February 2025
Dear Parent(s) and/our Guardian(s)
Welcome to another great month in the Butler School District! As we step into February, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible first half of the school year. It is hard to believe we are already more than halfway through '24-'25, but I am so proud of all that we have accomplished together as a district. From our students’ academic achievements to their athletic and extracurricular successes, the commitment of our staff, students, and families shines brightly every day - it certainly does show why we say "It Takes More To Be A Bulldog!"
This winter has brought with it several strong illnesses impacting our schools and community, and I want to encourage everyone to prioritize their health and well-being. Please continue to practice healthy habits, such as frequent handwashing, staying home when feeling unwell, and staying up to date with any necessary medical care. By working together, we can ensure the health and safety of all members of our school community.
Looking ahead, February is filled with exciting activities and important dates to keep in mind:
- Midwinter Break: Please note that all schools will be closed on Monday, February 17th. We hope you enjoy this long weekend to rest and recharge.
- Scheduling for Next Year: High school students will soon begin the scheduling process for the upcoming school year. Our school counselors will be visiting middle schools to meet with students and guide them through this important step. Be sure to stay tuned for more information as we help our students plan for a successful future.
- Delayed Opening on February 7th: A reminder that all schools will have a delayed opening on Friday, February 7th, to allow time for teacher professional learning. Thank you for your support as we provide our educators with opportunities for continued growth.
- RBS 8th Grade vs. Faculty Volleyball Game: Don’t miss this annual favorite event! Stay tuned for details and come cheer on our talented students and staff in what is sure to be a spirited competition.
- Mandated NJDOE Assessments: Please plan ahead for the state-required assessments, which will take place from May 12th through May 23rd. Attendance is critical during this time to ensure our students meet these important requirements.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued partnership as we work together to provide the best possible education and environment for our students. Let’s continue to support one another, celebrate our successes, and make the most of the second half of the school year.
Stay warm, stay healthy, and I wish you all a wonderful February!
Be Well!
Dr. J.
RBS Spelling Bee
Aditya Patel is the RBS Spelling Bee champion! We’re so proud of Adi as he will be representing us at the county bee!
Congrats to Izzy and Trevor who won bronze and silver. Excellent job, spellers! Thanks all the participants and Mrs. Krauze & Mr. Fischer for judging the spelling bee as well
RBS Holiday Celebrations
Fun holiday festivities took place at RBS~ Huge thanks to the PTA for the amazing class parties & gift cards! Thanks to the RBS Jazz Band for the entertainment, too!
Special Visitor At ADS
Thank you to the Butler Fire Department for escorting a special visitor to Aaron Decker prior to the Winter Break!
Helping Your Student Plan for Success!
As we approach the time for students to plan their high school courses for the 2025-2026 school year, I want to encourage all parent(s) and/or guardian(s) to take an active role in this exciting and important process. Sitting down with your child to explore their interests, goals, and aspirations is a wonderful opportunity to guide them as they make choices that will shape their high school experience and prepare them for their future.
Our course catalog is filled with exciting offerings designed to meet the diverse needs and interests of all students. Here are some highlights to consider as you review it together:
- Comprehensive Electives: We provide a wide range of semester-based elective courses to help students explore their passions, develop new skills, and expand their knowledge.
- Advanced Placement (AP) Offerings: These rigorous courses challenge students academically while providing an opportunity to earn potential college credits through successful completion of AP exams.
- Concurrent Enrollment Options: Students can get a jumpstart on their college journey by earning college credits while still in high school through our partnerships with higher education institutions.
- Work-Based Learning Opportunities: For students interested in real-world experiences, we offer options that combine academic learning with hands-on work opportunities, helping them prepare for careers.
Parents play an essential role in helping students navigate these choices and make informed decisions. Here are a few tips to make this process successful:
- Start with Goals: Begin the conversation by discussing your child’s interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Whether they are thinking about college, trade school, or entering the workforce, their courses can help pave the way.
- Explore Together: Take time to review the course catalog together. Highlight courses that align with their interests or challenge them in new ways.
- Balance the Workload: Help your child create a schedule that balances challenging courses with manageable workloads, leaving room for extracurricular activities and personal time.
- Think Beyond One Year: Encourage your child to plan ahead, considering how their choices this year might align with future goals or prerequisites for advanced courses.
- Communicate with Counselors: Encourage your child to take advantage of the expertise of our school counselors. They are an invaluable resource for guidance, information, and support throughout this process.
This is an important time for students, and your involvement can make a world of difference. Thank you for partnering with us as we help our students explore their potential and prepare for a bright future.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our counseling department. We look forward to working with you and your student to make the most of this planning process!
Aaron Decker Elementary School - Mr. J. Manco, Principal
Kindergarten Registration for 2025-2026 school year will begin on Monday, February 3, 2025. Please click on link for more information: 2025 Kindergarten Registration Welcome Letter
Richard Butler Middle School - Mrs. M. Papa, Principal
February not only marks the midpoint of the academic year but also invites us to reflect on the accomplishments and growth of our students. As we embrace the theme of love, kindness, and friendship, we invite you to join us in celebrating the achievements and moments that make the RBS community so exceptional. We all have opportunities to learn and grow each day, and RBS students are constantly showing us how they embody this ideal. So many of our clubs and activities meet regularly: Chess Club, Gaming Club, Book Club, Yearbook Club, Spanish Club, and Art Club. Drama Club is rehearsing regularly and preparing for a fantastic show in April. Stay tuned for ticket information! The basketball season is well underway, and our students are practicing and playing hard; we’re so proud of their efforts. Thank you for your continued support and involvement in the enriching journey of our students this school year!
National School Counseling Week is February 2-7, and we’d like to offer our deepest gratitude to RBS School Counselor, Mr. Fischer for all of the support he provides our students! Mr. Fischer plays a vital role in supporting students' academic, social, and emotional growth. He offers guidance, resources, and a safe space for students to navigate the challenges of adolescence. In other counseling news, scheduling for grade 8 is underway as BHS Counselor Ms. Mauer met with our 8th graders to begin preparation as they move on to Butler High School. Scheduling meetings will occur February 3-4, and we are happy to experience this exciting time with our 8th grade students!
This year, the Butler PTA encouraged RBS students to participate in The National PTA Reflections Arts Program. The Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition and access to the arts which boost student confidence and success in the arts and in life. Over 300,000 students in grades Pre-K through 12 unleash their creativity each year through a 50+ year-old art program! They explore a student-created theme, developing artistic literacy, boosting confidence, and discovering a love of learning that sets them up for success.
This year’s theme was Accepting Imperfection, so congratulations to RBS 6th graders, Erin Khieu and Kylee Baumgart for moving forward to the county competition with their submissions!
Butler High School - Mr. R. Fitzgerald, Principal
As we step into the second month of the year, I am excited to welcome in our second semester. February brings with it a sense of renewal and the promise of exciting opportunities for our students. The halls of our high school are filled with the energy of learning, creativity, and collaboration. I am very proud of the dedication and resilience displayed by our students throughout the 2025- 2026 school year. Please check out some highlights and important events and celebrations below. Together, let us continue to foster a supportive environment where every student can thrive academically and personally.
