As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to share an initiative of great importance to our school community—the work of our Superintendent’s Student Advisory Sub-Committee on Suicide Prevention. In partnership with the Sources of Strength organization, this group of students has been working hard to launch a suicide prevention campaign within our schools which you can view below.

This campaign represents more than just an initiative—it is a commitment to the safety, well-being, and mental health of every student. Suicide is a devastating reality that affects individuals and families across all communities, and schools play a critical role in providing support, awareness, and resources.

The Sources of Strength program is designed to empower students with resilience and healthy coping techniques to cultivate a community of mutual care and understanding. Through this campaign, we aim to build a network of strength where students not only recognize the importance of seeking help but also learn how to support one another in times of need.

Mental health is as essential as physical health, and as a school system, we are committed to providing the resources, education, and safe spaces necessary for our students to thrive. I encourage all families to join us in supporting this campaign by having open conversations at home and reminding your students that it’s okay to reach out for help.

Together, we can create a culture where every student feels valued, heard, and supported. Let’s continue to work as a community to ensure that no one feels alone in their struggles.

Thank you for your ongoing support in making our schools a place of learning, growth, and safety for all.

We did it! We have made it to the end of the first semester! It has been such an incredible first half of the school year, and we couldn't be more grateful for the support of our staff, families, and the greater Berkeley County community. Because of you, our students are thriving!

Please enjoy this message from Superintendent Saxe and Sounds of the Season from our talented student musicians.

By: Sarah Warner

Rena Mullenax, a senior at Martinsburg High School, recently experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: marching in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The journey started in January 2024 when Rena applied online for a spot in the parade. As part of the application, Rena submitted a YouTube video that included a solo performance, marching, and a scale performance.

“I was really nervous at first, but I knew I had to give it my best shot," said Mullenax.

After months of waiting, the big news finally came in March.

“When I got the email, I couldn’t believe it,” said Mullenax. "It was a moment I’ll never forget.”

Mullenax did receive the music they would be performing in November, leaving her only a short time to practice.

“I had to memorize the music in just 1-2 weeks, and it was tough,” said Mullenax.

Mullenax received the music she would be performing a short time before the parade. The week before Thanksgiving, she and the other performers traveled to New York for final rehearsals.

“Rehearsals were intense; we practiced for hours, said Mullenax. “The excitement of being in the city, getting ready for the parade, was like nothing I had ever felt before.”

As they marched, Rena looked out for her parents in the crowd, who were cheering her on.

“When I saw my parents in the crowd, it made everything feel even more special. I was so proud to be there, and I knew they were proud of me too.”

After the parade, Rena went back to school with a lot of new experiences and was excited to see her friends and teachers.

“It felt amazing to come back and share my story with my friends and teachers,” Rena said. “Everyone was so proud of me, and I felt so lucky to have their support.”

Mullenax wants her classmates and all students to know to pursue every opportunity that comes their way.

“You never know what doors it will open,” said Mullenax. “This was the opportunity of a lifetime,” and I’m so grateful for everything that led to this moment.”

The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council has teamed up with Sources of Strength to provide additional resources and support for students' mental health.

Remember, you are not alone and there is always help available. Speak to a trusted adult, teacher, school counselor, or text/call 988 for support.

Lee O'Neill from Sources of Strength joins peer leaders from Musselman High School to discuss the power of peer-led initiatives in promoting mental wellness and resilience. Lee explains how the Sources of Strength program helps students build protective factors like connection, coping skills, and purpose.

BCS Unplugged is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Download it now!

Meet River, Potomack Intermediate School’s new therapy dog! River is here to provide comfort, support, and joy to students and staff.

Her presence will help reduce stress, improve focus, and foster positive interactions. We’re so excited that River is a part of the Potomack school community and can’t wait to see the positive impact she will create!

Shepherd University and Berkeley County Schools (BCS) recently announced a new initiative to give high school students easier access to higher education.

Through the initiative, any student graduating from Hedgesville High School, Martinsburg High School, Musselman High School, or Spring Mills High School with a GPA of at least 2.5 will be automatically accepted at Shepherd.

"This is a wonderful program for our students," BCS superintendent said Dr. Ryan Saxe, Superintendent of Berkeley County Schools. "This partnership will open up so many opportunities for our students, academically and beyond."

Saxe said the partnership will also foster a closer relationship with Shepherd, making it easier for students to pursue their education beyond high school.

"Shepherd is a part of the Eastern Panhandle community, but this initiative will connect them to our high schools in a meaningful way for students," said Saxe.

Shepherd University President Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix agreed, adding that the partnership is a testament to the values shared by BCS and Shepherd.

"Like all of us at Shepherd University, the team at Berkeley County Schools is dedicated to the success of their students," said Hendrix. "We are so excited about this partnership and what it means for the young people who will be the leaders of tomorrow."

Automatic acceptance means students do not have to take any action.

"Typically, a student has to gather information to fill out an application, pay the fees, then submit everything," said Will Bell, Interim Vice President of Enrollment at SU. "This agreement means eligible students don't have to do anything."

Bell said accepted students will receive a letter, but he hopes to tell as many as he can in person.

"Part of what makes Shepherd appealing to so many students is the community, so we want to introduce that right away and show those students that they matter to us as an individual," said Bell.

An estimated 1,030 students are on track for automatic acceptance in the spring of 2025.

The initiative with BCS highlights Shepherd's dedication to ensuring the success of every student and supporting them through their academic career.

Click the link below to watch the replay and learn more about this important topic.

The New Year is almost here! Make sure you mark down these important calendar reminders as we approach the end of the first semester and Winter Break. Happy Holidays!

• Friday, January 3, 2025- Professional Learning Day NO SCHOOL
• Monday, January 6, 2025- Students return to school
• Friday, January 10, 2025- Report Cards Issued
• Thursday, January 16, 2025- Middle School Parent/Teacher Conferences
• Monday, January 20, 2025- MLK Day SCHOOLS & OFFICES CLOSED
• Thursday, January 30, 2025- Primary School Parent/Teacher Conferences

The first rule when parenting unwanted behavior is to first give yourself a behavior audit. Encouraging good behavior comes by parents modeling and reinforcing positive actions. This month's newsletter from the Cook Center for Human Connection focuses on Building Better Behaviors: Mental Health Solutions for Child Behavior Problems.

Email: info@berkeleycountyschools.org
Phone: 304-267-3500