Bethel Education Foundation

5-11-09

"I wanted to let you know that last week we had our first visit from the CT Historical Society due to a grant funded by the BEF. The students really enjoyed it and were very engaged throughout the entire session. They learned a lot about the native people of our state and they were able to use their observations to help them decide what different tools might have been used for during that time. I took pictures during this presentation, and so did Kit. I will be uploading those from the digital camera soon and I will be sure to send some to you. I will be asking to see if they can go up on the Rockwell web page as well. I just wanted to say thank you to you, as well as the entire BEF. We are all looking forward to our second visit in June."

- Christy Bibb

1-9-2008

SMARTBoard in Berry School

Thanks to the Bethel Education Foundation and its grant of a SMARTboard for a grade 2 classroom, Mrs. Leonard's and Mrs. McKenzie's classes tested their knowledge of Chris Van Allsburg with a competitive game of JEOPARDY! These classes had studied many of the works of this Caldecott Award winner and enjoyed a Polar Express party in December. The JEOPARDY! game required the children to recall details from several books and respond in a question format. As you can see, the game included five categories and final jeopardy. The kids fully enjoyed this interactive way to display their understanding. (No Vanna White required!). Read more ...

10-23-2008

Names Can Really Hurt Us Program at BHS

Students from the 10th and 11th grades participated in the Names Can Really Hurt Us program on October 23, 2008. The goal of the Names Program is to help students understand the impact of their words and action and to promote respect towards one another.

The morning assembly included a video presentation, a panel discussion, skits, and an open microphone by which students could share their own stories regarding prejudice and name-calling. Students then met in small breakout groups each facilitated by a trained teacher and student. Here, students were able to discuss their own “Next Step” ideas to effectively make positive changes in the school environment. The closing afternoon program featured a skit performed by Renaissance, poetry readings, musical presentations and a sharing of the ideas to make Bethel High School a school community that is welcoming and supportive of all our students.

I Am Dirt

"Dirt" a one man show created by Actor/Comedian John Morello is one of the most popular students assemblies around the country."Dirt" is not a lecture or seminar. It is a play of many characters that address core issues related to substance abuse, adolescent struggles, self-esteem, purpose in life and decision making. "Dirt" presents an honest and a respectful view of the realities faced by teenagers which is why students connect, listen and enjoy his show. A Bethel Education Foundation grant brought this program to the students at Bethel High School for a memorable experience.