Bells Mill Elementary School PTA

Chromebooks for students without access to a laptop or computer at home will be eligible to check out a Chromebook from Bells Mill ES to use for online learning during the school closure.  You do NOT need a school issued Chromebook to access the distance learning curriculum – students can access via any internet enabled computer at home.  Additional instructions will follow.

Please drive through the parent drop off area and have your child’s ID number clearly written on white paper so that it can be read by a staff member through the window. … Read Full Post

Governor Hogan today issued an extended school closure through April 24th for all Maryland public schools.  All extracurricular activities, athletics and other community use activities are also canceled through April 24th. 

It is expected that the first phase of online learning will launch on March 30th.  Please ensure you pick up Chromebooks as needed (See prior post for BMES instructions) and keep an eye on your inbox for further instructions for parents and students.  

Please note that with this additional extended closure, MCPS has adjusted the spring break calendar. … Read Full Post

Please see the attached flyer for High Speed Internet by Comcast for those who are eligible.  This will provide 2 months of free high-speed internet with promotional pricing thereafter.

Amidst the tectonic shifts occurring in our daily lives, we must not forget to celebrate when we can.  You may recall a few months back, many BMES students participated in the annual PTA Reflections Program.  We are proud to announce that three of our students have been recognized at the state level and two are moving onto adjudication at the National Level.  Please see the honorees below.

MD PTA Outstanding Interpretation of Theme (moving onto National adjudication)

Film Production – Intermediate
Opal Siegal, Bells Mill ES (If You Look Within a Book)

Photography – Intermediate
Jemmie Pollack, Bells Mill ES (Decomposition Position)

MD PTA Award of Excellence

Music Composition – Intermediate
Opal Siegal, Bells Mill ES (Within Myself)

MD PTA Award of Merit

Photography – Intermediate
Riley Cypes, Bells Mill ES (BE-YOU-TIFUL)

We are so proud of our Bells Mill students! … Read Full Post

We are sharing the following information that was distributed by the school. Please consult the MCPS website for the latest information.

School Closures

All MCPS schools will be closed starting March 16 until March 27. Please visit www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org  and https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/coronavirus/ to stay up-to-date on the latest information.

Instructional Resources

To access online and printable materials, please use the following directions:

• https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/contingency
• Select the appropriate grade level button
• Your child can click the Join Here button to enroll in the course.

We know it’s challenging to keep kids learning and entertained while at home. We’ve been sharing resources on our PTA Facebook page . Share your creative ideas with us too!

If any teachers have ideas to post or want to share a *short* video, please message us via Facebook or email us at communications@bellsmill.org.

Wear your Bells Mill spirit wear or school colors (blue/white) and share your pictures on our Facebook page, text your friends, or show it off during a Facetime or Google Hangout with friends! Remember you’re always a Bells Mill Bear!

In times of uncertainty there are lots of ways – big and small – that we can help each other! Check on your neighbors, call a friend, and be kind to each other. Here are some ideas:

• Support local businesses! Over the years so many of the local restaurants have helped us through donations and restaurant nights. Now, they need our support as they face very tough times! Consider placing carry-out, delivery, or curbside delivery from our local restaurants, including Potomac Pizza, California Tortilla, Tally Ho, Baskin Robbins, Gregario’s, Lahinch, Moby Dick, Shake Shack, Carmen’s, and others.

We have had to postpone several events, including the talent shows, DIY workshop/parent social, and restaurant nights due to school closures. We are also working to reschedule international night. More information to come as we know more.

The PTA has decided to postpone our spring talent shows (3/13 and 3/20). This decision was not made lightly and we feel this is in the best interest of our entire Bells Mill community.

To the students and volunteers, know that we are sorry and we understand how much time and effort it takes to prepare for this event. We know how deeply disappointing this is for all of the children.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we all navigate this uncertain time.… Read Full Post