Weekly Administrative Update
Class of 2025 Graduation Photo
Administrative Newsletter - September 26 - October 3, 2025
A few words from Principal Rico
Hello Everyone,
As the temperatures get cooler and the morning gets darker, it is sometimes a struggle to rise and shine. I want to let all of our students know that I appreciate the effort it may take to get to school on time and maintain good attendance. Attending school regularly is directly linked to student success both academically and socially. Attendance is a strong work habit that we want to build and support for all students because it is so pivotal to success in school and out in the world of college and work.
Please reach out if support is needed with attendance as we have incredible staff members that can support.
Polly Rico
September 2025 Math Students of the Month
Congratulations, September 2025 Math Students of the Month!
(Pictured L to R and top to bottom.) Congratulations to Cassie Bombardier, Alexandrea Gorman, Alex Longe, Adam Kavanaugh, Alexandria Dagesse, Parker Meyers, Celia Woods, Grady Boyle, Megan Jennette, and Marie DeSorgher!
September 2025 Visual Art Students of the Month
Congratulations Parker Eveleth, Shakia Ludlam, and Sol Perez!
St. Albans Messenger Athlete of the Week Riley Tatro
Congratulations Riley Tatro!
Field Trip to the State House
Kasia Bilodeau and Roy Sargent brought their Social Studies classes to the Vermont State House on October 1st. As part of their studies on government and Vermont history, students enjoyed a guided tour and explored the many beautiful artworks, statues, and artifacts that fill the State House.
Music Technology Class
In Music Technology class, students are learning how to set up and operate a Behringer XR-18 digital mixer as part of their exploration of live sound. Through hands-on experience, these students are developing skills in routing audio, balancing levels, and using digital effects to support live performances. Since the Music Technology class meets at the same time as the Modern Band class, students have the unique opportunity to collaborate directly, applying what they learn in real-time situations. This collaboration allows them to work on both live sound reinforcement and recording projects, giving them practical, industry-relevant experience in managing live events while supporting their peers’ performances. Students in this photo are preparing for modern band performances in today’s spirit assembly gaining real-time experience.
BFA Hosts College Application Event
Bellows Free Academy recently hosted another successful College Application Event, giving students the opportunity to connect directly with admissions representatives and gain valuable support in their postsecondary planning.
All BFA and NCTC school counselors collaborated to guide students through the college application process. Representatives from a wide range of institutions—including the University of Vermont, University of New Hampshire, Champlain College, Norwich University, Saint Michael’s College, Southern New Hampshire University, Lincoln Tech, Clarkson University, and Plymouth State University—were on hand to conduct interviews and answer student questions.
Throughout the day, students encouraged one another, demonstrating that applying to college doesn’t have to be an isolating experience. Counselors emphasized the importance of exploring a variety of colleges, attending open houses, asking questions, and approaching the process as informed and thoughtful consumers.
This event highlighted the strong support network available to BFA students as they take these important next steps toward their futures.
Spirit Week & Homecoming Game
Full Spirit Week RECAP
Full Spirit Week RECAP
- SENIORS win the PEP RALLY GAMES in the air mattress relay tie breaker!!
- SENIORS win the CEREAL BOX DRIVE!!
- SOPHOMORES win the DUCK SEARCH!!
- SENIORS win the most DRESSED ON THEME!!
- SOPHOMORES win the most DECORATED DOORS!!
- Mrs. Tourville's senior advisory wins the best overall door!!
- JUNIORS win the FLOAT CONTEST (Toy Story)!!
SPIRIT LEADERS
- Freshmen: Braylee Fortier & Madison Richard
- Sophomores: Bonni Lunna & Isabella Stuart
- Juniors: Emma Caster & Ruby Kennedy
- Seniors: Ella Dunigan & Jayden Lancto-Jackson
Check out the PHOTOS on instagram @greenandgoldspirit
THANK YOU to all the Spirit Council members, Athletic Council members, student leadership advisors, staff, and BFA STUDENTS who made this spirit week FANTASTIC!
Float Results:
Freshmen: Candyland (second place)
Sophomores: Pirates (third place)
Juniors: Toy Story (FIRST PLACE)
Seniors: Up! (Last place)
Cereal Drive
Congratulations to all students, advisors, interactors and advisories for donating more than 200 boxes of cereal to Northwest Family Foods (our local food shelf).
* Special thanks to Karla Kane's advisory for donating more than 50 boxes.
* Special thanks to Bill Mercier for donating 16 boxes.
209 boxes overall AMAZING!
Seniors84
Juniors71
Soph22
Frosh32
Homecoming Football Game
Powder Puff
Thank you to the BFA Boosters for the half-time fireworks!
Spike Out Cancer Comet Volley Ball Event
The Comets raised over $2,500 or the Jim Bashaw Cancer and Catastrophic Illness Fund!
Spotlight on Students Outside of School
We're recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments, interests, and talents of our students that occur beyond the academic classroom highlighting the full range of student's character and activities. Please feel free to share any stories or spotlights that you would like submitted in the newsletter to tcallan@maplerun.org.
Our spotlight shines on Adam Longe, a BFA junior, who competes in various state field days
and fairs in tractor pulling! Photos from Johnson and Addison County Field Days; as well as from Churubosco, NY. Congratulations, Adam!
October 3rd = Custodian Appreciation Day
Today, October 3rd, we celebrate School Custodian Appreciation Day across Maple Run Unified School District. This is a special opportunity to recognize and thank our hardworking custodial team for the essential role they play in keeping our schools safe, clean, and welcoming each and every day.
Over the summer and throughout the year, our custodians work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to prepare classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, and grounds so that students and staff can focus on teaching and learning. Their dedication ensures that our schools remain spaces where students can thrive and staff can do their best work.
The care, pride, and commitment our custodians bring to their work are seen and felt daily, and we are deeply grateful for all they do.
Please take a moment today to thank our custodial staff for their unwavering efforts and their important contribution to the success of our schools.
Upcoming Events
- October 15th - ASVAB Test
- October 22nd - College Financial Aid Forms Night
- October 22nd - Outdoor Movie Night
- October 23rd - NO SCHOOL - Staff Inservice
- October 24th - NO SCHOOL
- October 29th - Fall Instrumental/Choral Concert