Zaccaria Oct 3

Hello Families,

As parents, it can often feel overwhelming to help our students navigate their schedules and homework, especially when the demands of modern education seem to shift constantly. Parents want to support their students, but the complexities of their assignments and the intricacies of their daily routines can leave us feeling unsure of where to begin. This can create a sense of frustration, as we may not be familiar with the latest teaching methods or subject matter. However, by fostering open communication, encouraging self-advocacy, and utilizing resources together, we can become valuable partners in your children's academic journeys, helping them develop the skills they need to succeed while also finding our footing in this new landscape.

Here are some great ways you can help your students at home.

1. GRADES: Check Grade Link. This is where you can access all your student's grades. If you do not know how to access Grade Link, please email your student's homeroom teacher for your log in information.
2. ASSIGNMENTS: Check Google Classroom for assignment descriptions and expectations. You will need to have your student log in with their log in information. Grades 6 - 8, students should be bringing home their chromebooks. Grade 5 can access through a computer at home.
3. COMMUNICATION: We are using these academic years to help students learn to communicate directly with their teacher. This will be a valuable tool for them when they are in high school. We are always looking for students to contact their teachers first. Students can email their teachers, send messages to teachers through Google Classroom, or set up a time during Advisory/Study Hall.
4. PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES: Attending our parent teacher conferences gives teachers an opportunity to talk with parents and students about any concerns. We have one coming up in October. No need to sign up, just come to the Thunder Gym during conference hours and find the teacher you would like to talk with. Bringing your student along with you helps make sure everyone knows the expectations.
5. CHROMEBOOKS: Grade 6 -8, charge those chromebooks every night. Grade 5 keeps their chromebooks at school and are plugged in everyday.

Teachers are here to help you and your students. We recognize that parents may need to contact teachers. Please keep in mind that our Communication Policy allows for 48 hours to respond, excluding weekends.

Lastly, reach out if you ever need help or just want to praise a teacher.

Richard Zaccaria
Assistant Principal
Ben Franklin Academy

Sixth grade language arts teachers play a vital role in shaping young minds and nurturing a love for reading and writing and we are so fortunate to have Mrs. Erbaugh. At this pivotal stage, she not only introduce students to diverse literature but also foster critical thinking and creative expression. With patience and enthusiasm, Mrs. Erbaugh creates a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to explore new ideas and share their thoughts, laying a strong foundation for future learning. Her impact goes beyond the classroom, inspiring a lifelong appreciation for language and storytelling.

Mrs. Erbaugh is delighted to continue her teaching career at Ben Franklin Academy. Her journey as a teacher started as a young child as she fondly remembers writing on the teacher’s chalkboard and playing school. Her passion for education and children led her to attend Colorado State University & The University of Colorado at Denver for her teaching license. This will be her ninth year in education.

In her free time, she loves spending time with her daughter, Jessica. Staci enjoys reading, hiking, yoga, photography, and playing tennis.

Mrs. Erbaugh feels grateful to join this community and the BFA family. She values the strong relationship between students, teachers, and parents. Her goal is for students to become successful lifelong learners.

Check out her favorites here.

Mrs. Ziegler has a remarkable talent for bringing out the best in our students. As a math support specialist, she works closely with teachers to identify those who need a little extra help, providing targeted strategies and personalized attention. Her warm and encouraging demeanor creates a safe space where students feel confident to ask questions and tackle challenges. Whether it's through engaging lessons or hands-on activities, Mrs. Ziegler inspires a love for math and empowers her students to overcome their fears. Her dedication not only enhances their skills but also builds their self-esteem, fostering a sense of accomplishment that resonates well beyond the classroom.

Michelle grew up in Illinois and moved to Colorado in high school. She received her bachelors in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wyoming and her Masters in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. Working with kids has always been a passion and teaching has been the most rewarding career where she helps kids grow and thrive. She loves helping each student grow their strengths and find confidence in themselves. This will be her sixth year at Ben Franklin Academy. She looks forward to another year of getting to know new faces and having fun alongside current students.

When not working, she enjoys raising chickens and spending time with her husband and two children.

Check out her favorites here.

Save the date for our Starry Sky Evening. This dance is for Grades 6 - 8.

November 9, 2024

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

More details to come.

Mrs. McMahon invited her former students to come watch Wild Robot the movie. This is the book they read as 3rd graders. It is great to see so many former students joined her!

6th Grade Outdoor Education provides a unique educational opportunity for our students. Our students, chaperones and staff spend 3 days at 100 Elks Outdoor Ed Center. They will experience the outdoors while hiking, team building activities and have memorable evenings gathered around the campfire and hiking under the stars.

Dates: October 7 – 9, 2024

Communication while students are there: Teachers and staff will send updates, information and pictures throughout the trip. Many students will be picked up and taken home once they arrive. Please check your email frequently.

Please note that we still have a regular school day on October 10 and students are expected to attend.

Seventh grade is a crucial time for students as they delve into pre-algebra and explore the world of exponents, laying the groundwork for more advanced mathematical concepts. Learning about exponents introduces them to the idea of repeated multiplication, helping to simplify complex calculations and solve equations more efficiently.

Next week, all our classes will have their first escape room where students begin to understand variables and expressions, making connections between numbers and their operations in a real world application.

With engaging lessons and real-world applications, Mr Knudsen is inspiring students to see the relevance of math in everyday life, making it an exciting journey of discovery and growth.

Students are diving into the intriguing world of "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley, exploring its rich themes and complex characters. As they unravel the story of Victor Frankenstein and his tragic creation, they engage in discussions about morality, ambition, and the consequences of scientific exploration. Through group activities and guided readings, students analyze the text's Gothic elements and its commentary on humanity's quest for knowledge. This classic novel not only captivates their imaginations but also encourages them to think critically about ethical dilemmas and the nature of responsibility, making their literary journey both thought-provoking and memorable.

It is a great book for October! Here are some examples of our students own version of Frankenstein.

Grades 6 to 8 are bustling with energy as students race around the school, each determined to improve their mile times. The air is filled with the sounds of sneakers hitting the pavement and the encouragement of classmates cheering each other along the way. Some students sprint ahead, pushing their limits, while others pace themselves, focusing on building endurance. Mr. Macias is motivating them with tips on breathing and technique, fostering a spirit of friendly competition. It's not just about the finish line; it's about teamwork, personal growth, and the thrill of physical activity, making this mile run an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Battle of the Books will be ramping up after Fall Break! Students who are interested in participating should be reading the books (book list), and be willing to commit to Monday practices at 7:15 am, starting on October 28th.

If you/your child intends to participate, please complete this form by Thursday, October 10th. If you have questions, please reach out directly to the coach, Mrs. Dunn.

The DLMC has purchased all available SORA eBooks and audiobooks for your students to check out.

• BOB - 5th & 6th

The second trimester musical is Mary Poppins! Grade 6 - 8 students can sign up to be a part of this special musical. Space is limited so sign up soon!

Sign up for Tech Crew

The tech crew will be responsible for creating sets, props and costumes for the school musical. During the performance these students will run lights, move props, run special effects and help with actors lines and entrances. You must be free for performances February 27th, 28th and March 1st after school.

Sign up for Cast

If you would like to be in the cast of Mary Poppins, please fill out this form. Space in this class is limited to 40 spots. The deadline to fill this form out is October 22nd. After the deadline, we will let you know who is in the class and register you. Everyone in the class will be in the show (no cuts).

This class meets on B DAY elective. You must be free for performances February 27th, 28th and March 1st after school.

Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity while building sets? If you are comfortable with drills and saws, email Mrs. Johnson to help build the sets for Mary Poppins musical.

The boys basketball season is right around the corner!

In order to try out, players must be registered and complete waivers through MySchoolBucks, which is now open. Any players not registered, cannot try out. After teams are finalized, a payment will be invoiced for the season through MySchoolBucks and includes a sweatshirt, warm-up, and locker sticker.

On tryout days, players should bring water, change of athletic clothes, and shoes. Students will stay their classrooms until all-call and then will meet their coaches in the Thunder gym.

6th Grade Tryouts:

Monday, October 21

4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

7 & 8 Grade Tryouts:

Tuesday, October 22

4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

Callbacks (if needed):

Wednesday, October 23

4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

Our Girls A & B Team won the Front Range Charter League championship games this evening. Their hardwork and commitment to the sport earned them their wins.

Both teams won in only 2 sets.

A huge thank you to the dedicated coaches and parents who helped get them there!

GO BOLTS!!!!

Parents-when you are attending functions after school, as a courtesy, please do not park in the 6 clearly marked parking spots for the BASE parents during the hours of 4pm-6pm.

Did you know that all our sports games are on our Event Calendar? Check it out and Come Support our Teams!