Panther Press

As we prepare to close out the year and head into the holiday season, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible work each of you has done during what has been a particularly challenging year.

I know morale has been low at times, and I recognize the weight of the demands placed on all of you. Managing the complexities of our school, especially given the unique needs of our amazing kids, is no small task. Yet, despite the hurdles, your unwavering commitment to our students shines through.

Your dedication, compassion, and resilience have not gone unnoticed. The positive impact you make on our students’ lives is immeasurable, and the difference you create daily is truly inspiring. While I may not always express it as often as I should, please know that the administration deeply values and appreciates everything you bring to our school community.

As we enter the holiday season, I hope you find time to step away, rest, and recharge. This break is well-deserved, and I encourage you to prioritize yourselves and your well-being. You’ve given so much to our students and school—now it’s time to give back to yourself.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your hard work and dedication. Wishing you a holiday filled with joy, peace, and rejuvenation. I look forward to entering the new year together with renewed energy and shared purpose.

In Honor of Margaret Mead’s Birthday 12/16/1901 – 11/15/1978.

Mead was an American cultural anthropologist, author, and speaker.

Years ago, Anthropologist Margaret Mead was asked by a student what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in a culture. The student expected Mead to talk about fishhooks, clay pots, simple tools, or grinding stones.

But no, Mead said that the first sign of civilization in an ancient culture was a femur (thighbone) that had been broken and then healed. Mead explained that in the animal kingdom, if you break your leg, you die. You cannot run from danger, get to the river for a drink or hunt for food. You are meat for prowling beasts. No animal survives a broken leg long enough for the bone to heal.

A broken femur that has healed is evidence that someone has taken the time to stay with the one who fell, has bound up the wound, has carried the person to safety, and has tended the person through their recovery. “Helping someone else through difficulty is where civilization starts,” Mead said.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has”.

The SGO committee would like to thank all of the students and staff members who were able to bring a gift for our first annual toy drive.

On Thursday 12/18 our SGO students were able to deliver the 59 gifts collected to Woodhull hospital to help children spending their holiday there.

We are excited to continue our community service in the next year and can't wait to expand our drive to all sites for the next holiday season!

Ms. Hamilton, Ms. V Perez , Mr. Gordon & Mr. Rogers

A huge shoutout to our attendance teacher Ms. Macey and all of the teachers who work diligently with her.

BTC was honored this week by Ketler as one of three schools with a 5% increase in student attendance!