Bells Mill International Festival is Tomorrow!

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

Yearbooks- Purchase by May 6 & Last Chance to Submit Photos by April 20

The 2025–2026 Bells Mill Elementary School yearbook is now available for purchase. From classroom activities to special events, the yearbook captures all the moments that make this school year so memorable. It’s a wonderful keepsake for students to look back on for years to come.

Cost: $35, with an optional $6 customization add-on.
Order Deadline: May 6
Order and submit photos here: https://shop.yearbookmarket.com/bellsmillelementary

Invitation to Join the BMES PTA Board for the 2026-2027 School Year

The PTA is already planning for the 2026-2027 school year and we have a PTA Board position to fill. While we have several current Board members who will be running for re-election, we are looking for a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Community Committee Chair. While each Board member has a particular focus, we work together with school leadership to support Bells Mill students. If you are interested in helping support learning opportunities and build community, please consider joining us!… Read Full Post

Get Ready for Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week – May 4-8

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is May 4–8, and the Bells Mill  PTA is excited to celebrate the incredible teachers and staff who make Bells Mill such a special place for our children each day. Throughout the week, we will be treating the BMES staff to breakfast, lunch, and other surprises to show our gratitude for all they do.

We would love your help in making this week extra special. Please consider signing up to donate breakfast items, candy for the candy bar, volunteer your time, or make a contribution to support the celebration. … Read Full Post

Maryland Legislature Passes Phone-Free Schools Act

On April 11, 2026, the Maryland legislature passed House Bill 525, the Joanne C. Benson Maryland Phone Free Schools Act. The bill mandates that all Maryland school districts create a policy that prohibits the use of “electronic communication devices” (including cell phones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds) during the entire instructional school day, for K-12, with only limited exceptions relating to disabilities, medical needs, and caregiver duties. The bill now awaits the Governor’s signature, and takes effect on June 1, 2026.… Read Full Post

Posted in PTA

Churchill Cluster Carnival and Color Run — April 25

The Churchill Community is hosting its 2026 Color Run & Carnival on Saturday, April 25 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Winston Churchill High School. The event brings together students, families, alumni, and neighbors for a day of fun featuring a non-competitive color run, carnival games, inflatable rides, performances, crafts, and a petting zoo. Organizers are also inviting student clubs and teams to host fundraising booths, while volunteers from the school and community are encouraged to help support the event.… 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.

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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Fundraiser at California Tortilla TOMORROW

Support Bells Mill Elementary School tomorrow, April 15th from 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM at California Tortilla!

Dine in, take out, or order online. 25% of all sales will be donated back to BMES.

How to participate:

  • Order in-store or online (pickup, curbside, or delivery from the Potomac location)
  • When ordering online, scroll to “Spirit Night” and add the avocado item (it’s $0!)
  • If ordering in-store, just mention the fundraiser at checkout

Every taco counts! Thank you for supporting our school community!… Read Full Post

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Welcome Back!

We hope you all had a wonderful spring break and found time to rest, reconnect with friends and family, travel, or simply enjoy whatever made the break meaningful for you. Now that we’re back, please mark your calendars for the many exciting events we have planned in the coming months.

Posted in PTA