Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences

Spring Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, March 12 from 1:00pm-8:00pm and Friday,March 13 from 8:00am-3:30pm.

Parent/Teacher Conference sign-up begins Wednesday, March 4. A link will be posted to the main page of the website beginning at 8:00am.

Conference time slots are offered on a first come, first served basis, so early sign up is recommended for parents. Online sign up will end on Monday, March 9 at midnight.  Parents needing an appointment after sign up has ended will be asked to contact teachers directly. 

Click here for printable sign-up instructions. 

If you want to see the process, here is a short video (2 min, 42 sec):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n85H2veT8ZM

1st-3rd Grade Music Performance Night is Monday, March 30th!

New this year, we are going to be having TWO SEPARATE performances (with different music) on the same evening.  Hopefully, this will allow for better seating/viewing for audience members, as well as more opportunity to be featured for each performer.  Our theme this year is World Music. 

Performance Times: 

6:15-6:40 PM in the Main Gym: Mr. Adam, Ms. Rachael, Ms. Kendra and Ms. Jamie

7:00-7:25 PM in the Main Gym: Ms. Kristen, Ms. Rayna, Ms. Alaina, Ms. Erin, Ms. Elyse

If you have questions, please contact Ms. Rachel (andrewsr@brpsk12.org)  More details will be made available as we get closer to the performance date. 

5th Grade Parent Night

On Tuesday, March 17, there will be an information session for parents to better understand the transition into middle school and the course registration process.  The event begins at 5:30 PM in the band room and will take approximately 45 minutes.  

Please note that this presentation is geared towards parents only.

If you have attended this event in the past, it is not necessary that you attend.  A registration packet will be sent home with your student the following day. The video presentation will also be available on the website after the event.

Dear BR families-

If you have a business or know of someone who would like to get their name out there..please feel free to donate a gift that can be auctioned at the Black River We the People fundraiser....spread your name to the local community and also support a great cause!

Gift Cards and Donations can be dropped off to either office at Black River.

Thank you for your support!

We the People Fundraising Committee

1st-3rd Grade Music Performance Night is Monday, March 30th!

New this year, we are going to be having TWO SEPARATE performances (with different music) on the same evening.  Hopefully, this will allow for better seating/viewing for audience members, as well as more opportunity to be featured for each performer.  Our theme this year is World Music. 

Performance Times: 

6:15-6:40 PM in the Main Gym: Mr. Adam, Ms. Rachael, Ms. Kendra and Ms. Jamie

7:00-7:25 PM in the Main Gym: Ms. Kristen, Ms. Rayna, Ms. Alaina, Ms. Erin, Ms. Elyse

If you have questions, please contact Ms. Rachel (andrewsr@brpsk12.org)  More details will be made available as we get closer to the performance date. 

Dear BR families-

If you have a business or know of someone who would like to get their name out there..please feel free to donate a gift that can be auctioned at the Black River We the People fundraiser....spread your name to the local community and also support a great cause!

Gift Cards and Donations can be dropped off to either office at Black River.

Thank you for your support!

We the People Fundraising Committee

Looking for something to do on Friday night Jan 31?

Come to the BR basketball games for Elementary Night

As always, all BR students get into our home games for free and on this night, all parents who are accompanying a BR elementary student also get in for FREE

The theme for the night is a Jersey Out - wear your favorite jersey (it doesnt have to be a basketball jersey) be apart of the student section and support the basketball teams!

Varsity Girls start at 5:30

Varsity Boys start at 7:00

Black River's Snowcoming Game will be on Friday, February 7th! Come help us cheer on the Girls and Boys Basketball teams as they take on Fruitport Calvary. JV Boys at 4:00, Varsity Girls game begins at 5:30 and the Varsity Boys game will follow at 7:00 PM. Admission is $5 for the general public and free for current Black River students and staff. Concessions and Athletic Boosters gear will be for sale on site, and there will be games, prizes and treats throughout the evening. Come in your best beach or tropical attire to participate in the Snowcoming Beach Theme! Hope to see you there!

Week ending Friday, Jan. 17, 2020

Black River Parents/Guardians, We have received notice from The Ottawa County Health Department that we have had a confirmed case of B. Pertussis (whooping cough) in the middle school. The Department of Health has asked us to share this letter and fact sheet regarding pertussis and related symptoms. Please contact the Ottawa County Health Department if you have any questions. 

Our BR Skate Party is this month, so reserve the date of Thursday, January 30th from 6-8pm! We'll be at The Rink at 12521 James Street with good songs, good moves and good friends. Plus, we'll have a 50/50 raffle as a P.O. fundraiser. It is $5.50 per skater, roller blades are an extra $1 and skate mates are $2. Bring your whole family (this is not a drop-off event). Hope to see you at the roller rink!

Dutch Dance Sign Up

With January finally being here, things are going to ramp up with Kinder Dutch Dance. We have a Parent Informational Meeting for parents that are interested in learning more about the Kinder Dutch Dance program. No need to be registered yet, if you'd like to learn more come to this meeting! Also, I'd love to have a couple girl and boy models willing to come to this meeting in full costume to show off the costumes, please contact me if interested and available. Meeting Date, Time, and Location: Thursday, January 16, 6:30pm in the Tulip Time Conference Room (basement), 42 W. 8th St. Holland, go down the alley behind Reader's World to get to the Tulip Time Office doors. There's a parking garage on 9th St with easy access to the alley or there is parking behind Home & Co right across 8th Street.

Online Registration Closes 11:59pm, Saturday, January 25. NO LATE REGISTRATIONS ARE ACCEPTED. Register now!

Dutch Dance Sign Up

With January finally being here, things are going to ramp up with Kinder Dutch Dance. We have a Parent Informational Meeting for parents that are interested in learning more about the Kinder Dutch Dance program. No need to be registered yet, if you'd like to learn more come to this meeting! Also, I'd love to have a couple girl and boy models willing to come to this meeting in full costume to show off the costumes, please contact me if interested and available. Meeting Date, Time, and Location: Thursday, January 16, 6:30pm in the Tulip Time Conference Room (basement), 42 W. 8th St. Holland, go down the alley behind Reader's World to get to the Tulip Time Office doors. There's a parking garage on 9th St with easy access to the alley or there is parking behind Home & Co right across 8th Street.

Online Registration Closes 11:59pm, Saturday, January 25. NO LATE REGISTRATIONS ARE ACCEPTED. Register now!

ATTENTION FIFTH GRADERS!

The Black River Theatre Company will hold auditions for our spring show, Seussical Jr. on Thursday, January 30th from 3:15-4:00 in the Small Ensemble Room in the Lyceum.  This is a brand new opportunity for 5th graders, as our shows are usually only open to 6th-12th grade students. Seussical is a musical and is a collection of several Dr. Seuss stories.  No audition preparation is necessary; you will be taught all of the audition material when you come. The audition will involve group singing and acting/movement. You will also be able to try some solo singing as well as reading from the script.  If you are not able to attend on the 30th, we can see you on the 31st right after school, or we may be able to schedule another time. Please contact BRTC Director, Rachel Andrews andrewsr@brpsk12.org if you have any questions.  

To sign-up to audition, follow this link.  

Our BR Skate Party is this month, so reserve the date of Thursday, January 30th from 6-8pm! We'll be at The Rink at 12521 James Street with good songs, good moves and good friends. Plus, we'll have a 50/50 raffle as a P.O. fundraiser. It is $5.50 per skater, roller blades are an extra $1 and skate mates are $2. Bring your whole family (this is not a drop-off event). Hope to see you at the roller rink!  

Art Council Winter 2020 Classes

Ski Club Passes: 

Elementary students' ski passes are here! If you ordered passees, they can be picked up from Mr. Bittrick's classroom in the main building, room 211. Or contact Kerrie Esmeier at esmeierk@brpsk12org. 

½ Days & Holiday Break:

Wednesday - Friday: December 18-20 school will be dismissed at 11am

Winter Break begins: Dec. 20 at 11am.

School resumes: Jan. 6, 2020

There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes:

Black River believes that being outdoors is an important part of our student’s day so we will only cancel outdoor recess if the temperature dips below 0°, the playground is unsafe or if it is raining.  Please send your children to school with the appropriate outerwear every day including snow pants, boots, gloves, and hat. Thank you for your diligence in this effort. 

Lost and Found:

Please have your student check the lost and found before Holiday break.  Everything will be donated during the holiday.

Extended Absence Approval Forms: 

• Extended absence forms are required for travel absences 3 or more days of missed school to be considered excused.   

• Forms must be turned in before travel begins

• A ½ day of school is considered a day of school missed.  

• Per Ottawa County attendance policies we can only excuse 5 days for travel in a school year. 

• Extended Absence Approval Form

Report Card Changes

Report cards will be available on Infinite Campus beginning Monday, Dec. 23rd.  You will notice changes to the math section that reflect our addition of the Right Start Math curriculum. We are excited about how it has rolled out this fall, enriching our Montessori curriculum, providing many fun and high-interest games to practice concepts from lessons, and pulling all aspects of math together in a cohesive way. 

A word that may be new to you, and that you will find in report cards is “subitizing”. Subitizing is the idea of instant recognition of a number and is hard-wired into the brain in quantities 5 or less. For this reason, students learn to think of nine, for instance, as 5 + 4, to facilitate mental math and math facts memorization.  

Please enjoy playing math card games with your family over the break!

Thanksgiving Week:

Tuesday, Nov. 26. 2019 - ½ Day - Dismissal @ 11am

Wednesday-Friday, Nov. 27-29, 2019 - No School

Indoor Shoes:

All students should have a pair of indoor shoes that are left at school at all times.  They should be changing into them when they arrive at school, after recess, and when they return from specials.  Please encourage your child to change into their indoor shoes every day and not to walk around in bare feet or socks. 

Please also double-check that they have a pair of indoor shoes at school. 

Thank you for your help in this matter.

Attention 1st-3rd Grade Parents!

FIRST LEGO League Jr. is designed to introduce STEM concepts while exciting the team members through a brand they know and love − LEGO^®.  Guided by two adult coaches, teams (up to 6 members) explore a real-world scientific problem such as food safety, recycling, energy, etc.  Then they create a Show Me poster that illustrates their journey of discovery and introduces their team.  They also construct a motorized model of what they learned using LEGO elements.  

In the process, teams learn about teamwork, the wonders of science and technology, and the FIRST LEGO League Jr. Core Values, which include respect, sharing, and critical thinking.

Spots are very limited.  Commitment to making it to each of the team meetings is very important.  If your child does not make it on this team, there is an opportunity for you to start a second Black River FLL Jr team.  We will meet beginning January 13 through March, once weekly with the meetings occurring Monday evenings from 6:30 - 8 pm in downtown Holland.  There are 10 meetings as well as the potential to attend an expo with other area Holland JrFLL teams.

There is a $25 cost to join the team, which covers the 2019-20 membership kit, snacks, and team shirt.

If interested please email angela.burch@gmail.com or call/text 269-598-1756 by December 18. We will use a lottery method to form the team.

Project Term Catalogs and course registration forms sent home 11/15

Important dates to note:

Priority Registration Date:  Monday, November 25, 2019, by 4:00 p.m. Students may turn their form in early into their teacher

Final Deadline to Register:  Friday, December 6, 2019 School will get pick their classes after this date. 

Scholarship Deadline:  Monday, March 9, 2020 Application will be available online or in the office.

If students lose their catalog or registration form, please note that they are available online:

http://www.blackriverpublicschool.org/Content2/project-term

Save the date! Our BR Roller Skating Party is Jan. 30th, 2020, 6:00pm-8:00pm at HOME roller rink here in Holland. 

We are looking for more students from BR to create a Holland Recreation 5th/6th grade Boys Basketball team. If interested, you can sign up here: 

Fees: $40 Resident | $55 Non-Resident by 11/4/19

$50 Resident | $65 Non-Resident by 11/18/19

$60 Resident | $75 Non-Resident after 11/8/19; pending availability

http://teamsideline.com/sites/cityofholland/content/138/Youth-Basketball

Community Service Reminder

BLACK RIVER PUBLIC SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM

Our curriculum includes: “involvement with the local community and concern for worldwide issues, which aid in discovering ability and a responsibility to make a difference in the world. Our students will participate in service and extra-curricular projects within the Greater Holland communities.”  ~ BRPS Mission Statement

If you have contacts within the community or can help set up community service opportunities for our students, please call Michelle Byrne at 355-0055 ext. 160.

Student Requirements for Community Service

Requirements by Grade:

Grades K-3  ~ 10 hours

Grades 4-5   ~ 15 hours

Grades 6-8   ~ 20 hours

Grades 9-12   ~ 60 hours

*All hours need to be completed prior to completing grade 3, 5, 8 or 12

To make sure your time is recorded, please fill out a Community Service slip available inside the elementary office or printable from our Forms page. You may check your child's total on your Infinite Campus portal.

Cold and Flu Season has arrived:

All prescription and over the counter medication must be kept in the office.  An Administration of Medication form signed by a physician must accompany all prescription and over the counter medication for school to administer during the day. Thank you for your cooperation. 

Administration of Medication Permission Form

Black River Public School Attendance/Tardy Policy:

Please review the attendance and tardy policy on our website at:

http://www.blackriverpublicschool.org/elementary/Content2/elattendance

REMINDER: LAST DAY TO PLACE HOLIDAY WREATH ORDERS  IS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13!!

The Black River Theatre Company (BRTC) invites you to help support the upcoming Fall production of JULIUS CAESAR, the Spring performance of LITTLE WOMEN and the late Spring production of SEUSSICAL, with the purchase of a beautifully handcrafted and locally produced Holiday Wreath. All proceeds go towards covering the costs associated with production. Local orders can be picked up at BRPS the first week of December. Out of town orders can be shipped directly from the supplier to the recipient and will arrive fresh. Please drop your order form in the MS/HS main office, the Elementary main office or scan and email it to heneghank@brpsk12.org.

Campus Safety Reminder

Daylight Savings Time will be ending soon, and it continues to be dark in the morning for kids walking to school or even crossing the streets from many points around campus. Parent/Guardians and student drivers, please allow extra time when driving to school. We ask that you drive slowly, double-check sidewalks and crosswalks before turning, and generally be extra-mindful of students in our community who are walking to school. As always, do not allow your students to run in-between cars to get to the sidewalk at anytime. We encourage all parents to use the entrance off 20th and drop off at the Lyceum for the added safety it provides.

Here are a few helpful reminders:

1. Please drive slowly and be cautious of our students and neighbors when driving on and near campus. The amount of time you save from driving fast is very insignificant and can result in serious injury. 

2. Put away your cell phone! We have many new drivers on campus so it is important to be aware of your surroundings. 

3. Be sure to drop-off and pick-up your child/ren only on the curbside. Do not double-park in the school parking lots. 

4. Follow the flow of traffic when using the Car Line Map for Lyceum and Elementary drop-off and pick-up.  Remember, we discourage parking in the back lot and walking students to the back door of the elementary. 

5. Be efficient at drop-off and pick-up by making sure your student is ready to exit the car in a timely fashion. Say your goodbye's and ask them to have their backpacks ready to go.

6. Adults, use the crosswalks! Let's set a positive example for our students. 

7. Be mindful of our neighbors. Please do not block their driveways or make any u-turns on the streets surrounding the school. 

Thank you for helping to keep our Black River families safe. 

College Week: 

Next week (November 4-8) the elementary students will be joining the middle and high school students in an event we call "College Awareness Week". In the middle school and high school, we use the week to celebrate and help out the seniors who are applying to college, and also have younger students think about college, too.  Next week, your child's teachers will be encouraged to wear college gear, talk about their college experience, and answer the question of the day, which is a great conversation starter with their students. Students will participate in a couple of college activities and hopefully be inspired by their teacher’s stories.  

--

Holland Recreation 2019-2020 Basketball Season

Holland Recreation has already started enrolling students for the 2019-2020 Basketball Season.  Please remember to sign up your kids under Black River so that they play together. The first deadline is already next Monday.   Kids as early as Kindergarten can sign up and enjoy playing together with classmates.

Fees: $40 Resident | $55 Non-Resident by 11/4/19

$50 Resident | $65 Non-Resident by 11/18/19

$60 Resident | $75 Non-Resident after 11/8/19; pending availability

http://teamsideline.com/sites/cityofholland/content/138/Youth-Basketball

BLACK RIVER SKI CLUB - LET IT SNOW!!

Ready to hit the slopes for some winter fun? Black River participates in the Bittersweet Ski Club program each year offering discounted passes for students and adults. Forms can be found in the Elementary Office and returned to either the Elementary Office or the MS/HS Office. Student & Adult Ski Club cards can be purchased for $18 and then be used for discounted lift tickets and rentals all season from 10a-10p during the week and after 3p on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Two class lessons or NASTAR runs are also included with each Student card. Black River Ski Club will plan to ski on Wednesdays evenings and you are welcome to join us! (Students in 6th grade and above may ride the bus from school.) Remember, Bittersweet's snowmaking capabilities assure that they have snow in their backyard even when we don't have it in ours! 

Head Lice Information: 

In the United States, infestation with head lice is most common among elementary school children, and the household members of infested children. If you see any signs of head lice, please check your child at home or request that we check your child at school. We have staff members trained for identifying and removing lice and nits. The following are signs of lice: tickling or itchy feeling on the scalp, sores on the head, irritability from difficulty sleeping (lice are active at night). To help control a head lice outbreak in a school, children can be taught to avoid activities that may spread head lice.

• Teach children not to share combs, brushes, hair ornaments, hats, caps, scarves, headsets, or any other personal headgear.

• Do not try on other people’s hats (even in department stores).

• Teach children to hang coats separately - placing hats and scarves inside coat/jacket sleeves.

• Clean or disinfect shared headgear (i.e., helmets) with Lysol® or rubbing alcohol before being used by others.

• Conduct regular head checks of your child for at least two weeks after the first confirmation.

Black River’s Lice Protocol

CARE BOX DONATIONS FOR HOLLAND RESCUE MISSION

We need your help!!!  Please consider donating some (or all) of the items below to benefit a family in need this Thanksgiving.  Filling a care box will typically cost around $20 if shopping at Dollar Tree. There will be collection boxes set up throughout the elementary building.  This donation drive will go from October 28th through November 15th. Thank you for your help!

Here are the items needed:

⬀ Deodorant (1 man/1 woman)

⬀ Shaving cream (10-14oz)

⬀ Razors (3-5 pack)

⬀ Toothpaste (full size)

⬀ Toothbrushes (any #)

⬀ Body lotion (10-12oz)

⬀ Band-Aids (any #)

⬀ Bar soap (3 pack)

⬀ Pump hand soap (7-9oz)

⬀ Shampoo (15oz)

⬀ Conditioner (15oz)

⬀ Toilet paper (4 pack)

⬀ Kleenex (200-320 count)

⬀ Paper paper (2-3 pack)

⬀ Laundry detergent (50-64oz)

⬀ Dish detergent (10-16oz)

⬀ All purpose cleaner (22-28oz)

⬀ Toilet bowl cleaner (24oz)

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY with LEGOS!!!

Herrick District Library has a Lego Lab and is looking for volunteers to help sort Legos!  We need volunteers on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:45-8:45 pm, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 4:45-5:45 pm. We would also love some extra help on Saturday mornings from 9-11 am and Sundays from 1-2 pm.  We are looking for 1-4 volunteers at a time, with children under 12 being accompanied by an adult. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Mary at Herrick District Library at 355-3721 or email mvanderkooy@herrickdl.org. Thank you!

Week ending Friday, Oct. 18:

"Green team will be having a paper drive through November! It will be a contest between elementary classrooms! Green team students will be emptying bins weekly and keeping track of which class has the most donated paper!  Paper that can go into the paper drive are catalogs, magazines, newspaper, old books. Papers that cannot go into the paper gator are cardboard, paperboard (i.e. cereal boxes), and poster board. All proceeds from the Paper Gator will help to fund green initiatives at the school!"

Dear Parents,

Ratfest is now a month away and we're looking for volunteers to help make the evening a success.  This year we're using Sign Up Genius as the format; if interested please click on the link below to see available activities and time slots.  As a reminder, Ratfest is Friday, November 15th from 5-8pm in the Lyceum. Thank you for considering volunteering!   

Sincerely,

The Fine Arts Boosters Team

Here's the link to sign up:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090A4AACA729A6FA7-ratfest

FALL PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES, Oct 24 & 25
Thursday, October 24 - 1:00 to 8:00pm (1/2 Day for K-12 -11am dismissal)
Friday, October 25 - 8:00 to 3:30pm (No School for K-12
Online sign ups will begin at 8:00am Wednesday Oct. 16. Link to sign-ups will be available from our website.

Lost and Found Clean Out:

Please don't forget to check the Lost and Found area located in the mail hallway of the elementary after your fall conferences are finished for items your student may be missing. We have collected lots of items throughout the beginning of this year and will be taking items that are not claimed to a local charity immediately following conferences. Thank you!

Cold and Flu Season has arrived:

All prescription and over the counter medication must be kept in the office.  An Administration of Medication form signed by a physician must accompany all prescription and over the counter medication for school to administer during the day. Thank you for your cooperation. 

Administration of Medication Permission Form

Head Lice Information: 

In the United States, infestation with head lice is most common among elementary school children, and the household members of infested children. If you see any signs of head lice, please check your child at home or request that we check your child at school. We have staff members trained for identifying and removing lice and nits. The following are signs of lice: tickling or itchy feeling on the scalp, sores on the head, irritability from difficulty sleeping (lice are active at night). To help control a head lice outbreak in a school, children can be taught to avoid activities that may spread head lice.

• Teach children not to share combs, brushes, hair ornaments, hats, caps, scarves, headsets, or any other personal headgear.

• Do not try on other people’s hats (even in department stores).

• Teach children to hang coats separately - placing hats and scarves inside coat/jacket sleeves.

• Clean or disinfect shared headgear (i.e., helmets) with Lysol® or rubbing alcohol before being used by others.

• Conduct regular head checks of your child for at least two weeks after the first confirmation.

Black River’s Lice Protocol

Week ending Thursday, Oct. 10:

RIGHTSTART Math Card Games Kit

ROUND 2!!!!!

The new shipment of RightStart Math Card Games Kits has arrived!

They are available to any family that would like one, on a “First Come, First Served” basis.

These kits were purchased in bulk by a private individual so families could receive the discounted ($41.15 rather than $64.00) price.  If your family would like to purchase one at the discounted price, please let me know and I will put you in touch with the person who bought the kits.

Round 2 forms are available on line or in the office, please return them to me - Fran Olesen.

If you have any questions please email me at olesenf@gmail.com

Thank you for all your support!

PS:  Families have asked how to donate kits, again, please let me know and I will put you in touch with the individual who bought the kits.

No snow yet but we are seeing some rain and colder temps. Please send your child with appropriate clothing for outdoor recess. 

Picture Retakes are Oct. 18

*Extra forms available in office

*Return Set of original pictures for retakes

The Fun Walk Friday committee is pleased to announce that the winner of the elementary school Fun Walk Friday T-Shirt Contest is Josiah Esmeier who’s in 4th grade! His design will be featured on the shirt that all elementary school students and staff will receive courtesy of our generous sponsors!  Please congratulate Josiah when you see him! Our first runner up is Sophia Smith, our second runner up is Ian Lappenga, our third runner up is Maysen Smith and our fourth runner up is Charlotte Burch. Their designs will be featured in the Black River Directory.

Dear RightStart Math Kit Parents,

First of all thank you so much for purchasing a RightStart Math Kit.

The teachers truly appreciate it!

I will try to send home a weekly blurb of what games the students are playing in the classroom, so you can play along at home. 

One of the first things I did when I bought the game book was to go onto youtube to see what was available. 

The following site shows short (3 - 6 minutes) clips of 11 different games being played. I found it very useful to start exploring the cards and games.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL636BAF697606379C

(Note: if you have not purchased a kit,yet, and would like to do so,  we have more kits on there way.)

Ratfest Performers - Sign up here!

Looking for a way to express your musical, dance, theatrical or other artistic talents?  Sign up HERE to perform on the Live Stage at Ratfest!  NEW THIS YEAR: you will have the option of having your performance judged and the winner will be awarded a $100 Amazon gift card!  Ratfest is Friday, November 15th from 5pm-8pm. Please Contact Tammy Clark with questions at clarkt@brpsk12.org.

Week ending Friday, Sept. 20:

The Black River Theatre Company is hosting an elementary theatre workshop for any K-5 Black River student who has an interest in anything theatre!  This event will take place on Friday, October 11 from 10:00am-3:00pm. The cost is $30 which will include a pizza lunch. (or if you would prefer to bring a lunch from home- the cost is $25). Students will participate in a wide variety of age-appropriate theatre activities such as improvisation, stage makeup, theatre games, and storytelling.  There will be a short performance for parents at the end of the event.

Please register by Friday, October 4th. Please follow this link to sign up.  Money can be turned in at the elementary office. If you have any questions, please contact Rachel Andrews, BRTC Director, and Black River K-3 Music teacher at andrewsr@brpsk12.org.  

RightStart Math Kits Update -

Dear Parents - Thanks so much to all who purchased a RightStart Math Kit for home. There were 57 families! The kits have been ordered, processed and should be here next week. 

We will be letting parents know how to pick up their kits after they arrive - keep posted for details!

Elementary Spirit Week!!!!

Here are the days for the Elementary Spirit Week starting next Monday (9-23)

Monday-Pajama Day

Tuesday-Sports/Clubs Day! (wear your team jersey or after school club shirts)

Wednesday-Inside Out Clothing Day!

Thursday-College Day!           

Friday- Black River Spirit Day

HOMECOMING - SEPT 27th 

Come help us celebrate Black River's 2019 Homecoming and cheer on the Varsity Boys Soccer Team as they take on Hartford on Friday, September 27th at the Hope's Van Andel Soccer Stadium.

6:00 pm - Tailgating 

6:00 pm - The Powder Puff Game of Seniors vs Juniors and Ticket Booth Open

6:45 pm - Gates Open

7:15 pm - Senior Parent Walk-On, National Anthem and Kick Off

This event will include performances by members of the High School Band and Choir. It's guaranteed to be a fun night for students of all ages and their families! We hope to see you there! 

Admission Prices: 

    - Free for all BR Students, Staff, Coaches, Alumni and kids 5 & under.

    - $5.00 for General Admission and $8.00 for Reserve Seating.

Sign Up Genius - Homecoming Volunteer Opportunities

Week ending Friday, Sept. 13:

Lower Elementary Walker Line Procedures

After-school dismissal is a very busy time of day and we need your help during Walker Line.

In order to ensure the safety of our students during 'Walker Line' dismissal, parents AND older siblings of 1-3rd students must wait in line to pick up children/siblings after school.  If you have a child in Kindergarten, ALL of the siblings should wait in the Kindergarten line.

This will help us dismiss every student directly to his or her parent/or older sibling. 

Starting Monday (09-16), you will notice a sign that will help designate where the line is to form.  

Students ARE NOT allowed to leave with a parent or guardian at the East (back Entrance) located by the Carline.  If students are walking out of the East entrance and not going to Carline, they will be redirected to the Walker Line.

Finally, please let your classroom teacher/s know if you need to make arrangements for a different person to pick up.

Following these procedures will help us to make sure that every student is safe and accounted for during this very busy time of the day.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Elementary Office Important Information:

1. All absences, early release or late arrivals must be called into the attendance line: 616-355-0055 ext. 328.  Absent students will be called starting at 9am if we have not received a phone call. Emailing a teacher does not replace calling the attendance line. 

2. All absences for medical/dental/counseling/therapy appointments require an attendance note from the Dr. office, please turn that into the office.

3. All medication prescriptions and over the counter drugs must be stored in the office unless otherwise arranged with a teacher.  A medication form must be filled out for all medication stored at school and all medication forms must be signed by your doctor including OTC medications.

4. Planned absences 3 days or more require an Extended Absence Form filled out and signed by your teacher and Mr. Jim prior to your absence.  5 days of travel can be excused per school year. 

5. Absences due to illness over 3 consecutive days require a doctor's note upon return to school.

6. Lunch payments may be made in the office by check or cash or online at your Infinite Campus portal.  All cash payments in the office must be exact, we do not have petty cash to make change. 

7.  All visitors to our building and volunteers must fill out a Prospective Volunteer Form each school year.

https://www.formality.io/v/G9BMT4LD

This includes any parents, grandparents, etc...  who plan on eating lunch with a student during the school year.

Elementary Student Handbook goes DIGITAL!

This year, we decided to save A LOT of paper and not include the Elementary Handbook in our student planners.  A digital version of the document can be found on the elementary page under ‘Resources’. Below is a link for your convenience.

https://www.blackriverpublicschool.org/userfiles/36/my%20files/2019-20elstudenthandbook.pdf?id=3124

Swimming Lessons Permission Slips and $1 Fee

This Friday, Sept. 13, your child will be coming home with a letter and a parent advisory slip from the Holland Aquatic Center, which begins next semester at the Holland Aquatic Center.  

Please make sure that you read the letter and return the advisory slip with $1.00 (paper cash) to your classroom teacher by FRIDAY, September 20.  Thank you.

BRPO Phone Directory Sign Up

Each year, the Black River Parent Organization publishes an electronic Student/Family phone directory, but they need your help!  If you haven’t already, please submit your family's information to be included and to receive a copy.

Submit online: https://www.formality.io/v/gC0pwKde8O

The Black River Theatre Company is hosting an elementary theatre workshop for any K-5 Black River student who has an interest in anything theatre!  This event will take place on Friday, October 11 from 10:00am-3:00pm. The cost is $30 which will include a pizza lunch. (or if you would prefer to bring a lunch from home- the cost is $25). Students will participate in a wide variety of age-appropriate theatre activities such as improvisation, stage makeup, theatre games, and storytelling.  There will be a short performance for parents at the end of the event.

Please register by Friday, October 4th. Please follow this link to sign up.  Money can be turned in at the elementary office. If you have any questions, please contact Rachel Andrews, BRTC Director, and Black River K-3 Music teacher at andrewsr@brpsk12.org.  

Swimming Lessons Permission Slips and $1 Fee

This Friday Sept. 13, your child will be coming home with a letter and a parent advisory slip from the Holland Aquatic Center, which begin next semester at the Holland Aquatic Center.  

Please make sure that you read the letter and return the advisory slip with $1.00 (paper cash) to your classroom teacher by FRIDAY, September 20.  Thank you.

BRPO Phone Directory Sign Up

Each year, the Black River Parent Organization publishes an electronic Student/Family phone directory, but they need your help!  If you haven’t already, please submit your family's information to be included and to receive a copy.

Submit online: https://www.formality.io/v/gC0pwKde8O

Hard Surface Construction Update: 

Starting Monday in preparation for the pouring of the concrete, there will be parts of the back parking lot that will be fenced off for equipment.  

We will be rerouting the elementary car line along the fenced off section, please be patient as we build our new hard surface.

Important Reminder: Please be a good neighbor and refrain from parking in Baker Lofts.

Please check Twitter, Facebook and our Website for more detailed information. . 

In an effort to be more eco-friendly we'll only be sending general info home with the youngest sibling in a household. In the case of twins, information will be sent with the first in alphabetical order. This will greatly reduce our paper usage by over 100 students. 

Here is a link to all the fun Kids Fall Events offered by the Herrick District Library.

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0BxUX4L7Y83bMRzRfZzZuZVVmRFFicHAyZHBqWlJZZlo2Z0gw

Week of August 26 

RightStart Mathematics Video: 

Please view the parent meeting video for anyone who was unable to make the meeting: 

RightStart Math Video 

Vision and Hearing Screening NEXT WEEK...FYI 

Vision and hearing testing for elementary students will be taking place next week (Sept 3)!  

Students in grades K, 2, and 4 will have their hearing tested on Tuesday, September 3rd.  

Students in grades 1, 3, and 5 will have their vision tested on Wednesday, September 4th.  

(Rescreens will be on October 10th) 

Parent volunteers needed for supervising our exciting new composting initiative during elementary 

lunch​!  

The BR Green Team students will be implementing a pilot composting program starting September 3 and 

running through December 1. Between those dates, in the Black River Lyceum, we will be composting all food 

waste and all cafeteria trays, as the trays themselves are compostable. There will be very clear signage 

attached to the receptacles for compost versus landfill on each end of the Lyceum and in the auxiliary gym. We 

are hoping to procure parent volunteers, by way of a Sign Up Genius, to supervise the stations for the first two 

weeks of the program. Here is the link to the Sign up: 

https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showSignUp/70a0b48a4ad2fa3f94-supervising  

We would really appreciate your support in making this very important initiative successful!  

Hannah Huggett and Madelyn Rynsberger  

Field Trip Chaperone Expectations

Chaperones are a very important part of each field trip. We appreciate your willingness to volunteer your time to accompany our classes on our experiential learning opportunities. The following is a list our teachers have compiled of expectations of our chaperones to help our field trips be the best learning environment for our students.  Thank you again for all you do for our students, teachers, and school.

1. All chaperones must submit a Prospective Volunteer Profile form so we can perform a background check on all individuals that come in contact with our children.

2. Chaperones must sign up and be confirmed by the classroom teacher to attend field trips. Please do not just show up at field trip if you have not communicated with the teacher. 

3. Communicate with teachers if you are meeting the class at the location or riding the bus when room is available on our transportation. 

4. Please show up on time and plan on staying for the entire length of the field trip.

5. Please do not bring siblings (older or younger) to field trips as they may distract from your responsibilities as a chaperone.

6.  Be present during field trips and involved in the activities you are supervising.

7. Be willing to help our students maintain our field trip behavior expectations and seek help from teachers if you have a student that is unable to maintain those expectations.

Reading Chain Celebration 2019

Hello Black River Families,

We will be holding our annual Reading Chain Celebration next Thursday, August 29 in the afternoon on the Black River Soccer Field.

We want to set a record this year, so if you have your reading chains at home, please send them in before next Wednesday!  

There is a new Girl Scout Troop that will be meeting at Black River (in the music room) on Thursdays from 3:30pm – 4:30pm if you have girls interested! Currently we have more of the lower grades signed up (1st & 2nd graders). If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Erin Cardamone at 505-270-5687 or erincardamone@yahoo.com. 

If you would like to register your daughter, you can do so at the following link and note it is Troop 8383!  https://www.gsmists.org/en/about-girl-scouts/join.html  

Our goal is to help the Girls learn to become leaders in the world by teaching them courage, confidence and character in a fun inclusive setting. We want our girls to have fun while learning about the world around them. If this sounds like something your child would be interested in, sign up today!

Hello~

My name is Tricia Schrotenboer and I am the school counselor for the middle and high school.  With many changes taking place in the area of employment, Michigan has responded with passing several bills that require schools to take a more active role.  In the coming months, I will be developing a scope and sequence along with lesson plans for each elementary classroom that focus on career and college readiness.  As a former Montessori teacher, I feel it is important to develop hands-on lessons and activities. In order to make this a reality, please consider purchasing any of the following items.  All donations can be dropped off in the office by June 5. Thank you in advance for your support.

Items to purchase

• Safari Ltd People Tube With 7 Everyday Heroes Figurine Toys

• 3 tubes needed

https://www.amazon.com/Safari-Ltd-682304-People-TOOB/dp/B0032O7FJA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1444027492&sr=8-2&keywords=community+helper+figures&linkCode=sl1&tag=livimontnow09-20&linkId=004423b528f51d7e7a539edc4dc4bb46

Books to purchase

• Playtown: Lift a Flap book

  • By Roger Priddy

  • ISBN: 9780312517373

  • 3 books needed

• Whose Hat is This?

  • By Sharon Katz Cooper

  • ISBN: 9781404819764

  • 3 books needed

• Whose Tools are These?

  • By Sharon Katz Cooper

  • ISBN: 9781404819788

  • 3 books needed

• Whose Vehicle is This?  

  • By Sharon Katz Cooper

  • ISBN: 9781404819795

  • 3 books needed

• Clothesline Clues to Jobs People Do

  • By: Kathryn Heling, Deborah Hembrook  

  • ISBN: 9781580892520

  • 3 books needed

• How Much is a Million?  

  • By David M. Schwartz

  • ISBN: 9780688099336

  •  

  • 9 books needed

Calling all gardeners, builders, and those interested in creating an elementary school garden! The Garden STEAM project term class will be underway soon and we would love any and all help. If you have skill or interest in any of the listed areas, we would love to hear from you! Our class will meet from 11:40-2:40 between May 28-June 7. Come play in the dirt, or bring your craft to help produce an amazing experience for the kids in the elementary building!

We are in need of:

-those willing to build raised garden beds

-families interested in a rotational schedule to tend to the garden over the summer (free produce!)

-gardeners to assist during implementation or after

Please contact Nicole Duquette for more information or if you would be willing to help us: duquetten@brpsk12.org, or extension 161.

Week ending May 10:

Ms. Carly’s Project Term needs

Recycled materials needed

I am teaching a class called Books Alive. I need recycled materials like empty bottles, bottle caps, cereal boxes or anything along those lines. The students use these items to make character sculptures. I also need boxes for dioramas. If you have any materials you like to donate please send them to my room.

Looking for help for Bringing Cultures to Black River project term class

I am looking for people that would want to come in and share their culture with the class. You can share food, clothing, language, artifacts or just come in and talk about your culture and traditions. This project term class runs from May 28th to June 6th from 12:00-2:40 so you would need to be able to come in on one of those days. Please let me know if you are interested or no someone who is. Thanks!

That Spring Thing - Girls Varsity Soccer

Join the Girls Varsity Soccer team next Friday night, May 10th, for That Spring Thing! Tailgate starts at 5:30 and the game kicks off at 7:00. Make sure to wear tie dye to show you support and show up for lots of fun activities including face painting, yard games, and more!

½ Day Dismissal:

May 8, 9, and 10 will be ½ days for all grades - we will dismiss at 11am.

Project Term Dismissal time:

Starting May 14 all grades dismiss at 2:40pm, please make arrangements for this change.

Community Service Reminder

Required Community Service Hours are due to Brenda by May 10, 2019 for 5th graders to be eligible to earn Community Service awards at 5th grade graduation. All other grades CS hours are due by May 24, 2019.

Student Requirements for Community Service

Requirements by Grade:

Grades 1-3  ~ 10 hours

Grades 4-5   ~ 15 hours

Grades 6-8   ~ 20 hours

Grades 9-12   ~ 60 hours

*All hours need to be completed prior to completing grade 3, 5, 8 or 12. To make sure your time is recorded, please fill out a Community Service slip available inside the elementary office or printable from our Forms page. You may check your child's total on your Infinite Campus portal.

2019 Lower Elementary Music Program: Songs from the Movies

The Lower Elementary Music Program is on Monday, April 29 at 6:30 pm in the BR Main Gym.  Students should meet in the Auxiliary Gym at 6:15 prior to concert start time. The event should be concluded by 7:00 pm.   Students may wish to dress up for the performance, but no specific attire is required. If you have questions, please contact Mrs. Rachel Andrews at andrewsr@brpsk12.org.

Community Service Reminder

Required Community Service Hours are due to Brenda by May 10, 2019 for 5th graders to be eligible to earn Community Service awards at 5th grade graduation. All other grades CS hours are due by May 24, 2019.

Student Requirements for Community Service

Requirements by Grade:

Grades 1-3  ~ 10 hours

Grades 4-5   ~ 15 hours

Grades 6-8   ~ 20 hours

Grades 9-12   ~ 60 hours

*All hours need to be completed prior to completing grade 3, 5, 8 or 12. To make sure your time is recorded, please fill out a Community Service slip available inside the elementary office or printable from our Forms page. You may check your child's total on your Infinite Campus portal.

Community Service Opportunity!

Calling all sports fanatics! The athletic department is in need of ball chasers at the following events. If you love soccer and are in need of community service hours this could be for you! If interested please contact Mrs. Ekdahl at ekdahlk@brpsk12.org with the date(s) and times you desire to work.

4/23/19 Potters House MS 4:00 PM

4/23/19 Potters House V 5:15 PM

4/25/19 Heritage MS 4:00 PM

4/25/19 Heritage V 5:15 PM

4/29/19 Hud. Hornets JV 4:00 PM

5/1/19 Coopersville JV 5:30 PM

5/2/19 WMAA V 5:30 PM

5/2/19 WMAA JV 4:00 PM

5/3/19 Muskegon Catholic V 5:00 PM

5/6/19 Zion Christian MS 5:00 PM

5/9/19 Algoma Christian JV 4:00 PM

5/10/19 Bridgman V 7:00 PM @ Hope

5/14/19 Oakridge JV 5:00 PM

5/15/19 Tri Unity V 5:15 PM

5/18/19 Kalamazoo Hackett V 3:30 PM @ Hope

5/18/19 K Christian vs WMC V 5:30 PM @ Hope

5/20/19 Fennville JV/V 4:30/6:00 PM

Spring Parent Orientation:

Kindergarten Parents, *Third Grade Parents*, Parents New to Black River

Join the Elementary Team on April 25th, beginning in the Large Gymnasium at 6:30 p.m. This evening of information is planned for parents who are new to Black River.  It is also designed specifically for parents of students who are moving from the Kindergarten classroom to the Lower Elementary or from the Lower Elementary (currently a Third Grade student) to the Upper Elementary. We look forward to meeting with you that evening to present our Montessori curriculum, share insights into our expectations and answer your questions.

Week ending April 12:

Light it up Blue:

April is Autism Awareness Month!  In celebration, please consider wearing the color blue for a school wide "BLUE OUT" on Monday April 15th.  Let's all "Light It Up Blue" in support of understanding and acceptance for people with autism.

Summer School Announcement:

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Although summertime may mean a vacation from the classroom, it should never be a break in any child's intellectual development. Education research shows that children lose a great deal of what they have learned during idle summer months. Researchers have studied the “summer effect" on student achievement and their studies consistently show that student learning declines or remains stagnant during summer months. Students who keep their learning skills active during the summer months are better primed to return to school in the fall.

Our summer program, which is free of charge, will be a three week program for K – 5th grade students, starting July 8 and ending July 26.  Classes will be held Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Curriculum will include math, language arts and physical activity. If your child will be attending summer school, we encourage your child to attend regularly for maximum benefit. Register HERE for the Summer Enrichment Program.

We strongly urge you to take advantage of this opportunity to enrich your student’s education. Early intervention in reading, writing and math will greatly increase your child’s likelihood of academic success in future years. Please contact Krista through email (ekdahlk@brpsk12.org)  if you would like further information.

To aide us in our preparation, we ask that you complete the form below and return it by April 17, 2019. Please note that all elementary classes will take place in the elementary building (students in grades K-5 in 2018/2019 school year). Drop off and pick up will take place at the main entrance.

Sincerely,

Krista Ekdahl and Summer School Staff

Best Summer Ever! BR Summer Camp and Enrichment Opportunities Available Here!

Summer Camps are open to any Black River Public School student, as well as their friends from other schools! We welcome all students who want to have fun, improve skills, and enjoy a camp with individualized instruction. Invite your friends! Each camp has a minimum participation level of 10 campers. Individual coaches/teachers run camps. Please contact coaches through email if you have any questions about camp. Administration/paperwork questions can be directed to Tim Witvoet at witvoett@brpsk12.org.

2019 Summer Camp Brochure

2019 Summer Camp Registration Form

Herrick District Library

APRIL

International music at Herrick District Library

April is the Month of the Young Child, and Herrick District Library is celebrating with international music and dance events for children, teens and their families.

The 123 Andrés Family Concert – 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at Herrick District Library, 300

S. River Ave., Holland – will engage children and families with dance moves, humor, and singable,

danceable tunes for kids of all ages.

Ugandan musician and dance instructor Samuel Nalangira will lead three workshops for kids, teens and families. His Teen Dance Workshop will introduce teens (12 to 18 years old) to traditional African

instruments – many of which he made himself – and traditional African dance 4-5 p.m. Friday, April 26, in HDL’s Hazel B. Hayes Auditorium, 300 S. River Ave. Nalangira’s Family Drum Workshop will be 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 27, at the Holland Township Fire Station No. 1, 131 Riley St.

His Kids Dance Workshop (for kids 6-11 years old) will be 2 p.m. that day in the Herrick District Library Hazel B. Hayes Auditorium, 300 S. River Ave.

MAY

Special Sunflower Storytime at Herrick District Library

Spring is here and Herrick District Library is planting a sunflower house in their North Branch garden, 131 Riley St. Families can learn more about how plants grow and sow their own heirloom sunflower seed from the HDL Seed Library 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, May 15

Little Actors at Herrick District Library

Children 4-6 years old and their big people will play theater games and act out stories to help develop

narrative skills and practice following directions in this introduction to the stage! Caregivers will

be participating with their children 11-11:45 A.M. Saturday, May 18 at the Hazel B. Hayes Auditorium in the HDL main library, 300 S. River Ave. Registration required starting May 3 at herrickdl.org/events.

Week ending March 22:please re-send any of the the items from previous weeks that are still current

Medication in School:

Black River Public School may only administer prescription and over the counter medications by a doctors instruction.  A doctor must fill out our Administration of Medication Form and be on file in the office.  All medication must be kept in the office unless deemed medically necessary by your doctor.  Students in the elementary may not keep cough drops, cremes, oils in their backpacks or lockers, they must be stored in the office for use during the day. Cough drops are the only otc medication that does not require a doctor’s note on file for BR to administer at school. Parents are always welcome to come into the office and administer their child’s medication during the school day.

Lost and Found:

The lost and found will be cleaned out at the cleaned out on Friday - March 29.  Please check to see if any of your child’s winter apparel has ended up there.

ATTENTION 3rd, 4th, 5th Grade Parents:

Below is the at-home M-STEP Practice Link

This May, our elementary students will again be taking the M-STEP.  This is a statewide computerized standardized test required by the state of Michigan.

This assessment requires students to utilize many computer/mouse skills and often presents questions in a unique way. It is important that the children have exposure to the required computer usage skills and the wording of questions so that they are able to do their very best on the actual test.

All of our 3rd-5th grade students will be working on these skills during keyboarding, but it’s important that you, as parents, are supporting your child in this work as well.

Please sit with your child and talk through the practice questions together. This will also give you a better understanding of what will be on the assessment.  Completing a few practice problems each week would be ideal. Please see the information from the Michigan Department of Education website below to get started.

Online Practice for M-STEP ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies

The online Sample Item Sets are a select group of test items in ELA, mathematics, science, and social studies that encompass different item types, such as multiple choice, constructed response, and various kinds of technology-enhanced items.

The sets provide students, teachers, and parents practice in solving grade-level and content-specific test items aligned to Michigan's academic content standards.

1) Anyone can access the Sample Item Sets through the Chrome browser at https://wbte.drcedirect.com/MI/portals/mi/.

The directions to access the sample items are as follows:

a) M-STEP is on the left side;

b) Select "Online Tools Training"

c) Select "Sample Item Sets"

d) Select the grade

e) Select the content area

f) Login with the Username and Password provided on the login screen

Lost and Found:

The lost and found will be cleaned out at the conclusion of conferences on Friday.  Please check to see if any of your child’s winter apparel has ended up there.

Enrollment for Next School Year:

All current students are automatically re-enrolled for the 2019-2020 school year. If you do not plan on your student returning for the 2019-2020 please let Nicole Klunder as soon as possible.  She can be reached at klundern@brpsk12.org   We currently have waitlists for next school year at every grade level in the elementary.

BR Elementary Coin Drive-Leukemia and Lymphoma

Black River Elementary will proudly be participating in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's coin drive and spirit week to help blood cancer patients and their families. As students collect coins, they are also invited to participate in our fun daily themed days!

Together as classroom teams, we can make a change in the fight against cancer. Please check those pockets and couch cushions for loose change. Your child may bring pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters or bills to school in their own personal collection box the week of March 18-22.

MONDAY: Pink & Purple Penny Day - Wear pink and/or purple while collecting pennies.

TUESDAY: Neon Nickels Day - Wear your brightest neon and bring in nickels.

WEDNESDAY: Dazzling Dimes Day - Donate dimes & wear something shiny or something that makes you different & unique.

THURSDAY: Crazy Quarters Day - Wear crazy socks to school today and bring in all of your coins and dollars.

FRIDAY: Team Up for Leukemia Day - Wear your favorite team’s jersey or colors and collect all coins and dollars.

The class that raises the most money will receive an Olive Garden pasta party!   

April is Autism Awareness Month!  

If you are interested in purchasing a BRPS Autism Awareness t-shirt, please take a look at the two options below.  Just clink on the link that corresponds to the style you like. You will be able to choose your size and color and pay for your order.  I will NOT be collecting money this year :)

Please note the order deadline is 3/14/2019.  If you have any questions, email or call me at 616-405-0340.

~Stacy Van Howe

CHOICE #1

You can order your shirt here to participate in this shared order:

http://www.workplacepro.com/S-COTL?SOSID=4260

Orders MUST be placed by the deadline date of 3/14/2019!

CHOICE #2

You can order your shirt here to participate in this shared order:

http://www.workplacepro.com/S-WBKA?SOSID=4256

Orders MUST be placed by the deadline date of 3/14/2019!

Each person will pick and pay for what they want, and all of your group's items will be shipped together to your Group Leader after 3/22/2019.

Black River Families...Step Right Up!

Carnival is Coming!

The BR Big Top Carnival is Friday, March 22 from 6-8pm in the BR Lyceum and Gyms.   

It takes a lot of Black River families to make the annual Carnival a success!

Here are some ways you can help:

1. Sponsor a Game or be a Carnival Underwriter! Here is the form.

2. Donate small game prizes. Dollar Tree, Target, Meijer, or Wal-Mart party favors are perfect.  We also need gently used books for all ages, from preschool to MS. Donations can be dropped off at either Office. Please label the bag with your name so we can say thank you!

3. Volunteer!  We need cupcake bakers, parents and students to run games, and help with set-up and clean-up.  Click here to sign up to volunteer or make cupcakes (see both sides)!  

4. Come have fun at the Carnival!  Tickets will be on sale in both offices on 3/12.  The pre-order form went home in EL backpacks on 2/28.  There are extra pre-order forms in both offices. Get your tickets early to avoid the line at the door!

Email Beth Powers at blackriverparentorg@brpsk12.org if you have any questions.

Thank you for helping to make the night a big success!

Community Service Reminder

BLACK RIVER PUBLIC SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM

Our curriculum includes: “involvement with the local community and concern for worldwide issues, which aid in discovering ability and a responsibility to make a difference in the world. Our students will participate in service and extra-curricular projects within the Greater Holland communities.”  ~ BRPS Mission Statement

If you have contacts within the community or can help set up community service opportunities for our students, please call Michelle Byrne at 355-0055 ext. 160.

Student Requirements for Community Service

Requirements by Grade:

Grades K-3  ~ 10 hours

Grades 4-5   ~ 15 hours

Grades 6-8   ~ 20 hours

Grades 9-12   ~ 60 hours

*All hours need to be completed prior to completing grade 3, 5, 8 or 12

To make sure your time is recorded, please fill out a Community Service slip available inside the elementary office or printable from our Forms page. You may check your child's total on your Infinite Campus portal.

World Down Syndrome Day 2019

Did you know that Thursday, March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day? This is a special day where people are encouraged to spread the word about Down syndrome and to celebrate those whose lives are touched by it. Down syndrome occurs when an individual is born with an extra chromosome in their body. More than 400,000 people are living in United States with Down syndrome today. People with Down syndrome, like any other individual, possess many strengths and talents, and benefit from the support of the family, friends, and communities that surround them. Please join us in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day by wearing silly socks, or lots of layers of socks on Thursday, March 21st. When others ask "What's up with your socks today?" you have the opportunity to spread the word about Down syndrome!

Week Ending in Feb. 28nd

Black River Theatre Company Presents: The Sound of Music

Come see our production of The Sound of Music.  Over 70 BR students are involved in this production (cast, orchestra and crew)  Shows are March 8 at 7:00 pm and March 9 at 2:00 and 7:00 pm. Tickets are available online at blackrivertheatreco.ludus.com and they are also available at the door.  Performances are at Cityside Middle School in Zeeland.

Black River Families...Save the Date!

Carnival is Coming!

The BR Big Top Carnival is Friday, March 22 from 6-8pm in the BR Lyceum and Gyms.

Carnival Donations Needed!

Cleaning out the toy bins and bookshelves? The Carnival committee is looking for LIKE NEW tiny trinkets and preschool to middle school-aged books that your student has outgrown. Birthday party favors, dollar store items, new packages of candy are all great ways to donate to the Carnival! Items will be used for carnival game prizes and can be brought to the Main Office during school hours.

Look for more information for volunteering at the event, cupcake baking, sponsoring, and ticket sales.

Black River-We The People

Fundraiser

A great cause

and some great food

All friends, family and supporters of Black River-We The People

are invited to participate in their fundraising event on

Monday, March 11, 2019

Everyone is invited to gather at Buffalo Wild Wings in Holland (2899 West Shore Drive)

for lunch, dinner, or a snack. On this day, 20% of purchases* accompanied

by the certificate sent home in backpacks will be donated to

Black River-We The People.

Tiny Trinkets, Treasures, Books & Candy Wanted for Carnival!

Cleaning out the toy bins and bookshelves? Your student can earn community service hours and the carnival can benefit! The Carnival committee is looking for LIKE NEW tiny trinkets and preschool to middle school-aged books that your student has outgrown. Birthday party favors, dollar store items, new packages of candy and bubble gum are all great ways to donate to the Carnival! Items will be used for carnival game prizes and can be brought to either main office. Contact the Parent Organization at blackriverparentorg@brpsk12.org with questions.

Sports Fans:

Join us as we celebrate Black River Basketball at this year’s Snowcoming – Night of Neon.  It’s scheduled for Friday February 15th, 2015 from 4:00 to 9:00 pm, with something for everyone.  The Athletic Boosters have been working with the Student Council to make this an evening full of fun.  The night will be filled with Food, Fun and Entertainment. We will be selling 50/50 raffle tickets along with our BR Athletics Merchandise.  Please join us and don’t forget to wear neon! Invite your friends and family to come and show them what BR is all about! Admission is $5.00 and BR Students, Faculty, Staff get in FREE!

JV Boys 4:00 vs Wellspring Prep

V Boys 5:30 vs Wellspring Prep

V Girls 7:00 vs Wellspring Prep

We still need some volunteers for Concessions, Merchandise sales and Clean Up.  Shifts have been added to Shiftboard to help facilitate volunteer coordination. Please consider how you can help at this wonderful, school-wide event.  Thanks so much!

Girls on the Run need Coaches!

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are in need of a Girls on the Run coach, otherwise, we at risk of dissolving a team of about 15 girls. I apologize if this message is redundant, I am not sure who was informed. I love to see so many of your daughters willing to set a goal of completing a 5k this spring. Please check your schedule and consider volunteering your time so that all the girls that want to be on the team may do so.

A common misconception is you have to be a mom to participate, not true! Nor do you need to be athletic, we do like the people who get warm fuzz around their heart when you get so see someone who didn’t believe finally achieve and that person calls you coach.

If you don’t think you have what it takes, we will help get you there! You will need to pass a background check ($7.60) ,and come to a coach training at Center for Women in Transition this weekend. You will have the opportunity to register to become CPR certified at an incredible discount, if you would like to add it to your new list of skills you will be able to gloat to all your friends and family about.

New coaches will need to be available during training season, which begins March 6th, and runs Mondays and Wednesdays after school until 4:50 until 5k, June 1st. Also, the program rewards the volunteers with a gift (if you need a little extra incentive).

Interested? Register at www.gotroac.org.

Thank You,

Kacie Munoa

Ratfest:  Saturday, February 9th, 5 - 8pm in the Lyceum

Bring the whole family for a fun-filled night!

• Live Performance Stage - Don’t miss our talented BR student and faculty performers

• MOCK ROCK Challenge - Your votes determine who wins the trophy

• Art Gallery showcasing works of art created by BR students

• Craft Room including Face Painting - FREE with price of admission

• 50/50 Raffle

• Food & Drinks available for purchase

Admission:

• $5 per person

• Maximum $20 admission per family

• Free admission for children ages 5 & under

• Free admission for volunteers

• 14 & under MUST be accompanied by an adult

*RATFEST is an annual fundraising event supporting the Fine Arts Boosters/BRPO*

TTQ Needs Coaches!!

TTQ is in need at least 3 more coaches for the BR team! Total Trek Quest (TTQ) is a wonderful running and safety opportunity for 3-5th grade boys Coaches can be men or women; we are looking for a positive attitude and a passion for helping kids reach their full potential.  You do not need to be an experienced runner :) just be willing to move/walk/run with your team. High school juniors/seniors can be assistant coaches too! We need at least 2 coaches per 5-15 boys on a team. TTQ provide all the training and supplies you will need to make this season great. Our teams practice 2 times -but even if you can coach for only 1 day a week, that is great!!

This is a fun, powerful and inspirational way to get to know the boys that your son goes to school with-and to get to see your son in a different way too!! I can promise you that being a TTQ coach is an experience you will NEVER forget!

Help Save The Amazon!

Ms. Kristin’s upper elementary class will be having a fundraiser for saving the Amazon Rainforest.

• We will have  a theme each day of the week with interesting facts about why the Amazon Rainforest is important.

• From February 11 to February 15 we will be collecting money donations (in coins or dollar bills) in K - 5. Each class will have its own box.

• The class with the most money by Friday will earn a stuffed animal toucan to share / display in their classroom.

• Go to helpsavetheamazonbrps.weebly.com to learn more!  

The cold winter weather has finally arrived and it is important to remember a few things:

1. Please dress your child for outdoor recess.  Outdoor recess will only be canceled if the wind chill is below 0°. All students are expected to go outside during recess, a doctor's note is required for a student to remain indoors.

2. If you drop your child off early in the morning (before or at 7:45am), please do so at the Lyceum when temperatures are below 15 degrees.  Ms. Krista (gym teacher) and Ms Courtney are there to help supervise in the auxiliary gym.

Now Registering for Little League Baseball and Softball

Holland Little League is now registering baseball and softball players for the 2019 season.  More information and the registration link can be found on their website located at www.hollandlittleleague.com.  

Still Time to Register for the BR Griffins Game

The time has come for the 5th Annual Black River Takeover at the Grand Rapids Griffins.  

The game is set for SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16th at 7:00pm and the theme is STAR WARS NIGHT!!!!!  

This is open to all elementary BR families.  Older/younger siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles are also welcome.  

If interested, please fill out this brief survey by JANUARY 23rd (WEDNESDAY).  https://goo.gl/forms/z3VnuaDAyUnq8lWs1

Payment must be turned into Brenda Seymour by FEBRUARY 1st or you will forfeit your reservation.  Tickets are $11 per person. Checks are preferred. You can make them out to Black River. Hope to see you there.

Looking for  Black River Spiritwear? Check out our E-store to order something new!  

https://blackriverschools.itemorder.com/

All items will be delivered to school for pick up- or to be sent home with students.  Order by February 10th. There's something for everyone!

Dear Parents,

Ratfest is now less than a month away and we're looking for volunteers to help make the evening a success!  This year we're using Sign Up Genius as the format; if interested please click on the link below to see available activities and time slots.  You'll need to use the password provided as well:

Sign Up Genius link:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D4EACA629A0FF2-ratfest

Password:  brps19

As a reminder, Ratfest will be held on Saturday, February 9th from 5-8pm in the Lyceum. Activities include Live Performances, Mock Rock Challenge, Artwork Display, Concession Stand, 50/50 Raffle and Free Craft Room.

Thank you for considering donating an hour or two of your time!

The Fine Arts Boosters team

Greetings Girls on the Run Parents  ~

There will be a open house shoe fitting today Tuesday, January 15 at the Center for Women in Transition (411 Butternut Dr, Holland)  from 4:00 to 6:00 pm.

This is when Gazelle Sports will fit your registered participant for her running shoes. If you have already been to a shoe fitting please disregard.  If you are unable to make it today please see the attached schedule that lists the rest of the fittings.

Thank You!

GOTR

Hi Black River Parents ~

The Black River GOTR team is in need of 2 more people to coach.

Practices will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays with a time frame of 3:20 to 4:50 pm.

Please strongly consider coaching if you are able!  Dads are welcome too!!

If you are not able to coach please help us to spread the word of this need.  If you know of anybody that you think would enjoy the role of a coach and would be a good fit please encourage them to register for coaching.

We do ask that coaches be at least 18 years of age.

Attached is a coaching flyer to provide you with information on what GOTR coaching all entails.

To register for coaching please visit our website atwww.gotroac.org to fill out the application.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Thank you for considering!

Odyssey of the Mind Needs Your HELP!

One of the parts of our responsibility for participating in the OotM program is for each team to provide a judge on tournament day.  This is something we REALLY need help with because there is a $100 fee per team that doesn't provide a judge.

Judging is a full day commitment on tournament day, Saturday, February 16th (8am to 4ish or earlier if performances are done sooner), plus whoever commits would need to go to a training.  There are two trainings in our area:

1. Saturday, February 2 at St John Vianney in Wyoming from 9-2 (but Peg says they normally get done by 1).

2. Tuesday, February 5 at the Kent County ISD building at 5:30.

Volunteering to be a judge is a commitment, but it is so worthwhile and an immense help to the program and to our school.  Please reach out to friends and family about this, and consider it for yourself as well. We need 6 judges in total. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Ashley Huizenga at odysseyatbr@gmail.com.

Thank you!!!!

Ratfest 2019 - Save the Date!

This year's Ratfest will be on Saturday, February 9, 2019, from 5-8pm at Black River in the Lyceum.  The evening will include a Live Performance Stage, Mock Rock Challenge, 50/50 raffle, fun & new crafts, food and student artwork display.  All of you musicians, singers, actors and dancers out there - now's your chance! If you are interested in performing on the Live Stage, please see any of the Fine Arts teachers to sign-up. Sign-up is on a first come, first served basis.

Week ending Dec. 21st:

Week ending Dec. 14:

Elks Hoop Shoot 2018/2019

Annual Free Throw Contest for Boys and Girls ages 8-13

Saturday December 15, 2018

Hope College Dow Center

12:15pm

Contact Dr. Brian Wolters at wolters616@gmail.com

Ratfest 2019 - Save the Date!

This year's Ratfest will be on Saturday, February 9, 2019, from 5-8pm at Black River in the Lyceum.  The evening will include a Live Performance Stage, Mock Rock Challenge, 50/50 raffle, fun & new crafts, food and student artwork display.  All of you musicians, singers, actors and dancers out there - now's your chance! If you are interested in performing on the Live Stage, please see any of the Fine Arts teachers to sign-up. Sign-up is on a first come, first served basis.

Elks Hoop Shoot 2018/2019

Annual Free Throw Contest for Boys and Girls ages 8-13

Saturday December 15, 2018

Hope College Dow Center

12:15pm

Contact Dr. Brian Wolters at wolters616@gmail.com

Winter Clothing Drive - Elementary

Who:  True North Community Helpers are collecting winter clothing for elementary children in need.

What:  A drive to collect winter clothing (hats, scarves, gloves, mittens, coats, snow pants, boots, etc).  Must be new or in good condition. Elementary sizes only please!!!!!!

When:  December 3rd-7th

Where:  Flyers will be located around the school, and bins will be by both main doors in the elementary building.

More info:  email huggetthn@brpsk12.org

Swimming Lessons Permission Slips and $1 Fee

This Friday (11-30), your child will be coming home with a letter and permission slip from the Holland Aquatic Center, which begin next semester at the Holland Aquatic Center.  

Please make sure that you read the letter and return the permission slip with $1.00 (paper cash) by FRIDAY, December 7th.  Thank you.

Elementary Rat Fest Poster Contest!

The Fine Arts Department is opening up our annual poster design for elementary students!  For the contest, students are asked to design an image for RatFest. RatFest is our annual Fine Arts fundraising event with arts and crafts, live performances, and art exhibits.  The image should relate to the fine arts, including visual arts, music, or performing arts. Along with the image, the design should state: Black River Rat Fest 2019. The design should be drawn on an 8 1/2 by 11 paper.

The Fine Arts Department will determine the winner before we leave for break and their design will not only be displayed on flyers around the school, but will be framed and displayed in the Lyceum among the past poster designs for years to come!

Students can submit their design to the elementary Main Office and have until December 7th to turn in their design!  

BR Annual Barnes and Noble Book Fair

Saturday, December 1, 2018 from 9am-9pm

It's a great day to do some holiday shopping and you can also choose to purchase a book for your student's classroom (K-12) from our teacher wish lists.  

Our seniors will also be wrapping gifts on Saturday and Sunday - donations will benefit the Senior Party.  

Here are some fun events happening throughout the day:

10am-12pm - B&N "Lake Michigan Mermaid" Author Event

11am-12pm - B&N "How to Catch a Snowman" Storytime and Craft  

1-3pm - BR Holiday Craft

3-4pm - Story Hour with Mr. Jim

A percentage of your Barnes & Noble purchase will benefit Black River Public Schools.

Visit bn.com/bookfairs to support us online 12/1/18 through 12/6/18 by entering Book fair ID #12466066 at checkout.

December events for kids and tweens at Herrick District Library

Pajama Storytime

Bring your favorite stuffed animal and come in your jammies for 30 minutes of stories and songs Mondays starting at 6:30 p.m. December 3 – 10 and January 7 – February 25. This is a family event that will meet in the Children’s Area of Herrick District Library, 300 W. River Ave. (Pajama Storytime will not meet January 14, and February 18 due to other programs.) All HDL events are free.

Winter Reading

The weather may be frightful, but Winter Reading at Herrick District Library is delightful! To participate in the library’s winter reading challenge, sign up starting December 1 at either library location (300 S. River Ave. or 155 Riley St.) or at herrickdl.beanstack.org. Winter Reading is open to everyone from preschool to adult and runs from December 17 to January 31. The goal is to read for fun every day. Participants will be able to track their daily reading on a free app. All HDL events are free.

Hour of Code: Intro to Coding

Join Herrick District Library to explore the basics of coding through code.org! Event is 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, December 12, Children’s Activity Room of the Herrick District Library, 300 S. River Ave. Registration required starting November 28 at herrickdl.org/events. This event is for children 8 to 11 years old. All HDL events are free.

Gingerbread House Epic Build

Children 5 to 10 years old can join Herrick District Library for an epic gingerbread house build 4-5 p.m. Thursday December 13, at the Holland Township Riley Street Fire Station (131 Riley St. next to the HDL North Branch). All supplies provided! Registration required starting November 29 at herrickdl.org/events. All HDL events are free.

Tween Cupcake Wars

Tweens ages 9 to 12 years old can decorate the ultimate cupcake and win at Herrick District Library’s annual Tween Cupcake Wars. Registration required starting December 19 at herrickdl.org/events. Limit of 25 people. This event is 2 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, January 2, in the Hazel B. Hayes Auditorium of Herrick District Library, 300 S. River Ave. All HDL events are free.

Glow-in-the-Dark Slime

Come whip up a batch of your very own glow-in-the-dark slime at Herrick District Library! This is a drop-in program for children 6 to 11 years old. You may arrive any time between 6:30p.m. and 7:30p.m., Wednesday, December 26, to participate. This event will be in the Children’s Activity Room of Herrick District Library, 300 S. River Ave. All HDL events are free.

December Events for Adults and older teens at Herrick District Library

North Branch Book Club

The next meeting of the Herrick District Library book club will be 10 a.m. Saturday Dec. 15. Join others for a discussion of The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. Each month a different book will be discussed at different locations around the community. A limited number of that month’s books will be available for checkout at the HDL North Branch Library, 155 Riley St; staff members may be able to help acquire additional copies if needed. Location for each meeting will be announced at the previous month’s book club meeting and will be listed on the website at herrickdl.org/events. Contact the North Branch with any questions at 616-738-4360. All HDL events are free.

Maker Labs Hosted by Lakeshore Makers

Herrick District Library will offer a new series of maker labs hosted by Lakeshore Makers, a group of people geeked about sharing their knowledge. Those 16 years old through adult can take advantage of these learning opportunities and get the creative juices flowing 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at HDL, 300 S. River Ave.  All HDL events are free.

• December 18 – Maker Night

• January 15 – Home Networking

• February 19 – Learn to Solder (Registration required for February event only at herrickdl.org/events; registration begins January 19.)

Week ending Nov. 20

Thank you for coming to our school skate party. We had such a great turn out! Parents came straight from work, sometimes skipping dinner, young families came with infants in hand, grandparents came and teachers got out on the floor, too! The parking lot was full and the line was out the door. What a blast to see everyone skating, dancing and having fun together. Thanks for being a part of this event; we appreciate our school community. We will plan on it again next year!

Black River P.O.

Week ending Nov. 9:

The Black River Theatre Company is presenting "The Sound of Music" on March 8 and 9.

In an effort to cast actors closer to the correct ages to portray the Von Trapp children, we are opening up auditions to K-5 students. Elementary auditions will take place on Wednesday, November 28 in the Elementary Music Room.  Audition time slots will be from 3:15-4:00, 4:00-4:45 and 4:45-5:30. Please contact Rachel Andrews by email at andrewsr@brpsk12.org to sign up your child to audition.  You will also be sent additional information about auditions and the rehearsal schedule.

Thanksgiving Food Drive

Mrs. Michelle’s class is having a Thanksgiving Food Drive.  We are collecting food for the Community Action House to help families have a Thanksgiving meal. Please consider helping us, by placing donations in the food drive bins located in the elementary building.  Our food drive will run from Monday, November 12 to Thursday, November 15!   

We are collecting these items:

• Stuffing

• Boxed dessert mix

• Canned veggies

• Mashed potatoes

• Gravy

Sincerely,

Mrs. Michelle’s 4th & 5th grade class.

Thank you for your donations!

Black River is having a Skating Party at The Rink (12521 James St.) on Thursday, Nov. 15th, 6:00pm-8:00pm. Admission is $5.50 for skates and $3.50 for blades. Come out and skate with school friends!

Talent Show/Cabaret

Event Date: Saturday, December 1st, from  6-8pm

Where: BR auxiliary gym

Why: Fun and Fundraiser for The Black River Theatre Company*

Audition Date: Wednesday, November 14th, immediately after school in the Large Ensemble Room for elementary students who wish to participate in the talent show. 6-12 grade students who wish to participate in Cabaret need only sign up with Ms. Andrews

*This year’s Musical will be THE SOUND OF MUSIC, which will be an amazing, but expensive show.  This fun evening will include performances by your children, a Christmas wreath sale and a silent auction!

Head Lice Information:

In the United States, infestation with head lice is most common among elementary school children, and the household members of infested children. If you see any signs of head lice, please check your child at home or request that we check your child at school. We have staff members trained for identifying and removing lice and nits. The following are signs of lice: tickling or itchy feeling on the scalp, sores on the head, irritability from difficulty sleeping (lice are active at night). To help control a head lice outbreak in a school, children can be taught to avoid activities that may spread head lice.

• Teach children not to share combs, brushes, hair ornaments, hats, caps, scarves, headsets, or any other personal headgear.

• Do not try on other people’s hats (even in department stores).

• Teach children to hang coats separately - placing hats and scarves inside coat/jacket sleeves.

• Clean or disinfect shared headgear (i.e., helmets) with Lysol® or rubbing alcohol before being used by others.

• Conduct regular head checks of your child for at least two weeks after the first confirmation.

Black River’s Lice Protocol

Talent Show/Cabaret

Event Date: Saturday, December 1st, from  6-8pm

Where: BR auxiliary gym

Why: Fun and Fundraiser for The Black River Theatre Company*

Audition Date: Wednesday, November 14th, immediately after school in the Large Ensemble Room for elementary students who wish to participate in the talent show. 6-12 grade students who wish to participate in Cabaret need only sign up with Ms. Andrews

*This year’s Musical will be THE SOUND OF MUSIC, which will be an amazing, but expensive show.  This fun evening will include performances by your children, a Christmas wreath sale and a silent auction!

Head Lice Information:

In the United States, infestation with head lice is most common among elementary school children, and the household members of infested children. If you see any signs of head lice, please check your child at home or request that we check your child at school. We have staff members trained for identifying and removing lice and nits. The following are signs of lice: tickling or itchy feeling on the scalp, sores on the head, irritability from difficulty sleeping (lice are active at night). To help control a head lice outbreak in a school, children can be taught to avoid activities that may spread head lice.

• Teach children not to share combs, brushes, hair ornaments, hats, caps, scarves, headsets, or any other personal headgear.

• Do not try on other people’s hats (even in department stores).

• Teach children to hang coats separately - placing hats and scarves inside coat/jacket sleeves.

• Clean or disinfect shared headgear (i.e., helmets) with Lysol® or rubbing alcohol before being used by others.

• Conduct regular head checks of your child for at least two weeks after the first confirmation.

Black River’s Lice Protocol

Cold and Flu Season has arrived:

All prescription and over the counter medication must be kept in the office.  An Administration of Medication form signed by a physician must accompany all prescription and over the counter medication for school to administer during the day. Thank you for your cooperation.

Administration of Medication Permission Form

FALL PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES, Oct 25 & 26
Thursday, October 25 - 1:00 to 8:00pm (1/2 Day for K-12 -11am dismissal)
Friday, October 26 - 8:00 to 3:30pm (No School for K-12
Online sign ups have ended, please contact your teacher directly to schedule

Community Service Opportunity

Herrick District Library has a new Lego Lab and is looking for volunteers to help sort Legos!  We need volunteers on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:45-8:45 pm, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 4:45-5:45 pm. We would also love some extra help on Saturday mornings from 9-11 am and Sundays from 1-2 pm.  We are looking for 1-4 volunteers at a time, with children under 12 being accompanied by an adult. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Mary at Herrick District Library at 355-3721 or email mvanderkooy@herrickdl.org. Thank you!

Girls on the Run Sign up flyer - GOTR Flyer

Girls on the Run Coaches needed - GOTR Coaches Flyer

Kinder Dance Sign-ups: Kinder Dutch Dance Flyer

Lost and Found Clean Out:

Please don't forget to check the Lost and Found area located in the mail hallway of the elementary after your fall conferences are finished for items your student may be missinghttps://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:f613ec69-2d8f-4d5a-b937-d48443c6dae4. We have collected lots of items throughout the beginning of this year and will be taking items that are not claimed to a local charity immediately following conferences. Thank you!

COMMUNITY SERVICE OPPORTUNITY for BR KIDS!!!!

Herrick District Library has a new Lego Lab and is looking for volunteers to help sort Legos!  We need volunteers on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:45-8:45 pm, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 3:45-4:45 pm. We would also love some extra help on Saturday mornings from 9-11 am and Sundays from 1-2 pm.  We are looking for 1-4 volunteers at a time, with children under 12 being accompanied by an adult. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Mary at Herrick District Library at 355-3721 or email mvanderkooy@herrickdl.org. Thank you!

Box Top Turn In Oct. 29: Box Top Form

Volunteer Opportunity: Eighth Day Farm/Pine Ave. Location

All Black River students and their families are invited to come to Eighth Day Farm (709 Pine Ave, Holland, MI 49423) on Saturday, October 20 from 1-3pm to do some fall clean up work on the farm. This is a great way to earn some community service hours and have some fun together. If the weather is bad, the event will be postponed to the spring, so let's hope for good weather!  Please contact Sarah Bast, sarah.bast@gmail.com, if you have any questions.

Picture Retakes are Oct. 19

*Extra forms available in office

*Return Set of original pictures for retakes

Picture Retakes are Oct. 19

Extra forms available in office

FUN WALK FRIDAY

GRAND FINALE IS ALMOST HERE!

**VENUE CHANGE**

Grass track - wear appropriate footwear for wet grass

Please turn in your donations by Thursday, October 4th at 4pm to count for the prizes!  

Don't worry, money can still be turned in after Thursday.

A big thank you to everyone who has already sent in their donations.

Please join us Friday, October 5th from 5:30pm-6:30pm at the green space in front of the Hope College DeVos Fieldhouse, conveniently located directly across from the soccer stadium, at 222 Fairbanks Ave.      Mr. Brunink and Mr. Jim will be hosting the event. Students will be sent home with Fun Walk Friday shirts on Thursday and should wear them to school on Friday and to the event.  We can't wait to see all the River Rats in their matching shirts on Friday!

It is sure to be a fun time for all as we come together in school spirit to walk, play some yard games, try walking with water, color paper bags, and celebrate our generous BR community!

Together, We are BR!

All the details and our PayPal donation button are on the FUN WALK FRIDAY WEBSITE.

https://sites.google.com/a/brpsk12.org/brps-fun-walk-friday/

Miles of Smiles Mobile Dental Unit Announcement:

Dear Parent:

Our Miles of Smiles (MOS) mobile dental unit is scheduled to be in Ottawa County Schools throughout the 2018-2019 school year. The mobile dental unit provides free dental services for financially-qualifying children.  Unfortunately, MOS will not be visiting your school. However, we want parents to know that they can schedule their child to be seen on our mobile unit when we locate at a school in Ottawa County.

Please contact our office at 1-800-467-5905 to schedule a dental appointment for your child (ren) at a nearby school. Consent forms for our dental services are available on our website: http://www.miottawa.org/dental. A consent form can also be obtained by calling 1-800-467-5905.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CHILD(REN) ON MILES OF SMILES!

Sincerely,

Andrea Whittaker, R.D.H., B.S.

Dental Hygienist/Practice Manager

Miles of Smiles

(616)393-5797

Fax: (616)393-5643

awhittaker@miottawa.org

Elementary Babysitting Morning!

We know it’s hard to take days of work off, especially when there’s a day off of school. To accommodate this, Black River High School Orchestra students will be babysitting BR elementary students Friday, October 12 from 8-12 am, during Midterm grading!

We’ll do crafts, play games, and have some other fun activities for the students!

For: Students from kindergarten through fifth grade

Cost: $15 per student

• All proceeds will support the Black River Advanced Orchestra Trip to see the Traverse City Symphony in October

Due Date: Turn in the slip at the bottom along with payment to either the elementary or main office by Friday, October 5, 2018

Should my child bring anything? Feel free to bring a snack for the morning!

Questions? Contact Tammy Clark, Black River Orchestra Teacher

• clarkt@brpsk12.org

Kids’ Food Basket Collection!

As part of the Black River Fun Walk, we like to support our community.  This year, we will be collecting items for the local non-profit, Kids’ Food Basket.  Kids’ Food Basket provides a free, well-balanced evening meal full of nutritious food, delivered to children at the end of the school day, so they can perform their best.  Each meal contains one serving of fruit, one serving of vegetable, one serving of protein, and a healthy snack.

Please consider bringing an item from their wish list between September 24th and October 5th:

 Fruit Cups or Pouches

Dried Fruit

Toasted Oat Cereal

Cheese Crackers

Pretzel Twists

Snack Size Zipper Bags

Items can be left in the collection box outside the office.

Please join us at the Fun Walk on Friday, October 5th, from 5:30-6:30 p.m., at the Hope College Track to help decorate bags to be given to Kids Food Basket along with our food donations.

Questions?  Please contact the Elementary PO at: elblackriverpo@brpsk12.org

Looking for Community Service Hours???

Consider volunteering to keep our beautiful beaches clean!  There are two opportunities coming up through the Alliance for The Great Lakes.  See below.

Grand Haven City Beach will have an Adopt a Beach Event.  It is set for Saturday, Sept. 22 starting at 2:30 pm and running until 5:00 pm.  SIGN UP HERE: http://greatlakesadopt.org/Secure/Event/14312

In addition, there will be another Adopt a Beach Event starting at 10:00 am on October 6 at Tunnel Park in Holland. SIGN UP HERE:  http://greatlakesadopt.org/Secure/Event/14472

Participants are asked to bring a bucket or trash bag to both events.

For more information, visit  The Alliance for The Great Lakes website.

Elementary Spirit Week!!!!

Here are the days for the Elementary Spirit Week starting next Monday (9-24)

Monday-Pajama Day

Tuesday-Sports/Clubs Day! (wear your team jersey or after school club shirts)

Wednesday-Inside Out Clothing Day!

Thursday-College Day!           

Friday- Black River Spirit Day

Prospective Volunteer Form:

All visitors to our building and volunteers must fill out a Prospective Volunteer Form each school year.

This includes any parents, grandparents, ect.  who plan on eating lunch with a student during the school year.

http://www.blackriverpublicschool.org/docs/district/documents/volunteer%20form%20aug%202018.pdf?id=2530

Black River Public School Attendance Policy Changes:

Please review the attendance policy changes in your student’s planner or on our website at:

http://www.blackriverpublicschool.org/elementary/Content2/elattendance

Medication in School Policy Changes:

All prescription and over the counter medications require a form filled out and signed by your child’s doctor for administration of that medication in school.  The only exception is cough drops.

Forms can be found in the school office or on our website at:

http://www.blackriverpublicschool.org/docs/district/administration%20of%20medication%20form%20-%20final.pdf?id=2561

Odyssey of the Mind survey (K-5)

If you are interested in having your child participate, please complete the survey below.

https://goo.gl/forms/5LMuVU9enXIHtUsD3

There is an informational parent meeting on Thursday, September 27th at 6:00pm in the Elementary Music Room.  Please attend to learn more info about this awesome program!

Elementary Parent Organization(ELPO) First Meeting of the School Year!

Friday, September 21 @ 2pm

We will be meeting in the Elementary Faculty Lounge.

Find out what’s going on this year!

Meet the PO members and Mr. Jim.

Kids are welcome to attend.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Questions? Contact: Black River Elementary PO:  elblackriverpo@brpsk12.org

A friendly reminder to keep saving BoxTops and Family Fare/D&W Direct Your Dollars receipts.

If you are overflowing from a long summer send them in at anytime.

Elementary drop off is in the PO mailbox in the Elementary front office.

Middle/High school drop off is in the laundry basket by Mr. Donnelly’s office.

BoxTops

2017-2018 school year we raised over $1,100! Keep up the great work!

Your student can receive community service for organizing and collecting BoxTops at home.

A collection sheet was sent home last week or you can print your own at the BoxTops website.

Ask grandparents, friends and neighbors to save them for you too.

Please write your teachers name on the sheet, envelope, etc. when sending them in.

Don’t forget to try the BoxTops Bonus App!

There is more information at www.btfe.com  

Direct Your Dollars

We have approx. $24,000 in Direct Your Dollars Receipts.

We need to collect $150,000 in receipts to receive $1,000 for the school.

*Please note that we need the entire receipt in order for it to be eligible.

Money received from BoxTops and Direct Your Dollars Receipts will go towards school field trips, recess equipment, and supplies.

Any surplus PO money will go to the Hard Surface Project.

Thank you!

Questions? Contact: Black River Elementary PO:  elblackriverpo@brpsk12.org

HOMECOMING - SEPT 28th

Come help us celebrate Black River's 2018 Homecoming and cheer on the Varsity Boys Soccer Team as they take on West Michigan Aviation Academy on Friday, September 28th at the Hope's Van Andel Soccer Stadium.

5:30 pm - Tailgating

6:00 pm - The Powder Puff Game of Seniors vs Juniors and Ticket Booth Open

6:30 pm - Gates Open

7:00 pm - National Anthem and Kick Off

This event will include performances by members of the High School Band and Choir. It's guaranteed to be a fun night for students of all ages and their families! We hope to see you there! We are in need of parent volunteers to lend a hand during this event with ticket sales, merchandise sales and clean up. If you are interested in taking a shift, please add your name on Shiftboard. Thank you!

Admission Prices:

   - Free for all BR Students, Staff, Coaches, Alumni and kids 5 & under.

   - $5.00 for General Admission and $8.00 for Reserve Seating.

Parents- Black River has a Lice Management Plan in place with certified staff trained in identifying and removing lice to help reach our goal of being a lice-free school. Fall is the time of year that lice are especially active. As a preventative step starting at home, please check your child's head. Look for lice and nits (eggs), which can look similar to dandruff but are stuck firmly to a strand of hair. If you have concerns, feel free to request a check and if you have questions, please contact me at divozzoa@brpsk12.org or 616.928.8351.

HOMECOMING - SEPT 28th

Come help us celebrate Black River's 2018 Homecoming and cheer on the Varsity Boys Soccer Team as they take on West Michigan Aviation Academy on Friday, September 28th at the Hope's Van Andel Soccer Stadium.

5:30 pm - Tailgating

6:00 pm - The Powder Puff Game of Seniors vs Juniors and Ticket Booth Open

6:30 pm - Gates Open

7:00 pm - National Anthem and Kick Off

This event will include performances by members of the High School Band and Choir. It's guaranteed to be a fun night for students of all ages and their families! We hope to see you there! We are in need of parent volunteers to lend a hand during this event with ticket sales, merchandise sales and clean up. If you are interested in taking a shift, please add your name on Shiftboard. Thank you!

Admission Prices:

   - Free for all BR Students, Staff, Coaches, Alumni and kids 5 & under.

   - $5.00 for General Admission and $8.00 for Reserve Seating.

Week ending September 7, 2018: (please check previous weeks)

The Scholastic Book Fair was a huge success!  Thank-you to all of the students, families and teachers who stopped by our enchanted forest and bought books.  Because of your support 447 books were purchased for BR Classrooms!

Also thank-you to those who volunteered, without you this event would not be possible.  Thank-you for supporting BR and encouraging a love of reading with our students!

Elementary Office Important Information:

1. All absences, early release or late arrivals must be called into the attendance line: 616-355-0055 ext. 328.  Absent students will be called starting at 9am if we have not received a phone call. Emailing a teacher does not replace calling the attendance line.

2. All absences for medical/dental/counseling/therapy appointments require an attendance note from the Dr. office, please turn that into the office.

3. All medication prescriptions and over the counter drugs must be stored in the office unless otherwise arranged with a teacher.  A medication form must be filled out for all medication stored at school and all medication forms must be signed by your doctor including OTC medications.

4. Planned absences 3 days or more require an Extended Absence Form filled out and signed by your teacher and Mr. Jim prior to your absence.  5 days of travel can be excused per school year.

5. Absences due to illness over 3 consecutive days require a doctor's note upon return to school.

6. Lunch payments may be made in the office by check or cash or online at your Infinite Campus portal.  All cash payments in the office must be exact, we do not have petty cash to make change.

7.  All visitors to our building and volunteers must fill out a Prospective Volunteer Form each school year.

BR Volunteer Form

This includes any parents, grandparents, ect.  who plan on eating lunch with a student during the school year.

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO OPT-OUT FORM

Black River Public School has many opportunities to recognize students’ accomplishments and activities throughout the year using photos of students. This may take the form of print newsletters, video, TV, email, website, newspaper articles, social media, etc. Parents who DO NOT want their child’s photograph used need to notify their child’s school office in writing to prevent school or district use of their student’s photo.

Photography/Video Opt-Out Form

School Pictures-Thursday, September 6th

Make sure to look in your child’s backpack or folder this weekend because picture order forms were sent home Thursday, August 30th.  If you are interested in ordering pictures, please make sure that the forms are returned by next September 6th (next Thursday).

Work it Out Steps

This week Karen Scranton our Social Worker worked with all of our BRPS students about the “Work It Out” Steps that we want each of them to be using when they have smaller conflicts/problems with other students.  By using these steps we are teaching the students that they have the ability to problem-solve and stand up for themselves and do not always need an adult to intervene. This can have a significant impact on helping our students to see themselves as capable and strong rather than as a victim with no power.  When a smaller issue or unkind words/actions arises with a peer (“I don’t like you” or “You can sit here” or “Your shirt is stupid”) the students are being taught to try two of the Work It Out steps before they tell an adult.

The steps are:

1) Tell them to stop,

2) Walk away/ignore it, or

3) Talk it out.  

We will especially be focusing on this during Recess.  If the students to go an adult with a smaller issue, they will be asked what Work It Out steps they have tried. If the answer is “none” they will be asked to try that first before an adult intervenes. Giving kids the knowledge, practice, and skill to handle small problems and occasional unkind words/actions is one of the many ways we work hard to help “prepare our students college and life.”

Eye Exams

Dear Parents,

Getting ready for your children to go back to school should not only mean buying new clothes and school supplies, it should also include an updated eye exam.

One in four children, it turns out, has subpar eyesight, while a whopping 60 percent of “problem learners” have trouble seeing. If you can’t see well, you won’t read well, and that makes school extra hard. Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. Dubner

I shared these statistics with the parents whose children are my students. The students who did have eye exams ALL needed glasses, and what a positive difference it made in our lessons.

So please parents, if your child(ren) have not had a thorough eye exam, recently, I strongly encourage you to schedule one for them.

Thank you,

Fran Olesen

Reading Specialist

From Lakeshore Eyecare Center

While vision screenings can uncover some individuals with vision problems, they can miss more than they find. This is a major concern about vision screening programs. The information obtained from a vision screening can be compared to the information obtained from a blood pressure measurement. Because your blood pressure may be in normal range, it cannot indicate that you do not have other health problems.

Just like a complete physical is needed to evaluate total health, only a comprehensive eye and vision examination can evaluate your overall eye health and vision status. Undetected and untreated vision problems can interfere with a child's ability to learn in school and participation in sports or with an adult's ability to do their job or to drive safely. The earlier a vision problem is diagnosed and treated, the less it will impact an individual's quality of life.

If you’re a parent, you may wonder when a first eye exam should be scheduled. According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), infants should have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months of age. Children then should receive additional eye exams at three years of age, and just before they enter kindergarten, or the first grade at about age 5 or 6.

For school-aged children, the AOA recommends an eye exam every two years if no vision correction is required. Children who need eyeglasses or contact lenses should be examined annually, or according to the doctor’s recommendations.

-Hello sports fans! We are in need of ball chasers for our home soccer games! Volunteers will need to report to the score booth 15 minutes before the start of the game. Community service will be rewarded. Please email Ms. Krista if interested, ekdahlk@brpsk12.org

8/23/2018 -- 4:00/5:45

8/28/2018 -- 4:00/5:45

8/30/2018 -- 4:00 PM

9/11/2018 -- 4:00 PM

9/11/2018 -- 5:15 PM

9/13/2018 -- 4:00 PM

9/13/2018 --  5:15 PM

9/14/2018 -- 4:00 PM

9/14/2018 -- 5:30 PM

9/17/2018 -- 5:00 PM

9/18/2018 -- 4:00 PM

9/18/2018 -- 5:15 PM

9/21/2018 -- 4:00/5:15

9/24/2018 -- 4:15 PM

9/27/2018 -- 5:00 PM

9/28/2018 -- 7:00 PM

10/2/2018 -- 5:00 PM

10/4/2018 -- 5:00 PM

10/5/2018 -- 7:00 PM

10/8/2018 -- 4:00 PM

10/8/2018 -- 5:15 PM

10/11/2018 -- 4:00 PM

10/11/2018 -- 5:30 PM

BLACK RIVER TTQ - FALL 2018 – COACHES NEEDED!!

Total Trek Quest (TTQ) is an afterschool program for boys in grades 3-5 and combines the physical activity of training for a 5K with a curriculum that focuses on learning to make goals, building social bonds and making healthy choices.  TTQ is a 9 week program where volunteer coaches meet with the boys after school twice a week for 90 minute practices. The program is FUN and uses running and educational activities to encourage positive mental health and wellness while also preventing high-risk behaviors.  Practices will begin the week of September 10th and will be on Mondays and Wednesdays immediately after school until 4:40pm. A final 5K run will be November 10th!

Sign your son up here:  https://www.raceplanner.com/register/index/TTQFall2018AO

If you are able, we are in need of volunteer coaches!!!  If you agree to coach, your son can participate for FREE!!  Coaches can be men or women; we are looking for a positive attitude and a passion for helping kids reach their full potential.  You do not need to be an experienced runner just be willing to move/walk/run with your team. High school juniors/seniors can be assistant coaches too!  We need at least 2 coaches per 5-15 boys on a team. We provide all the training and supplies you will need to make this season great. Our teams practice 2 times –but even if you can coach for only 1 day a week, that is great!!  

This is a fun, powerful and inspirational way to get to know the boys that your son goes to school with—and to get to see your son in a different way too!!  Being a TTQ coach is an experience you will NEVER forget! If you are interested- or have questions—or know someone who may be interested- please contact Vicki Kavanaugh at Arbor Circle @ vkavanaugh@arborcircle.org.

Elementary Office Important Information:

1. All absences, early release or late arrivals must be called into the attendance line: 616-355-0055 ext. 328.  Absent students will be called starting at 9am if we have not received a phone call. Emailing a teacher does not replace calling the attendance line.

2. All medication prescriptions and over the counter drugs must be stored in the office unless otherwise arranged with a teacher.  A medication form must be filled out for all medication stored at school and all medication forms must be signed by your doctor including OTC medications.

3. Planned absences 3 days or more require an Extended Absence Form filled out and signed by your teacher and Mr. Jim prior to your absence.  

4. Absences due to illness over 3 consecutive days require a doctor's note upon return to school.

5. Lunch payments may be made in the office by check or cash or online at your Infinite Campus portal.  All cash payments in the office must be exact, we do not have petty cash to make change.

6.  All visitors to our building and volunteers must fill out a Prospective Volunteer Form each school year.

BR Volunteer Form

This includes any parents, grandparents, ect.  who plan on eating lunch with a student during the school year.

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO OPT-OUT FORM

Black River Public School has many opportunities to recognize students’ accomplishments and activities throughout the year using photos of students. This may take the form of print newsletters, video, TV, email, website, newspaper articles, social media, etc. Parents who DO NOT want their child’s photograph used need to notify their child’s school office in writing to prevent school or district use of their student’s photo.

Photography/Video Opt-Out Form