BRMS Show

Thursday, April 28, 2016

RES Principal Search

Chittenden East is pleased to announce our Richmond Elementary School Principal Search Committee members. Thank you to all the volunteers. We created a balance of members representing parents, the school board, and various grade levels. 

Committee Members:
Jeanne Adams, RES Administrative Assistant; PK/K: Marion Mumford; 1/2: Kristin Darling; 3/4: Katie LeFrancois ; Unified Arts: Beth Redford; Sp Education: Wendy Touchette; School Board member: Jon Milazzo; Parents: Amanda Repp, Allison Ross; CESU administrator: Barbara Nason, principal at Underhill Central School

Any school district member is welcome to reach out to a committee member so he or she can know your thoughts.  Everyone is also welcome to participate in the second round candidate visits on May 31st at Richmond Elementary School from  7:00 am - 8:00 am and 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm.

Here is the draft timeline and process

Please do not hesitate contact jennifer.botzojorns@cesuvt.org at CESU if you have any ideas, thoughts or questions.

Wednesday, April 27, 2016








April 26, 2013

Dear Teachers, Parents, Families, Students and Community Members,

Mike Berry, Principal at Richmond Elementary School has been selected to serve as the school district Director of Curriculum, Communication and Innovation.  We offer him our congratulations, and appreciate the time he has invested in at Richmond Elementary School.  We are forming a search committee which includes parents, board members, teachers and support staff to find a replacement for his Richmond principal position.  We are looking for individuals who are interested in serving on the search committee.  If you are interested in playing this role, please email Jennifer.Botzojorns@cesuvt.org.  Below please find a tentative timeline for our hiring process. 
  • April 26: Advertisement posted on schoolspring.com
  • April 29: Initial meeting with interview committee to review process (2:30-4PM if people are unable to attend this meeting, there can be individual meetings).
  • April 29-May 19: Committee reviews applications (candidates names kept confidential)
  • May 19: Committee meets to select candidates for first interview (3:30-6 pm)
  • May 26: First round of interviews by committee, select finalists (12:30-5:00 pm). Committee recommends finalists to the superintendent
  • May 31: Second round: full day visit by candidates w/performance task (all day). Final candidates visit and all stakeholders provide feedback for superintendent

Here is a link to a draft of our hiring process, once finalized, we will share a link on our website. Once we reach the second round of the process we will make the finalist candidate’s names and resumes public.  Please mark your calendar:  

May 31, 2016
7-8:00AM & 4:30-5:30PM  
Richmond Principal Candidate Meet and Greet

On the 31st of May, finalists for the principal position will visit Richmond Elementary and all parents, families and community members will have the opportunity to meet, ask questions and then provide input.  We will provide detailed information including resumes for each candidate when we are closer to the actual date.

We have always been appreciative of the interest and support from the school and community in Richmond. During times of transition, one always feels uncertainty, however, we are confident we will find an excellent individual to lead the school community for the years to come.

Please do not hesitate to email (jennifer.botzojorns@cesuvt.org) or call 434-2128 if you have any ideas, thoughts or questions.

Looking forward to your participation in this process, I am.

Sincerely yours,
Jennifer Botzojorns
Assistant Superintendent
Chittenden East Supervisory Union

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Chittenden East Supervisory Union would like to announce the appointment of Mr. Michael Berry to serve as our Director of Curriculum, Communication and Innovation commencing July 1, 2016.  We began the search process in January with 28 initial applicants.  The search committee interviewed five candidates and selected two finalists.  The finalists engaged in a lengthy interview and reference check process including several performance tasks and full day visits to seven schools.  We received feedback from multiple stakeholders including parents, board members, teachers, administrators and students.


Mr. Berry received his bachelor's degree in Children's Literature and Education from Castleton State College.  He served as a classroom teacher for seven years in East Montpelier, then as school principal first at Underhill Central, then Richmond -- for the last nine years.  He received his masters degree from Union Institute and University/Vermont College.  His passions include supporting teachers and children to explore all learning styles, and to use technology to expand the realm of education. He believes that students are natural learners, curious about the world around them.  He lives with his wife and two daughters in Barre, Vermont.


Mr Berry can be followed on twitter @PrincipalBerry or his blog https://principalberry.wordpress.com

Superintendent John Alberghini, “I welcome Mike to his new role on our leadership team.  He brings a breadth and depth of knowledge to our school district.  We look forward to his ability to communicate and integrate technology, and his passion for learning for all including children, scholars, teachers and administrators.” School board chair, Jon Milazzo, “We are extremely excited to welcome Michael Berry as the new Director of Curriculum, Communication and Innovation in CESU.   His educational experience, quality leadership and effective communication background will be an asset to CESU.   The school board looks forward to working with Mike as we serve together to ensure every student receives consistently the same high-quality education in CESU through the implementation of effective systems around curriculum, assessments and instruction.”

Mr Berry shared, “As a member of the MMMUSD-CESU learning community for the past nine years I’m more than grateful and humbled to have the opportunity to continue to work with and learn from our amazing scholars, educators, families and communities.  As the Director of Curriculum, Communication and Innovation my goals will align with helping our learners achieve their dreams.  I will continue the important work of promoting, supporting, and increasing the implementation of innovative approaches in teaching, learning, and leadership throughout our schools.  Finding ways to recognize, celebrate and connect innovative approaches will help to create opportunities for growth and experience for all learners in our schools and beyond.   I am sincerely thankful for the opportunity and look forward to learning together.  Thank you and please feel free to contact me with ideas, celebrations or questions anytime.”


Mountain Bike Club Cancelled

Mountain Bike Club for today is cancelled due to weather conditions.
Today's Baseball/Softball Home Games

BRMS Baseball and Softball BRMS games today at home vs ADL are cancelled.  Our fields are covered in an inch of snow.

Reminder to Current Grade 6 Parents/Guardians

A reminder email was sent out Monday, April 25, regarding Foreign-language options for next school year.  The choices will be considered on a first come first served basis due to the limited number of spaces. When classes fill, students will be placed in the second foreign language class option. The letter should be returned by April 29.  

My Child as A Learner forms are due by May 6, 2016. Completed forms should be returned to Diane Border.


Hello BRMS Parents & Guardians,

This year's Velocity Program will be run again by Jon Berliner and Gregory Martin. This is an all boys (5th-8th grade) BRMS program with a Social Skills Component, as well as fun filled activities.  We will meet from 2:45-4:15 for five sessions on Wednesdays--May 4, 11, 18, 25 and June 1. Our activities will look something like this;
  • May 4 at BRMS: Introduction to Program, Ice Breakers, Community Games, etc. Pick up 4:15pm
  • May 11 at BRMS: Archery (specialist, Katelyn Irwin), all equipment provided.
  • May 18 at BRMS: Bike Maintenance and Ride at Mills River (specialist, TBD).
  • May 25 at BRMS: Healthy Cooking Class (specialist, Chef Horner).
  • June 1:  "Get Air" Field Trip. Bus Trip to Facility & Velocity Party! We will be back to BRMS at 4:30 p.m...*All students receive a Velocity T-shirt!

Registration forms will now be online and must be completed by the student and/or family. Paper copies are available upon request. On the registration it says the cost is $60.00. I have negotiated w/ BCBS and the YMCA to provide this program for a reduced cost to BRMS at $40.00 per student. Here is the registration link. 


Please let me know if you have any questions, concerns or comments. Thanks for your continued support!
~Gregory Martin, 5/6 School Counselor

Summer Camp Programs

Vermont Youth Dancers would like to thank the local community for your enormous support during our show last weekend.  Our dancers were so energized by the enthusiastic response from the full audiences at MMU.   How wonderful!
There is space available in our summer camp programs!  Camps are run by Vermont Youth Dancers Directors, alumni and senior dances, and combine dance with acting and theatre games.  A VYD style show will end our story camps on Friday of camp week. 
Snow White, June 20-24 (9AM-1PM), ages 8 – 11 in the MMU auditorium.  A classic tale told through dance to current music.
Arabian Nights, Aladdin’s Last Wish, June 27-July 1 (9AM-1PM), ages 11+ in the MMU auditorium. Learn choreography from our current show!
Movement/Theatre Acting Skills for Dancers, July 5-8 (9AM-1PM), ages 10+ (or instructor approval) in the MMU Auditorium.  Explore acting, character development and improvisation through theatre based dance exercises.
Choreography Workshop, July 11-15 (9AM-1PM), ages 12+ (or instructor approval) in the MMU Auditorium.  Explore elements of choreography and music to create your own original work!
There is very limited space available in camps for our younger dancers.  Please email VYD atvermontyouthdancers@gmail.com for more information and registration for all camp programs!

Monday, April 25, 2016

Whole School, Whole Child, Whole Community


Screenshot 2015-08-11 at 5.03.19 PM.pngScreenshot 2016-04-06 at 9.06.42 AM.png

Whole School, Whole Child, Whole Community (WSCC)
Team Meeting
Chittenden East Supervisory Union

Thursday April 28th
4pm - 6pm
Camel’s Hump Middle School

We envision a community for our children to grow into a thriving adult world.  Our purpose is to gather a diverse group of individuals committed to growing healthy children.  

Topics to explore:What does our data tell us about trends from the past 10 years? Come join us to elaborate on our strengths and areas to grow in health education, physical education and physical activity, nutrition and environment services, health services, social and emotional climate, counselling, psychological and social services, physical environment, employee wellness, family engagement, community involvement

WSCC Community Team meets 3 times a year.  Join this important meeting and provide broad insight needed for services for our children and their future. Questions?  Call or email Jen Botzojorns 434-2128; jennifer.botzojorns@cesuvt.org

******      Letter of Introduction      ******      Meeting Agenda      ******

Sunday, April 24, 2016

Internet Safety Night for Parents


Internet Safety Presentation
For Parents and Guardians

Wednesday, May 11, 2016
7:00 p.m., following the monthly BRAG meeting
In the BRMS library

Presented by C.U.S.I. (Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations)
Sponsored by BRAG and BRMS Administration

Please come and learn about what you can do to help keep your children safe when accessing the
internet in today’s ever-changing technology savvy world

Thursday, April 14, 2016


Hello BRMS Parents & Guardians,

This year's Velocity Program will be run again by Jon Berliner and Gregory Martin. This is an all boys (5th-8th grade) BRMS program with a Social Skills Component, as well as fun filled activities.  We will meet from 2:45-4:15 for five sessions on Wednesdays--May 4, 11, 18, 25 and June 1. Our activities will look something like this;
  • May 4 at BRMS: Introduction to Program, Ice Breakers, Community Games, etc. Pick up 4:15pm
  • May 11 at BRMS: Archery (specialist, Katelyn Irwin), all equipment provided.
  • May 18 at BRMS: Bike Maintenance and Ride at Mills River (specialist, TBD).
  • May 25 at BRMS: Healthy Cooking Class (specialist, Chef Horner).
  • June 1:  "Get Air" Field Trip. Bus Trip to Facility & Velocity Party! We will be back to BRMS at 4:30 p.m...*All students receive a Velocity T-shirt!

Registration forms will now be online and must be completed by the student and/or family. Paper copies are available upon request. On the registration it says the cost is $60.00. I have negotiated w/ BCBS and the YMCA to provide this program for a reduced cost to BRMS at $40.00 per student. Here is the registration link. 


Please let me know if you have any questions, concerns or comments. Thanks for your continued support!
~Gregory Martin, 5/6 School Counselor



Last Chance to Order a Yearbook

Order your 64-page softbound color yearbook featuring photo memories of 2015-2016 BRMS school year.
The Final Yearbook Sale due before or on April 15. Cost: Now $30.00

Please make checks payable to BRMS and put in a sealed envelope with student’s name, CPR Teacher and yearbook order written on the front. Turn your envelopes in to Mrs. Border in the Guidance Office before or on Friday, April 15. You will receive a receipt for your order from Mrs. Border within a week.  If you don’t get your receipt, please contact her at diane.border@cesuvt.org to make sure your order has been placed.


Wednesday, April 13, 2016




Are you an adoptive parent or family member other than a biological parent who is the primary caretaker of a CESU or CCSU student?

If so, you are not alone!

Who: Adoptive parents, grandparents, and caregivers other than biological parents who are the primary caretaker of a CESU or CCSU student

What: An opportunity to share resources, information, and support with other families who may have similar experiences and challenges

When:  Wednesday, April 27, 5:00–6:00 PM
*There will be childcare available for those participating in the group.

Where: Browns River Middle School, Guidance Classroom, 20 River Rd, Jericho

Participation in this group is free and we encourage you to spread the word and invite others to this group who may wish to participate.
  
It is helpful to RSVP so that we can set up to accommodate the group size. 

To RSVP or you have questions about the group, you can contact Ellen Arrowsmith, School Social Worker, at 802-338-1676 or ellen.arrowsmith@cesuvt.org.

Monday, April 11, 2016

Delayed Start on April 13th, 2016


Please remember that Wednesday April 13th is a delayed start day.   All buses will be picking up students 2 hours later than normal times.  Please contact Kevin Hamilton if you need early morning coverage for your child.  The school will be open at 9:30 a.m.

Friday, April 8, 2016

Hello BRMS Parents & Guardians,

This year's Velocity Program will be run again by Jon Berliner and Gregory Martin. This is an all boys (5th-8th grade) BRMS program with a Social Skills Component, as well as fun filled activities.  We will meet from 2:45-4:15 for five sessions on Wednesdays--May 4, 11, 18, 25 and June 1. Our activities will look something like this;
  • May 4 at BRMS: Introduction to Program, Ice Breakers, Community Games, etc. Pick up 4:15pm
  • May 11 at BRMS: Archery (specialist, Katelyn Irwin), all equipment provided.
  • May 18 at BRMS: Bike Maintenance and Ride at Mills River (specialist, TBD).
  • May 25 at BRMS: Healthy Cooking Class (specialist, Chef Horner).
  • June 1:  "Get Air" Field Trip. Bus Trip to Facility & Velocity Party! We will be back to BRMS at 4:30 p.m...*All students receive a Velocity T-shirt!

Registration forms will now be online and must be completed by the student and/or family. Paper copies are available upon request. On the registration it says the cost is $60.00. I have negotiated w/ BCBS and the YMCA to provide this program for a reduced cost to BRMS at $40.00 per student. Here is the registration link. 


Please let me know if you have any questions, concerns or comments. Thanks for your continued support!
~Gregory Martin, 5/6 School Counselor

Last Chance to Order a Yearbook

Order your 64-page softbound color yearbook featuring photo memories of 2015-2016 BRMS school year.
The Final Yearbook Sale due before or on April 15. Cost: Now $30.00

Please make checks payable to BRMS and put in a sealed envelope with student’s name, CPR Teacher and yearbook order written on the front. Turn your envelopes in to Mrs. Border in the Guidance Office before or on Friday, April 15. You will receive a receipt for your order from Mrs. Border within a week.  If you don’t get your receipt, please contact her at diane.border@cesuvt.org to make sure your order has been placed.

Chittenden East Youth Football

Creating Future Leaders!  The Chittenden East Wolverines remind you that the fall football season signs-ups are in May and will be held at the Jericho Elementary School on Tuesday, May 17, from 6-8 p.m. and Camels Hump Middle School on Wednesday, May 18, from 6-8 p.m.  Kids from grades 2 through 8 are welcome to register and be a Wolverine for the 2016 season!  Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player with crazy skills WE WANT YOU!  CEYFA Football is run by friendly, USA Football Certified, skilled coaches to provide a fun and safe experience for everyone while providing an excellent environment for team building. 

Can't wait till May?  Well, you don't have to wait to sign up! Visit our website at http://ceyfawolverines.wix.com/ceyfa to learn more and download a sign-up form and simply mail it in following the instructions on the form, or you may contact the league President at john.gay@casella.com. Visit facebook.com/ceyfawolverines and “like us” to keep up-to-date with your exciting Wolverine Action!

Thursday, April 7, 2016

5th/6th Grade Student Party

5th and 6th Grade Students & Parents/Guardians

You’re invited to a 5th /6th grade Student Party sponsored by B.R.A.G.
Friday, April 15, 2016
2:45–4:30 p.m.

STUDENT COST:  There is a $5.00 admission which covers all costs including the SuperSounds DJ, dancing, games, activities, and food.  Please contact your teacher or Greg Martin if you need financial assistance.

PERMISSION:  Parents/Guardians must sign the slip below.  Students need to return the slip and money to Mrs. Border in the Guidance Center ASAP After April 13, students will need to see Mr. Hamilton for permission to attend.  If your child turns in a permission slip but is unable to attend the party (doesn’t feel well, changes his/her mind), please contact the school to let us know. Attendance is taken.

ACTIVITIES (all activities are included in the price of admission):
  • Music and dancing by SuperSounds!
  • Guessing Games!
  • Fun surprises!
  • Munchies and Treats!
  • Face Painting!

PARENTS/GUARDIAN INFORMATION:
  • Student Pick Up:  4:30 p.m. sharp!!!  All students will be dismissed at 4:30 p.m. through the front doors and may be picked up outside.  Prior to dismissal they will be in the cafĂ© & gym.
  • Volunteers:  There are many ways to help. The party is a lot of fun! We need help with games, set up, donating baked goods, overseeing the food table, and clean up.  We also need more chaperones!  

To join the fun or if there are questions, please contact Julie at (ejstriddell@msn.com

ALL PARENTS/GUARDIANS ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US.  HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!


Click on this link for Permission Slip:  

Monday, April 4, 2016

*BRMS Spirit Week!!!*  
April 11-15


*Monday ~ Casual Clothes Day!  -- come to school in your “comfy” clothes... sweatpants, leisure suits, work out attire,  no pjs please!  

*Tuesday ~ Twin Day! --dress alike with a friend or 2 or 3...

*Wednesday ~ Dress Up Day!  -- wear some of your ‘best’...dresses, skirts, khakis, shirts with buttons, ties...

*Thursday ~ Each grade is assigned a different color to wear!  The grade with the highest percentage of participants will have ice cream at lunch on Friday!  (Thank you Mr. Hamilton!)
  • 8th Grade-- Black
  • 7th Grade-- Orange or Yellow
  • 6th Grade-- Brown
  • 5th Grade-- Tye Dye


*Friday ~ Show your *BRMS SPIRIT and wear as much RED and WHITE as  possible!