Embedded Files
July 24, 2025
This is a weekly publication for Baker-Butler families. Each week's edition is published on the Home page. Previous editions are linked and titled by date.
From the Bear Cave:
From the Bear Cave:
a cozy, behind-the-scenes peek into school life with reflections and updates from Principal McCullen.
I’m thrilled to introduce our amazing administrative team as we begin this new school year together! I’ve had the pleasure of joining this community as your new principal, and I’m excited to work alongside returning Assistant Principal, Tonya Cook Carter and our new Assistant Principal, Shay Carter-Shifflett. Ms. Carter is already a trusted and valued leader, known for building strong, positive relationships with students, families, and staff. Ms. Carter-Shifflett and I each bring diverse experiences in teaching and school leadership, and we are both eager to learn from and with this incredible community. As a team, we share a passion for joyful learning, a deep commitment to
Learning in the Den - New Math Curriculum
Learning in the Den - New Math Curriculum
Spotlights grade-level or class highlights, photos, or blurbs from teachers showcasing recent projects, field trips, or student work.
We’re excited to share that this year, our K-5 students will be using a new math curriculum called Kiddom VA—a program thoughtfully designed for Virginia schools and fully aligned with the 2023 Virginia Mathematics Standards of Learning (SOLs).
Kiddom VA is built on the trusted Illustrative Mathematics (IM) curriculum, a high-quality, research-based program known for encouraging deep understanding and meaningful engagement with math. It has received top ratings from EdReports, an independent curriculum review organization and is apporved by the Virginia Board of Education.
What Makes Kiddom VA Unique?
What Makes Kiddom VA Unique?
Aligned with Virginia Standards: Kiddom VA ensures that students are learning exactly what they need to meet state expectations at each grade level.
Low Floor, High Ceiling Approach: Lesson content is structured to be accessible for all students, even those with gaps in prerequisite skills, while also providing challenges for advanced learners.
What to Expect This Year
Students will engage in rich math discussions, collaborative problem-solving, and activities that deepen their conceptual understanding—not just memorizing steps or procedures. You may notice new types of math tasks coming home that reflect this approach.
We’re excited about the opportunities Kiddom VA brings to our classrooms and will continue to share updates throughout the year. Our goal is to build confident, curious, and capable mathematicians—and we look forward to partnering with you along the way!
It Bears Repeating...
It Bears Repeating...
Reminders about routines and procedures.
The PowerSchool Parent Portal allows parents and guardians with accounts to view different types of student information as it is entered into the student information system.
In the elementary grades, parents/guardians with accounts can view attendance, bus information, quarterly report cards, teachers, and lunch balances. The Portal will be updated with class assignments (teacher names) for this school year on August 8th at 4:30PM.
If you already have a PowerSchool Parent Portal account, your login is unchanged. For new families or anyone who has not already set up an account, you'll need the "Access Key" to create an account. The key, or password, was included in the 2025-26 packet you should have received via US Mail. Click here to log in or to set up an account.
New to Parent Portal or need a refresher? Visit the For Families page on the ACPS website: https://www.k12albemarle.org/for-families. Click on the PowerSchool logo for links to Quick Start Videos & Guide
Upcoming Dates & Events
Upcoming Dates & Events
Mark Your Calendar
Wednesday, August 6th - 5:00-5:30 pm - Welcome Gathering and Popsicles for Preschool and Kindergarten students and their families - Meet at the front of the school.
Wednesday, August 6th - 5:30-6:30 pm - 1st-5th grade students and families - Join us on the playground for popsicles and play with the Principal and Assistant Principals.
Friday, August 8th - Parent Portal opens with classroom teacher assignments as well as bus information available.
Monday, August 11th - Open House
Last names A - G from 12:00 pm to 12:45 pm
Last names H - P from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm
Last names Q - Z from 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm
Wednesday, August 13th - First Day of School
Student arrival is between 7:45 am and 7:55 am
Dismissal begins at 2:25 pm
Community Events
Community Events
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