April 20

Dear Bryan Middle School Families:

What an amazing school year we have had so far! It is hard to believe that we are entering the final weeks of the 2025-26 school year. We are excited to finish strong together! This is an important time for students to stay focused, keep up with assignments, and be present each day as we wrap up learning and prepare for end-of-year activities. Please continue to encourage good attendance, effort, and organization at home. We also look forward to celebrating our students’ hard work and growth in the coming weeks.

We also encourage families to stay connected with teachers and monitor student progress. If your child needs extra support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to help and want every student to feel confident heading into the end of the year. Remember, we offer Academic Recovery on Wednesdays and Thursday for students needing to get caught up on homework. Student simply need to talk to a teacher to get signed up and the teacher will contact you to verify. You may also contact your student's teacher(s) to get signed up as well.

In addition to academics, the coming weeks will include a variety of special events, performances, and celebrations that highlight the talents and achievements of our students. From concerts and activities to recognition events, there will be many moments to celebrate the hard work and dedication of our Bryan Bears.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support of Bryan Middle School. Together, we can ensure a positive, successful finish to the school year for all students. Please remind your student(s) to be responsible, respectful, safe, and their best all day every day!

Let’s make these last few weeks our best yet!

Sincerely,

Anton Schmidt

Principal

Bryan Middle School

Be sure to check the Bryan Middle website Calendar for club meeting dates.

• No school

• Last Student Day/End of Fourth Quarter

Staff Appreciation Week is May 4-8. Please consider helping us out by providing snacks for our staff during that week. Here is a SignUpGenius link. We are also looking for gift cards to raffle off to staff. Any amount is great. Our staff works extremely hard and would appreciate anything you can provide. Of course, it is optional.

As we move through the remainder of the school year, we ask for your support in reminding students to leave non-school items at home. Items such as toys, trading cards, personal electronics, and other non-essential belongings can become distractions and may be lost, damaged, or cause disruptions during the school day. Students are not allowed to bring items to sell or trade.

Our focus is on maintaining a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment for all students. Bringing only necessary school materials helps us keep that focus where it belongs—on learning.

We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing this expectation with your student.

Upcoming Reading Assessments (6th Grade Only):
Sixth grade students will participate in DIBELS assessments later this month. DIBELS Oral Reading Fluency (ORF) testing will be conducted as pull‑out assessments starting on April 27, and DIBELS Maze testing will take place during ELA classes on April 29 and 30. Thank you for your continued support!

BMS Families: Please complete the Parent Voice Survey as a way to provide feedback to our school. Your responses will help us identify improvement efforts for the 2026-27 school year and beyond at Bryan Middle School. Please click on the link below or use the QR codes on the attached documents.

Parent Voice Survey

Summer Swim Lesson sign up is May 9th. See the word document for more information.

The Bryan Middle School NJHS team has been working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the annual Quiz Bowl competition on April 28, 2026 at the University of Nebraska Omaha. Please wish them luck when you see them!

They will also be volunteering their time during this year's city track meet, hosted at Bryan Middle, on May 11, 2026.

A big bear shout out to our outstanding NJHS members of 2025-26!

In our 8th grade Technology and Living class, students are wrapping up their final rotation through the module units, marking the culmination of a semester filled with meaningful, hands-on learning.

Throughout each rotation, students have developed valuable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom. In the sewing module, students successfully learned how to operate a sewing machine and applied those skills to create their own pillows—building confidence, precision, and creativity. In the cooking module, students explored a variety of recipes while strengthening essential kitchen skills such as measuring, following directions, and food safety.

These experiences are more than just projects—they are opportunities for students to gain independence, problem-solving abilities, and real-world readiness. Each module is intentionally designed to equip students with practical skills they can carry with them into everyday life, reinforcing the importance of hands-on learning in shaping capable, confident individuals.

Students recently took part in an engaging study of foodborne illnesses, helping them build a stronger understanding of food safety and its real‑world health implications. Each student researched a specific foodborne illness, learning about its causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and effects on individuals and communities. To showcase their learning, students designed creative “Wanted” posters that clearly highlighted key facts about their chosen illness. This hands‑on project strengthened research and presentation skills while reinforcing the importance of safe food handling in everyday life.

We are thankful for these wonderful staff members and their contributions to Bryan Middle School!

Mr. Woods – Always helpful, dependable, and willing to jump in wherever needed. He keeps our school safe and supports everyone with a consistently positive attitude.

Ms. Dakan – A true go‑to for students and staff. She listens, problem‑solves like a pro, shows up on time, and brings great energy to our building.

Mr. Haney – A fantastic addition to our security team. He’s dependable, connects well with students, and supports staff while helping keep our school safe.

Mrs. Woodworth – The driving force behind the Sunshine Committee. She works hard, organizes conferences smoothly, and ensures staff feel supported and appreciated.

Mrs. Holoubek – Always uplifting. Her classroom management is excellent, she works wonderfully with students, and she brightens our whole school.

Mr. Khahn– Someone you can always count on. He’s punctual, helpful, and takes on extra tasks with care and excellence from start to finish.

Ms. Phi – Brings warmth and dedication every day. She’s always ready to help, works hard to get things done, and greets everyone with the kindest smile.

Our annual Student Recognition Night will be Thursday, May 7th from 6-7 p.m. in the Bryan Middle School gym. We will celebrate student achievements for the 25-26 school year with a ceremony and reception. Invitations and additional information will be sent within the week. Unfortunately, not all students will attend.

Follow the link below to findout where to find Homework from each teacher here at Bryan Middle:

Homework Location List

The staff at Bryan Middle School are assembling food resources for our families in need.

Please see the attached images and flyers.

We will update this newsletter as we are made aware of more resources.

If you need items from our pantry, please call Mrs. Sara Riviera.

Her phone number is 531-299-2313.

Follow this link Food Resources

Follow this link for the full Calendar

April 2026

7:00 PM, Thursday, April 16th 5/6/7/8 Choralpalooza at Bryan MS

During school day: Elementary Tours – 8th grade Band/Orch TBD

The Music Department is excited to welcome 5th grade musicians from surrounding elementary schools to Bryan MS for our biggest concert of the year.

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Listed times are start times. Student call times will be earlier:

7:00 PM, Thursday, April 16th 5/6/7/8 Choralpalooza at Bryan MS

May 2026

6:30 PM, Tuesday, May 12th – 6/7/8 Band and Beginning Band Final Concert

6:30 PM, Wednesday, May 13th – 6/7/8 Choral Final Concert

6:30 PM, Thursday, May 14th – 6/7/8 Orch and Beginning Orch Final Concert

We are shifting our focus to interesting mathematical topics that aren't frequently covered, such as The Seven Bridges of Königsberg and Pascal's triangle. Everyone is welcome to join us on Tuesdays in room 246 until 5 pm.

Progress Reports

• April 20

Quarter Grades

• 4th Quarter: Available May 26

Report Cards

• Only final semester report cards will be mailed at the end of the year

• All other grades can be accessed through the Infinite Campus Parent Portal

Grading Practices

For details on grading, see the flyer:

Sec Common Grading Practices Student Flyer.pdf

Need Infinite Campus Parent Portal access?

Email lakresha.clark@ops.org with:

• Your name

• Your child’s name

Families, a reminder that the building does not open until 7:10 AM. We do not have staff supervising outside until 7:00 AM. Please try to drop off as close to 7:10 AM as possible. With the winter weather setting in, we will try to let students in the building as early as possible. However, we may not be able to until 7:10. Also, dropping off in the south lot by the Boys & Girls Club is a great way to avoid the carline in the front of the school.

Also, dismissal is at 3:05 PM. Students should be picked up by 3:15 PM at the latest. If that is not possible, please have your student get a Boys and Girls Club application so they can go there until they can be picked up. All students need to be supervised and, in an activity, club, or at the Boys and Girls Club after school. Thank you for your help.

Please ask your students if they have any missing or late books that they need to return to the library. Sixth grade students need to return books that they borrowed over the summer from their elementary school. You can contact Mr. Engdahl at graham.engdahl@ops.org with any questions or concerns.

We know that many families like to travel during the school year to visit loved ones or spend time in their home countries. These trips can be special and give students a chance to connect with their family and culture.

However, coming to school every day is very important for your child’s learning and success. When students miss many days, it can be hard for them to keep up with lessons, complete their work, and stay in touch with their teachers and classmates.

Please know that if a student is out of the country and misses more than 10 school days in a row, the student will be taken off the school’s enrollment list until they return. This may also cause a loss or delay in district-provided transportation when your child comes back and is re-enrolled.

We encourage all families to plan trips during school breaks when possible. If you must travel during the school year, please contact the school office ahead of time to talk about your plans. We want to work with you to support your child’s learning.

Thank you for your understanding and for helping your child come to school every day. Your support makes a big difference in your child’s education and success.

Sabemos que muchas familias desean viajar durante el año escolar para visitar a sus seres queridos o pasar tiempo en sus países de origen. Estos viajes pueden ser muy especiales y darles a los estudiantes la oportunidad de conectarse con su familia y su cultura.

Sin embargo, asistir a la escuela todos los días es muy importante para el aprendizaje y el éxito de su hijo o hija. Cuando los estudiantes faltan muchos días, puede ser difícil ponerse al día con las lecciones, completar su trabajo y mantenerse en contacto con sus maestros y compañeros.

Por favor, tenga en cuenta que si un estudiante está fuera del país y falta a la escuela por más de 10 días seguidos, el estudiante será dado de baja de la lista de inscripción hasta que regrese. Esto también puede causar una pérdida o retraso en el transporte provisto por el distrito cuando su hijo o hija regrese y se vuelva a inscribir.

Recomendamos que todas las familias planifiquen sus viajes durante las vacaciones escolares siempre que sea posible. Si necesita viajar durante el año escolar, comuníquese con la oficina de la escuela con anticipación para hablar sobre sus planes. Queremos trabajar con usted para apoyar el aprendizaje de su hijo o hija.

Gracias por su comprensión y por ayudar a que su hijo o hija asista a la escuela todos los días. Su apoyo hace una gran diferencia en la educación y el éxito de su hijo o hija.

Sports Pictures - SOCCER & TRACK

Thursday, April 16th after school

Students will be given a flyer for parents after picture is taken

Follow the link below to access the Athletics & Activities page for Bryan Middle.

Please pay attention to the Activities and Athletics calendar for updated schedules as dates may change due to weather.

These clubs and activities will be starting in the coming weeks:

• MathCounts meets every Tuesday.
• Robotics (Competition Team) On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and some Fridays through January.
• NJHS/Student Council will meet the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.
• Writing Club meets the first and third Wednesdays of each month. (First Semester)
• Yearbook Club began September 8th and meets during CUBS.
• Anime Club has begun. Every Wednesday in Room 100A/B until 4:45PM
• Unity Club meets the first and third Thursdays of each month.
• The Band room is open until 4PM Tuesday through Thursday after school for practice and help.
• Dungeons and Dragons Tuesdays and Thursdays starting SECOND Semester.
• High Dosage Tutoring will take place Tuesday - Thursday.
• Academic Recovery - Wednesday and Thursday in Room 235. Sign up through any teacher.
• BookBlasters meets during CUBS in room 232 on Wednesdays

Students will need to pay attention to the morning announcements about when new clubs start.

Check back as more clubs are announced.

SuccessMaker is a math program that the district has purchased for all students in OPS. Students are expected to complete 60 minutes weekly on their APP. SuccessMaker® is an adaptive learning system that provides all students with a personalized learning experience that adjusts in real time to their specific individual learning needs. SuccessMaker is proven to be effective in student achievement in math. Please encourage students to work on this at home.

PTO Mission Statement:
The Bryan Middle School PTO is an opportunity for parents and families to volunteer to support student focused initiatives, fundraise for specific goals, and drive engagement in our school community.

We are looking for family members to be on out PTO Committee. Please reach out to Karrie Goff (karrie.goff@ops.org) if you would like to become a member and help with the following:

• Participate in and support school decision making.
• Sponsor multiple PTO initiatives (Fundraisers, Family Engagement Nights, Teacher Appreciation)

• Volunteer Opportunities (School Celebrations and Sporting Events)

• Meeting dates coming soon

Our district will now use School Cash Online for all school items and activity fees. School Cash Online reduces cash and check payments to our schools and lets families:

• Keep track of their students’ school items and activity fees
• Check their account history
• View and print receipts
• Pay for school fees with a simple click

Primary guardians will receive an invitation email from SchoolCash Online in the coming days with a link to register for an account and attach student(s) to their profile. Families can also register an account using the link above and the same email address used for Campus Parent.

Once the primary guardian has created an account, they can provide access to other caregivers of their choice.

See the Parent Help Desk for SchoolCash Online FAQ for additional details and troubleshooting information, or reach out to your student’s school with any questions.

We are excited about the opportunity to work together and support each of you on this journey!

Get your Bryan Middle School gear from Sideline Sports! Click on the link below:

https://sideline.bsnsports.com/schools/nebraska/omaha/bryan-middle-school

The guidelines below aim to promote a focused and respectful learning environment while ensuring the safety and security of personal electronic devices and valuable items with the school.

1. Personal cell phones and electronic devices, including headphones and earbuds, may only be used before and after school hours.
2. Phones cannot be used during the school day.
3. During this designated time, the use of electronic devices should not disrupt the school environment or create a hostile atmosphere.
4. At all other times, during school hours, electronic devices must be powered off and safely stored away.

Confiscation and Intervention:

1. If a staff member observes the use of an electronic device outside the designated times, the student will receive a warning and be educated about the specific electronic device policy and expectations. The student should power off and put the device away.
2. If the student continues to utilize the electronic device outside the designated time, the staff member will confiscate the device for the remainder of the period.
3. If the student fails to comply with the staff members’ direction, administration or security will be called and the device will be confiscated for the remainder of the school day.

Repeated violations will be subject to additional disciplinary action in line with the Student Code of Conduct.

Additional interventions for violating the electronic device policy may include, but are not limited to:

• Lunch or after school detentions.
• Daily phone check-in at the beginning of the day for an extended period.
• Parent pick up of the electronic device.
• Parent/Student conference held at the school to discuss the issue.
• Overnight hold of the electronic device, if a parent cannot pick it up.

My name is Sara Riviera, and I am the School Social Worker at Bryan Middle School. My role is to be a resources for both your student and family. I understand that unexpected challenges can arise, and sometimes families may find themselves needing support. If you find yourself experiencing financial hardships and could benefit from assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. We also recognize that the start of the school year can bring added expenses with school supplies, clothing, fees, and more. If this time of year is creating any financial strain for your family, please know that you are not alone. I am here to connect you with resource and support that may ease your worries. Our school has a pantry that is free to our families. This pantry contains food, hygiene supplies, clothing, and school supplies. Please reach out if this is something that would benefit you. Below is my contact information.

Sara Riviera

531-299-2313

sara.riviera@ops.org

text: 402-739-9235

Mental health counseling services are available at Bryan Middle School through the Methodist Hospital Community Counseling Program. Please speak to your student's school counselor or school social worker if you are wondering if a referral to the program might be right for your child.

Tylinn Lewis, LIMHP, LMFT

We want EVERY student at Bryan Middle School to become a member of the Boys and Girls Club. They have activities for grades 6 to 8, provide mentoring to our students, and are a safe place to stay if students need to wait for a parent after school. They are open from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on school days. There is NO charge for Bryan Middle School students. Just put a 0 in the box when it asks for payment. Click the link here for more information and click here to sign up. Stop by the Club to check it out! You can also contact Tim 'Daniel" Ybarra, Club Director for more information at 402-853-5125 or

Sign up for the APP by clicking HERE so you know where the bus is and what time it will arrive!