Author Archives: BMES PTA

Breakfast with Bears – Tuesday May 12

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Come join us on the blacktop for light breakfast refreshments (donuts, juice, and coffee) before school on May 12 from 8:30 to 9:05am (rain date: May 13). Each Bells Mill Bear can bring one special person to share the morning with. To ensure we have enough refreshments, please RSVP by Friday, May 8. Breakfast with Bears

Volunteers Needed: We are looking for volunteers to help with coordinating food purchases, set up, clean up, and food distribution.… Read Full Post

2026-2027 BMES PTA Board Candidates

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The nominating committee proudly presents the 2026–27 BMES PTA officer and delegate candidates. Elections will be held Tuesday, May 5 at 6:30 PM in the APR.

President: Amanda Klueger
Treasurer: Lis Patterson
Secretary: Erin Penfold
Vice President—Membership & Fundraising: Shara Reiter
Vice President—Community Events: Jenna Cooper
Vice President—Communications & Family Engagement: Natalie Malloy
Vice President—Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Community: Zina Siegal
MCCPTA Delegates: Nathalie Babou and Adam D’Angelo

Other Board Members (non-elected by PTA Members)
Chair- Membership and Fundraising: Danielle Somers
Chair- Community Events: Claire Andrews
Chair- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Community: OPEN
Chair- Family Engagement: Lauren Koubek
Past President: Deb Palisin

We are currently seeking a Chair for DEI & Community.… Read Full Post

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our PTA Volunteers

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To our incredible PTA volunteers,

This Volunteer Appreciation Week, I want to extend my deepest thanks to each of you who give your time, energy, and heart to the Bells Mill community. From our dedicated Board members to our committee and activity chairs, your leadership and commitment make everything we do possible. Whether you’re organizing events, wrangling kids before enrichment, writing the Bear Post each week, or working to fundraise for our amazing PTA, your impact is felt every single day.… Read Full Post

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Celebrating Our Community at the BMES International Festival

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Thank you to all of our Bells Mill families who joined us for last Friday evening’s International Festival! With over 400 attendees and 26 countries represented, the event was a vibrant celebration of the rich diversity within our community. We are especially grateful to the families who hosted tables—sharing food, traditions, and culture made the evening truly special. It was a wonderful night of connection, learning, and fun for all!

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Changes to the 2026-2027 School Year Calendar

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Due to a Maryland State Board of Education requirement that public school systems end their school years by June 18, 2027, the Board of Education will need to amend the school calendar. Potential options for changes are:

  • Start the school year earlier on August 17
  • Shorten Winter and/or Spring Break
  • Identify days of religious observance as inclement weather makeup days

The Maryland State Board of Education is requiring public school systems to end their school years by June 18, 2027.… Read Full Post

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Community Corner

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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.

The Great African Market Experience (The G.A.M.E.) is back on May 3rd! The G.A.M.E. is a a full day, free event that’s designed for the broader community to experience African culture in a fun, engaging, and welcoming way.… Read Full Post

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Bells Mill International Festival is Tomorrow!

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The BMES International Festival returns tomorrow, April 17, with doors opening at 6pm. The PTA is so excited to celebrate the incredible cultures that make up our school community. This beloved event will feature colorful displays, performances, and delicious food from around the world. All Bells Mill families are encouraged and welcome to attend, especially those who have never experienced the celebration in past years.

At Bells Mill, we are proud to foster an environment that values inclusivity, respect, and appreciation for different backgrounds and traditions.… Read Full Post