BES Parent Update

Each year in January, students at BES in our English learner programs take the ACCESS for ELLs language proficiency test. These students come from homes with exposure to multiple languages. The test measures academic English language proficiency for students learning English in our school and throughout our state and nation.

Students takes tests on listening, reading, speaking and listening. BES uses these test scores to monitor the progress these kids make towards proficiency. Once they are considered proficient they no longer take these exams so that can be a great motivator! Last year we had a record number of students test out of the program!

Encourage these students to do their best between January 13-26! We'll be celebrating their efforts at school too!

BES was proud to host our First Responder Appreciation Lunch as a small way to say thank you to those who serve and protect our community every day. We are grateful for the time, dedication, and commitment our first responders show to keeping our students and families safe. It was an honor to welcome them to our school and show our appreciation for all that they do! 🚓🚒💙

On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Burlington School District will conduct a lockdown drill at all district school buildings as part of our ongoing commitment to student and staff safety.

At Burlington Elementary, the drill will take place from 1:00–1:30 p.m. A lockdown is a safety response used when there is a potential concern inside a school building, such as an intruder, a report of a weapon, or another serious safety issue.

During the drill:

Students will remain in classrooms with their teachers

Instruction will pause briefly to practice procedures

No one will be allowed to enter or exit the building, so please plan ahead if your child has an appointment that afternoon

Staff will use developmentally appropriate language and provide reassurance so students feel safe and supported. All students have already received training on all of our drill procedures throughout the year.

Thank you for your understanding and partnership as we work to keep our students safe.

With snow beginning to arrive, please remember that any announcements regarding late starts or snow days will be sent out between 6:00–6:30 AM. Please keep an eye on your phone and school communication pages during that time.

BES Late Start Procedure Reminders

• No preschool morning classes

• Doors open for student arrivals at 9:40 am

• Classes start at 10:00 am

• Breakfast will not be served

Monday - Chicken Alfredo, broccoli, hot rolls, peaches

Tuesday - Tacos, shredded cheese, refried beans, pears

Wednesday - Chicken rice soup, pbj, carrots, crackers, fruit cocktail

Thursday - Pigs in a blanket, baked beans, applesauce, pudding

January

13 - EL Tutoring Resumes

13 - BES Lockdown Drill

19 - School in Session