12.13.18

Dear Bedford Families ~

This  month’s update is getting out a little later than I had planned, but it comes with some information that is timely, I believe.  Also - we have one more full week until Holiday Recess. I know this can be a stressful time of year (but also a celebratory one).  I wish you and yours a very happy holiday season. Some time to rest, relax and reflect is what I am looking forward to as I prepare for 2019.  Thank you for being part of a community where we work to get better each and every day. Below are this month’s updates:

Monthly SAU Updates

Do you have neighbors or friends who are interested in receiving the SAU monthly update? If so, they can email Sandy Willey (willeys@sau25.net) or call the SAU at 472-3755 to be added to the list.  Once added, they will receive monthly updates.

BHS Graduation

Mark your calendars!  We have set the Bedford High School Graduation date for Saturday, June 8, 2019.  Details will follow from the BHS Administration.

BHS/RAL Late Bus

Given the recent reductions made to the FY20 budget (late buses), we will NOT be offering a late bus for RAL/BHS this year.  With that said, we will continue to explore options for students who stay late at school.

Budget Development

The School Board and administration are continuing to develop the FY20 budget.  Monday, December 17th is our last Budget Development Session. We are looking to get to a final number that evening.  Click HERE for additional budget dates.

Bus Drivers WANTED!

Bedford is seeking individuals who would like to earn some extra cash driving students to and from school.  This can be in the form of a BIG bus or driving smaller numbers of students in smaller buses. $1500 signing bonus.  Click HERE to learn more.

Social Media: A Predator’s Playground

Available on the Bedford Community TV YouTube Channel.  The topic is of a sensitive nature and viewer discretion is advised.  Suggested student viewing should be 7th grade and above depending on parent comfort. Social Media: A Predators Playground with Bedford Police Detective Matt Fleming.

Youth Risk Behavior Survey

The CDC is again asking 9-12 school districts to administer the YRBS.  While this survey does ask sensitive questions, it does give our community a sense of what the challenges are among our students and areas to focus.  More information will be coming from BHS directly. Click HERE for the results from the 2017 administration.

Sexual Abuse and Reporting

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Megan Oliviero from the Granite State Children’s Alliance.  She has been speaking at each of our schools in an effort to provide education and awareness to our teachers on sexual abuse and reporting.  Thank you, Megan.

Thanksgiving Message - November 20, 2018

Dear Bedford Community ~

As I reflect on these past few months, I am thankful for everyone who comes together to form our community.  Whether it be what is common among us or the topics that bring a divergence of perspective, it is paramount that we look to what is most important for the children of Bedford.  I believe we do just that.

As we enter into this Thanksgiving season, please know that the Bedford School District is thankful for each of you - students, teachers, parents, and community members.  I am able to say this because the Bedford School District is YOU.

I wish each of you safe travels and some much needed respite as we head off to Thanksgiving Break.
Enjoy your time with family and friends.  I look forward to the students returning on 11/26.

Mike

Message from the Superintendent - November 7, 2018

Dear Bedford Families ~

I hope this monthly updates finds you well. For the 11,055 ballots that were cast, it was clear that the BHS complex was a busy place! While many of you were casting your votes, Bedford teachers were participating in our 3rd annual “Future Ready Conference.”  This professional development day provided teachers with hundreds of learning opportunities in the areas of technology integration, special education, education law, student voice, and a myriad of other workshops designed to increase student engagement. A HUGE thank you to our Tech Team and Director of Technology, Terry Bullard for coordinating this event!

Snow Days

I know.  I have already been working with the Department of Public Works, Goffstown Truck, and the Bedford Police Department.  The district will continue to use Phone, email, and text as our primary communication tool. We also post on Facebook, our website and various news outlets.  

Snow Day Questionnaire - ACTION ITEM

Please take THIS survey.  There is only ONE question.

NO SCHOOL

Just a reminder that there is NO SCHOOL on:

November 12th - Veterans Day Observance

November 21st - 23rd - Thanksgiving Recess

School District Dialog 6pm t0 7pm

November 7th - Bedford Library, Richmond Room

January 22nd - Bedford Library, Richmond Room

March 18th - Bedford Library, Richmond Room

Late Bus Recommendations (Grades 7-12)

A BIG thank you to families who provided feedback on where our 7-12 late bus might drop off students.  We are in the process of developing a plan. This plan will be presented to the School Board and community once complete.  Click HERE to see the feedback we received.

Budget Development Sessions

The Bedford School District is currently in the process of developing its budget for FY20.  Click HERE to see a full timeline of the process.

Governor’s Round Table on Bullying

On October 29th, Hannah Guillemette (IGYB, I’ve Got Your Back) invited me to join her at a round table discussion with Chris Sununu regarding Bullying in our schools.  This 90 minute dialog was the first of ongoing discussions at the state level. Thanks to Hannah’s invitation, I was able to share what Bedford is doing and continue to do in an effort to reduce/eliminate bullying in our schools.  Click HERE to see a picture of Max Lubelczyk, me, Raiden Ferreira, & Hannah.

From the Bedford PTG

BEDFORD PTG SKI, SKATE, & MORE SALE!

Save​ ​​on​ ​new​ ​and​ ​used​ ​winter​ ​sports​ ​equipment​ ​&​ ​apparel! Our annual SKI, SKATE and MORE SALE will take place on Saturday, November 17, 2018 from 9AM - 2PM at Bedford High School. Whether you are in the market for ski equipment, snowboards, hockey gear, or winter outerwear, this sale provides a cost-effective opportunity to outfit you and your family for the upcoming winter season!

Sell your gear and clothing: Visit PTG Website  for consignment information. You can drop off your pre-tagged items at the BHS Gymnasium on Friday, November 16, 2018 between 5PM – 8PM.  Please note: IF YOU NEED TO PRINT YOUR TAGS ON SITE AT BHS DURING EQUIPMENT DROP OFF THERE WILL BE A $1.00 CHARGE PER TAG.

Volunteer: Many volunteers are needed to make this event a success. Click  HERE  to get involved.

Bake Sale: Interested in donated an item (homemade or store bought) for the Bake Sale, click HERE

CARDIGAN CORNER at SKI, SKATE and MORE SALE! New this year the PTG is excited to offer Cardigan Corner at the Ski, Skate and More Sale. For families whose kids have conquered Lurgio’s Mt. Cardigan  experience as part of the RAL 8th grade environmental unit of study and have gear to consign, or for those looking for a good deal on quality used items for the upcoming adventure…Cardigan Corner is for you!

In Previous News…

Bus Stops

Just a friendly reminder that when students are waiting for their buses in the AM, they should stand back from the road.  It has been reported that some students are sitting directly on the road when waiting. This makes it very difficult for drivers to see students.  A reminder and/or neighborhood supervision will help keep everyone safe.

Have a great week!

Mike