Badger Newsletter
It was so great to see all of our BOLD Badgers back at Big Timber for the 2026-2027 school year! Our teachers have been working to establish classroom routines and procedures through our PBIS systems. Students have engaged in lessons about what it means to be a BOLD Badger in the various areas of our school community. Students are learning to be the “Stars of their Own Learning” by being Brave, Organized, Loyal and Determined. Students are working to earn their first Quarter Behavior Incentive!
As we move through the school year, we want to take a moment to share how important your child’s daily presence is to our school community. We know that life happens illnesses come up, family emergencies occur, and appointments are necessary and health and well-being should always come first. At the same time, we want to highlight how regular attendance directly shapes your child's growth every single day.
When students attend school consistently, it powers three major areas of their growth:
Academic Growth: Everyday instruction builds layer by layer. Missing just two days a month means missing 10% of the school year. Catching up on missed direct instruction, hands-on activities, and group discussions can be challenging, and regular attendance helps keep learning smooth and manageable.
Social Connections: School is where children build friendships, learn to navigate group dynamics, and practice teamwork. Daily participation helps students feel a strong sense of belonging, while frequent absences can make them feel disconnected from their peer groups.
Emotional Development & Routine: Consistent routines build confidence and resilience. Predictable daily schedules help reduce anxiety, giving students a safe environment to learn how to handle challenges and take pride in their progress.
How We Can Work Together:
Set regular routines: Keep consistent bedtimes and morning habits to ensure smoother school days.
Schedule appointments thoughtfully: Whenever possible, try to book non-urgent doctor visits or family trips outside of school hours or during breaks.
Reach out early: If your child is struggling with school anxiety, illness, or anything else impacting their attendance, please let us know. We are here to partner with you and provide support.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership in helping our students show up, learn, and thrive every day. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need support.
Parents are responsible for reporting a student’s absence to the Attendance Office via phone by calling 224-484-5520 or emailing our attendance line at attendance.btes@d300.org before 8:00 AM the date of the absence. A student will be considered unexcused if a phone call or email explaining the absence is not made to the attendance office. When calling in or emailing an absence, please provide your student’s name, grade, ID number, and reason for the absence. Recorded messages may be left on the Attendance Office voice mail between 3:30 PM and 7:00 AM preceding the absence.