From the PTA: Blue Ribbon Bash is Tonight!

We’re just a few hours away from tonight’s Blue Ribbon Bash, and we can’t wait to see you there for an evening of fun, friends, and festivities from 5:30pm to 8:00pm. Admission is FREE and we encourage you to wear your best BLUE and bring your school spirit!

Important Reminders

  • This event is for Bells Mill families only and not a drop-off event
  • Donations are welcome and will support the Blue Ribbon Bash
  • If you didn’t order pizza ahead of the event, there will be hot dog trucks onsite from Catalyst and Fred’s, along with ice cream trucks, single-slice pizza, and concession stands, all for purchase.
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Field Day – Rescheduled to June 5

Due to forecasted inclement weather and current field conditions, Field Day is CANCELLED for tomorrow, May 30. We will be using our Field Day rain date, which is next week, Thursday, June 5.

If you were a volunteer who signed up for the initial Field Day, please check for an email sent yesterday (5/28/25) for next steps on confirming if you are available to volunteer for our Field Day rain date. A new Eventbrite sign-up link will be sent out Friday, May 30 at 4:15 pm to fill any remaining volunteer slots.… Read Full Post

GeoBowl is Coming for Grades 3–5!

The PTA is bringing back the GeoBowl—a high-energy, all-inclusive geography adventure for students in Grades 3, 4, and 5 during the week of June 2!

This year’s spotlight is on Africa, Asia, and Europe, and every student gets to join the fun (yep, it’s happening during the school day!). Each grade will have its own exciting event, complete with a live scoreboard to cheer on top contenders in real time.

Want to level up your geo-skills?… Read Full Post

Community Corner

Each week in Bear Post, we will share information from other schools in the cluster or community events that provide opportunities to connect and help each other. If you have anything you would like to add, email communications@bellsmill.org. While these are not sponsored or endorsed by the BMES PTA, we’re happy to help share information as appropriate.

Free Workshop – Preview of Intro to AI & Coding Summer Class: Bluejay is offering an in-person summer class on introductory AI and coding, designed for students in grades 3 to 5 and taught by computer science professor Dr.… Read Full Post

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From the PTA: Blue Ribbon Bash – Let’s Celebrate in Style!

We’re turning the Bash BLUE this year to celebrate an incredible achievement—Bells Mill is officially a 2024 Blue Ribbon School! Join us for an evening of fun, friends, and festivities next Thursday, May 29 from 5:30pm to 8:00pm.

To celebrate this huge honor, admission is FREE! Just be sure to wear your best BLUE and bring your school spirit!

Here’s what’s in store:

  • Bounce houses
  • DJ dance party
  • Photobooth
  • Cotton Candy
  • Pizza (pre-order only)
  • Hot dog truck (purchase on-site)
  • Ice cream truck (purchase on-site)
  • Concessions (cash only)

Important Details:

  • Wristbands and a signed waiver are required for all children under 17: Link to Waiver
  • We still need a few more volunteers to help with setup and cleanup.
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Wrapping up with Gratitude from the PTA

As we head into the final stretch, a big THANK YOU for two awesome events!

Spring Breakfast with Bears was a sweet success—over 300 donuts served! Huge thanks to Anna Wilkes Brown, Virginia Runko, and all our amazing volunteers.

Restaurant Night at California Tortilla raised $180, bringing our total to $990 this year! Thanks to everyone who supported us, and shoutout to Danielle Somers and Belinda Tan for organizing. Stay tuned for returning favorites and new spots next year!

Middle School English Language Arts Input Needed

Nearly half of MCPS middle schoolers aren’t reading at grade level. With the StudySync contract ending this year, the Board of Education is set to vote May 22 on a new ELA program—CKLA, already used in elementary schools. CKLA offers strong ELA instruction, novel studies, supports for ESOL students, parent transparency, and great value—making it an ideal next step for middle school.

Please email the Board of Education to share your support and your experiences with CKLA as a current or future middle school parent.… Read Full Post

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Community Corner

Each week in Bear Post, we will share information from other schools in the cluster or community events that provide opportunities to connect and help each other. If you have anything you would like to add, email communications@bellsmill.org. While these are not sponsored or endorsed by the BMES PTA, we’re happy to help share information as appropriate.

Spring/Summer Academic Support and Creative Enrichment Classes: Regardless of how qualified you are, as Mom and Dad it is infinitely harder to support your own child academically.… Read Full Post

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Breakfast with Bears Tomorrow!

The rescheduled Breakfast with Bears is tomorrow Tuesday, May 20. Please join us on the blacktop starting at 8:30am for morning refreshments. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning!

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Order Your Blue Ribbon T-Shirt by Sunday, May 18

We are so proud that Bells Mill was recognized as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the US Department of Education. For a limited time only, purchase a commemorative Bells Mill Blue Ribbon t-shirt! These t-shirts, designed by our very own Mrs. Grey, are available for purchase through Sunday, May 18, and all proceeds go towards the 2025 Blue Ribbon Bash celebration on May 29! T-shirts will arrive around May 29.

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