Bridport Community Newletter
May 10, 2024
Dear BCS Community:
Here's what is known (and unknown) for next year as of today:
- Principal Search (please see email from Central Office that should have arrived today)
- Special Educator: Ms. DeBree will be working in the Wellness & Learning Center based in Ripton next year. As of today we do not know who our special educator will be for next year.
- 5th Grade: We are so sad (and also excited for her) to learn that Ms. Poulin has accepted another position for next school year. More on how grateful we are for Ms. Poulin soon, but for now, we are looking at how we can shift things internally and also advertising for a classroom teacher for next year.
- K/1. We are looking at 4 incoming Kindergarteners for the upcoming year. Because of that, we are going to combine our Kindergarten and First grades for next year. This is new information and we are still planning so please email me (mbrankman@acsdvt.org) with questions, concerns or suggestions.
May and June are always busy! This year, with so many unknowns, it feels busy AND stressful. Please know that we are working together to plan for a successful year next year, and please know that everyone in the building will be working hard until the very last day. We love your students, we love the community of Bridport and we are grateful to serve you.
Respectfully,
Matthew Brankman
Principal
This fall, ACSD worked with Dr. Rebecca Eunmi Haslam to address issues of racial equity at MUMS and MUHS through a confidential study called The Listening Circles Project. Now we are extending her work to our elementary school students and staff.
The goal of the Listening Circles Project is to hear directly from students and staff about what we can do to eliminate racial harm and ensure everyone feels safe and valued at school. All students and staff at our elementary schools are invited to participate. To participate you must read and fill out this consent form (parents/guardians fill it out on behalf of their child.) Listening circles will begin at elementary schools as early as next week, so please fill out the form as soon as possible if you want your child to participate. Parents of elementary students who participate will also have an opportunity to meet with Dr. Haslam.
As part of her work with secondary students and staff, Dr. Haslam is finalizing a report and recommendations for the ACSD administration. The elementary portion of this work will also result in a report and recommendations. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us as ACSD works to make all students and staff feel safe and valued.
