Bauer Bits

Bauer Families:

Building a winning culture begins with defining the desired characteristics. After the team defines what the culture is, and is not, members must acknowledge these desired traits when they're seen. This week I'm sharing an article by Jim Rohn, and a poem by Berton Braley which touch on the power of acknowledgement. I hope that you find value in their words.

Have a wonderful, restful, Labor Day weekend everyone!

-------------

5 Simple, Practical Ways to Become More Grateful

by Jim Rohn

“Learn to be thankful for what you already have, while you pursue all that you want.”

I believe one of the greatest lessons in life we can learn is to be thankful for what we already have. But gratitude is something we have to work at—to prepare our hearts to be reflective and thankful, to provide room for contemplation of our good fortune.

And if we want to be the kind of people who are characterized by thankfulness, by gratitude, then we must make sure that we focus on it at all times during the year.

Here are some words, some thoughts that are simple and practical to apply, that you can use right away in your quest for becoming more grateful:

1. Time

Set aside time regularly to be quiet, to reflect. We live in the fastest paced time. From the moment we awake to the moment we collapse into bed, we have the opportunity to go at full speed and never slow down. If we schedule time every day in which we can be quiet and reflect, we will free our hearts and minds up from the tyranny of the urgent and rushed.

2. Thought

Give thought to the many blessings that you have. Living in a consumer culture, most of us are fully aware of what we do not have—and how we absolutely must have “it.” But how often do we reflect upon that which we already have? Take some time each day and think of one or two things that you have that you may typically take for granted, and then take a moment and give thanks for those things. Make this part of your reflection time.

3. Generosity

Be generous toward those with less and not envious of those with more. We tend to look at others who may be wealthier than ourselves and think, I sure wish I had what he does.That kind of thinking breeds envy and jealousy rather than contentment. What can we do to break that cycle? I would suggest being generous to those who are less fortunate than yourself. Go to work at a food bank. And not just during the holidays, but on a regular basis during the year. That will remind you of how good you really have it.

4. Ask

Ask a friend what they are thankful for. You will be amazed at the answers you receive, and you will create meaningful bonds as you focus on this powerful question.

5. Acknowledge

Lastly, tell those you love how thankful you are for having them in your life. So many times we neglect to take the time to craft the words to express to those closest to us what their presence in our lives means to us. Take the opportunity to write them a note. Let them know what they mean to you, and in return you’ll begin to create the possibility of deeper, richer, more fulfilling relationships with those you love.

Do It Now

by Berton Braley

If with pleasure you are viewing any work a man is doing,

If you like him or you love him, tell him now;

Don't withhold your approbation till the parson makes oration

And he lies with snowy lilies on his brow;

No matter how you shout it he won't really care about it;

He won't know how many teardrops you have shed;

If you think some praise is due him now's the time to slip it to him,

For he cannot read his tombstone when he's dead.

More than fame and more than money is the comment kind and sunny

And the hearty, warm approval of a friend.

For it gives to life a savor, and it makes you stronger, braver,

And it gives you heart and spirit to the end;

If he earns your praise — bestow it; if you like him let him know it;

Let the words of true encouragement be said;

Do not wait till life is over and he's underneath the clover,

For he cannot read his tombstone when he's dead.

• Monday, September 4th: No School
• Tuesday, September 12th: BPC Meeting 7:30pm
• Wednesday, September 13th: Super Hero Day/Popcorn Day
• Friday, September 15th: Early Release (12:15 pm)
• Wednesday, September 20th: Picture Day
• Friday, September 22nd: Walkathon

Please check the HPS Student Calendar for early release dates and breaks for the 2023-24 school year!

School Hours:

• School begins: 8:45 am
• Parent drop off: Doors open at 8:35 am
• School ends: 3:45 pm
• Office hours: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

During the first two weeks at Bauer, we have been busy reviewing our SOAR expectations. Students have focused on learning how to be safe, own it, act responsibly, and be respectful. We have reviewed SOAR with students, had them discuss what it looks like, and practice. SOAR expectations are used in the classroom, hallway, bathroom, and on the playground and bus. You may have even seen posters around the building at open house that remind students how we SOAR! We have seen students doing a great job while SOARing at Bauer so far this year!

Please join us for our first parent club meeting of the year on Tuesday, September 12th from 7:30-8:30pm in the library.

Walk-a-thon is Bauer’s largest school-wide fundraiser, providing students with an opportunity to collect donations that directly support programming and events like: Secret Santa Shop, Boys’ Night Out, Girls’ Night Out, 4th Grade Celebration, class field trips, Popcorn Days, and more! Walk-a-thon has historically been a very successful fundraiser for Bauer, but we need YOU to help make Walk-a-thon 2023 our best yet! Connecting your student(s) with family and friends for donations and volunteering on Walk-a-thon day are the most impactful ways parents can help! Visit https://getmovinfundhub.com, then enter identifier: 5d31d162a753e to get started!

WatchDOGS (Dads Of Great Students) is a family and community engagement educational initiative for dads, grand dads, uncles and father figures. Volunteer for one day (or more!) and interact with Bauer students. Help small groups of students with their schoolwork, monitor the hallways, play games during recess, and share lunch with your students! Complete this Google form if you’re interested in learning more.

Back by popular demand, the Hudsonville Education Foundation's Fall Wesco 2023/2024 refillable popcorn bucket fundraiser is here, bringing flavor and fun to support Hudsonville Public Schools educational initiatives across the district.

How It Works:

• Get Yours: Purchase your refillable popcorn bucket for only $14.99 by visiting our website at www.hudsedfound.org/popcorn-bucket. But hurry because this offer is available until Friday, September 15, or until 1,000 buckets are sold – whichever comes first.
• 
  
• Save the Date: Expect delivery of your popcorn bucket to students in late September to early October.
• 
  
• Popcorn Galore: With each purchase, you'll access unlimited bucket refills at any of the 55 participating Wesco locations. This means that from now until December 31, 2024, you can savor the delicious taste of freshly popped popcorn whenever you're in the mood!
• 
  
• Supporting Education, One Kernel at a Time: Not only will you enjoy yummy popcorn, but you'll also support a worthy cause. $7.50 from each bucket sale will directly contribute to the Hudsonville Education Foundation's mission to enrich the education of Hudsonville Public Schools students through classroom grants.
• 
  
• Act Now: Take advantage of this flavorful chance to make a difference. Order your Wesco 2023/2024 refillable popcorn bucket today at www.hudsedfound.org/popcorn-bucket and join us in building a brighter future for our students. Thank you for your continued support – together, we're shaping tomorrow's leaders, one kernel at a time.

In order for your child to take any medication (prescription and non-prescription) at school, a MEDICATION FORM is required. If your child requires a prescription medication (ex. asthma inhaler, EPI pen, insulin, etc.), your physician must complete a portion of the form. The medication forms are available online or in the school office. All medication must be in the original container. Over the counter medications must be brand new. ALL medication must be delivered to the office by a parent/guardian. Medication cannot be sent to school with a student. Thank you!

The HPS criminal background check is required for all school volunteers. In order to complete this request, we ask that you fill out this volunteer form at least 48 hours prior to volunteering. Once your request is submitted, all Volunteer status updates (Approval, Denial or Limited Access Approval) will be sent directly to the building you have selected to volunteer in.

The Hudsonville Public School District has the right to approve or deny your request if your background check does not meet the standards of HPS Board Policy.

If you have any questions regarding the Volunteer Background Check process, please contact our Human Resources Department at 616-669-1740 or by emailing our office at eagles@hpseagles.net.

Mark your calendars because Septemberfest is right around the corner. Come out and support our school at the annual arts and craft show on September 16th from 9am to 2pm at the Hudsonville Fairgrounds. This will be your one stop shop! Shop our 200+ vendors in all five barns along with many more outside booths. Tickets are $2 with kids 12 and under free. Strollers are welcome. VIP tickets are available that will allow you early entry before the crowds at 8:15am. The VIP passes also include a shopping bag full of local business coupons. These are available to purchase on our Facebook page. There are limited bags available so get yours soon! Cost is $10. Please help us spread the word by finding us on Facebook, liking it, and sharing us with your friends. Watch for current updates and giveaways on Septemberfest Arts and Craft Show on Facebook. We can not wait to see you all there!

Email: ehuizen@hpseagles.net
Website: https://www.hudsonvillepublicschools.org
Location: 8136 48th Avenue, Hudsonville, MI, USA
Phone: 616-669-6824
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BauerElementary
Twitter: @BauerElementary