SDB Highlights and Headlines

Our monthly "SDB Highlights and Headlines" newsletter will share the #GreatThingsHappening in our district. We highlight our incredible students, dedicated staff, and amazing community partners, showcasing top achievements, collaborative efforts, and unique stories happening daily.

During Teacher Appreciation Week, we honored and recognized more than 70 amazing teachers in our district. SDB families and students nominated teachers for their dedication and commitment to our students' academic success and social and emotional well-being.

Beloit Memorial High School students Maria Arreguin, Allyie Borden, Alvaro Casasola-Justicia, Keala Eaton, Kate Kleinschmidt, Kameron Lounsbury, Xavier Miller, Sabastian Montano, Estefany Ramos-Torres, Roselyn Rosas, Andrea Sala, Tucker Sherrod, and Lauren Slatter were honored for represented BMHS and our district regionally at the Midwest Research Symposium in Toledo, Ohio.

Beloit Memorial High School staff Heidi Andre, Justin Johnson, Connor McClelland, and Nathan Olds mentored, guided, and supported our students during their research all year. This team goes above and beyond to provide the tools, resources, and encouragement our high school students need to excel in their research endeavors.

Frito Lay has been a valuable partner, dedicating their time and resources to empower our Beloit Memorial High School students to explore their passions, hone their skills, and pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. They have always opened their doors to our BMHS students and embraced them with open arms, engaging them, providing hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, recruitment, and much more.

At Becca's Closet, young women and men alike are welcomed with open arms and provided with prom wear and accessories, including jewelry, shoes, and even ties, all offered free of charge. The incredible volunteers devote their time and expertise to receive, sort, organize, and even repair donations. #BeloitProud

Our talented art students created chalk art in honor of our Class of 2024 graduates. The art was on display just in time for Senior Awards Night. We thank one of our art teachers, Mr. Pieper, for coordinating this event and capturing the awesome sidewalk chalk art.

Congratulations to our outstanding Grow Your Own Scholarship recipients, Myah Matthews and Linda Garza!

Myah, a soon-to-be Class of 2024 BMHS graduate, will pursue an early childhood education degree at Jackson State University, while Linda, an ELL Para at Aldrich, is advancing her education at the University of Wisconsin Superior. Grow Your Own scholarships are possible because of the financial support from our School District of Beloit staff and community members. #GrowYourOwn

Listen to one of our latest podcast episodes featuring Beloit Memorial High School junior Anahi Arroyo on her philanthropic mental health support project, Sue Green on the importance of coaching and mentoring, and Beloit Learning Academy Educators Dan Herro and Hannah McIntee on their Sustainability Fair. Every Friday, we share a new episode spotlighting programs, news, events, and accomplishments across our SDB community. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts, or click the link below. Enjoy!

Beloit Memorial High School senior and student-athlete Jaslyn Gama competed this past weekend at the WIAA Division 1 State Track and Field Championships after she finished third in the 400-meter dash in the sectional meet in Beaver Dam. When hard work meets talent, anything is possible.

Converse 3rd graders organized a food drive as part of their Civic Engagement Project, with all donations going to the neighboring Messiah Food Pantry. These young leaders took charge, from decorating collection boxes to crafting posters and writing announcements. Our outstanding students and families gathered 868 items.

Congratulations to our Beloit Memorial High School Jazz Orchestra and Director Chris Behrens on their outstanding performance at the Essentially Ellington Competition! Seeing their talent and hard work recognized at such a prestigious competition is truly commendable. Their achievements not only bring pride to the Beloit community but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring musicians everywhere. Here's to celebrating their dedication and commitment to excellence in jazz music!

Honorable Mention Saxophone Section (Sarah Ramsden, Anna Friedl, Annette Cortez, Savannah Jacot, Ava Wehrli, Norah Saladar, Gabby Sowicz)

Honorable Mention Bass - Lauren Higgins

Honorable Mention Piano - Miles Wisdom

Outstanding Drums - Darius Wilson

Outstanding Lead Trumpet - Ian Yadon

Our students had the opportunity to explore the world of careers on wheels. From firefighters to landscapers and energy experts to tow truck drivers, they had hands-on experience with different vehicles and professions.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the community organizations that made this event possible. A huge shoutout to Adrian's Landscaping, Alliant Energy, City of Beloit Public Works, Clinton Fire Department, CCI, Dewey's Towing, Los Alacranes Food Truck, Rock County Highway Department, Rock County Sheriff's Department, and WI State Patrol. We appreciate our community partners!

Take a moment to read our most recent blog posts. In the blog titled, From Ignorance to Pride: Embracing My Filipino Heritage, Amanda Sellen, Beloit Memorial High School English Educator, explores her journey and discovery of her cultural heritage.

Heidi Andre, also a Beloit Memorial High School Educator, reflects on her 40 years of teaching in her blog, Chalk It Up to Experience. Heidi was recently honored by the Beloit Rotary with a Lifetime Achievement award. Her dedication to education spans 40 years, enriching the lives of countless students and families. Her passion and commitment make her an exceptional educator, leaving an indelible mark on the community she serves. We wish her the best in her retirement.

Our students were asked to present to the Green Bay Packers organization for the second year in a row. Our students are thoughtful and articulate and share a story of resilience and determination. This partnership is made possible thanks to the collaborative efforts of WAGET and Bridge and Build. Our students graduate Career, College, and Community Ready. #GoPackGo