Ben-Hem Bobcats

1 - UNEXPECTED EXCITEMENT AT BEN HEM TODAY

A fire alarm went off at Ben Hem today unexpectedly. We evacuated the building, with support staff grabbing coats for students and delivering them to classes outside. Emergency responders were quick to the scene and able to get us back into the school safely. Our Bobcats did an amazing job following our safety protocols and being safe.

2 - KIDS HEART CHALLENGE IS BACK

It’s time for the Kids Heart Challenge! This is our voluntary community service for the American Heart association in conjunction with our Jump Rope Unit and Healthy Heart Month (February). Did you know that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of all Americans, 80% of it may be preventable through lifestyle changes? For 40 years they have been teaching children the importance of heart-healthy habits – a foundation for the rest of his/her life. This service-learning program will also share with your child the inspirational stories of children who have been touched by this disease while they raise funds to help kids like them and save and improve all lives.

We, as a Wellness staff, look to encourage activities that promote a healthy lifestyle and Jumping Rope is not only an activity that improves dexterity and coordination but most importantly increases cardiovascular endurance (the strengthening of the heart and lungs).

Here’s how it works:

• Your child has received his/her fundraising envelope. Start by setting up a personal fundraising page—easy directions are on the envelope.

• Ask family and friends if they’d like to donate. Some companies are willing to match donations as well!

• Encourage your child to get ready to jump and have fun during this unit!

There are many educational and fun activities for students and families that can be located on the website. There is even a parent section with tips on keeping your children healthy at home! Ben-Hem Kids Heart Challenge. Our school can earn money for PE equipment and your child earns fun “thank you gifts” that encourage him/her to keep up the good work for heart health. And that’s something to jump up and down about!

Jump Rope Unit Date: January 31 - February 27

Event Date: February 28 - March 6 (during scheduled classes)

Envelopes Due: February 28 - March 6

Thanks for your support. Any questions, please ask.

Jason J MacDonald, Physical Education teacher

Jack Moriarty, Physical Education teacher

3 - FEBRUARY 8TH IS AN EARLY RELEASE DAY

Wednesday, February 8th is an early release day for all schools in Natick. Please update PickUp Patrol with dismissal changes by 10:15 on 2/8/23. Thanks in advance for your help.

4 - BOKS IS BACK AT BEN HEM!

We are going to once again run BOKS this spring. David Howell (Brody, Grade 1) and Steph Kelly (Charlie, also 1st grade) will be leading with me for the spring session.

BOKS is a before-school physical activity program for students at Ben Hem. During BOKS, the kids play games, exercise and burn some energy before heading to the classroom for the day. It's a great way to start the morning and get ready for an awesome day.

• Mon. and Wed. mornings from 7:25 - 8:05 am ET - kids have time to grab breakfast in the cafe before heading to class
• Starts Mon., Feb. 6 and runs through Wed., May 10
• Registrations may be dropped off in the PTO mailbox
• Any questions, feel free to email dhowell@natickps.org
• Info letter, registration form and a flyer are attached
• More info at https://www.bokskids.org

5 - FEBRUARY 7TH IS THE 100TH DAY OF SCHOOL

Each year we celebrate the 100th day of school. This year we are inviting all staff and students to come as their 100 year old selves. What does this mean? See the pictures from some of our future centenarians last year or check out this simple slide deck with more information about centenarians.

Check out the Ben Hem PTO Facebook page to see what is happening.

Did you know our PTO creates a school directory each year to share contact information with families that OPT-IN to the directory. Complete this form with information you want shared to be included in the 2022-2023 School Directory. This is voluntary and only information included will be published.

Natick Public Schools does not discriminate in employment nor its educational programs, services, and activities based on race, creed, color, age, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, physical and intellectual differences, immigration status, homeless status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Please be aware all electronic communication to and from Natick Public Schools is public record and subject to public disclosure per Massachusetts General Law Chapter 66, Section 10.

• Title I: Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990Title II
• Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990Title VI
• Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964Title IX
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
• MGL, Ch.76, Section 5: Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 76, Section 5