The Bobcat Beat

Just when you thought the celebration was over… it wasn’t! 🙌

After a full week of love, snacks, and surprises for Teacher Appreciation Week, our BIA staff kept the celebration going by attending the CLEF Teacher Appreciation Dinner—a night dedicated to honoring educators from across Chicago. 🏆✨

We’re so proud to see our team recognized beyond our walls for the heart, hustle, and dedication they bring to our students every single day. From Pre-K to 8th grade, from academic support to emotional care, our staff goes above and beyond—and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Let’s give them one more BIG BIA cheer for being the rockstars they are! 🎉👏👏👏

WAY TO GO, TEAM! YOU DESERVE IT ALL! 🐾

We are beyond excited to give a HUGE BIA congratulations to two very special members of our team who were honored at the CLEF Teacher Appreciation Dinner!

🎉 Principal Mark Schaetzlein – Principal of the Year!
We already knew he was the best, but now it’s official! Principal Schaetzlein’s leadership, dedication, and heart for every student, family, and staff member makes BIA the special place it is. From greeting students with a smile to leading with vision and compassion—we’re proud to call him our Principal of the Year!

🎉 Mr. Ares Acosta – Volunteer of the Year!
Whether he’s DJing school events, running alongside our students, or lending a helping hand wherever it’s needed, Mr. Acosta’s energy and heart for BIA make him an unforgettable part of our community. We couldn’t be more excited to see him recognized as Volunteer of the Year!

Let’s give them both a standing ovation for their dedication to making BIA a place where students can thrive. Way to go, Mr. Schaetzlein and Mr. Acosta! 🐾👏🎉

The memories have been captured, the pages have been printed, and the 2024-2025 BIA Yearbooks have officially been ordered! 🎉 From the first day of school to field trips, concerts, and classroom fun, this year’s book is packed with all the unforgettable moments that made this year one to remember.

Be on the lookout—yearbooks are expected to arrive after Memorial Day! We can’t wait to pass them out and celebrate a year well spent together. 🐾📚

This week in Chapel, our students explored the incredible moment when Jesus fed the 5,000. We learned that when the crowd was hungry, Jesus didn’t ask, “Do you have enough?”—He simply said, “Bring me what you have.” With just five loaves and two fish, Jesus gave thanks and turned that small offering into more than enough to feed thousands.

This story reminds us that God doesn’t require us to have it all together—He simply invites us to bring what we have, trusting that He can do great things with even the smallest gifts. Whether it’s our kindness, talents, or time, God promises to use it to bless others in ways we never imagined.

Click the photo for a special peek into what worship at BIA is all about, and celebrate with us as we continue to learn that God will always provide more than enough. 🙏🍞🐟

What a beautiful afternoon we had at our ECC Joy in the Journey Celebration! From the moment families gathered on the playground, the air was filled with laughter, sunshine, and a true sense of community. Students played, parents connected, and everyone took time to celebrate the growth, friendships, and memories made throughout the year.

Our ECC students have come so far on their learning journey—growing in confidence, curiosity, and kindness each step of the way. Seeing them enjoy this special moment with their families reminded us all that the journey is just as sweet as the destination.

Thank you to our amazing ECC families and teachers for making this year so meaningful. What a joyful way to wrap up the year together! 🌟

Get ready, Bobcats! This Thursday, May 22nd, all students will be enjoying a FREE PIZZA LUNCH in honor of all our amazing summer birthdays! ☀️🎈

A huge thank you goes to Amandeep Kaur, Avnoor’s mom, for her tremendous generosity in providing pizza for all our students. And a big shoutout to Cali Noble for topping off the celebration with some delicious desserts!

We can’t wait to celebrate our summer birthday friends with good food and great community. Happy (early) birthday to all our summer stars! 🎂🍕

Our Bobcats are gearing up to make a difference! On Wednesday, May 28th, our 1st–8th graders will take part in our Annual BIA Service Day by heading to Vineyard Church (2495 Howard Street) to serve our community.

Students will roll up their sleeves and work together to:
🌿 Care for the community vegetable garden
👕 Sort clothing for the charitable clothing "store"
🥫 Pack food for families in need

The event will run from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and we are looking for parent drivers with minivans or larger vehicles to help transport students safely. If you are available and willing to assist, please contact Cali in the main office as soon as possible.

Let’s show our community what BIA hearts and hands can do! 🐾💛

At BIA, our Title 1 services provide students with the opportunity to expand their academic knowledge through small group, guided support. This extra layer of learning helps build confidence, strengthen skills, and give students the tools they need to succeed.

We’re excited to share that Mr. John Hayford, our Title 1 teacher, will be offering summer tutoring for interested families! This is a great way to keep your child learning and growing during the summer months.

To learn more or schedule a session, simply email Mr. Hayford at
John.Hayford@catapultlearning.com.

Let’s keep those learning muscles strong all summer long! 💪📖

☀️ Learning in the Sunshine! 🌳📚

Our 4th, 5th, and 6th graders have been soaking up more than just knowledge lately—they’ve been soaking up the beautiful spring weather too! Taking advantage of the sunshine, these students have been moving their lessons outside the classroom to enjoy fresh air while they learn.

Whether it’s reading, writing, or working on group projects, learning under the sun has brought new energy and excitement to their day. Who knew that a little breeze and birdsong could make class even better? Way to go, 4th-6th grade—you’ve shown us that anywhere can be a classroom when you’re ready to learn! 🌿✏️📖

Join us in giving a BIG BIA CONGRATULATIONS to Jacob W. for his incredible performance at the State Track Meet, where he placed 4th in the entire state in the High Jump! 🏅

We are so proud of Jacob’s hard work, dedication, and determination this season. His achievement is a shining example of what happens when you set your goals high—literally! 🙌

Way to represent BIA, Jacob—you’ve made us all proud! 🎉💪

May 2025

Tuesday, May 20th or Wednesday, May 21st - 7th/8th Grade Great America Day

Thursday, May 22nd - Pre-Kindergarten Graduation @ 6pm

Friday, May 23rd - Athletic Awards and Pizza - @ 5:30pm Open Gym. Awards @ 6:00 pm

Monday, May 26th MEMORIAL DAY - NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, May 27th - Kindergarten Graduation @ 6pm

Wednesday May 28th Service Day

Friday, May 30th - Last Day of School Early Dismissal 8:45am - Noon - NO AFTERCARE

Friday, May 30th - 8th Grade Graduation @ 6:00 pm