April 20, 2018

RBS Principal’s Notes

April 20, 2018

We had a wonderful all school concert this morning provided by the always-entertaining Spain Brothers!  The students loved singing some favorite songs as well as hearing some new ones.  It’s always fun to kick off our April Vacation with this concert!

April Spirit Week Fun!

Tentative Last Day of School:  Wednesday, June 20^th

IN THE NEWS:

Blue Ribbon Flag Raising

We braved the cold morning to go out and raise our Blue Ribbon Flag.  It was a special celebration for our school community!  Our students were given special bracelets to commemorate the event (donated by Spectrum Printing).  If you’re interested, you can view a video of the event HERE, and some pictures HERE.

I would also like to thank RBS parents Cindy Detscher and Carrie Wallat for providing the festive balloons and ordering our bracelets.  They played a big part in organizing the event.  I would also like to thank Mary Lawrence (grandmother of 2 RBS students) for providing a celebratory breakfast for our staff this morning.

Thank you to whomever left 2 beautiful vases of flowers at our front entrance this morning!  They are gorgeous and very appreciated!

4^th Grade Play

I hope many of you were able to attend our annual Fourth Grade Play Tuesday night.  This year’s play was Rats!  The Story of the Pied Piper.  As always, the students were SPECTACULAR!  A big thank you goes out to our teachers, Mrs. Munz, Mrs. Duhaime, Miss Ferns and Mrs. Read for pulling off such a wonderful event!

Play Pictures

Coffee Chat with the Special Education Facilitators 

Please join the special education facilitators from Riddle Brook School, Peter Woodbury School, Memorial School, and McKelvie Intermediate School on Wednesday, May 9^th from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM as they host a coffee chat for parents of special education students to discuss and answer questions about the transition from fourth grade to fifth grade.  

This event will be will be held in the SAU boardroom at 103 County Road and hosted by Matt Munsey (RBS), Dan Mitchell (PWS), Pam Ilg (MEM), and Beth Purcell (MIS).  All parents/guardians of special education students are welcome to attend!

4^th to 5^th Grade Band Information Night

The McKelvie Music Department will be touring the elementary schools on Tuesday, May 22^nd.  There will be a Band Information Night on Wednesday, May 23^rd at 6:00 PM in the McKelvie Cafeteria. There will be information for parents regarding sign-ups and instrument rentals, and instruments for students to view and hold.  Please email Christa Wickham at wickhamc@sau25.net with any questions.

REMINDERS:

Placement

As we move into the last stretch of the school year, we are starting to think about placement for 2018/19.  Please read THIS LETTER, which outlines the process.

Tripod Survey

Teachers will be administering the spring edition of Tripod Survey following April Vacation.  For more information, please read THIS LETTER.

Mother/Son Dance (Luau Theme)

Mark your calendar!  Our annual Mother/Son Dance is scheduled for Friday, May 4^th.  Boys can bring any special adult to the dance.  Flyers were sent home, but I’ve included it HERE as well.

Baked Goods Needed for Dance

If you would like to donate baked or purchased items for the night of the luau, please contact Janine Muir directly at janinemuir33@gmail.com.

BHS Senior Project – Book Drive

Hello, I am Ryan Lee, and I am a senior at Bedford High School. For my Senior Project I will be conducting a book drive for students in need. I am looking for gently used or new books that are elementary level. These books will be donated to families in Nashua. The drop off bin will be located in the main floor hallway outside of the library. The bin will be there from April 16 - May 1. If you have any questions, please contact me (9957257@bedfordnhk12.net). Thank you!

Ecosmith - Shoes, Bags & Belt Drive Starts Monday

Bedford DI is having a special drive through Ecosmith Recyclers.  From now until May 25^th, you can donate all your old shoes, bags and belts (any condition) in the marked boxes in our school lobby.  These items must be placed in a special blue bag.  This is a great way to get your spring-cleaning under way, while helping raise funds for the teams heading to Global Finals in Knoxville, TN.  Reminder, clothing, fabrics, stuffed animals etc. can always be donated in the bin in the parking lot.  We appreciate your support. For more information, please contact bedfordrocksdi@gmail.com

Boxes are located outside of the front office.  Thanks in advance for your help. 

2018/19 School Calendar

The school calendar for next year can be found HERE.

Counselor’s Corner

We’re excited to announce that we now have a Counselor’s Corner on our school’s website.  In this site you are able to learn more about the RBS Guidance Program as well as access a variety of resources.  You can find it under Staff Directory > Specialists.  I’ve included it HERE as well.

Buses at the Back Circle

After the back circle is closed for parent drop-off (at approximately 7:50 each morning), school buses often use the circle to drop off students.  If there is a bus in front of you with its stop sign out, please do not pass it.  This is a safety concern as well as against the law.

Gsuite Information for Parents
Some of our parents have asked for an explanation of our Gsuite, the tools within Chrome our students now use for much of their schoolwork .  Our technology teachers have developed this Gsuite Information for Parents.

For parents/guardians who are interested in seeing the work of their child, just ask your son/daughter to log in with their account or provide you with their password to showcase the work completed.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

April 23-27 – Spring Vacation

May 4 – Mother/Son Luau

May 8 – Kindergarten Orientation (12:30 PM)

May 9 – Grade 1 Orientation (12:30 PM)

May 15 – RBS Grandparents’ Day

May 16 – RBS Spring Concert (6:30 PM BHS Theater)

May 25 – District Workshop Day – No School for Students

May 28 – Memorial Day Observed – No School

May 30 – Field Day Grades 1 & 2 (Rain Date:  June 1)

May 31 – Field Day Grades 3 & 4 (Rain Date:  June 4)

June 3 – PTG Color Blast

June 6 & 7 – Grade 4 Field Trip to State House

June 19 – Kindergarten Recognition Day (Tentative)

June 20 – Tentative Last Day of School/Move Up Day

April 13, 2018

RBS Principal’s Notes

April 13, 2018

Family Fun Night is tonight!  I hope to see everyone there.  We have some great baskets and SILENT AUCTION ITEMS as well as music, Italian ice, popcorn, raffles, face painting and more!

Tentative Last Day of School:  Wednesday, June 20^th

IN THE NEWS:

Placement

As we move into the last stretch of the school year, we are starting to think about placement for 2018/19.  Please read THIS LETTER, which outlines the process.

Tripod Survey

Teachers will be administering the spring edition of Tripod Survey following April Vacation.  For more information, please read THIS LETTER.

Mother/Son Dance (Luau Theme)

Mark your calendar!  Our annual Mother/Son Dance is scheduled for Friday, May 4^th.  Boys can bring any special adult to the dance.  Flyers were sent home today, but I’ve included it HERE as well.

Baked Goods Needed for Dance

If you would like to donate baked or purchased items for the night of the luau, please contact Janine Muir directly at janinemuir33@gmail.com.

Blue Ribbon Flag Raising

We will be having an All School Meeting next Friday (4/20/18) with the Spain Brothers.  Prior to that, the students and staff will take part in a flag raising ceremony with the Blue Ribbon Flag that we received in honor of being named a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School.  We will video the event, and I will share it with parents.

BHS Senior Project – Book Drive

Hello, I am Ryan Lee, and I am a senior at Bedford High School. For my Senior Project I will be conducting a book drive for students in need. I am looking for gently used or new books that are elementary level. These books will be donated to families in Nashua. The drop off bin will be located in the main floor hallway outside of the library. The bin will be there from April 16 - May 1. If you have any questions, please contact me (9957257@bedfordnhk12.net). Thank you!

PTG News and Information

BOOK FAIR THANK YOU - Thanks to all who stopped by the Paws For Books Scholastic Book Fair last week at elementary and McKelvie schools. PTG appreciates your support. 

COLOR BLAST SUNDAY JUNE 3^RD 9:30AM - Don’t miss your chance to get in on the colorful fun. This year our route is shorter and great for everyone in your family! Click here to register and visit our Color Blast Fun Run website for event details including sponsorship and volunteering opportunities. Register by Friday, May 4^th to take advantage of our reduced pricing and purchase a Color Blast t-shirt and swag bag including drawstring bag, sunglasses, bandana, and your own color bag to throw at the start of the race!

SCHOOL SUPPLY KIT PROGRAM UPDATE - Due to unforeseen circumstances with our supplier, PTG will be unable to offer pre-purchased school supply kits to families for 2018/19 school year. Teachers will still provide supply lists that families can utilize to shop on their own for supplies before the start of the school year.  Please note that we will be working on finding an alternative, and we hope to re-introduce this program next spring for 2019/20 school year supplies. Thank you for your understanding as we continue to work to find the best supplier to meet Bedford School District’s needs. 

FISHER CATS DISCOUNTED TICKETS - Join the PTG for a fun family afternoon with the Fisher Cats on May 20^th.  Arrive early for the High Five Tunnel and stay late to run the bases. Click  HERE for more information and to order tickets. Return order form with check payable to NH Fisher Cats to school by May 11^th. Tickets will be available at the Will Call window on 5/20.

Lynn Lyons

I wanted to pass on a resource to interested parents.  Lynn Lyons is a well-regarded therapist and speaker who specializes in anxiety in children.  She will be speaking locally on Monday, April 16^th (6:30-8:30 PM – Souhegan High School Auditorium).  Her topic will be:  Managing Anxiety at School and Home: Strategies to Interrupt the Worry Cycle.  This event is open to the public.  For more information on Lynn, please visit her website.  http://www.lynnlyonsnh.com/

Bedford DI News

Bedford DI Rocked at the Destination Imagination State Tournament

Bedford DI took home 9 of the top spots at the State Destination Imagination tournament in Bedford High School on April 7^th.  Teams had already presented at regional tournaments in Hampton, Swanzey and Goffstown to qualify for States. Teams presented solutions to challenges in many areas of STEM, as well as arts and community services projects.  Congratulations to Aaryan Narang from Ms. Paquin's class. Aaryan's Team Emoji is on their way to Globals. Teams are now organizing many fundraisers to help offset the cost of getting to the Global Finals in Knoxville, TN next month and appreciate your support. 

High School Initiative – Styrofoam Trays

DI of the Storm from Bedford High School took 1st place in the Project Outreach challenge, Inside Impact.  This group of freshman was successful in getting the yes vote for the warrant article on the ballot, to replace the styrofoam trays with compostable trays in the Bedford school cafeterias. They were also given the Torchbearer's Award.  

Ecosmith - Shoes, Bags & Belt Drive Starts Monday

Bedford DI is having a special drive through Ecosmith Recyclers.  From now until May 25^th, you can donate all your old shoes, bags and belts (any condition) in the marked boxes in our school lobby.  These items must be placed in a special blue bag.  This is a great way to get your spring-cleaning under way, while helping raise funds for the teams heading to Global Finals in Knoxville, TN.  Reminder, clothing, fabrics, stuffed animals etc. can always be donated in the bin in the parking lot.  We appreciate your support. For more info, contact bedfordrocksdi@gmail.com

REMINDERS:

RBS Spirit Week (April 16-20)

Monday, 4/16:  Comfy Day (Dress in your comfy clothes.)

Tuesday, 4/17:  Sports Day

Wednesday, 4/18:  Formal Day (Dress in your finest attire.)

Thursday, 4/19:  History Day (Dress as your favorite historical figure.)

Friday, 4/20:  RBS Spirit Day 

*Because of a conflict on Tuesday (Sports Day), the BHS Varsity Lacrosse Boys & Girls teams will be reading to classes after vacation on Tuesday, May 1^st.  Students can feel free to wear their lacrosse gear or any favorite sports attire that day as well.

4^th Grade Play

Save the Date!  On April 17^th the entire fourth grade will present "Rats! The Story of the Pied Piper."  Every boy and girl in fourth grade has a part to perform in the colorful re-telling of this classic folktale.  Rehearsal (all during school hours) begins right after our February vacation, and will culminate in what promises to be a fabulous presentation to parents and friends at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, April 17^th.  You will not want to miss this! 

School Safety Update 

On Thursday, April 19^th at 6:00 PM in our RBS library, Superintendent McGee and Mrs. McCarthy will be sharing several updates regarding the safety and security of the Bedford School District.  They will explain our District Emergency Operations Plan, including the Parent Emergency Plan portion.  They will discuss recent improvements and answer questions.  We hope you can make it.

2018/19 School Calendar

The school calendar for next year can be found HERE.

Counselor’s Corner

We’re excited to announce that we now have a Counselor’s Corner on our school’s website.  In this site you are able to learn more about the RBS Guidance Program as well as access a variety of resources.  You can find it under Staff Directory > Specialists.  I’ve included it HERE as well.

Buses at the Back Circle

After the back circle is closed for parent drop-off (at approximately 7:50 each morning), school buses often use the circle to drop off students.  If there is a bus in front of you with its stop sign out, please do not pass it.  This is a safety concern as well as against the law.

Gsuite Information for Parents
Some of our parents have asked for an explanation of our Gsuite, the tools within Chrome our students now use for much of their schoolwork .  Our technology teachers have developed this Gsuite Information for Parents.

For parents/guardians who are interested in seeing the work of their child, just ask your son/daughter to log in with their account or provide you with their password to showcase the work completed.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

April 13 – RBS Family Fun Night

April 17 – 4^th Grade Play (Rats!)

April 20 – Spain Brothers Concert/Blue Ribbon Flag Raising

April 23-27 – Spring Vacation

May 4 – Mother/Son Luau

May 8 – Kindergarten Orientation (12:30 PM)

May 9 – Grade 1 Orientation (12:30 PM)

May 15 – RBS Grandparents’ Day

May 16 – RBS Spring Concert (6:30 PM BHS Theater)

May 25 – District Workshop Day – No School for Students

May 28 – Memorial Day Observed – No School

May 30 – Field Day Grades 1 & 2 (Rain Date:  June 1)

May 31 – Field Day Grades 3 & 4 (Rain Date:  June 4)

June 3 – PTG Color Blast

June 6 & 7 – Grade 4 Field Trip to State House

June 19 – Kindergarten Recognition Day (Tentative)

June 20 – Tentative Last Day of School/Move Up Day

April 6, 2018

RBS Principal’s Notes

April 6, 2018

Tentative Last Day of School:  Wednesday, June 20^th

IN THE NEWS:

Book Fair

Thank you for supporting our Book Fair this week!  I hope you were able to stop by and see how our rooms were transformed into a fun and engaging pet oasis!  Our volunteers did an INCREDIBLE job, and I feel so fortunate to have them!  A HUGE thank you to Jen Sufat, Shailagh Klicker, Anne Lewis and Heather Noonan!

RBS Spirit Week (April 16-20)

Monday, 4/16:  Comfy Day (Dress in your comfy clothes.)

Tuesday, 4/17:  Sports Day (*BHS Varsity Lacrosse Boys & Girls teams will be reading to classes.)

Wednesday, 4/18:  Formal Day (Dress in your finest attire.)

Thursday, 4/19:  History Day (Dress as your favorite historical figure.)

Friday, 4/20:  RBS Spirit Day 

Mother/Son Dance (Luau Theme)

Mark your calendar!  Our annual Mother/Son Dance is scheduled for Friday, May 4^th.  More information coming soon!  Boys can bring any special adult to the dance.

School Safety Update 

On Thursday, April 19^th at 6:00 PM in our RBS library, Superintendent McGee and Mrs. McCarthy will be sharing several updates regarding the safety and security of the Bedford School District.  They will explain our District Emergency Operations Plan, including the Parent Emergency Plan portion.  They will discuss recent improvements and answer questions.  We hope you can make it.

2018/19 School Calendar

The school calendar for next year can be found HERE.

Destination Imagination State Tournament at BHS

Bedford DI is excited to welcome teams from across the state to the Destination Imagination State Tournament at Bedford High School this Saturday, April 7^th.   Over 100 teams will bring their solutions to STEM challenges, including the Arts and Community Service projects.  Bedford DI has 10 teams who advanced.  Everyone is welcome to come support the hometown teams.  Admission is FREE!  For a full tournament schedule see http://nh-di.org/nh/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/2018-State-Tournament-Schedule.pdf

PTG News and Information

COLOR BLAST REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!!!   Over 175 runners are registered so far.  Don’t miss your chance to get in on the colorful fun.  This year our route is shorter and great for everyone in your family!  Our Color Blast is scheduled for Sunday, June 3^rd at 9:30AM.  Click here to register and visit our Color Blast Fun Run website for event details including sponsorship and volunteering opportunities.  Be sure to register by May 4^th if you wish to purchase a “swag bag” that includes a Color Blast t-shirt, individual bag of color, sunglasses, and a bandana!

INTERESTED IN GETTING MORE INVOLVED WITH PTG AND BEDFORD SCHOOLS?

PTG has some exciting District and Board positions open for next school year (2018/19).  Open roles include District Support, Gift Wrap, School Supplies, and Co-Barnes and Noble; along with Board roles including Secretary; and shadows for Treasurer and VP Publicity.  If you have interest in any of these roles or would like to learn more please email bedfordnhptg@gmail.com by April 9^th.

STAND BY ME COMMUNITY PRESENTATION - PTG is a proud sponsor of Lurgio’s Stand By Me program.  All families are invited to the Stand Tall and Stand Together kick-off presentation at the BHS Theater on Monday, April 9^th at 7pm.  Click  HERE for details.

YANKEE CANDLE - ONLINE EXTENSION UNTIL MAY 15^th - Thank you to all who participated in the Yankee Candle Fundraiser.  If you missed it, no need to worry!  We are extending the fundraiser online until May 15^th.  Candles make a great gift for Mother's Day or any fun spring gathering!  Click here and enter 999965479 in the Group # Box to shop.*** 40% of sales go back to our schools! *** 

REMINDERS:

Counselor’s Corner

We’re excited to announce that we now have a Counselor’s Corner on our school’s website.  In this site you are able to learn more about the RBS Guidance Program as well as access a variety of resources.  You can find it under Staff Directory > Specialists.  I’ve included it HERE as well.

Buses at the Back Circle

After the back circle is closed for parent drop-off (at approximately 7:50 each morning), school buses often use the circle to drop off students.  If there is a bus in front of you with its stop sign out, please do not pass it.  This is a safety concern as well as against the law.

Gsuite Information for Parents
Some of our parents have asked for an explanation of our Gsuite, the tools within Chrome our students now use for much of their schoolwork .  Our technology teachers have developed this Gsuite Information for Parents.

For parents/guardians who are interested in seeing the work of their child, just ask your son/daughter to log in with their account or provide you with their password to showcase the work completed.

RBS Yearbook

Did you miss the deadline to order the 2017-2108 Riddle Brook School Yearbook?  Not to worry, you can purchase the yearbook online until April 13.   Visit  www.schoolannual.com , select “Buy Student’s Yearbook,” and enter the school information.

4^th Grade Play

Save the Date!  On April 17^th the entire fourth grade will present "Rats! The Story of the Pied Piper."  Every boy and girl in fourth grade has a part to perform in the colorful re-telling of this classic folktale.  Rehearsal (all during school hours) begins right after our February vacation, and will culminate in what promises to be a fabulous presentation to parents and friends at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, April 17^th.  You will not want to miss this! 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

April 13 – RBS Family Fun Night

April 17 – 4^th Grade Play (Rats!)

April 20 – Spain Brothers Concert/Blue Ribbon Flag Raising

April 23-27 – Spring Vacation

May 4 – Mother/Son Luau

May 8 – Kindergarten Orientation (12:30 PM)

May 9 – Grade 1 Orientation (12:30 PM)

May 15 – RBS Grandparents’ Day

May 16 – RBS Spring Concert (6:30 PM BHS Theater)

May 25 – District Workshop Day – No School for Students

May 28 – Memorial Day Observed – No School

May 30 – Field Day Grades 1 & 2 (Rain Date:  June 1)

May 31 – Field Day Grades 3 & 4 (Rain Date:  June 4)

June 3 – PTG Color Blast

June 6 & 7 – Grade 4 Field Trip to State House

June 19 – Kindergarten Recognition Day (Tentative)

June 20 – Tentative Last Day of School/Move Up Day