Buccaneers News
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Fostering a Strong Start: Attendance, Punctuality, and Support at Bellingrath Middle School
Dear Bellingrath Middle School Community,
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying a fantastic start to the school year. As we continue to build on our initial successes, I wanted to take a moment to emphasize a few key areas that are crucial for maintaining and enhancing our positive momentum.
1. Importance of Attendance and Punctuality
Regular attendance and arriving on time are foundational to student success. Consistent attendance helps students stay engaged with their lessons and ensures they do not miss out on critical learning opportunities. Punctuality is equally important, as arriving on time allows students to start their day on a positive note and be fully prepared for the day’s activities. Doors open at 7:20 am, class starts at 7:45 am.
2. Encouraging Effort and Engagement
We are committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment for all students. To keep our momentum going, it is vital that students put forth their best effort in their academic and social endeavors. Encouraging students to actively participate in their learning and strive for personal growth will not only enhance their educational experience but also contribute to their overall development.
3. Safety and Pickup Procedures
For the safety of all our students, we ask that parents and guardians pick up their children at the designated bus awning area. This procedure helps us ensure that every student is safely accounted for and minimizes any potential risks associated with pick-up routines. Your cooperation in following this protocol is greatly appreciated.
4. Encouraging Open Communication
In moments of discomfort or conflict, it is important for students to feel comfortable seeking assistance. We encourage students to talk through their issues, whether with their peers or trusted adults, to find solutions and resolve problems effectively. Creating a supportive atmosphere where students can express themselves and seek help when needed is a priority for us.
Together, let’s continue to foster an environment of support, safety, and academic excellence. Your ongoing involvement and commitment are key to our shared success. Thank you for your dedication and for being an integral part of our school community.
Warm regards,
Dr. Mary Holloway, Principal
Bellingrath Middle School
Meet our Counselors!
Ms. Edwetta Robinson
Edwetta Robinson is a native of Alexander City, Alabama and has been a resident of Montgomery, Alabama since her graduation from Alabama State University in May 2000. Ms. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in History Education from Alabama State University, a Masters of Education with a Concentration in School Counseling from Alabama State University, and an Education Specialist Degree in School Counseling from University of West Alabama. Ms. Robinson has twenty-four years of education experience in various school systems in Alabama.
Ms. Robinson is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Omega Xi Chapter of Wetumpka, Alabama where she serves as President. She has held various positions at the National, Regional, State, and Local Levels within Zeta Phi Beta. She is a National Trainer with Google for its partnership with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Robinson presents each week to women worldwide on Google. Ms. Robinson is a member of the Alabama State University Alumni Association of Elmore County and is a 50 Under 50 Class VI member of ASU. Ms. Robinson is a member of Maggie Street Missionary Baptist Church where she works with the Teen Sunday School class, Class #2 Sunday School Class, and Women’s Ministry. In her free time, Ms. Robinson enjoys attending concerts, going to the movies, and shopping.
Ms. Robinson’s PLA Core Value is Children First.
Mr. Antonio Givhan
A proud native of Montgomery, Alabama, Antonio is also a devoted husband and father of three. His life is a living testament to his profound compassion for others, unwavering dedication to his family, and steadfast commitment to his community. A man of faith, Antonio finds joy in spending quality time with his loved ones and is an enthusiastic supporter of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Antonio Givhan is an influential school counselor and community leader whose career is marked by a deep commitment to education, counseling, and faith. Currently serving as a school counselor at Bellingrath Middle School, Antonio plays a pivotal role in nurturing students' social-emotional skills and life skills, providing them with the tools needed for personal growth and academic success.
Antonio's career in education began with a strong focus on early childhood development, where he provided crucial support to pre-K teachers through the Department of Early Childhood Education. His work, which emphasized adult resilience and child support, reflects his unwavering dedication to fostering a positive and nurturing learning environment from the earliest stages.
In addition to his role in education, Antonio is the CEO of Learning By Faith Counseling and the AFG-You Can Do It Foundation. Through these organizations, he leverages his expertise to offer counseling services and community support, making a significant impact on individuals and families.
Bellingrath Middle School Kicks Off the New School Year with Excitement!
As the school year gets underway at Bellingrath Middle School, the buzz in the hallways is all about the thrilling start to our sports season and the vibrant Hallway Parade that brought our school community together.
First Games of the Season:
Our student-athletes have hit the ground running with the first few games of the season! From nail-biting victories to hard-fought games, the energy on the field and court has been nothing short of electric. The teams have shown incredible spirit and skill, setting a high standard for the rest of the year. Here’s a quick recap:
Football: The first game of the season saw our team battling fiercely. Despite a tough opponent, our players displayed resilience and teamwork, making us proud.
Volleyball: Our volleyball team served up some fantastic plays in their initial matches, demonstrating their hard work in practice with impressive spikes and strategic plays.
Hallway Parade:
To celebrate the start of the season and build school spirit, Bellingrath Middle School held an unforgettable Hallway Parade. Students and staff came together to cheer on our athletes and showcase their school pride. The hallways were filled with colorful banners, enthusiastic chants, and a sea of school colors. Each grade level participated with unique floats and decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The parade was a fantastic reminder of the strong sense of community we have here at Bellingrath. It’s moments like these that highlight the enthusiasm and support that make our school such a special place.
As we continue through the year, let’s keep the momentum going by supporting our teams and participating in school events. Here’s to a successful season and many more memorable moments ahead!
Go Bellingrath!
Beta Club- Concession Stand
Volleyball at Godwin
BMS Band Practice
Parents Did you know? Clinic Visits for Students: Important Update
Clinic Visits for Students: Important Update
Students can visit the school clinic on Thursdays and Fridays, provided they have their healthcare form on file. For more details or to ensure your form is up-to-date, please contact the school nurse. Your health and well-being are our top priorities!
Upcoming Academic Standards for the First Nine Weeks
Did you know...? Why Daily Attendance Matters:
We’re excited to share an overview of the standards that will be covered in the first nine weeks of this school year. Attached, you’ll find detailed snapshots for each core subject by grade level. These visuals outline the key learning objectives and goals that our students will be focusing on, giving you insight into the curriculum and what your child will be exploring in their classes.
We encourage you to review these standards and support your child’s learning journey. If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher.
Thank you for your continued support in helping our students succeed!
The Power of Collaboration and Small-Group Instruction
Enhancing Learning at Bellingrath: The Power of Collaboration and Small-Group Instruction
At PLA @ Bellingrath Middle School, we believe that every student deserves personalized attention to thrive academically. This belief drives our commitment to collaboration and strategic, targeted instruction through small-group learning. Here’s a closer look at how this approach is making a difference in our classrooms.
The Power of Collaboration:
Collaboration among educators is at the heart of our approach to teaching. Our teachers work together to design and implement strategies that meet the diverse needs of our students. By sharing insights and best practices, they create a more cohesive and effective learning environment. This teamwork ensures that each student receives instruction tailored to their unique needs and learning styles.
Small-Group Instruction:
One of the key strategies we use is small-group instruction. This method allows teachers to focus on specific areas where students need extra support or enrichment. Here’s how it works:
Targeted Learning: Teachers assess students’ strengths and areas for improvement. Based on these assessments, they form small groups that address similar needs or learning goals. This targeted approach helps students grasp concepts more thoroughly and apply them effectively.
Personalized Attention: With smaller groups, teachers can provide more individualized support. Students benefit from more frequent feedback and guidance, which enhances their understanding and confidence.
Collaborative Learning: Small groups also foster peer collaboration. Students work together on tasks, discuss ideas, and solve problems, which not only helps them learn but also builds essential communication and teamwork skills.
Success Stories:
We’ve already seen promising results from this approach. For example, in our recent math unit, small-group instruction allowed students who were struggling with certain concepts to receive targeted help, leading to improved test scores and a deeper understanding of the material. Similarly, in language arts, small groups facilitated focused reading and writing activities that enhanced students’ skills and engagement.
Looking Ahead:
As we continue to refine our approach, we remain committed to using data-driven insights to further personalize instruction and improve student outcomes. By working collaboratively and focusing on small-group instruction, we’re not only addressing individual needs but also building a stronger, more supportive learning community.
At Bellingrath, we’re excited about the progress we’re making and look forward to the continued success of our students through these innovative instructional practices.
Reading Interventionist
Mr. N. Givhan, 7th Grade History
Mr. Elhammer, 8th Grade ELA
BMS Football's first Home Game Recap!
BMS Volleyball Game Recap!
Bellingrath Middle School Kicks Off PBIS with a Sweet Celebration!
Bellingrath Middle School Kicks Off PBIS with a Sweet Celebration!
Bellingrath Middle School recently celebrated the launch of our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program with an exciting and refreshing kickoff event. To mark this special occasion, every student enjoyed a delicious popsicle and received an inspiring message from our Operational Manager, Mr. Joseph Thomas.
A Sweet Treat for All:
In a delightful show of school spirit, students across all grades gathered to enjoy a popsicle, adding a touch of fun and excitement to the start of our PBIS initiative. The colorful popsicles were a hit, creating smiles and adding a festive atmosphere to the day.
A Special Message:
The highlight of the celebration was a heartfelt message from Mr. Joseph Thomas, our dedicated Operational Manager. Mr. Thomas took the time to address students, sharing his enthusiasm for the PBIS program and emphasizing the importance of positive behavior and mutual respect within our school community.
In his speech, Mr. Thomas highlighted the key goals of PBIS:
- Promoting Positive Behavior: Encouraging students to model positive behaviors and make good choices both in and out of the classroom.
- Building a Supportive Environment: Creating a school culture where everyone feels valued and supported.
- Recognizing Achievements: Celebrating students who demonstrate exemplary behavior and contribute to a positive school atmosphere.
Mr. Thomas’s words resonated with students, reinforcing the value of PBIS and inspiring everyone to actively participate in making our school a great place to learn and grow.
Looking Ahead:
The PBIS program is designed to create a structured and positive learning environment by setting clear expectations and providing consistent support. With the enthusiastic kickoff celebration behind us, we’re excited to see how our students will embody the principles of PBIS throughout the school year.
The combination of a sweet treat and a motivational message set a positive tone for the year ahead. We look forward to celebrating the successes of our students and building a stronger, more supportive school community through PBIS.
Here’s to a fantastic year at Bellingrath Middle School!
Celebrating Attendance: Bellingrath Honors Homerooms with 100% Attendance
Scholar picking up an icee!
Scholar picking up an icee!
6th Grade Yard Celebration!
Thank you PLA@BMS Staff for all you did in the month of August!
Celebrating Perfect Attendance: Bellingrath Honors Homerooms with 100% Attendance
Bellingrath Middle School is proud to announce a fantastic start to the school year with a special celebration recognizing homeroom classes that achieved 100% attendance during the first two weeks of school!
A Strong Start:
The beginning of the school year is an important time for setting the tone and building good habits. Our students and teachers have risen to the occasion, and we are thrilled to see several homeroom classes achieve perfect attendance. This accomplishment highlights the dedication of both students and their families in prioritizing education and contributing to a strong start to the academic year.
Celebration Highlights:
To celebrate this remarkable achievement, we held a special event honoring the homeroom classes that demonstrated exceptional commitment. Each class that achieved 100% attendance during the first two weeks was recognized with:
- Popsicle social- each student received a pop sickle and a chance to have a chill moment with friends while they enjoyed music, and fellowship.
A Message of Appreciation:
Principal Holloway expressed their gratitude and pride, stating, “Achieving perfect attendance is a significant accomplishment, and we are thrilled to celebrate our students’ dedication. This commitment to coming to school every day plays a crucial role in our overall success as a school community.”
Looking Forward:
The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by these homeroom classes serve as a reminder of the importance of attendance in achieving academic success. As we move forward into the school year, we encourage all students to follow the example set by their peers and strive for excellent attendance.
Congratulations to all our students and teachers who contributed to this achievement. Here’s to a successful and rewarding school year ahead, filled with learning, growth, and continued dedication!
Reminder for Drop-Off and Pick-Up Times
Dear Parents,
Please ensure your child is dropped off by 7:20 AM, as school begins at 7:45 AM. Please note that breakfast ends at 7:45am. Dismissal is at 2:45 PM. You can pick up your child at the awning until 3:00 PM. After 3:00 PM, pick-up will be at the front of the school until 3:15 PM.
Your punctuality is greatly appreciated to help us ensure a smooth and efficient process. Thank you for your support!
BMS Faculty and Staff
Buccaneer Fall Sports Calendar
Reminders
Attention Parents of Bellingrath Middle School Students for the 2024-25 School Year:
We want to inform you about our uniform policy for the upcoming school year to ensure a smooth start for everyone. Please take note of the following guidelines!
Shirts:
6th Grade: Polo-style shirts in black
7th Grade: Polo-style shirts in green
8th Grade: Polo-style shirts in white
Pants: Khaki pants for all grades
Jackets: Black zip-up jackets only (no hoodies)
Bags: No backpacks allowed. Purses must be clear.
Following these guidelines helps maintain a focused and uniform learning environment for our students. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring our school policies are followed. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the school office.
Looking forward to a great school year ahead!
~ WE ARE PLA@BMS
#pla #bellingrath
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Bellingrath Curriculum Hub
Click on the "Bellingrath Core Subject" to download the paper document in order to access the hyperlink for access to the curriculum guides.