Category Archives: Volunteer

Get Involved: Volunteering Opportunities at Bells Mill!

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Bells Mill Elementary is more than just a school—it’s a community, and our volunteers make it shine! Parents can get involved in so many ways, and whether you can give an hour a week or a few hours a year, there’s a place for you.

Open volunteer opportunities this year include:

  • Planning School Community Events
  • Supporting Student Affairs
  • Staff Appreciation
  • Family Engagement
  • Membership & Fundraising Support

    Ready to help? Learn about open opportunities and ways to get involved by filling out the Volunteer Sign Up form; the PTA will reach out to you with more information and next steps soon.… Read Full Post

    Donations Needed for Welcome Back Breakfast—August 21

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    We continue to be extremely grateful for all of our teachers/staff and their commitment to our students and community. The PTA has a few welcome events planned, including a special breakfast for our teachers/staff on Thursday, August 21. We couldn’t do it without all of our amazing parent volunteers; thank you for all your continued support!

    Sign up here to contribute: Link to Signup Genius

    Please drop off your donation between 7:45am – 8:15am at the front door/office.… Read Full Post

    3 Volunteers Needed to Complete our Annual Financial Review

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    Each year, the Bells Mill PTA wraps up the fiscal year with a required financial review. It’s a quick, straightforward process (not an audit!), and you don’t need to be a financial expert to help out.

    We’re looking for three volunteers to join our review committee. The total time commitment is just 1–2 hours and involves reviewing a few documents, like bank statements and the check register, to help us meet the Free State PTA’s guidelines.… Read Full Post

    From the PTA: Wishing you a Wonderful Summer

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    Today we finally wrap up what has felt like a never-ending school year—and what a year it’s been, with the biggest highlight being named a National Blue Ribbon School. From the celebration parade the day it was announced to the Blue Ribbon Bash, it’s a recognition that brought our community together and one our kids will always remember and be proud of. A huge thank you to Dr. Smith and staff for leading us there and to everyone who helped make it such a meaningful celebration this entire year!… Read Full Post

    Field Day – Rescheduled to June 5

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    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

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

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    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.
    … Read Full Post

    Staff Appreciation Week – May 5-9

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    Help us celebrate our amazing BMES staff for their hard work and dedication. See below for daily ways to show your appreciation—not just for teachers, but also for paraeducators, specialists, and support staff.

    Monday – Flower Power: Bring a teacher flowers.
    Tuesday – Giving Thanks: Write a thank-you note sharing what you appreciate.
    Wednesday – Sharing is Caring: Treat or write a note to another staff member (e.g., paraeducators, specialists).
    Thursday – Made with Love: Give a handmade gift.… Read Full Post

    Volunteers Needed for the GeoBowl

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    This year, all students in Grades 3, 4, and 5 are invited to participate in the GeoBowl! The focus of this year’s event is on Africa, Asia, and Europe. Study packets have already been handed out in class.

    We’ve updated the format of the GeoBowl—now, all students will have the chance to participate on the day of the event, with no sign-ups required. While caregivers won’t be able to attend the event, we are looking for two volunteers per grade to help ensure everything runs smoothly.… Read Full Post

    Breakfast with Bears – Tuesday May 13

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    Please join us on the blacktop for breakfast refreshments (donuts, juice, and coffee) before school on Tuesday, May 13 (rain date: Wednesday, May 14). Each Bells Mill student can bring one special person to share the morning with. To ensure we have enough refreshments, please RSVP by Friday, May 9.

    Parent Volunteers Needed: Please consider volunteering for Breakfast with Bears. The event runs from 8:30am to 9:05am, and we will need help before, during, and after to help with food purchases, setup, cleanup, and food distribution.… Read Full Post

    2025-26 BMES PTA Board Candidates

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    The nominating committee proudly presents the 2025–26 BMES PTA officer and delegate candidates. Elections will be held May 6 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: John Sorrenti
    Vice President—Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: 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 Stephens
    Chair- Family Engagement: Lauren Koubek
    Past President: Deb Palisin

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