Mack Memo

Mack Memo ~ Parent Newsletter

1/19/2021

Mrs. Jennifer Smith, Principal

I have been reading about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, learning about his life and subsequent death at the hands of the Nazis during World War II. He spent the last two years of his life in prison, hoping to be released, but in the end, he lost his life three weeks before Germany surrendered the war. Throughout his life, several people, particularly those who knew him in prison, said he was one of the kindest and most loving people they knew. Although he left a strong theological legacy, his love of God and the Word permeated all areas of his life. His vast knowledge of theology did not stay contained solely in his rhetoric or sermons but was poured out to all those around him.

At the heart of Bonhoeffer was a deep and abiding sense of gratitude. In his book, Letters Papers from Prison, he says, “In ordinary life, we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.” No matter his circumstances, he never lost sight of the real source of joy that comes from knowing and trusting Jesus.

It is the same gratitude that we desire to cultivate in all our students here at BCS. It starts with following Jesus and grows with the knowledge of his Word. It is why I love our mission statement, “To prepare young people to live faithfully for Christ.” Similarly, I am grateful that you have chosen to partner with us at Mack, knowing you have so many other choices.

As you consider re-enrolling your student/s here at Mack, know that we consider it a privilege and honor to serve alongside you and hope we will continue the journey next year.

If you have any questions about Mack next year, please feel free to contact me at any time, jsmith3@bellevuechristian.org. If you have questions about online re-enrollment, please feel free to reach out to Tristen or Monique at admissions@bellevuechristian.org.

Reminders & Announcements

Reenroll Now for 2021-22

We are amid Priority Reenrollment for next year. Please note that with planned reductions in class sizes, current families must re-enroll during Priority Reenrollment (ending Friday, 1/29) to ensure their spot(s) for next year. After Jan. 29, we will begin admitting new students from our applicant pool. Our Admissions Team, Monique Borrego and Tristen Teramoto, are happy to answer any questions. You may also speak with your campus Principal. Thank you!

Wow! What a treat!

Thank you so much to everyone who generously and thoughtfully provided a mid-week treat to our wonderful faculty and staff last week! This PTF led campaign to support the teachers, staff, and bus drivers in this special way is one of many reasons why we love our parent community. We are grateful!

Jan.

No School, Professional Day

Feb.

Early Release Day

In Our Own Words

Thank you to our students and faculty for their participation in our new video series, "In Our Own Words ." It captures the distinctiveness and vitality of a BCS education through an authentic discussion among teachers, students, and leaders.

Originally imagined as a replacement for our New Family Seminar, the series is a valuable resource for all families to better understand and see the value of the school’s mission, vision and program.

Watch the video series on our website.

Join us virtually this week!

Discover Kindergarten Link

Invite neighbors & friends who might be interested in BCS Kindergarten.

WebEx Meeting number (access code): 146 440 4994

Meeting password: 5RQjtjDJa22

You're Invited

Current parents and families who have heard a bit about BCS and want to know more about our mission, culture, and student life at Bellevue Christian, are invited to attend a special virtual event this month. Our event, "Why BCS Matters: The Bellevue Christian Mission in Practice" takes place via Zoom on 1/20. The meeting link is below. Feel free to share with a friend or neighbor who might like to join us!

Meeting ID: 837 4514 4938

Passcode: 3DkT8j

Connect to Zoom

Elementary News

Miss Shelly Riss, 2nd Grade Teacher

We can all agree the past year has been a challenge for everyone. However, I have to say I have the best job in the world! I get to spend my day with children that never seem to lose their joy. In spite of our situation with COVID-19, we find ways to connect with our class storyline for the year, “Joy Bubbles Over.”

When we celebrated B.E.A.R. (Be Excited About Reading) Week, we laughed and enjoyed the day when we brought to school a favorite stuffed companion.
We continued the tradition of having a Teddy Bear Picnic – just at a distance from one another.
When we were online before Christmas break, we found a way to rejoice. While we were physically separated, we were together in spirit as we sang carols that worshipped our Lord.

We will continue to find joy in all areas of second grade. The fruit of the spirit continues because God is on his throne. Happy New Year!

Art Club

Only 1 Spot Left!

Use of Microwaves

We're happy to share that students now have access to microwaves during lunchtime. Below are the classroom guidelines for microwave use:

Students wash hands/sanitize before using the microwave.
The microwave touch areas will be wiped off between usage or classes may opt to have a person be the designated microwave operator.
The designated operator will wear gloves.
We'll ask students to avoid gathering around the microwave.
Students bring their own silverware.

Chapel & Tithes

Maltby Food Bank continues to depend on our support, so thank you for giving generously. Here is the list of their current needs:

Canned Diced Tomatoes

Strawberry& Grape Jelly

Kids Toothpaste
Incontinence Pads

Watch This Week's Chapel

Senior Dog Food
Protein Drinks

Preschool Highlights

Our delightful preschool students were so excited to be back at school with their friends and teachers last week after almost a month at home. It was a very fun week, filled, as always, with art, active and pretend play, sensory experiences, and learning of all kinds.

All the classes had fun with snowflakes, which included a science experiment in the threes class, involving snowflakes, sugar, and salt. They also enjoyed having a tool bench added to the carpet area, where they could work as busy builders, fixers, and creators. A favorite activity was having Mrs. Underhill take a call to send help to an area of the classroom for “repair.”

Some other sensory activities across multiple classrooms this week included playing with “snow dough,” fun with a giant water tub, and playing with hot chocolate cloud dough with mugs, spoons, and marshmallows.

The oldest pre-K class also played in the quilt and sewing shop in the dramatic play area, which will be available all month-long. Meanwhile, in all the younger classes “Star Drinks” opened for business, and the kids enthusiastically went to work taking orders, and preparing and serving tea, hot chocolate, and, of course, coffee.