Congratulations to our Anchor of Excellence recipients! ⚓
Each month, the Anchor of Excellence recognition will honor two Certified Employee and two Classified Employees, 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's first recipient is Mr. Daniel Morris, who consistently serves all students with patience, care, and unwavering dedication. He works closely with teachers and families to ensure students receive the support they need, and builds strong relationships with those students and parents through consistent communication. Daniel has created a space where students who feel overwhelmed can reset, regain control, and return to learning, this support not only benefits the individual student but helps classrooms remain focused on instruction. He leads a team that supports students from Kindergarten through 5th grade, and often goes above and beyond, staying late or coming in on weekends to ensure every students needs are met. Through his grace, humor and consistency, Daniel makes a tremendous difference in the lives of the students he serves.
Next we'd like to recognize Ms. Kristi Baker. Kristi is someone who works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our school running smoothly. She starts her mornings early ensuring classrooms are filled with substitute teachers and communicates critical information that helps the day run effectively. In addition to those responsibilities, Kristi serves as Assistant Athletic Director, coaches, and is always willing to step in wherever help is needed. She is dependable, supportive, and a trusted resource for both staff, and students. While her work may not always be visible, the truth is our school would not function the same without her dedication and commitment to excellence.
Nathan Sweet was due to receive a recognition as well, but due to illness it will be delayed.
Our final recipient this month belongs to Ms. Emma Fraley. Ms. Fraley models excellence every day both inside and outside the classroom. She creates strong relationships with students, and fosters a welcoming classroom environment where every student feels safe, supported and challenged to succeed. Her engaging instruction, and attention to student needs, helps learners grow academically, and personally. Beyond the classroom, Emma contributes in many ways, from coaching, to helping plan activities that build positive culture across our school. Emma is always willing to lend a helping hand, and greet others with a smile, and she truly represents the spirit of Pirate Pride.
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 two Certified Employee and two Classified Employees, 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's first recipient is Mr. Daniel Morris, who consistently serves all students with patience, care, and unwavering dedication. He works closely with teachers and families to ensure students receive the support they need, and builds strong relationships with those students and parents through consistent communication. Daniel has created a space where students who feel overwhelmed can reset, regain control, and return to learning, this support not only benefits the individual student but helps classrooms remain focused on instruction. He leads a team that supports students from Kindergarten through 5th grade, and often goes above and beyond, staying late or coming in on weekends to ensure every students needs are met. Through his grace, humor and consistency, Daniel makes a tremendous difference in the lives of the students he serves.
Next we'd like to recognize Ms. Kristi Baker. Kristi is someone who works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our school running smoothly. She starts her mornings early ensuring classrooms are filled with substitute teachers and communicates critical information that helps the day run effectively. In addition to those responsibilities, Kristi serves as Assistant Athletic Director, coaches, and is always willing to step in wherever help is needed. She is dependable, supportive, and a trusted resource for both staff, and students. While her work may not always be visible, the truth is our school would not function the same without her dedication and commitment to excellence.
Nathan Sweet was due to receive a recognition as well, but due to illness it will be delayed.
Our final recipient this month belongs to Ms. Emma Fraley. Ms. Fraley models excellence every day both inside and outside the classroom. She creates strong relationships with students, and fosters a welcoming classroom environment where every student feels safe, supported and challenged to succeed. Her engaging instruction, and attention to student needs, helps learners grow academically, and personally. Beyond the classroom, Emma contributes in many ways, from coaching, to helping plan activities that build positive culture across our school. Emma is always willing to lend a helping hand, and greet others with a smile, and she truly represents the spirit of Pirate Pride.
Congratulations to all of our Anchor of Excellence recipients, we couldn't be more grateful for everything you invest in our schools and communities.
Celebrating Our Juniors! 🍦
We’re proud to recognize our amazing BCHS juniors for completing their State SAT School Day exam last week! This marks the first year Kentucky juniors have taken the SAT instead of the ACT during school. Students had the opportunity to send their scores to up to four colleges or universities for free, giving them a head start on that college search, and preparing them for their upcoming senior year.
To celebrate this accomplishment, our administrative team treated juniors to a well-deserved ice cream party yesterday! Students went to town making sundaes and treats and enjoying a break in their school day.
A big thank you to Dr. Neaves, Mr. Tim Molton, Ms. Christine Knight, and Board Member Ms. Sarah Rohrer for serving up the ice cream, and to Ms. Caldwell, and all our BCHS faculty and staff for preparing and supporting our students every step of the way.
Good work Juniors, we couldn't be more proud of all your hard work! 🎉
We’re proud to recognize our amazing BCHS juniors for completing their State SAT School Day exam last week! This marks the first year Kentucky juniors have taken the SAT instead of the ACT during school. Students had the opportunity to send their scores to up to four colleges or universities for free, giving them a head start on that college search, and preparing them for their upcoming senior year.
To celebrate this accomplishment, our administrative team treated juniors to a well-deserved ice cream party yesterday! Students went to town making sundaes and treats and enjoying a break in their school day.
A big thank you to Dr. Neaves, Mr. Tim Molton, Ms. Christine Knight, and Board Member Ms. Sarah Rohrer for serving up the ice cream, and to Ms. Caldwell, and all our BCHS faculty and staff for preparing and supporting our students every step of the way.
Good work Juniors, we couldn't be more proud of all your hard work! 🎉
Kids Heart Challenge Day! ❤️
Conkin Gym was full of energy on Friday as our elementary Pirates took part in the Kids Heart Challenge! Every corner of the gym featured a different obstacle course or activity, giving students the chance to get active, build strength, and have lots of fun all along the way of course.
From the bouncy obstacle course to jump rope stations, students rotated through a variety of heart-healthy exercises while learning the importance of staying active. Fan favorites included the classic scooter race, or the ever-popular bouncy obstacle course, but either way students loved spending some meaningful time outside of their classrooms getting active with friends.
We'd like to thank all of our amazing helpers from the high school, and Ms. Kidd, and all of our BCES faculty and staff who kept the day running smoothly!
Conkin Gym was full of energy on Friday as our elementary Pirates took part in the Kids Heart Challenge! Every corner of the gym featured a different obstacle course or activity, giving students the chance to get active, build strength, and have lots of fun all along the way of course.
From the bouncy obstacle course to jump rope stations, students rotated through a variety of heart-healthy exercises while learning the importance of staying active. Fan favorites included the classic scooter race, or the ever-popular bouncy obstacle course, but either way students loved spending some meaningful time outside of their classrooms getting active with friends.
We'd like to thank all of our amazing helpers from the high school, and Ms. Kidd, and all of our BCES faculty and staff who kept the day running smoothly!
Don’t forget to join us tomorrow night for our ACCESS Team Family Night from 5:30–8:00 PM!
Stop by for engaging hot-topic informational sessions and connect with a variety of community vendors and resources dedicated to helping families experience More Good Days Together.
Enjoy prizes, games, and fun activities happening throughout the school—there’s something for everyone!
Bring the whole family and come be part of a great evening. We can’t wait to see you there! 🎉
Stop by for engaging hot-topic informational sessions and connect with a variety of community vendors and resources dedicated to helping families experience More Good Days Together.
Enjoy prizes, games, and fun activities happening throughout the school—there’s something for everyone!
Bring the whole family and come be part of a great evening. We can’t wait to see you there! 🎉
Berea Athletics schedule for the week of March 16 - 21. This is our first week of the regular season for Spring Sports. Good luck to ALL of our teams and coaches this week and season. Go PIRATES!!
- Congratulations to the BCHS Archery team for competing in the KyNASP State Championship on Saturday. The team fell short of qualifying for Nationals by just 47 points with a score of 3053. Congratulations to Claire Garrett who shot 3 perfect 50's and placed 29th out of 1567 HS girls. Job well done to all our archers for a great season!
- The Berea Tennis team opened up their season with a 5-2 win over Danville Christian. The Boys won 3-0 and the girls tied 2-2.
- On Monday March 16 we will introduce our New Head Football Coach Lee Atkins to our returning players and any up-and-coming players. We will call them down to the Singleton Gym at 11:15 for a brief introduction.
- On Thursday March 19 we will introduce our New Head Boys Soccer Coach Jake Partin in Singleton Gym at 11:15.
- Congratulations to the BCHS Archery team for competing in the KyNASP State Championship on Saturday. The team fell short of qualifying for Nationals by just 47 points with a score of 3053. Congratulations to Claire Garrett who shot 3 perfect 50's and placed 29th out of 1567 HS girls. Job well done to all our archers for a great season!
- The Berea Tennis team opened up their season with a 5-2 win over Danville Christian. The Boys won 3-0 and the girls tied 2-2.
- On Monday March 16 we will introduce our New Head Football Coach Lee Atkins to our returning players and any up-and-coming players. We will call them down to the Singleton Gym at 11:15 for a brief introduction.
- On Thursday March 19 we will introduce our New Head Boys Soccer Coach Jake Partin in Singleton Gym at 11:15.
🎉 We Have a Kindergarten Registration Raffle Winner! 🎉
Have you registered your future Pirate for Kindergarten yet? We would love to welcome more future pirates to our Kindergarten family.
Stop by the school office during regular school hours, or join us on one of our upcoming Saturday registration events:
April 18, May 16, June 11, or July 25 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
We can’t wait to meet all of our newest Pirates and their families!
👏 Congratulations to Wyatt, the winner of our Pirate Scooter Raffle from our last registration event!
Have you registered your future Pirate for Kindergarten yet? We would love to welcome more future pirates to our Kindergarten family.
Stop by the school office during regular school hours, or join us on one of our upcoming Saturday registration events:
April 18, May 16, June 11, or July 25 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
We can’t wait to meet all of our newest Pirates and their families!
👏 Congratulations to Wyatt, the winner of our Pirate Scooter Raffle from our last registration event!
Due to the closure for illness we WILL have school on Mon. Mar. 16. We look forward to seeing how our Attendance March Madness continues!
The Elementary Sunshine Team has started a monthly “Pirate Pop Drop” to spread a little extra cheer to our amazing staff! ☀️🏴☠️
This month’s drinks were St. Patrick’s Day themed! 🍀 Staff enjoyed a variety of festive options, including lemonade with a Lucky Berry Blend, tea with a Pot of Gold Punch, and cherry + vanilla sodas. We also had fun flavors like Rainbow Raspberry, Shamrock Strawberry, Blue Clover, Golden Vanilla, and Mango Madness.
It was a fun way to celebrate the season and show appreciation for the hard work our staff does every day. We’re already looking forward to the next Pirate Pop Drop!
This month’s drinks were St. Patrick’s Day themed! 🍀 Staff enjoyed a variety of festive options, including lemonade with a Lucky Berry Blend, tea with a Pot of Gold Punch, and cherry + vanilla sodas. We also had fun flavors like Rainbow Raspberry, Shamrock Strawberry, Blue Clover, Golden Vanilla, and Mango Madness.
It was a fun way to celebrate the season and show appreciation for the hard work our staff does every day. We’re already looking forward to the next Pirate Pop Drop!
Berea Community Schools and the Athletic Department is excited to announce Coach Lee Atkins as the New HS Head Football Coach! 🏈
Coach Atkins plans to meet with returning and upcoming players on Monday March 16 at 11:15 in the Singleton Gym. Congratulations Coach! Go PIRATES!
Coach Atkins plans to meet with returning and upcoming players on Monday March 16 at 11:15 in the Singleton Gym. Congratulations Coach! Go PIRATES!
🎨 Berea College Student Craft Continues Ceramics Project with BCMS Art Students!
Throughout the week, Ms. Cveticanin’s art students have continued their ceramics projects with support from Berea College’s Student Craft Outreach Program. Program Director Steve Davis-Rosenbaum and Student Craft Educators Solomon DeLeese, Bellamy Carcamo, and Gabriella Sloboh have been guiding students step-by-step through the process of creating their own ceramic mugs.
Today, students rolled up their sleeves and got to work painting their mugs with colorful designs and preparing them for the kiln!
Today also marked student teacher Mr. Miguel Flores’s last day in the art classroom. We are so grateful for the time he has spent with our students, and both staff and students will miss having him here at BCMS/HS.
We are so grateful for this wonderful partnership with our neighbors right up the hill at Berea College. We couldn't be more excited to offer our students this hands-on experience, learning from experts, and applying their skills to make one-of-a-kind artworks.
Even better, all teaching, training, and project materials are provided at no cost thanks to a generous grant from Berea College.
We can’t wait to see how these colorful mugs turn out!
This month's Board of Education Meeting will take place on Monday, March 16 2026, at 7 PM, in Kennedy Theater.
📢 Berea Independent Schools is Hiring for the 2026–2027 School Year!
We are currently seeking passionate and dedicated professionals to join our team in the following positions:
• Elementary Principal
• Elementary MSD Teacher
• Middle School Math Teacher
• High School Guidance Counselor
• Employment Training Specialist
We’re looking for visible leaders who support staff, connect with students, and work collaboratively with our district-wide leadership to help every student succeed.
📲 Scan the QR code to apply, or visit the Employment page under Quick Links at www.berea.kyschools.us to learn more.
Please feel free to share this opportunity with anyone who may be interested in joining the Berea family.
We are currently seeking passionate and dedicated professionals to join our team in the following positions:
• Elementary Principal
• Elementary MSD Teacher
• Middle School Math Teacher
• High School Guidance Counselor
• Employment Training Specialist
We’re looking for visible leaders who support staff, connect with students, and work collaboratively with our district-wide leadership to help every student succeed.
📲 Scan the QR code to apply, or visit the Employment page under Quick Links at www.berea.kyschools.us to learn more.
Please feel free to share this opportunity with anyone who may be interested in joining the Berea family.
🌟 Senior Spotlight 🌟
This week, we're celebrating James Lunsford!
James has been a Berea student for 13 years. During his time here, two of his favorite teachers have been Ms. Newton and Ms. Mills. One of his favorite memories is going undefeated in 8th grade and defeating Model in a penalty shootout during the championship match.
After graduation, James plans to attend college and continue working toward his future goals.
Let's all wish James the best of luck with his plans after graduation, we can't wait to see all the great things he accomplishes!
This week, we're celebrating James Lunsford!
James has been a Berea student for 13 years. During his time here, two of his favorite teachers have been Ms. Newton and Ms. Mills. One of his favorite memories is going undefeated in 8th grade and defeating Model in a penalty shootout during the championship match.
After graduation, James plans to attend college and continue working toward his future goals.
Let's all wish James the best of luck with his plans after graduation, we can't wait to see all the great things he accomplishes!
Book Tasting! 📚
Last week, as part of our Read Across America celebrations, Ms. West’s middle school classes participated in a fun and engaging “Book Tasting” activity to spark curiosity and help students explore new types of books.
Each table was stocked with a small "menu" from a different genre for students to flip through and get a taste of before moving on to the next station. With each book the students looked at, they were encouraged to give it a rating out of ten, and describe why they may or may not be interested in that particular book or genre.
By the end of the activity, students had discovered new genres, authors, and titles they might enjoy reading on their own time!
Such a creative and exciting way to encourage a love of reading in our middle school. Great job, everyone! 📖
Last week, as part of our Read Across America celebrations, Ms. West’s middle school classes participated in a fun and engaging “Book Tasting” activity to spark curiosity and help students explore new types of books.
Each table was stocked with a small "menu" from a different genre for students to flip through and get a taste of before moving on to the next station. With each book the students looked at, they were encouraged to give it a rating out of ten, and describe why they may or may not be interested in that particular book or genre.
By the end of the activity, students had discovered new genres, authors, and titles they might enjoy reading on their own time!
Such a creative and exciting way to encourage a love of reading in our middle school. Great job, everyone! 📖
High School JAG Students Qualify for Nationals! 🎉
Congratulations to our outstanding High School JAG students who recently competed in the State Career Development Conference! These exceptional students have earned the opportunity to compete at the national level in Utah this year:
Gabby Harris 3rd place for Outstanding Chapter Event
Laeya Rose, Jackie Stephens, Absady Baker & Nehemiah Hackett: 1st place in Project Based Learning
We're so proud of these Pirates, and all of the hard working students in our JAG program for applying themselves and investing in their future through leadership, career passion, and teamwork, in their JAG classes and beyond. That's the Pirate way!
Congratulations to our outstanding High School JAG students who recently competed in the State Career Development Conference! These exceptional students have earned the opportunity to compete at the national level in Utah this year:
Gabby Harris 3rd place for Outstanding Chapter Event
Laeya Rose, Jackie Stephens, Absady Baker & Nehemiah Hackett: 1st place in Project Based Learning
We're so proud of these Pirates, and all of the hard working students in our JAG program for applying themselves and investing in their future through leadership, career passion, and teamwork, in their JAG classes and beyond. That's the Pirate way!
Berea Community Collaborates with Berea College Student Craft, Right in Our Art Classroom! 🎨
This morning, Ms. Cveticanin's Middle and High School art classes were joined by guests from Berea College’s Student Craft Outreach Program: Program Director Steve Davis-Rosenbaum and Craft Educator Solomon DeLeese, who guided students through the step-by-step process of creating their own ceramic mugs!
From rolling out the clay, to molding the handles, all the way into the kiln, students will learn about traditional ceramic processes and get first hand insight into Berea College's Student Craft programs.
The students were excited to get their hands dirty and start creating. Steve Davis-Rosenbaum will be here working with students throughout the rest of the week, and returning for several other Student Craft collaborations in the coming weeks and months.
We are so grateful for this wonderful partnership with our neighbors right up the hill at Berea College. We couldn't be more excited to offer our students this hands-on experience, learning from experts, and applying their skills to make one-of-a-kind artworks. We can't wait to see how they turn out!
This morning, Ms. Cveticanin's Middle and High School art classes were joined by guests from Berea College’s Student Craft Outreach Program: Program Director Steve Davis-Rosenbaum and Craft Educator Solomon DeLeese, who guided students through the step-by-step process of creating their own ceramic mugs!
From rolling out the clay, to molding the handles, all the way into the kiln, students will learn about traditional ceramic processes and get first hand insight into Berea College's Student Craft programs.
The students were excited to get their hands dirty and start creating. Steve Davis-Rosenbaum will be here working with students throughout the rest of the week, and returning for several other Student Craft collaborations in the coming weeks and months.
We are so grateful for this wonderful partnership with our neighbors right up the hill at Berea College. We couldn't be more excited to offer our students this hands-on experience, learning from experts, and applying their skills to make one-of-a-kind artworks. We can't wait to see how they turn out!
Our Berea FCCLA Chapter recently competed at the Region 15 STAR Events Competition, and we couldn’t be more proud of our students! Congratulations to all of our FCCLA students for their amazing accomplishments. ⭐
2nd Place-Chapter Service Project Portfolio: Samone Burgess, Layla Lady, Neveah Coleman
3rd Place-Nutrition and Wellness: Mya Burgess, Mary Francisco, Story Nunn-Bonta
3rd Place-Interior Design (Level 2): Riley Cooley, Aadrianna Rodgers, Trinity Thomas
3rd Place-Interior Design (Level 3): Marley Burgess, Yarely Ramos
3rd Place-Focus on Children: Michael Winkler, Adalyn Gilbert
5th Place-Sports Nutrition: Olin Perry, Wyatt Richardson
Way to represent Berea FCCLA!
2nd Place-Chapter Service Project Portfolio: Samone Burgess, Layla Lady, Neveah Coleman
3rd Place-Nutrition and Wellness: Mya Burgess, Mary Francisco, Story Nunn-Bonta
3rd Place-Interior Design (Level 2): Riley Cooley, Aadrianna Rodgers, Trinity Thomas
3rd Place-Interior Design (Level 3): Marley Burgess, Yarely Ramos
3rd Place-Focus on Children: Michael Winkler, Adalyn Gilbert
5th Place-Sports Nutrition: Olin Perry, Wyatt Richardson
Way to represent Berea FCCLA!
Next Tuesday, March 17th, from 5:30-8:00, our ACCESS team will be hosting our Mental Health family event!
Come join us for important hot topic informational sessions and check out many helpful vendors all designed to help our community strive for "More Good Days Together".
There will be prizes, games, and fun activities all throughout the school.
We can't wait to see you there!
Come join us for important hot topic informational sessions and check out many helpful vendors all designed to help our community strive for "More Good Days Together".
There will be prizes, games, and fun activities all throughout the school.
We can't wait to see you there!
Middle School JAG Students Qualify for Nationals! 🎉
Congratulations to all our amazing middle school JAG students who recently attended the KY State Career Development Competition. We are proud to announce that all participating middle school students have qualified for Nationals through outstanding program achievements!
🏆 Program Wins:
1st Place — National Service Project (Program Win)
Led by Abby Hawkins
2nd Place — Outstanding Chapter (Program Win)
Led by Saryanna Watts
🥈 Individual Achievement:
2nd Place — Employability Skills
Lauren Wills
🥈 Team Achievement:
2nd Place — Knowledge Bowl:
Tye Le
Savannah Gadd
Isaiah Hackett
Rebeca Luna
Congratulations to all of these outstanding students for their continued leadership and dedication to skill-building and career development. For these Pirates, success is inevitable.
Thank you to our amazing JAG specialists for giving our students this amazing opportunity.
We can’t wait to see these Pirates represent us at Nationals! 🏴☠️
Congratulations to all our amazing middle school JAG students who recently attended the KY State Career Development Competition. We are proud to announce that all participating middle school students have qualified for Nationals through outstanding program achievements!
🏆 Program Wins:
1st Place — National Service Project (Program Win)
Led by Abby Hawkins
2nd Place — Outstanding Chapter (Program Win)
Led by Saryanna Watts
🥈 Individual Achievement:
2nd Place — Employability Skills
Lauren Wills
🥈 Team Achievement:
2nd Place — Knowledge Bowl:
Tye Le
Savannah Gadd
Isaiah Hackett
Rebeca Luna
Congratulations to all of these outstanding students for their continued leadership and dedication to skill-building and career development. For these Pirates, success is inevitable.
Thank you to our amazing JAG specialists for giving our students this amazing opportunity.
We can’t wait to see these Pirates represent us at Nationals! 🏴☠️
Berea Staff Face Off Against the Archery Team! 🎯
Last Thursday evening, teachers and staff packed Singleton Gym to test their skills against this year’s record-breaking Berea Community School archery team in a friendly but fierce showdown.
The competition was tough, but only a few staff members and students ultimately came out on top.
Staff Division Results:
🥇 1st Place – Coach Sarah Benton
🥈 2nd Place (tie) – Mr. Caudill & Mr. Powell
🥉 3rd Place – Mr. Blankenship
Archery Team Division Results:
🥇 1st Place – Claire Garrett
🥈 2nd Place – Tyson Baker
🥉 3rd Place – Austin King
The Staff came in second with a score of 3326 points. The BCS Archery team took 1st with a score of 4535.
The Award for Best Effort went to Ms. Starla Garrett, our school nurse. The Best Entertainment went to Dr. Self, HS English teacher.
The BCS Archery team would like to thank the staff for their support and help making this year's Staff vs. Archery Team Showdown possible! We’re already looking forward to doing it again next year. Better start practicing now, teachers! 🏹
Last Thursday evening, teachers and staff packed Singleton Gym to test their skills against this year’s record-breaking Berea Community School archery team in a friendly but fierce showdown.
The competition was tough, but only a few staff members and students ultimately came out on top.
Staff Division Results:
🥇 1st Place – Coach Sarah Benton
🥈 2nd Place (tie) – Mr. Caudill & Mr. Powell
🥉 3rd Place – Mr. Blankenship
Archery Team Division Results:
🥇 1st Place – Claire Garrett
🥈 2nd Place – Tyson Baker
🥉 3rd Place – Austin King
The Staff came in second with a score of 3326 points. The BCS Archery team took 1st with a score of 4535.
The Award for Best Effort went to Ms. Starla Garrett, our school nurse. The Best Entertainment went to Dr. Self, HS English teacher.
The BCS Archery team would like to thank the staff for their support and help making this year's Staff vs. Archery Team Showdown possible! We’re already looking forward to doing it again next year. Better start practicing now, teachers! 🏹
