First Tee
The First Tee Champions challenge is an annual golf event held each year for fourth grade only. During the challenge students participate in 4 stations including a long putt, short putt, chipping, and driving. Each student receives a score at each station and the scores are averaged out for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Bryant Woods Elementary school came in 1st place!

On the BWES team were the following students:

Thia Heffner
Ainslee Torres
Deasia Goliday
Leni Fredrick
Emma Doyle
Victoria Anderson
Naasir Williams
Abdel Gaballa
Aloniab Ghebre
Khalil Wilkins
Jimmy Browne

Battle of the Books
On Friday, April 21st, three teams represented Bryant Woods at Long Reach High School for Battle of the Books.  Battle of the Books gets fifth grade students excited about reading. A lively academic competition, Battle of the Books improves reading comprehension, builds vocabulary, and teaches teamwork and good sportsmanship.  Teams of five students and one adult coach each read the same 14 pre-assigned books over four months. Selected by HCLS instructors and HCPSS media specialists, titles include a wide range of reading levels and subjects. Thanks to generous sponsors, all teams receive a set of books. In addition to reading the books, teams choose a team name then dress accordingly.  During the “battle” (a 50-question exam), a moderator asks questions that relate to one of the following: a direct quote from one of the book characters; a statement about something that happens in the book; a passage taken directly from the book; details about an illustration or picture.

The three 5th grade teams that represented Bryant Woods were:

- The Book Divas

- The Rebel Readers

- The Queen Bee Readers

Congratuations to all three teams for participating and representing Bryant Woods in stellar fashion!

PARCC Testing
Students in grades 3-5 will be participating in PARCC (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers) assessment began Tuesday, April 25th.  Testing will continue through Friday, May 26th.  Students will be tested in two content/subject areas:  ELA/Literacy and Mathematics.  Families are encouraged to ensure that students get a good night's sleep every night and have a healthy breakfast at home or arrive early enough to have breakfast at school.  Results from PARCC will be made available to families in the fall 2017.

Volunteer Breakfast
Our annual Volunteer Breakfast was hosted on Monday, April 24th from 9:30-10:30 in the BWES cafeteria.  Volunteers came to chat and chew as staff showed their appreciation for all of the contributions they have made to BWES and the community.  Many thanks to our volunteers for their dedication to the students and staff of the BWES.

Science Fair/Enrichment Night
BWES students were beaming with pride during the annual Science Fair and Enrichment Night.  This year's event was hosted on Thursday, April 28, 2017 from 6:30-8:00.  Students in grades K-5 showcased projects in all content areas.  Many thanks to Ms. Bruchey and Ms. Bucchioni as well the PTA for organizing the Science Fair and Enrichment Night.  Way to go Bears!!!

Boys Night Out
On the evening of Wednesday, May 3rd, from 6:00-8:00, boys in grades 3-5 were able to participate in various activities that build self esteem, self awareness, and encourages the cultivation of positive relationships with other males.  Many thanks to Ms. Armstead and her committee for spearheading this event.

Welcome Ms. Tatum
Come in and see the newest addition to the BWES front office staff.  Jomika Tatum joined the BWES family after Spring Break as a .5 Teachers' Secretary.  Ms. Tatum's smiling face greets students and families each day and we are very happy that she has joined our family.  Welcome, Ms. Tatum!

Family Fitness Night
On the evening of Tuesday, April 25th, BWES families were able to enjoy a family-inspired, 2-hour event that encourages healthy living. Parents and students exercised side by side. Students enjoyed nutritious snacking and a dance party, while parents learn key lunchbox strategies to pack a wholesome and tasty lunch that their children will love.  Many thanks to Mr. Janasek and his committee for their collaboration with FIT to Order, Commit to Be Fit and area businesses to organize and host this event.

Quarter 3 Awards
Students in grades Pre-K to 5 were recognized this past week for their wonderful accomplishments during Quarter 3.  Students were able to earn certificates in several areas:

-Academic Excellence in Reading
-Academic Excellence in Math
-Most Improved Performance in Reading
-Most Improved Performance in Math
-Outstanding Performance in World Language
-Outstanding Performance in Related Arts (Physical Education, Music, Art, Media, Band/Strings)
-Bear Standards Awards were awarded to students who consistently upheld the BWES Bear Standards (BE Safe, BE Respectful, BE Ready to Learn)
-Honor Roll (Students in Grades 3-5)
-Principal's Honor Roll (Students in Grades 3-5)
-Exemplary Attendance (97% attendance rate or better)

Congratulations to all of the students who earned an award and best wishes to students as they strive for excellence during the 4th quarter!

Educationally yours,
Ms. Hough and Ms. Williams-McKinney