Dear Parents/Guardians,
Bell Top Principal Martin Mahar
Hopefully we have turned the corner and spring-time weather is here to stay! The forecast looks encouraging for the next several days. With the warm weather often comes rain and messy outdoor conditions. Occasional puddles and mud are common so we need to be mindful to have students wear appropriate footwear and clothing.
Also common in spring is the occurrence of bugs and insects. Please be aware that ticks are a part of the environment both at school and at home. When students play outdoors, there is always a chance that they may pick up a tick. It is good practice for parents and guardians to inspect children for this every day. More information about ticks and safety can be found at www.cdc.gov/ticks/index.html.
This month we are excited to begin our all-new after school program called ‘Create & Discover’. This program offers interested 4th & 5th grade students (3) one-hour after school sessions for them to explore new learning opportunities while also strengthening social bonds with each other. Volunteers are welcome on these days. See schedule below.
NYS Math Assessments
The students in grade 3 through 5 began taking the New York State Mathematics Assessment today. The exams are now being administered over 2 days and will have no time limit as long as the students are working productively.
The days for the NYS Mathematics Exam administration are Tuesday, May 1st, and Wednesday, May 2nd. Make-up days will range from May 3rd through May 9th. You can prepare your child for these exams as you do every day by making sure they are well rested, have eaten a healthy breakfast, and are feeling minimal stress about the test days ahead. They should try their personal best, as they do here every day at Bell Top.
Bell Top Book Club
The Bell Top Book Club (BTBC) has unveiled this year’s school-wide reading book. At last week’s kick-off assembly the book Because of Winn-Dixie, by Kate DiCamillo was distributed to every student here at Bell Top. The staff has developed a plethora of activities for the students that coincide with the reading of the book.