Our Pirates are gearing up for a Homecoming Parade to remember tomorrow!
Leading up to the big parade, the after-school student parking lot has been home to BCHS students hard at work designing and building their class floats all week long. With this year’s Great Gatsby theme, there have been plenty of gold frills and Art Deco patterns to go around. Students have spent their evenings painting, crafting, and gluing their designs together, and it looks like we’re in for a flashy parade without a doubt!
Be sure to come watch the parade roll through town at 6:00 PM tomorrow!
A huge thank-you to all of our class sponsors and community members who have volunteered their trailers and helped watch over our students throughout the week.
Who do you think will come out with the most eye-catching float by tomorrow’s parade?
Leading up to the big parade, the after-school student parking lot has been home to BCHS students hard at work designing and building their class floats all week long. With this year’s Great Gatsby theme, there have been plenty of gold frills and Art Deco patterns to go around. Students have spent their evenings painting, crafting, and gluing their designs together, and it looks like we’re in for a flashy parade without a doubt!
Be sure to come watch the parade roll through town at 6:00 PM tomorrow!
A huge thank-you to all of our class sponsors and community members who have volunteered their trailers and helped watch over our students throughout the week.
Who do you think will come out with the most eye-catching float by tomorrow’s parade?
Congratulations to our Anchor of Excellence recipients! ⚓
Each month, the Anchor of Excellence recognition will honor a small selection of employees and community members, highlighting the outstanding work happening across our district and celebrating staff members who consistently go above and beyond for students, colleagues, and our school community.
This month, our first recognition goes out to Melissa Davis, who joined Berea Community Schools this year as our new library media specialist, and in a remarkably short time, she has already made tremendous impacts. She has transformed the library into a place where students are excited to visit to explore, create, and learn. She has also stepped beyond the traditional role of library media specialist by finding creative ways to continue providing STEAM opportunities for our students after the loss of our dedicated STEAM position. Melissa has also become an incredible resource for our staff, taking initiative to identify problems, find solutions, and help wherever she is needed. Much of that work happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout our entire school. Melissa, thank you for bringing such energy, creativity, and genuine spirit of service to our district. Your willingness to step up and make things better for our students is exactly the kind of everyday excellence we are proud to celebrate with this award.
Our next recognition goes to Mr. Bernie Harris. Bernie's connection to Berea Community Schools runs deep as a graduate, a parent, coach, and now head football coach at BCHS. Bernie has spent decades investing his time and energy into our students. His service extends well beyond the playing field. He has coached baseball and golf, serves on the Berea Community Athletics Hall of Fame Committee, and leads our youth basketball league. Through his trophy-making business, he also generously supported our school by creating awards, trophies, signage, and displays that celebrate our students and preserve our athletic history. From the Hall of Fame plaques outside Conkin Gym to his work commemorating the Bill Smallwood Classic Scholarship, Bernie continues to find ways to honor the people and traditions that make our school special. Bernie, thank you for giving so much of your time, talent, and heart to Berea Community Schools. You truly exemplify what it means to be an anchor of our community.
Our final recipient is Debbie Holbrook. Debbie devoted more than 28 years to the Berea Independent School District, serving in accounts payable, payroll, and ultimately as our district finance officer. But her service to our district did not end when she retired in 2017. Debbie has continued to be a trusted mentor, a calming presence, and an invaluable resource, especially during some of the most challenging financial times in our district's history. But perhaps what makes Debbie so special is that her care for our school family goes far beyond her professional expertise. She continues to show up for people with encouragement, handmade gifts, baked goods, thoughtful gestures during both celebrations and difficult times. Debbie, your willingness to continue serving simply because you care speaks volumes about who you are. Thank you for being a steady source of wisdom, kindness, and support for our school family.
Congratulations to all of our Anchor of Excellence recipients, we couldn't be more grateful for everything you invest in our schools and communities.
Each month, the Anchor of Excellence recognition will honor a small selection of employees and community members, highlighting the outstanding work happening across our district and celebrating staff members who consistently go above and beyond for students, colleagues, and our school community.
This month, our first recognition goes out to Melissa Davis, who joined Berea Community Schools this year as our new library media specialist, and in a remarkably short time, she has already made tremendous impacts. She has transformed the library into a place where students are excited to visit to explore, create, and learn. She has also stepped beyond the traditional role of library media specialist by finding creative ways to continue providing STEAM opportunities for our students after the loss of our dedicated STEAM position. Melissa has also become an incredible resource for our staff, taking initiative to identify problems, find solutions, and help wherever she is needed. Much of that work happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout our entire school. Melissa, thank you for bringing such energy, creativity, and genuine spirit of service to our district. Your willingness to step up and make things better for our students is exactly the kind of everyday excellence we are proud to celebrate with this award.
Our next recognition goes to Mr. Bernie Harris. Bernie's connection to Berea Community Schools runs deep as a graduate, a parent, coach, and now head football coach at BCHS. Bernie has spent decades investing his time and energy into our students. His service extends well beyond the playing field. He has coached baseball and golf, serves on the Berea Community Athletics Hall of Fame Committee, and leads our youth basketball league. Through his trophy-making business, he also generously supported our school by creating awards, trophies, signage, and displays that celebrate our students and preserve our athletic history. From the Hall of Fame plaques outside Conkin Gym to his work commemorating the Bill Smallwood Classic Scholarship, Bernie continues to find ways to honor the people and traditions that make our school special. Bernie, thank you for giving so much of your time, talent, and heart to Berea Community Schools. You truly exemplify what it means to be an anchor of our community.
Our final recipient is Debbie Holbrook. Debbie devoted more than 28 years to the Berea Independent School District, serving in accounts payable, payroll, and ultimately as our district finance officer. But her service to our district did not end when she retired in 2017. Debbie has continued to be a trusted mentor, a calming presence, and an invaluable resource, especially during some of the most challenging financial times in our district's history. But perhaps what makes Debbie so special is that her care for our school family goes far beyond her professional expertise. She continues to show up for people with encouragement, handmade gifts, baked goods, thoughtful gestures during both celebrations and difficult times. Debbie, your willingness to continue serving simply because you care speaks volumes about who you are. Thank you for being a steady source of wisdom, kindness, and support for our school family.
Congratulations to all of our Anchor of Excellence recipients, we couldn't be more grateful for everything you invest in our schools and communities.
Our Christmas Assistance form is now open!
We know it may seem early to start thinking about Christmas, but the holiday season will be here before we know it! Starting early helps us make sure our families receive the support they need for a joyful and stress-free holiday season.
Our FRYSC team is already working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the months ahead and connect our families with generous community partners and sponsors.
If your family would like to be considered for Christmas Assistance, please email natasha.johnson@berea.kyschools.us to receive the link to complete the form.
Thank you to our amazing community partners and sponsors who help make the holidays a little brighter for our students and families!
We know it may seem early to start thinking about Christmas, but the holiday season will be here before we know it! Starting early helps us make sure our families receive the support they need for a joyful and stress-free holiday season.
Our FRYSC team is already working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the months ahead and connect our families with generous community partners and sponsors.
If your family would like to be considered for Christmas Assistance, please email natasha.johnson@berea.kyschools.us to receive the link to complete the form.
Thank you to our amazing community partners and sponsors who help make the holidays a little brighter for our students and families!
Introducing your 2026 Homecoming Court Candidates!
It's Homecoming Week, and that means it's a busy week for these Pirates!
On Wednesday, they'll be gathering for our Candidate Assembly in Singleton Gym at 10:45, before we all watch them ride in the big parade at 6:00. Student balloting will take place on Thursday, and our Crowning will take place on Friday at our Homecoming Football game against Trimble County.
Let's give it up for this year's Homecoming Candidates!
It's Homecoming Week, and that means it's a busy week for these Pirates!
On Wednesday, they'll be gathering for our Candidate Assembly in Singleton Gym at 10:45, before we all watch them ride in the big parade at 6:00. Student balloting will take place on Thursday, and our Crowning will take place on Friday at our Homecoming Football game against Trimble County.
Let's give it up for this year's Homecoming Candidates!
Berea Athletics schedule for the week of September 21-26.
Lots of great action home and away. Good luck to all our teams and coaches. Go Pirates!!
Lots of great action home and away. Good luck to all our teams and coaches. Go Pirates!!
Green Dot Volleyball Game Tonight!
Come out tonight at 6 PM and cheer on our Lady Pirates Volleyball team as they take on Frankfort at our Green Dot Volleyball Game!
Green Dot is a Kentucky nonprofit dedicated to building the skills, confidence, and connections needed to help prevent violence in our schools and communities. Their mission is simple: small actions can make a big difference in creating a safer community for everyone.
We’re proud to collaborate with the amazing team at Green Dot to raise awareness and host events like tonight’s match. Their support gives our students valuable tools and skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Let's fill those stands tonight Pirates! We'll see you there!
Come out tonight at 6 PM and cheer on our Lady Pirates Volleyball team as they take on Frankfort at our Green Dot Volleyball Game!
Green Dot is a Kentucky nonprofit dedicated to building the skills, confidence, and connections needed to help prevent violence in our schools and communities. Their mission is simple: small actions can make a big difference in creating a safer community for everyone.
We’re proud to collaborate with the amazing team at Green Dot to raise awareness and host events like tonight’s match. Their support gives our students valuable tools and skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Let's fill those stands tonight Pirates! We'll see you there!
Enrollment for Italy is now open!
A big thank-you to everyone who attended our meeting about the upcoming trip to Italy in Summer 2027! Enrollment is now open!
Spots are limited, and you can lock in your spot with $95. Plus, enroll by September 25 and you’ll receive a $250 discount. First 10 Students will receive an additional $100 off! As a reminder, EF also offers risk-free enrollment, which gives you the flexibility to cancel within 7 days for a full refund, just in case your plans change.
Enroll now and check out the trip details here: www.eftours.com/3053590HB
Have additional questions? Email me directly, check out EF’s website, or contact EF’s Traveler Support Team:
Live chat: https://www.eftours.com/contact-us
Call: 800-665-5364
If your student has friends who are interested but haven’t signed up yet, feel free to pass this message along to their families.
Looking forward to an incredible trip!
Best,
Roger Trussell
roger.trussell@berea.kyschools.us
A big thank-you to everyone who attended our meeting about the upcoming trip to Italy in Summer 2027! Enrollment is now open!
Spots are limited, and you can lock in your spot with $95. Plus, enroll by September 25 and you’ll receive a $250 discount. First 10 Students will receive an additional $100 off! As a reminder, EF also offers risk-free enrollment, which gives you the flexibility to cancel within 7 days for a full refund, just in case your plans change.
Enroll now and check out the trip details here: www.eftours.com/3053590HB
Have additional questions? Email me directly, check out EF’s website, or contact EF’s Traveler Support Team:
Live chat: https://www.eftours.com/contact-us
Call: 800-665-5364
If your student has friends who are interested but haven’t signed up yet, feel free to pass this message along to their families.
Looking forward to an incredible trip!
Best,
Roger Trussell
roger.trussell@berea.kyschools.us
Homecoming T-Shirt Sale!
This week, JAG is holding a Homecoming T-Shirt sale fundraiser to support their program. Shirts will be sold at the school through the week for $10 each.
Contact mary.harris@berea.kyschools.us for more information.
This week, JAG is holding a Homecoming T-Shirt sale fundraiser to support their program. Shirts will be sold at the school through the week for $10 each.
Contact mary.harris@berea.kyschools.us for more information.
Last night's Grandparent's Day Hoedown Dance was a huge success!
Yesterday evening, the doors to Conkin Gym opened up after hours to welcome BCES students and their families for our Grandparent's Day Hoedown event! All evening we had dancing, snacks, photo ops, and most importantly, we made some invaluable family memories at BCES.
A huge thank-you to our Elementary staff, and the crew from FRYSC who helped to organize and welcome families into the event. We couldn't be more appreciative of our amazing team for making the night so special!
Yesterday evening, the doors to Conkin Gym opened up after hours to welcome BCES students and their families for our Grandparent's Day Hoedown event! All evening we had dancing, snacks, photo ops, and most importantly, we made some invaluable family memories at BCES.
A huge thank-you to our Elementary staff, and the crew from FRYSC who helped to organize and welcome families into the event. We couldn't be more appreciative of our amazing team for making the night so special!
🌟 Senior Spotlight 🌟
This week, we're celebrating senior Ivan Le!
Ivan has been a Berea student for 5 years, and in his time here, one of his favorite teachers has been Ms. Deaton, "because she's chill and taught me how to do a Rubix cube."
After graduation, Ivan plans to pursue higher education and continue working towards future goals.
Let's all wish Ivan the best of luck in his final year at BCHS and for his future beyond graduation, we can't wait to see all the great things he accomplishes!
This week, we're celebrating senior Ivan Le!
Ivan has been a Berea student for 5 years, and in his time here, one of his favorite teachers has been Ms. Deaton, "because she's chill and taught me how to do a Rubix cube."
After graduation, Ivan plans to pursue higher education and continue working towards future goals.
Let's all wish Ivan the best of luck in his final year at BCHS and for his future beyond graduation, we can't wait to see all the great things he accomplishes!
At BCES, last week's High Attendance Day started off with a warm welcome as students made their way into school in the morning!
Waiting near the entrance was a group of EKU Beach Volleyball, Softball, and Cheer student-athletes, who were there to welcome our students and cheer them on as they headed into the building. What a fantastic way to start the school day, and a great reminder that coming to school is something worth looking forward to.
When you come to school, you’re not just in the classroom, you’re part of the experiences, connections, and moments that make each school day special. It's true you know, if you miss school, you miss out!
A huge THANK YOU to our friends from EKU for bringing a little extra energy and magic to our morning and celebrating High Attendance Day with us.
Waiting near the entrance was a group of EKU Beach Volleyball, Softball, and Cheer student-athletes, who were there to welcome our students and cheer them on as they headed into the building. What a fantastic way to start the school day, and a great reminder that coming to school is something worth looking forward to.
When you come to school, you’re not just in the classroom, you’re part of the experiences, connections, and moments that make each school day special. It's true you know, if you miss school, you miss out!
A huge THANK YOU to our friends from EKU for bringing a little extra energy and magic to our morning and celebrating High Attendance Day with us.
Our Homecoming Parade is next week Pirates!
We’re looking for Jeeps and convertibles to help carry our Homecoming candidates through town on Wednesday, September 23, at 6:00 PM.
If you or anyone you know has a Jeep Wrangler or convertible, join the festivities by reaching out to Mr. Joseph Caudill at joseph.caudill@berea.kyschools.us.
Let’s make the 2026 Homecoming Parade one to remember!
We’re looking for Jeeps and convertibles to help carry our Homecoming candidates through town on Wednesday, September 23, at 6:00 PM.
If you or anyone you know has a Jeep Wrangler or convertible, join the festivities by reaching out to Mr. Joseph Caudill at joseph.caudill@berea.kyschools.us.
Let’s make the 2026 Homecoming Parade one to remember!
This month's Board of Education Meeting will take place on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 7 PM, in Kennedy Theater.
The meeting will be live-streamed on our district YouTube channel.
The meeting will be live-streamed on our district YouTube channel.
Today, we’re taking a moment to spotlight our amazing Lady Pirates Volleyball team and celebrate their outstanding accomplishments this month!
On Sept. 5 these Lady Pirates participated in the 11th Region All A tournament, and senior Taylor McHone was named to the All Tournament team.
Then, on Sept 12 the team traveled to Estill County to participate in the Estill County Invitational. The girls finished 3rd place out of 8 teams. Senior Story Nunn-Bonta was named Player of the Game for Berea.
Let’s give it up for this incredible group of student-athletes! We couldn't wish for a better group to represent our school.
Let's go, Pirates!
On Sept. 5 these Lady Pirates participated in the 11th Region All A tournament, and senior Taylor McHone was named to the All Tournament team.
Then, on Sept 12 the team traveled to Estill County to participate in the Estill County Invitational. The girls finished 3rd place out of 8 teams. Senior Story Nunn-Bonta was named Player of the Game for Berea.
Let’s give it up for this incredible group of student-athletes! We couldn't wish for a better group to represent our school.
Let's go, Pirates!
Archery Parent Meeting!
Berea Archers! Who's ready for this year's season to kick off on October 1st? To prepare for a great season ahead, join us for our parent meeting on September 22nd from 7:30 to 8:00 PM in the school Cafeteria, following the 5:30-7:30 Open Gym.
If your student is interested in participating in the '26-'27 season, this is the perfect time to get important information about the upcoming season!
Feel free to contact Coach Benton at marilyn.benton@berea.kyschools.us for more information.
Berea Archers! Who's ready for this year's season to kick off on October 1st? To prepare for a great season ahead, join us for our parent meeting on September 22nd from 7:30 to 8:00 PM in the school Cafeteria, following the 5:30-7:30 Open Gym.
If your student is interested in participating in the '26-'27 season, this is the perfect time to get important information about the upcoming season!
Feel free to contact Coach Benton at marilyn.benton@berea.kyschools.us for more information.
Kicking Off Fall Sports with a Pep Rally for the Ages!
Fall sports are officially underway, so to celebrate our amazing student athletes, students and staff gathered in Singleton Gym Friday afternoon for our first pep rally of the year. And, boy, have we missed these.
The afternoon kicked off with a lip-sync battle featuring two unforgettable performances. Mr. Tait took the stage with One Day More from Les Misérables, while Mr. Stepp followed with a world-class rendition of Prince’s Purple Rain, which had everyone swaying their phone lights along as he mimed to the famous solo. It was legitimately an all-time iconic pep rally moment at BCHS as far as we're concerned.
After Mr. Stepp was crowned the winner of the lip-sync challenge, a few lucky students took to the floor for a game of real-life Hungry Hungry Hippos.
With one student lying on a rolling board and another steering them by the legs, teams raced to collect as many bouncy balls as possible before time ran out. It was riveting.
Let's hear it for our student-athletes, who are knocking it out of the park this season! We’re so proud of the hard work, dedication, and Pirate Pride they’re bringing to their teams and to our school.
And a huge thank-you to all of the student leaders and teachers who helped organize such a fun and memorable pep rally. We can't wait to see what they come up with for the next one.
Let's go, Pirates!
Fall sports are officially underway, so to celebrate our amazing student athletes, students and staff gathered in Singleton Gym Friday afternoon for our first pep rally of the year. And, boy, have we missed these.
The afternoon kicked off with a lip-sync battle featuring two unforgettable performances. Mr. Tait took the stage with One Day More from Les Misérables, while Mr. Stepp followed with a world-class rendition of Prince’s Purple Rain, which had everyone swaying their phone lights along as he mimed to the famous solo. It was legitimately an all-time iconic pep rally moment at BCHS as far as we're concerned.
After Mr. Stepp was crowned the winner of the lip-sync challenge, a few lucky students took to the floor for a game of real-life Hungry Hungry Hippos.
With one student lying on a rolling board and another steering them by the legs, teams raced to collect as many bouncy balls as possible before time ran out. It was riveting.
Let's hear it for our student-athletes, who are knocking it out of the park this season! We’re so proud of the hard work, dedication, and Pirate Pride they’re bringing to their teams and to our school.
And a huge thank-you to all of the student leaders and teachers who helped organize such a fun and memorable pep rally. We can't wait to see what they come up with for the next one.
Let's go, Pirates!
Freshman/Assistant Varsity Boys Basketball Coach Wanted!
Interested in joining the Pirates as Freshman/Assistant Varsity Boys Basketball Coach? Email tw.sears@berea.kyschools.us for more information, or apply now at https://bereaky.schoolspring.com
Interested in joining the Pirates as Freshman/Assistant Varsity Boys Basketball Coach? Email tw.sears@berea.kyschools.us for more information, or apply now at https://bereaky.schoolspring.com
Berea Athletics schedule for the week of September 14-18.
Lots of great action home and away. Good luck to all our teams and coaches. Go Pirates!!
- Lots of big District matchups this week. HS Volleyball at Madison Southern on Monday, HS Girls Soccer at Model on Tuesday and HS Boys Soccer will host Madison Southern on Thursday at Berea College.
- Congratulations to the HS Volleyball team on their 3rd place finish and Story Nunn-Bonta for being named Player of the Game at the Estill County Tournament.
- Congratulations to the MS Boys Soccer team on their 2-1 win over Garrard County.
- Our MS Girls Basketball team will have their 8th Grade night on Tuesday Sept. 15 against Burgin. Our 8th Grade team will look to extend their winning streak. They currently stand at 20-0 on the season.
Lots of great action home and away. Good luck to all our teams and coaches. Go Pirates!!
- Lots of big District matchups this week. HS Volleyball at Madison Southern on Monday, HS Girls Soccer at Model on Tuesday and HS Boys Soccer will host Madison Southern on Thursday at Berea College.
- Congratulations to the HS Volleyball team on their 3rd place finish and Story Nunn-Bonta for being named Player of the Game at the Estill County Tournament.
- Congratulations to the MS Boys Soccer team on their 2-1 win over Garrard County.
- Our MS Girls Basketball team will have their 8th Grade night on Tuesday Sept. 15 against Burgin. Our 8th Grade team will look to extend their winning streak. They currently stand at 20-0 on the season.
Who's this?
Believe it or not, underneath those inflatable alter egos are Mrs. Reynolds and Mr. Dollins, waving goodbye to students as they headed home at the end of High Attendance Day on Wednesday.
A huge shout-out to our incredible leadership at BCES for bringing a little magic to the school day.
Believe it or not, underneath those inflatable alter egos are Mrs. Reynolds and Mr. Dollins, waving goodbye to students as they headed home at the end of High Attendance Day on Wednesday.
A huge shout-out to our incredible leadership at BCES for bringing a little magic to the school day.
Club Rush!
This morning, student representatives took their posts behind poster boards and sign-up sheets for our annual Club Rush, where students get a chance to sign up for this year's club offerings.
One of the most exciting and important parts of life at BCS are these student-organized programs and communities who come together to connect over common interests. Whether it's guitar, drama, or trading cards, there's already a whole community of other students eager to collaborate on projects, and share hobbies with one another.
We're proud to be home to such a vibrant culture of clubs and activities, and excited to see how these groups flourish and grow together throughout the year!
