Bridport Community Newletter

February 1, 2026

Happy February!

This past week was COLD at BCS, and students were so flexible with a snow day, two hour delay and indoor recesses. Bridport students have been principled and kind to one another this week, and we are having so much fun.

This weeks newsletter is filled with important information. Please pay special attention to updates regarding ACSD's new school transfer policy and upcoming events.

I hope everyone had a chance to look through your child's progress report that came home on Friday. Please reach out to your student's classroom teacher with any questions, or concerns.

Stay warm,

Jenny

2/5 6:00- FOBCS Meeting

2/13- Day of Play

2/14- Bridport Community Line Dancing/Movie Night!

We had two students of the week this week! Even though I was at home on Friday, I still got to award Benson and Sawyer for being amazing leaders in our school. Both students are always trying their best, and giving high levels of effort on all assignments. They help their peers and are supportive to all. Go Benson and Sawyer!

Dear Families,

This week, from February 2–6, schools across the country are celebrating National School Counseling Week. This year’s theme is "School Counselors: Amplifying Student Success," and it has me reflecting on how lucky I am to be part of your child’s journey.

Often, people ask what an elementary counselor does. While my day might include everything from tying shoelaces to classroom lessons, my primary goal is simple: to ensure every student feels safe, seen, and supported so they can do their best learning.

How I Am Here to "Amplify" Your Child

In the elementary years, "success" is about more than just grades, it’s about building the foundation for a happy and healthy life. Here is how I work to amplify that success every day:

Building the Toolbox: I visit classrooms to teach Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). We learn about "Kelso's Choices," how to be a "bucket filler," and how to be a good friend and classmate.
Providing a Soft Landing: When a student has a "big feeling" that feels too heavy to carry, my office is a calm space where they can reset and regroup.
Small Group Connections: Through our small groups, I help students practice making friends, sharing, and building their self-esteem.
Partnering with You: I am here to support you, too! Whether it’s navigating a big change at home or finding community resources, we are a team.

A Heartfelt Thank You

"Success is not just about what we achieve, but who we become along the way."

It is truly a joy to watch your children grow in confidence and kindness. Thank you for trusting me to be a part of their lives. Seeing their smiles in the hallways is the best part of my job!

Let’s Connect!

If you ever have questions about your child’s social or emotional well-being, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are in this together!

Warmly,

Amber Bragg

Winter Reading Challenge

K-5 students have recording sheets for our whole school winter reading challenge! We are challenging students to do a combination of reading books and listening to others read to complete the challenge. Students who read or listen to 10 different books, write them on the record sheet and turn them into Ms. Abby will get to pick a prize from the prize bin!

The ACSD Board recently revised Board Policy C30, School Assignment and Intra-District Transfer, to offer more flexibility to ACSD families when choosing an elementary school for their child(ren). If you are interested in having your child attend a different K-5 elementary school, please read more about the policy and the application process here. To apply, use this form or visit your school’s front office or the ACSD District Office for a paper application. The application process begins on January 30th and all applications must be received by March 2nd, 2026.

There will be two information sessions to learn more, ask questions, and get support filling out the application:

Thurs, February 5th: 5:30-6:30pm Virtual Q&A with the Superintendent. Use this Google meet link.

Weds, February 18: 8:30-9:30am: In person Q+A and Application Assistance at the Superintendent's Office (49 Charles Ave, Middlebury)

Our 3rd-4th grade team had their first basketball game at the Bridport gym against Vergennes. Wyatt Carter scored several baskets and intercepted the ball a couple times.

The kids all played great and can't wait to come back to the gym for the next home game on February 11th at 6pm against Vergennes.

2/4 & 2/18 games will be played at Orwell same time 6pm.

I want to give a huge shout out to Linda Barrett for helping us set up and take down. Without her help it wouldn't have gone so smoothly. Also thank you to .....and Mike Carter for getting the scoreboard to work again.

Reminder- hip hop dance will start first week of March.

****update as of 1/29/26

6 Spots left Toddlers

1 Spot left 4years-Kindergarten

6 Spots left 1st-5th

@Bridport Elementary School

Tuesday's: March 3, 10, 17, 24

5:30-6pm Toddlers 2-3years

6-6:30pm 4years-Kindergarten

Fee for the 4 weeks is $30

Thursday's: March 5, 12, 19, 26

6-7pm 1st-5th grade