October 31, 2024

November 4-5: No School-- Staff Development

November 7th- Picture Retake Day

November 8th: BH PTA Adult Night Out-- Silent Auction

Dear Families,

As we approach this year’s presidential election, we recognize it’s a significant moment for our nation, our communities, and most importantly, our students. During such times, students may have questions, strong emotions, or even concerns. As a district, we’re committed to supporting our students in a way that honors their perspectives, respects differing opinions, and encourages civil discourse.

Here’s how we’re approaching this:

1. Open Communication
   Teachers will create space for students to express thoughts or feelings about the election. These discussions will be age-appropriate and carefully guided, encouraging respectful listening and open-mindedness.

2. Building Respectful and Inclusive Spaces
   Respect is the foundation of our classrooms. We’ll remind students of our shared commitment to treating each other kindly and respectfully, regardless of differing beliefs. This experience is a valuable opportunity to learn and practice empathy, critical thinking, and respect for all voices.

3. Addressing Heightened Emotions
   We recognize that emotions may run high for many students. Our staff will be present throughout the school day to provide additional support, encourage reflection, and ensure that every child feels safe and valued.

4. Encouraging Growth and Learning
   This election offers a meaningful moment for learning about civic responsibility and the power of our voices. We want our students to know they can make a positive impact in their families, schools, and communities, no matter the outcome.

5. Addressing Challenges Together
   Some students may have concerns or questions about the election. We’ll listen to and validate their experiences, provide a supportive environment, and remind them that they are part of a caring school community.

We believe these conversations help our students become compassionate, informed, and engaged citizens. Our focus is not on beliefs but on behavior; we emphasize that regardless of views, we all have a responsibility to treat others with respect, dignity, and kindness.

If you have questions about how we’re approaching these discussions or would like additional resources to support your student at home, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for your partnership as we help our students grow into thoughtful, resilient, and respectful individuals.

Warm regards,

Brimhall Elementary

Please keep cell phones & smart watches at home. If a child brings their cell phone/smart watch to school and it is seen, they will be asked to give it to the teacher for the remainder of the day. If a student has their phone/smart watch and refuses to give it to the teacher for the rest of the day, administration will work with that student and family. Cell phones/smart watches in school lead to increased disruptions to learning, anxiety, cyberbullying, and decreased academic performance. Please reference this link about the impact of cell phone and technology addiction on children and teens.

The first bell rings at 9:25am. No student is allowed in the building till that time, unless you attend Friendship Connection. Please make sure that your Bengal is dressed properly when waiting outside.

The school day bell rings at 9:40am. Any time after that you need to report in the office for a tardy slip. Parents and Guardians need to sign them in.

CHRIS GRABENSTEIN is the multiple award-winning, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the LEMONCELLO, WONDERLAND, HAUNTED MYSTERY, SMARTEST KID, and DOG SQUAD series.

He will come and talk to our 3rd-6th graders about his newest book and the writing process on November 7th. (Orders due October 21)

With the changing weather, please ensure your student has the appropriate winter clothing at school each day: jacket, snow pants, hat, gloves, boots, and scarf. Make sure to label all items with your student’s name. If your family needs help obtaining winter gear, please contact our Social Worker, Micheal Stanefski at michael.stanefski@isd623.org.

Please include a change of clothes in your child's backpack (socks included). Bathroom accidents and messes on the playground sometimes happen, so students need to have a change of clothes available when necessary.

Sincerely,

Angela Bykowski, BSN, RN, PHN, Licensed School Nurse

Roseville Area Public Schools, ISD 623

Brimhall Elementary School

Email: angela.bykowski@isd623.org

Office phone: 651-724-6205

Direct phone: 651-233-9256

Our silent auction committee is looking for baskets/items for our upcoming silent auction.

DO YOU or does SOMEONE YOU KNOW:

• Have season tickets that you could donate a performance or game
• Work someplace that could make a donation
• Gift Cards
• Basket of goods
• Tickets
• Items
• Have a talent or skill (cooking class, woodworking project...) that you could donate
• Other fun ideas...

If so-- please email our group: BrimhallSilentAuction@gmail.com (or drop off with Anna Zbacnik in the library at BH)

If your child is a fan of cuddly animals and funny cartoons, this drawing workshop is especially tailored for his or her needs. Over the course of five days, our students will learn how to draw animals of all shapes, sizes, and colors. They will learn how to personify ordinary animals, transforming them into fully realized cartoon characters. Be a part of something fun and special.

Open to grades K-6. Offered at most elementary schools this fall, with classes starting in November! ⏰

Unleash your inner wizard at this magical science camp! Experience the thrill of defying gravity with your very own hovercraft, amaze your friends with secret messages written in magical ink, and create wands that light up with enchantment. Join us on this captivating journey, where you'll witness the seemingly magical results of your experiments and unravel the scientific secrets behind each spellbinding phenomenon. Get ready for a blend of learning and fun where every child becomes a wizard of wonder!

Open to grades K-6. Offered at all elementary schools this fall, with most classes starting soon! ⏰

Registration starts Monday, November 4th for Adult Enrichment classes in January - May 2025! We have a lineup of exciting classes that you won't want to miss this winter, like:

🌀 Traditional Italian Cuisine

🌀 Mandala Rock Art

🌀 Calming Stress & Anxiety

🌀 Practical Chat GPT Training

🌀 Nuno Felted Scarf

🌀 Floral Resin Trays