2.13.26
Successful Bond Refinancing
- The district refinanced older bonds to take advantage of lower interest rates, replacing debt that cost about 5% interest with new bonds costing about 2.93%, while still paying everything off by 2037.
- After costs, the refinancing will save the district about $1.65 million in interest, equal to $1.39 million in today’s dollars (about 11% of the refinanced amount).
- The refinancing also allows the district to pay off its School Bond Loan Fund loan one year earlier, avoiding an estimated $349,000 in additional interest.
- In total, the district is projected to save about $2 million, with no increase to the bond millage rate, and increased future bonding capacity
Elementary:
- Our fifth graders as they take their first trip to STARBASE in Battle Creek! During their visit, students engaged in interactive STEM activities that challenge them to think critically, collaborate with peers, and solve problems like real engineers and scientists.
- Our Literacy Night is scheduled for February 24th! We will have fun literacy activities from 4:30-6pm. Students will receive a book and get the author, Brad Herzog, to sign it. Join us!
- We are gearing up for March is Reading Month. Check out the calendar for the fun we are planning.
Jr/Sr:
- Freshmen toured the Holocaust Museum in Detroit after reading Night by Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor. In addition to viewing powerful artifacts and remnants of the past, students had the opportunity to hear firsthand from second-generation survivors, deepening their understanding of history and its lasting impact.
Bellevue ELA 12 invited alumni Raquel (Brummit) Madry to speak to them regarding Animal Advocacy in Rescue. In high school, Raquel had a deep passion for animal rescue and has been able to start a non-profit Rocky Start Rescue in 2023 and also licensed through Michigan's DNR to rehabilitate native wildlife. Raquel brought in a Russian Tortoise, a Red Tail Boa, and a Racoon. Raquel discussed animal advocacy, schooling, training, and certification. If you have a passion for advocacy, it isn't too late to share your story with the seniors. Please contact Ms. Redmer to schedule a date: lredmer@bellevue-schools.com
We proudly recognize our Honor Roll and High Honors students—your commitment to learning and excellence does not go unnoticed. Congratulations on an outstanding achievement!
We have a parent meeting for our 10th graders on February 19th to discuss potential pathways for your student. Please see the attached flyer for details.
- We want to recognize the nominations for our Unsung Hero initiative to recognize those who constantly go above and beyond for our students, staff, and district. You make a difference. Thank you for being you and impact the youth of Bellevue Community schools: Ashley Russell!
Hello Bellevue Community Schools Family,
What a great week across our district! Classrooms are full of energy; our students continue to impress, and there’s a really positive buzz in our buildings right now. Thank you to our staff for the care, preparation, and commitment you bring each day, and thank you to our families for your continued support and partnership.
As we head into a four-day Presidents' Weekend, I hope everyone takes a little time to rest and recharge. Long weekends are a great opportunity to slow down, spend time with family, and come back refreshed and ready to finish February strong.
We’re in a great stretch of the school year, routines are solid, learning is moving forward, and our students are growing every day. I’m proud of the work happening in Bellevue and excited to be a part of such a supportive community.
Enjoy the long weekend, and we’ll see everyone back ready to go on Tuesday!
Standards vs Rules
"Rules are for people who can't follow directions. Standards are for people who aspire to do special things" Tim Corbin
The District Implementation Team (DIT) will conduct a district-wide data analysis on February 18. This review will include survey feedback, fidelity measures, NWEA data, intervention data, attendance, behavior, and Early Warning Indicator information. The results will be used to update our implementation plan and action steps aligned with our MICIP plan and partnership agreement, ensuring priorities remain clearly focused on the success of both students and staff.
Buildings will also complete their own data reviews to translate district goals into building-specific goals. This step is essential to ensure the resources, capacity, and supports are in place for strong district-wide alignment and effective implementation.
