Dear BMS Families:

   Benchmark Week is September 14th-19th. Students will take Benchmark #1, which includes writing, reading, and math. The Testing Week starts for 6th Grade on Thursday, 9/14, with Writing, and 7th/8th Grade with Writing on Friday 9/15. The following week all grade levels will test ELA/Math on Monday and Tuesday 9/18-9/19. Make-Up test will be on an “as needed” basis.

BMS has many opportunities to support student success. Benchmarks are a time for students to "show what they know!" Please help ensure your student's success by providing them with a healthy breakfast and a good night's rest. Attendance is also critical. Unless there is an emergency or your student is ill, please be sure they are at school on time.

 Please contact your student's teacher for more information regarding the following:

 • Weekly Reteach – Teachers identify students for extra practice and an opportunity to retest on specific standards. 

• Targeted Tutoring – All grade levels conduct targeted tutoring during the school day.

   Parent Teacher Conferences are "in person" on Wednesday, September 27th, in the Cafeteria from 1:00-6:00 pm. All teachers will be on hand in the Cafeteria to meet with you. If you have concerns about your student's progress and cannot meet with your student's teachers on this date and time, please contact your student's advisory teacher to make other arrangements. 

Special education teachers and teaching specialists (PE, Band, Art, STEM) will also be available during conferences. Teachers' phone numbers and emails are available on our school website (https://bms.bensonusd.org/en-US/staff) under the "STAFF" tab.

   As this school year continues, we encourage you to have meaningful conversations with your students. On campus, your students will be encouraged to Be Kind and On TRACK while in the classroom, on campus, and in the community. 

   Here at BMS, we believe character is a set of skills, and all skills require practice. This month we invite your family to the On TRACK Dare. Each Dare utilizes the On TRACK model (Trustworthy, Respectful, Accountable, Community Minded, and Kind) and lets you know the area of focus. We encourage (Dare) you and your family to complete the challenge!

Family (On TRACK)

Tonight after asking, "How was your day" do not stop with the "good" or "ok" response! Follow it up with "why" or "tell me more about that." Do it several times to get deep into understanding. Better yet, change up the question! How about, "Who did you help today?" or "Who helped you today?" or What was the most challenging part of your day?" and "What is one way I can help make it better?"

   Enjoy this month's challenge, and contact us with questions.

Please remember to check our website and social media for all extra-curricular events coming up this month.

We value your partnership because together we Make a Difference!

Mr. Webb, Proud Principal