming job. The safety of your children is always our priority. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions regarding Choice Hour attendance please feel free to call Linda Stone at 248-203-4625.

SCHOOL STORE NEWS

Beginning Wednesday April 25th the School Store will open on Wednesdays during choice hour and not on Tuesdays. The school store will not be open Wednesday April 18th because of inventory. BCS and the Choice Hour Program want to thank Proud Mom, Dawn Walton for her contributions, and thank BCS teacher and incoming Proud Mom Amy Martin for offering to continue the school store.

ITS TIME FOR BOKS Space is Limited

BOKS is a fun, physical activity program that wakes up your brain and body for school and teaches you healthy habits.

The program runs approximately an hour before the start of school. Each session involves a functional, fun and interactive approach to physical activity and ends with a quick and easy nutrition tip.

Registration:

Where: Birmingham Covington School

When: Monday and Fridays Starting April 13th at 7:15 am

8 week session ending June 1, 2012

Cost: $35.00 (Write checks payable to BCS) If assistance is needed contact Adam Hartley or Patricia Chinn no one is ever excluded for financial reasons

RACHEL’S CHALLENGE – A STORY OF COURAGE AND HOPE –FAMILY PRESENTATION- Tuesday, April 17, 7pm

Location: Seaholm Auditorium

Rachel Scott was the first person killed in the Columbine High School tragedy in 1999. She left behind an amazing legacy and a simple challenge to anyone who will accept it: treat others with kindness and compassion and you just may change the world. This program is for parents, students and community members.

6 MILLION PENNIES FOR 6 MILLION LIVES

Every Monday, starting this Monday, April 16th, our “6 Million Pennies for 6 Million Lives” Bake Sale fundraiser begins. Please donate baked goods for our cause to remember those that died in the Holocaust and to help out to raise money for our Kids Against Hunger – 1 out of 7 people go to bed hungry and we would like to help make a change!

When: During 7/8 Lunch

Where: right outside of the cafeteria

How Much: $1 or less (no change will be given and ALL money will go our cause!)

Why: How do we change the world = 1 act of Kindness at a time

THE FLAMINGO FLOCKING FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT THE 8TH GRADE CELEBRATION IS BACK!!!

Check bcsonline.info for more information and form

ELEMENTARY SCIENCE OLYMPIAD 2012- BCS TEAM 1 CAME IN 1ST PLACE OVERALL!!

On Saturday, April 14th, thirty-three 4th and 5th grade students from BCS competed against eighteen teams at West Maple Elementary. The team worked hard and had a fantastic time. The following students brought home awards for their event.

1st Place

Crime Busters – Laya K. & Angela R.

Tennis Ball Catapult – Henry D., Nate R., & Hannah S.

Water Rockets – Fatimah Z., Kate A., & Marissa M.

2nd Place

Clay Boats – Ashley D. & Camilla B.

Jeopardy – Kate A., Jon G., Marissa M., & Fatimah Z.

Pentathlon – Hannah S., Henry D., Nate R., David L. & Trevor D.

Water Rockets – Katie P., Lauren G., & Bella M.

3rd Place

Circuit Wizardry – Nick C. & Phillip W.

5th Place

Clay Boats – Nikki B. & Ella F.

6th Place

Pentathlon – Hadin S., Drew F., Will R., Carson P., & Jack C.

Straw Egg Drop – Preston S. & Ryan Z.

Wildlife Safari – Katie P., Lauren G., & Bella M.

WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY FOR TRAVEL AND EXCHANGE FOR TWO 7/8 BOYS TO MODENA, ITALY.

Looking for two boys,13 or 14, who want to change the world by building global friendships. The opportunity is for two boys to participate in an interchange with young people in Modena, Italy -- the other Motor City, home to Ferrari and Maserati (and balsamic vinegar).This program run by the nonprofit CISV, which stands for Children's International Summer Villages.For more information contact Emilia Askari,BCS Proud Mom. 248-229-2990 or esa22@columbia.edu



DOWNLINK ACTIVITY WITH THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

Save the date! We are very excited to announce that on May 23, 2012, Birmingham Public Schools will host a downlink with the International Space Station during the school day. This is an incredible honor and we are one of only six organizations selected to participate in this expedition. Please save the date now to participate in our evening family event where you can watch a replay of the downlink from earlier in the day. You and your family will also be able to visit individual stations that highlight microgravity, space station information and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Younger space explorers will also have the opportunity to build a straw rocket. Mark your calendar now for Wednesday, May 23 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Seaholm High School Gymnasium. This event is free to all BPS community members and there is no need to RSVP. This great event is made possible through the generosity of the Birmingham Education Foundation

STUDENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDFOR MS SOCIETY WALK-APRIL28

The National MS Society is hosting a walkathon at BCS on Saturday, April 28. They are looking for student volunteers to stand at the finish line and welcome the walkers in. Students may show up any time between 9:30am and 1:00pm. They may stay for as little or long as they would like. Students should check in at the volunteer check in table and parents will need to sign a waiver. This is primarily to approve the publication of photos should they be taken during the event.

The Birmingham Education Foundation Brings Author Gary Schmidt to Secondary Schools as its 2011 Author-In-Residence April 23-25, 2012!

MEET AUTHOR GARY SCHMIDT!

BCS 6, 7, and 8th grade Students

Date & Time: Monday Morning April 23, 2012

Parents we will not be purchasing books in advance to sell to students for autographing. Instead we want to support the BEF. Please go the BEF web page (www.supportbef.org) and order Gary Schmidt books via the BEF Amazon link in the upper left hand corner of the page. Have your child bring his/her book to school or to the community program. Each book purchase supports the BEF who funds our Author & Artist in Residency Program each year which links, books children and authors. Learn more about Mr. Schmidt at http://bitgsquad.ning.com/page/bef-author-gary-schmidt. This online Glogster has a Skype interview with Mr. Schmidt, a 3 minute overview of him at home talking about his latest book OKAY For Now, and info about his other honors as well as the reading connection to our district programs .

Gary Schmidt is a National Book Finalist, Newbery Author, and English Professor at Calvin College in Michigan.

BCS 4th & 5th Graders are invited to the Community Program/Reception for 4th-12th graders

Date & Time: Tuesday, April 24, 2012 7:00-8:00pm

Location: Baldwin Public Library, 300 West Merrill Street, Birmingham, MI 48009

The Role of the Writer for Today’s Young Readers”

The Community Program at the Baldwin Public Library will be a time of stories. Students will get an inside look at how stories do what they do: how they entertain and what they mean. Parents and students are invited to this program and reception. Free raffle tickets will be available at the door for a chance to win an autographed copy of a Schmidt book and a photo with the author. Books will be for sale by Book Beat.

INSTRUMENTAL INFORMATION FOR 4TH GRADE FAMILIES FROM BPS INSTUMENTAL INSTRUCTORS

Dear Fourth Grade Parents,

In the fall of each school year, Birmingham Public Schools offers the opportunity for every fifth grader to participate in beginning band/orchestra class. This is in addition, at the 5th grade level, to their vocal music instruction. We recommend that every 4th grader and a parent plan on joining us on Thursday, April 26th at 7:30pm in the Groves High School Auditorium for a concert presentation on instrumental music. Please mark this date on your calendar. This presentation will give students an opportunity to hear each instrument and gain a better understanding of the various groups of instruments. This performance will be presented by our high school students and the instrumental music staff.

In April and May a representative from Anderson Music Company will be coming to each elementary school to test and fit students towards being involved in the instrumental music program. Each child will have the opportunity to try two - three instruments of their choosing from the strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion. If, for some reason, you do not want your child tested, please send a letter to your child’s classroom teacher. A letter will be sent home naming the instruments that your child tried and the one that was recommended for them with their input.

When students go on to middle school, they continue their music performance education in choir, band, or orchestra. Being part of a performance group is such a rewarding and educational experience. Singing in a choral ensemble or playing in a band or orchestra are all amazing experiences. Performing builds self confidence, leadership skills and also helps to keep students focused and happy. We know that music students represent the top of the academic scale in our schools. We also know music students average higher scores on standardized tests then their peers, go on to college and become the leaders in our society.

We look forward to seeing you on April 26th in the Groves auditorium and offering further details about the Birmingham Instrumental Music program.

SIGN UP FOR SUMMER CAMPS NOW !!!!!!!

Summer Camp Guide is now available on-line at www.communityed.net, Also a booklet is available in the office

Check out the wide variety of youth enrichment and recreation camps!

SUMMER SCHOOL

This is a friendly reminder that online registration for ACADEMIC SUMMER SCHOOL HAS BEGUN!! Summer school is a great opportunity to replace undesirable grades, credit recovery, or to earn new credits! Some classes fill quickly and there are discounts for registering early!

Registration opened to BPS residents on Thursday on March 1, 2012 and are accepted online only at www.communityed.net* If you need assistance with the registration process, please call Birmingham Community Education at (248) 203-3800.

*Classes will not appear on the website until 12:01 AM on March 1st. If you would like to preview a list of class offerings or get more information, a link to the complete high school brochure is shown below. To paste into your browser

http://birmingham.augusoft.net/customers/birminghamps/files/SUMMER%20SCHOOL%20BROCHURE(1).pdf