Berea City School District
#BeATitan
5/2 4th Annual School Showcase
5/4-5/8 Staff Appreciation Week
5/11 Board of Education Meeting
5/13 Kindergarten Information Night
5/21 Commencement (Rain Date 5/22)
5/25 No School, Memorial Day
5/28 Last Day of School for Students
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Two Berea City School District elementary schools are being recognized once again for their ongoing commitment to supporting military-connected students and families.
Big Creek Elementary and Grindstone Elementary have both earned renewal of their Purple Star School designation for the Class of 2026, as announced by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.
This designation is awarded to schools that meet specific, rigorous criteria established by Ohio’s Purple Star Advisory Board. It recognizes schools that demonstrate a clear and sustained commitment to meeting the unique academic and wellness needs of military-connected students.
Military families often face frequent transitions, deployments, and other challenges that can impact a child’s school experience. Schools earning the Purple Star designation have systems and supports in place to help students navigate those moments while staying connected, supported, and successful.
The renewed designation is valid through April 2029, reflecting continued dedication from both school communities to create welcoming, responsive environments for military families.
This recognition reinforces something that already defines Berea City Schools. A focus on understanding students’ experiences and making sure every child feels supported, no matter their circumstances.
26 Years of Music Excellence
The Berea City School District has once again been recognized by The NAMM Foundation as one of the Best Communities for Music Education, marking the 26th consecutive year the district has received this national distinction.
This award recognizes districts that show a strong commitment to high-quality music education through funding, participation, instruction time, facilities, and community support.
From elementary through high school, music remains an important part of the student experience in Berea City Schools. Students have opportunities to explore their interests, build confidence, collaborate with others, and grow as performers.
This recognition reflects the dedication of our music educators, students, families, and community members who continue to support and celebrate music throughout the district. As BCSD marks this milestone, we remain proud to provide meaningful music opportunities for all Titans.
Big Creek Elementary School has been named a 2026 Hall of Fame School by the Ohio Association of Elementary School Administrators.
This recognition is awarded to schools that engage students, staff, families, and the community to create a strong school experience. Big Creek was selected after submitting an extensive application highlighting the effectiveness of its educational programs and school culture.
This recognition comes shortly after Big Creek was also named a Blue Ribbon School, marking another proud moment for the Big Creek community and the Berea City School District.
Big Creek will be recognized on June 15 at the OAESA Professional Conference and Tradeshow in Columbus.
Congratulations to the students, staff, families, and Big Creek community!
Fridays
6/5 – 8/14
Sack pickup times:
9:30–11:00 a.m.
5:00–6:30 p.m.
Registration for the program can be completed using the online form. Submissions after May 15 must be completed by paper form at Audrey’s Outreach (Mondays 11 a.m.–2 p.m.). Parents or guardians will need to show proof of each child enrolled in BCSD (report card, campus app, etc.) and will need to show proof of residency in the school district (driver’s license, state ID, etc.).
If you would like to donate or volunteer, please contact us:
Audrey’s Outreach
Located at:
Brook Park Community Church of the Brethren
16845 Holland Rd. | Brook Park | 44142
216-433-1515
audreysoutreach@yahoo.com
www.audreysoutreach.org
Board Member Maggie Campbell
The Board also recognizes the important role that volunteers play in strengthening our schools. PTA members, like Clare Walters, contribute their time and talents to support students, collaborate with staff, and build strong connections between families and schools.
Clare, who has served in leadership roles at Brook Park Elementary and Berea-Midpark Middle School, shared that PTA involvement goes far beyond events and fundraisers. Volunteers help support communication, partnership, and advocacy efforts that benefit students across the district.
As a Board, we value these partnerships and the role they play in supporting the student experience. We encourage families to explore ways to get involved, knowing that even small contributions can make a meaningful difference.
The Portrait of a Titan is a collective vision that articulates aspirations for ALL of our students. The Portrait identifies six key competencies that every student in the Berea City School District should possess by the time they graduate. These competencies are nurtured at every grade level. They are adaptable, communicator, critical thinker, empathetic, innovative, and leader. Our educators are inspiring students to cultivate these essential skills.
Big Creek Elementary first grade students have been busy investigating the needs of living things, the importance of the sun, and where water can be found on Earth. Through a series of habitat investigations, students explored how animals and plants survive and how different environments support life.
As the unit came to a close, students celebrated their learning through a special Habitats Alive! production. Each student selected a topic that interested them, such as a habitat, animal, or plant, and researched facts to share with their audience. They also created homemade habitats to help bring their learning to life.
This project is a wonderful example of the Portrait of a Titan in action. Our first graders practiced being critical thinkers as they researched and made connections about living things and their environments. They grew as communicators by preparing to present what they learned. They also showed innovation and creativity through their homemade habitat displays.
Most importantly, they shared their excitement for learning with confidence and pride. Way to go, Titans!
Brook Park Elementary students had a special visit from the Stay in the Game Attendance Network and the Cleveland Browns.
One hundred 3rd and 4th grade students were recognized for their strong attendance, positive behavior, hard work in the classroom, and great choices. Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry spoke with students about the importance of showing up every day and giving their best effort.
This celebration connects directly to the Portrait of a Titan competency of leader. Leadership starts with the choices students make each day. By showing up, working hard, treating others well, and making positive decisions, these students are setting an example for their classmates and school community. Congratulations, Titans!
The final meeting of the Superintendent Student Advisory Council for the school year was recently held.
Students participated in station rotations focused on reflection, feedback, and future planning. Throughout the meeting, they shared thoughtful perspectives about what helps them feel engaged, supported, and heard in our schools.
This work connects directly to the Portrait of a Titan. Students demonstrated what it means to be communicators by sharing honest feedback, critical thinkers by reflecting on ways to strengthen the student experience, and leaders by using their voices to help make our schools stronger.
The meeting concluded with senior recognition, celebrating the graduating members and thanking them for the perspectives they brought to the council throughout the year.
We are proud of these Titans for sharing their ideas, challenging thinking, and helping our district continue to grow.
The Berea Board of Education holds regular community conversations to give the public access to board members outside of the formal public participation setting of a meeting. Residents will have the opportunity to meet and discuss any concerns they may have with two board members during a 30 minute time-slot set aside prior to each regular scheduled Board of Education meeting. The goal of this effort is to more effectively connect with the public and learn more about the community.
