Bruin Bite — January 15

As we move into the 3rd quarter, it is a great time to talk with your child about the importance of being on time.  It is our desire to see all students succeed and would like to do what we can to help.  Because excessive tardiness can be disruptive; we are asking for your assistance.  Please discuss the importance of being on time to class with your child.  Thank you for your support.

Memory Book Cover – The PTSA is looking for artwork for our 2020-21 Memory Book.  The deadline for entries is January 21st. Memory book cover contest flier.jpg 

BMS PTSA Opportunity – The PTSA President oversees school PTSA programs, , runs monthly meetings, and can attend district and council PTSA meetings. While this is a simplified explanation of the role, the person who steps into this role mid year will receive a well running PTSA machine!  All arms of our Butler Middle PTSA are functioning well with strong individuals leading. The President works with the Executive Committee (treasurer and secretary) to oversee the budget and any communications to our school wide PTSA members. The time commitment each month varies between 5-10 hours (the exception being back to school projects in August which are more time consuming).

BMS Teacher of the Year Nominations – Hopefully you thought about who you want to nominate for 2021’s Teacher of the Year.   Nominations for the BMS Teacher of the Year will be accepted through February 4th.  All nominees are recognized by the school and the PTSA.  Per tradition, Canyons District recognizes a Teacher of the Year from every Canyons school for outstanding teaching practices, professionalism, and community involvement.  Every school-based Teacher of the Year receives gifts and prizes donated by CSD’s generous business partners. Nominations can be sent to the PTSA, dropped off in the main office or you can email the nomination to either the PTSA or to Ms. Logan.  Attached is the nomination form.  Last year’s BMS Teacher of the Year was Mr. Tellez, Band and Orchestra Teacher.  Teacher of the Year Nomination Form

Parent Resources – 

• Mentally Healthy During Winter.pdf 
• Be a Successful Online Learner 
• Building Connectedness.  Connectedness is an important protective factor for youth that can reduce the likelihood of a variety of risky behaviors. Connectedness refers to a sense of being cared for, supported, and belonging. It can be centered on feeling connected to school, family, and other important people in a student’s life. Youth who feel connected at school and home are less likely to experience negative health outcomes related to sexual risk, substance use, violence, and mental health, even into adulthood.  The activities below are examples of some simple ways you can enhance connectedness with your children, adolescents, and teens.  
• Communicate openly and honestly, especially about your family values.
• Actively listen to your student and validate their feelings and experiences.
• Spend time with your child doing activities you enjoy together. These activities do not need to be elaborate or expensive.  The importance is to spend positive, in-person, electronic-free time with your child.  Examples could be taking a walk, working on a project, reading a story, talking in the car on the way to school, etc.  
• Become engaged in your child’s school by volunteering, helping with homework, attending events, etc.  
• Supervise your child and facilitate healthy decision-making.
• Enjoy electronic-free family meals together as often as you can.
• Encourage your child to participate in activities, clubs, or teams to build connectedness within his/her peer group 

*Information gathered from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/protective/youth-connectedness-important-protective-factor-for-health-well-being.htm

8th Grade Parents – Please don’t forget to sign up for a PCCR appointment with your child’s counselor.  The PCCR meetings are held virtually to allow flexibility during COVID.  The meetings are only 20 minutes long and will include making a 4-year plan for high school as well as answer questions you may have about career pathways and preparations for college and career.  If you have questions about the meeting or how to sign up, please refer to the email that was sent by Ms.  Heindel on December 7th.  These appointments are only through the end of January (depending on counselor’s availability) so sign up now.  Counseling Center (801) 826-6820. 

Build-A-Bruin – The following 1st period classes reached their classroom goal and got to spin the wheel for prizes:

• Mrs. Dunleavy (A Day)
• Mr. Sanderson

Upcoming Events

• January 15 – No School; Teacher Work Day
• January 18 – No School; Martin Luther King, Jr. Recess
• January 19 – 3rd Term Begins
• January 19 – Golden Bruin National Popcorn Day
• January 20 – Netzsmart; 4th Period
• January 20 – SCC Zoom Meeting; 3:30 p.m.
• January 21 – Memory Book Cover Entries Due
• January 21 – Memory Book Group Pictures
• January 23 – Chess Tournament; 9:00 a.m.

Help Wanted – BMS is looking for a 19 hour ParaEducator.  If you are interested, or know of someone who might be interested, please contact Ms. Sara Allen at (801) 826-6813.

If there is anything we can do to support you and your student, please let us know.  And remember,

It’s always a GREAT day . . . To be a BRUIN!!!

Ms. Paula Logan 

Ongoing Items – These items have been addressed before, but may be needed again.

• Bruins Den – January 19,  20, and 21.  The Bruins Den is available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the GREAT Room.  This is a time for students to complete homework and/or get help from teachers.  Each afternoon, two teachers are available in the GREAT Room to assist with student homework.  Students can work on their own or get assistance from a teacher.  Computers are available for homework.
• Safety Update – The district posts COVID information on the District Dashboard. BMS is listed with 0 cases and students on quarantine.  We know there are several students whose parents are keeping them home due to an exposure.  Thank you!!!.  We are grateful for the care of our community.   Remember to follow the Daily Symptom Checker, and if you have had an exposure to a confirmed case, please quarantine.  Thank you for your efforts and please continue to be vigilant by taking the following precautions:  
• Daily Symptom Checker 
• Wear a face mask anytime you are around people with whom you don’t live.
• Maintain physical distance from those who aren’t in your household.
• Practice good hand-washing hygiene (use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you don’t have access to soap and water).
• Stay home when you: are sick, have symptoms of COVID, have tested positive for COVID, or have been placed on quarantine.