Bear Tracks
October 27, 2017
A Note From the Principal:
Dear Bear Tavern Staff,
Happy Friday!
As you may have figured out by now, each week Bear Tracks is a kind of therapy for me as well as a way to distribute information. It helps me to process things and make sense of what's happening at the school and share observations with you.
This week, I have been struck at the number of people who do 'little things' throughout the school. I use the term 'little things,' referring to small items that don't necessarily relate to their primary responsibilities, but that help others and that make the school run. It is absolutely astounding how many details, decisions and responsibilities go into one single school day. When you factor in arrival, dismissal, safety, student conduct, lunches, movement through the building, special events (and don't forget about the actual learning!), it is truly amazing what goes on!
Whether it is problem solving a coverage issue, helping a colleague with curriculum, spending a few extra minutes with a student in need, or simply sharing an idea or resource, we have people who do incredible things every single day without fanfare or recognition.
It's impossible to see all of the details, call out every good deed or support all of the efforts directly, which is something that bothers me at times - I wish I could and will continue to try to do more. But the important thing is that we don't do it for the recognition.. so many people at Bear Tavern work so hard because it is the right thing and the way that WE do it. There is a sense of pride at Bear Tavern that is very tangible and it is the result of putting supporting others and building community above individual wants and needs.
So please know that without a lot of 'extra' efforts a school does not run at all, not to mention run well and strive for excellence every day. Even if I don't get a chance to let you know directly and at the time, I appreciate the versatility and the selflessness of your efforts.
Let's keep it up and let's continue to strive to get even better!
Enjoy your weekend.
Sincerely,
Chris
Key Information:
- Mini Strides - We will be having our annual Mini-Strides for Breast Cancer awareness tomorrow (Friday, October 27th). We will have our walk around the building outside at 8:50 and 3:10. If you would like your class to participate just come on out and join the walk. We are offering two times so there is a time that hopefully works best for everyone. Outside on the blacktop loop will be a cancer ribbon drawn in chalk. Students are invited to write messages of hope around the ribbon.
We have delivered a pink paper to each homeroom that explains why we are doing this Mini-Strides for you to read to your class tomorrow if you would like.
- Student Support - There will be times that specific students may need assistance and I want to share clear, consistent protocols. Many of the students to which I am referring have specific case managers, but they may be in meetings our out of the building. Please call the main office (x5000) and let Lauren or Jo track down the appropriate person and send them to you. If you need help with a general ed student, call the office; never send a child or children unattended to the office or to look for a counselor/CST member. If you call, someone will come to you. Also, be sure to utilize your walkie talkie when possible if you have access (i.e. in your cluster or area).
- Yearbook Cover Voting - It's time to vote for our 2017-18 yearbook cover. 5th graders have designed them and they are on display. Classes can vote during Art next week or you can bring them down independently. Staff, vote whenever you'd like. Voting will run Monday 10/30 - Friday 11/3.
- Grant Deadline - The HVEF grant deadline is Nov. 3rd. All info is in the email from Dr. Treece. Let me know if you need any help.
- Operation Gratitude - Like last year, anyone who'd like to have their students write letters to Service Men and Women for Veteran's Day will be welcome. Mrs. Grgurich will be coordinating the sending of letters and will send the following email this week CLICK HERE. I will be inviting 3 or 4 students to read letters at the ceremony. If you are writing letters in your class and have any that you think would help people connect emotionally and have great voice, please share them with me. I'll select from the pool that I receive. I want a mix of grades, so it won't just be the 'best' essay. Please give Lauren copies of any potential letters by FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3rd.
- Trout Blog - Please share w/ your students. Lot's of good information! bttrout20172018.blogspot.com.
Upcoming Events:
Let Me Run (Every Tuesday and Thursday)
Girls on the Run (Every Tuesday and Friday)
Art Enrichment (Every Tuesday and Thursday)
TGA Tennis & Golf (Tuesdays)
Friday 10/27 - Pre K trip to Terhune Orchards
Week of 10/30:
Tuesday 10/31 - Halloween Parade and Parties - 9 am
Tuesday 10/31 - Pre K parade - 2:45 pm
Wednesday 11/1 - I&RS
Thursday 11/2 - Rachel Simmons Presentation 4th & 5th grade at PAC 12:45 pm
Friday 11/3 - TMS students to talk to 5th grade (10:40 - 11:40) and 4th grade (9:40 - 10:40)
Week of 11/6:
Monday 11/6 - PM Special Schedule - Den Groups
Monday 11/6 - Princeton Symphony Orchestra 2nd Grade 8:45 - 9:30 am
Tuesday 11/7 - CAP Bullying Prevention Parent Night 6:30-8 pm
Wednesday 11/8 - Veteran's Day Ceremony - 9 am (Red, White & Blue Day)
Thursday 11/9 & Friday 11/10 - No School NJEA Convention