We have officially settled into the new school year, and it has been a true joy watching our school community come alive over these past few weeks. Our halls are filled with energy, and our students and staff are working together every day to set a positive, welcoming tone for the year ahead.

Focusing on Belonging & Core Values

For the first time, all five elementary schools in our district are uniting around shared monthly themes; and our focus for September is Belonging. Throughout the month, students are reading themed books, participating in group discussions, and exploring what it means to feel connected, valued, and included. Alongside this work, we are practicing what it means to be Inspired and Excellent in every space we share across our building.

Laying the Academic Groundwork

Inside our classrooms, students are digging into early curriculum work. At this point in the year, that means building essential foundational habits: learning how to use math manipulatives, working productively with partners, and co-creating classroom norms. These routines create the structured, supportive environment necessary for deep academic growth as the year progresses.

To ensure we meet every child's needs, our math and literacy specialists have also begun routine beginning-of-year screenings. These standard assessments help us understand each student's strengths and identify areas where extra help may be beneficial. If your child is identified for targeted intervention support, you will receive an email from us soon with more details.

Connection Before Correction

Just like reading and math, learning to navigate challenges, collaborate with others, and communicate respectfully takes practice and patience. We firmly believe children learn and risk trying new things best when they know they are valued and supported, especially when making mistakes.

Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and for sharing your wonderful children with us every day. We are off to a fantastic start, and I look forward to an incredible year of learning together!

Please join us for the HARVEST MARKET PARADE on September 26th! Line up at BRMS at 8:30 AM. Be sure to plan ahead to find parking and get to the line up area by 8:30. Look for the UCS Float and Banner to find us. There will be a table for you to create a UCS color crown. And face painting bobcat paws will also be available.

Parents should plan to stay with their children during the parade. This is especially important for younger children as the Harvest Market is quite busy and the end of the parade can be hectic. Parents should also keep an eye on children on the float for safety. Please note that not all students will fit on the float, though all students will have the opportunity to pass out candy to spectators!

Don't forget to wear your favorite Bobcat Gear or as much GREEN and PURPLE as you can to show your UCS Spirit!

Looking forward to seeing you all there!