Belmont

Just before spring break, Chenery Upper Elementary celebrated Being Responsible in a big way! Our students took the lead in an inspiring assembly—sharing skits, raps, poems, and videos all about what it means to be responsible. To top it off, teachers nominated students who go above and beyond in showing what responsibility means every day. Assistant Principals, Ms. Giunta and Ms. Mathews, proudly presented these students with certificates in front of their classmates and teachers. Way to go, Chenery!

This morning, Winn Brook was buzzing with excitement as families gathered for the Kindergarten and 1st Grade Inclusion Assembly! This special event is part of the school’s ongoing journey, building on past assemblies that explored identity and diversity. Today, our students continued that journey through engaging songs that reminded us all of the importance of making everyone feel seen, heard, and included—every single day. The students’ heartfelt performances and messages of belonging and kindness made everyone feel welcomed and a valued part of the Winn Brook community. Here's a clip of what kindness can do! https://youtu.be/mlGaDx6oGr8 We were also excited to welcome Darnell Williams, our district’s new Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Well-being. He introduced himself to the community and shared his enthusiasm for connecting with families. Winn Brook continues to foster a culture where everyone belongs! Huge THANK YOU to Ms. Sinclair and all the classroom teachers for making this assembly happen!

This morning, an accident involving Belmont Light workers on the BHS campus caused a power outage at the middle and high school. All students and staff are safe, power has been restored, and the school day is continuing as normal. The injured workers were transported to the hospital for treatment.

You’re invited to BHS Spring Masterworks concert! Monday, April 7th at 7:00pm. Free! There is something for everyone on this program. Join us!

Today, Winn Brook students were treated to an unforgettable experience where music and storytelling came together! Race and Song: A Musical Conversation—co-created by longtime friends Alastair Moock and Reggie Harris—brought history to life through moving songs and real-life experiences. With a mix of traditional and original music, Alastair and Reggie shared personal conversations about race and history, showing how the past shapes the world we live in today. Students didn’t just listen—they sang along and even learned to sign one of the songs! Their powerful performance reminded us all of the importance of listening to one another, fostering community, and working together for a brighter future. Be inspired: https://youtu.be/SCo1ciAsWE4 A huge THANK YOU to the Foundation for Belmont Education for making this inspiring experience possible!

This morning, Burbank students and teachers embarked on a magical storytelling adventure with the artist Len Cabral! With vibrant energy and masterful storytelling, Mr. Cabral brought his Cape Verdean ancestry to life, weaving together African, Cape Verdean, and Caribbean folktales. He delighted the audience, inviting students to echo refrains and enthusiastically suggest animals to join the journey. To make the experience even more magical, he played the kalimba, an African instrument, adding a beautiful musical backdrop to his tales. A huge THANK YOU to the Burbank PTA for bringing this memorable experience to our school! https://youtube.com/shorts/941VnxTy8og?feature=share

Exciting Updates on BPS Early Literacy Curriculum Review! BPS is actively reviewing early literacy curricula to enhance K-3 reading, writing, and word study programming. The Literacy Curriculum Council (LCC) has identified three potential options for adoption: Arts and Letters (Great Minds, 2025), Expeditionary Learning (Open Up Resources, 2025), and Fishtank Plus ELA (Fishtank Learning, 2021). Explore our webpage for updates and insights into this process! Check out this presentation at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eVVt3OBwC5dZdcB2hfSq8StxYXKHtEgC/view for a closer look at the review process and timeline. Stay tuned for more updates!

Are rainy days making you think about summer? Consider signing your child up for Belmont Summer Enrichment! Registration is open for all ages from preschool- high school. Click here for class options and registration link: https://www.belmont.k12.ma.us/page/summer-program

📢 BPS is Hiring! Daily Substitute Teachers Needed! All you need is a high school degree, a caring and open personality, a good head on your shoulders, and daytime availability! ✅ Flexible scheduling ✅ Earn extra money on your schedule ✅ Be part of the school community Please spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues who may be looking for an opportunity to support our schools and earn extra cash! Apply here: https://bit.ly/4irRpSe

Today, our BMS 8th graders started the day with an engaging assembly led by BHS administrators before heading to the Field House for the Course Selection Fair. They heard from teachers, department directors, and current BHS students about the exciting course options available next year. From electives to core subjects, they gained valuable insights to help guide their high school journey!

Chenery Upper Elementary School is celebrating Black History Month by launching an exciting new literacy adventure! This month, its hallways will come alive with Story Walks on each floor, featuring engaging picture books that feature Black authors, inspiring characters, and powerful themes of community, perseverance, and joy. Get ready to explore, read, and be inspired on every floor! The reading journey begins - My Daddy is a Cowboy by Stephanie Seales (1st Floor) This touching story follows a young girl and her father as they embrace their love for horseback riding. Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora (2nd Floor) This heartwarming story celebrates generosity and community as Omu, a kind woman, shares her delicious stew with neighbors. Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall (3rd Floor) Jabari is ready to jump off the diving board—but he has to conquer his fears first!

Mark your calendar and cheer on this team! Belmont High School students proudly represent our school as they compete in GBH’s High School Quiz Show. The episode premieres on March 8 at 6 pm on GBH and the High School Quiz Show YouTube channel. Check out the story in The Belmont Voice! https://bit.ly/4352u7r (photo credits: The Belmont Voice/WGBH)

What makes the Friday before winter break even better? The amazing sounds of the BHS Jazz Ensemble! Students and teachers enjoyed lunch while tapping along to the talents of our student musicians, joined by BPS Visual and Performing Arts Director, Mr. Asadoorian. Catch a listen here or visit Belmont Public Schools Facebook account! https://youtu.be/rOK2XHJLZTY

International Valentine's Day Potluck Celebration! Please bring a food to share! Together, we will learn about celebrations of love and friendship around the world, eat delicious food together, read a story of friendship and community, and make cards for others. Join us Saturday, February 8th from 1-3pm at the Wellington School Cafeteria.

New Year, New Goals! 🎉 It's the perfect time to download the BPS app to connect with our school community. Stay updated on important news, lunch menus, events, and more! Download the BPS app today! And follow us on Facebook and X!

Belmont Summer Enrichment 2025 is now open for registration! Sessions run for two weeks from 9AM to noon. Some of our courses include Engineering, Coding, Sports, Theater/Improv, Graphic Design, Arts, Gardening, and more. Go to https://www.belmont.k12.ma.us/page/summer-program to learn more and register today!

Come to Belmont Basketball Night - Friday, January 10th at the BMHS Field House. Free Event for all! Participate in fun activities and watch the varsity girls and boys basketball teams compete against Woburn. 🏀Celtics ticket raffle, autographed basketball raffle, and more!

BPS PTSO is hosting a free showing of Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 7 p.m. in the Belmont High School auditorium. Screenagers (updated in 2024) is an award-winning documentary that looks at the impact of screen technology on kids. It features personal stories from families, depicting the messy struggles that parents, tweens, and teens are having over social media, video games, academics and screen addiction. This is a community event and open to all Belmont parents and caregivers. Adults are encouraged to bring their middle school and high school-aged students. The film runs 60 minutes and will be followed by a discussion with the audience. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m.

BPS Invites you to K-3 Literacy Caregiver Focus Groups • Learn about our Curriculum Review Process • Share your experiences with K-3 Literacy • Connect with School & Community Members Virtual Meeting: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 | 7:00-8:00 PM OR In-Person Meeting: Friday, January 17, 2025 | 9:00-10:00 AM Location: TBD RSVP: Please let us know which session you plan to attend by completing this Google Form https://bit.ly/3OT9coM

The BHS Madrigals spread holiday cheer today, caroling at schools and offices throughout the District. Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season and relaxing winter break! See you January 2, 2025! https://youtu.be/hzGrHPK1cVU