Paw Print

We are so very grateful to our PTO Oversight Committee for their consistent dedication to organizing all of our amazing PTO events and activities throughout the year in support of our students and staff. Truly, without this mighty group of volunteers, we'd be sunk when it comes to making that magic happen!

In March, we are open to accepting nominations or volunteers to join the PTO Oversight Committee for the 24-25 school year. Oversight Committee positions include: Co-Chairs, Co-Treasurers, Co-Communications, a teacher representative and the principal. A vote to approve the 24-25 Oversight Committee will take place at the last PTO meeting of the year, April 15, 2024.

Straight from the PTO Bylaws, here are the duties of these positions:

Oversight Committee:

a. Develop the PTO’s annual budget,

b. Transact business between meetings in preparation for the general meetings

c. Create standing rules and policies, guidelines and update bylaws

d. Approve routine bills & expenditures

e. Prepare reports and recommendations to the members

f. Appoint and oversee committees and chairs to conduct the work of the PTO

g. Approve fundraising

h. Support educational achievement of Belmont Elementary students

The Co-Chairs shall:

a. At least one, shall preside at general PTO meetings and Oversight Committee meetings

b. Serve as official representatives of the PTO

c. At least one, shall retain all official records of the PTO

d. At least one, shall be a signer of checks along with the Treasurer.

e. Serve as the primary contact for the principal

f. Coordinate the work of the officers and committees so the purpose of the organization is served

The Communications and Co-Communications Secretaries shall:

a. Record and distribute minutes of all Oversight Committee meetings and all general PTO meetings b. Prepare agendas for official PTO meetings

c. Hold historical records for the PTO

d. Manage communications for the PTO, including but not limited to PTO newsletters, emails, website, etc.

e. Communicate plans on behalf of all committees.

The Treasurer Committee shall:

a. Serve as custodian of the PTO’s finances

b. Collect revenue and pay authorized expenses

c. Maintain a full account of the funds of the PTO d. Have checks signed by two people; the treasurer and a Co-Chair

e. Hold all financial records

f. Provide financial statements to the Oversight committee at meetings

g. Present an annual report of the financial condition of the PTO

h. Submit the books annually for an audit by an auditing committee selected by the Oversight Committee before the new officers assume duties

i. Report the findings of the annual audit to the Oversight Committee

To throw your name in the hat...or recommend someone else do so...email pto@belmontpto.com or come to the next general PTO meeting on March 25, 2024!

Remember to Check the Batteries in your Fire Detector and then Fire Up Some GREAT Habits to Boost your own Family Productivity!

To fit in everything we want to do in our day, we often sacrifice sleep. But sleep affects both mental and physical health. It's vital to your well-being. When you're tired, you can't function at your best. Sleep helps you think more clearly, have quicker reflexes and focus better. Take steps to make sure you regularly get a good night's sleep.

To Get Better Quality Sleep:

• Go to bed the same time each night and wake up the same time each morning.
• Sleep in a dark, quiet, comfortable environment.
• Exercise daily (but not right before bedtime).
• Limit the use of electronics before bed.
• Relax before bedtime. Try a warm bath or reading.
• Avoid large meals before bedtime. And avoid stimulants like caffeine.
• Don't take naps after mid afternoon. Keep naps short.
• Try to get natural sunlight for at least 30 minutes a day.
• See a healthcare professional for ongoing sleep problems.

Sleep Health Topics - Explore articles on various facets of sleep health, gain useful tips for improving your sleep health, and stay up to date on the latest education around sleep.

Did you know that elementary-aged students need 9-12 hours of sleep every night?

Click here for more SLEEP information!

As research reveals more about the mind-body connection, it becomes evident that food plays a pivotal role in influencing mood and overall mental well-being. A healthy, well-balanced diet can help individuals think clearly and be more alert. It can also improve concentration and attention span. The link between diet and emotions comes from the close relationship between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract, often called the "second brain."

The brain relies on the delicate balance of neurotransmitters, chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells, to regulate mood and emotions. Certain nutrients from the foods you consume play a crucial role in the synthesis and function of these neurotransmitters.

Eating Well for Mental Health

An American Psychiatric Association survey revealed that 4 in 5 adults would be willing to change their diet in a way that positively impacts mental health. Certain foods may improve overall brain health and certain types of mood disorders. Consider incorporating the following foods into your day-to-day diet:

• Foods with omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., salmon, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts and avocado)
• Fermented foods (e.g., kimchi, miso, tempeh, kombucha, kefir and yogurt)
• Magnesium - rich foods (e.g., cacao nibs, almonds, cashews, dark leafy greens and bananas)
• Berries (e.g., raspberries and blueberries)
• Spices (e.g., saffron, turmeric and ginger)

By making mindful choices and incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet, you can positively influence the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in your brain. While no single food can guarantee happiness, adopting a balanced and varied diet can contribute to an overall positive impact on your mood and mental and emotional health.

March is National Nutrition Month, making it a great time to assess your diet and ensure you're serving your body - and mind- well.

Sleep and food info borrowed from Natalie Magee, USD232 Wellness Coordinator. Healthy adults raise healthy children! Take care of you, too!

March 8 Third Quarter Celebration of Learning Assembly, 2:50pm

March 11-15 Spring Break, No School

March 18 Professional Development, No School

March 19 Beginning of Fourth Quarter

March 21 BE an Active Reader Family Night, 6:00-7:30pm

March 25 PTO Meeting, Cafeteria, 6:30pm

Visit the BE Online Calendar of Events (by clicking on the button below) for a more complete list of activities!

11:25-11:52 Kindergarten

11:55-12:22 5th Grade

12:05-12:32 4th Grade

12:35-1:02 2nd Grade

12:45-1:15 3rd Grade

Reservations required to join your child for lunch- CLICK HERE to reserve your spot at a family table!

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Community partner Country Club Bank is providing support to ensure this service is available in USD 232.

Email: phargrove@usd232.org
Website: be.usd232.org
Location: 5805 Belmont Drive, Shawnee, KS 66226, United States
Phone: (913)667-1810
Facebook: Belmont Elementary Bulldogs
Twitter: @BEBulldogs