Berea Community Elementary School Site-Based Decision Making Council will hold a meeting as follows:
Date: May 12th, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: BCES Library
The meeting will be limited to the items listed on the posted agenda
Date: May 12th, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: BCES Library
The meeting will be limited to the items listed on the posted agenda
Our 2nd grade students had a blast today enjoying the beautiful weather on the school’s front lawn!
As testing season begins to wind down, students are getting some well-deserved time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the sunshine. Whether they were playing soccer, hopscotch, or just laying in the grass, students made the most of this gorgeous day outside.
We're so proud of these Pirates for the hard work they've shown throughout the school year, and we're happy to see them (and their teachers) having some fun and getting some rest.
What a great day to be a Pirate!
As testing season begins to wind down, students are getting some well-deserved time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the sunshine. Whether they were playing soccer, hopscotch, or just laying in the grass, students made the most of this gorgeous day outside.
We're so proud of these Pirates for the hard work they've shown throughout the school year, and we're happy to see them (and their teachers) having some fun and getting some rest.
What a great day to be a Pirate!
Field Day is almost here BCES! ☀️
Who's ready for some sunshine? Get ready for a day of fun in the sun next Friday, May 15th, on our annual BCES field day!
Remember to bring a towel, sunscreen, a water bottle, a change of clothes, and comfortable shoes that can get wet.
It's going to be a day to remember, full of games, laughter, and outdoor fun. We’re counting down the days already!
Who's ready for some sunshine? Get ready for a day of fun in the sun next Friday, May 15th, on our annual BCES field day!
Remember to bring a towel, sunscreen, a water bottle, a change of clothes, and comfortable shoes that can get wet.
It's going to be a day to remember, full of games, laughter, and outdoor fun. We’re counting down the days already!
Learnin’ The Ropes!
Last week, we had some very special guests from Learnin' The Ropes visit our elementary school for a jump rope performance that blew us all away. From jaw-dropping backflips to lightning-fast jump rope tricks, the performance had everyone cheering.
But beyond the excitement, the athletes shared an even more powerful message, that success comes from perseverance, dedication, and lots of practice. They reminded students that improvement doesn’t happen overnight, it takes patience and effort to grow any skill.
At one point, they brought some students and teachers out of the bleachers to practice their own jump roping while being cheered on by the whole school. The athletes reminded us that it's important to remember the power of encouragement, and make sure we're cheering on our friends and family when they're doing a difficult thing.
When asked who the “best” athlete was, their answer said it all, everyone has their own unique strengths. Whether it’s jump rope, academics, or anything else, we all shine in different ways, and with practice, we can all achieve amazing things.
A huge thank-you to Learnin’ The Ropes for inspiring our students and bringing so much energy and encouragement to our school, it's always a blast to see these athletes in action!
READBowl Winners!
Today, we’re excited to recognize Ms. Parrish’s amazing fourth-grade homeroom class for winning this year’s READBowl Elementary Conference!
READBowl is a free global reading competition hosted by Super Bowl champ Malcolm Mitchel in which classes from around the globe compete to log the most minutes of reading in a four-week span. Mitchel started the competition in 2018 with the mission of encouraging literacy skills and reading habits in young people.
In January, Ms. Parrish enrolled her three fourth-grade classes in the competition. A few weeks ago, they learned that her homeroom earned first place in the entire Elementary Conference, while her second block placed third. As first-place winners, her homeroom received several prizes, including a live video chat with Malcolm!
On Wednesday morning, the students could barely stay in their seats when Malcolm appeared on the call. They eagerly raised their hands to ask questions, shared their favorite books, and even offered ideas for future READBowl challenges. Everyone had an absolute blast talking with the Super Bowl champion.
During the call, Malcolm shared stories about growing up in a community that valued football more than education. He explained how discovering a love for reading changed the course of his life and helped shape who he is today. He created READBowl to help shift some of the spotlight from sports to reading and education, inspiring a new generation to pick up a book and fall in love with reading.
Ms. Parrish's Homeroom class will also receive a “Read with Malcolm” Book Bundle for their classroom, 1 copy of Malcolm’s book, The Magician's Hat, per student, a personal library of 5 books per student, a Read with Malcolm READBowl Certificate of Achievement, and a feature on Share the Magic Foundation Website's READBowl homepage until the next annual READBowl begins.
We are so proud of this outstanding achievement. Berea is truly home to some amazing readers. Way to go, Pirates!
Today, we’re excited to recognize Ms. Parrish’s amazing fourth-grade homeroom class for winning this year’s READBowl Elementary Conference!
READBowl is a free global reading competition hosted by Super Bowl champ Malcolm Mitchel in which classes from around the globe compete to log the most minutes of reading in a four-week span. Mitchel started the competition in 2018 with the mission of encouraging literacy skills and reading habits in young people.
In January, Ms. Parrish enrolled her three fourth-grade classes in the competition. A few weeks ago, they learned that her homeroom earned first place in the entire Elementary Conference, while her second block placed third. As first-place winners, her homeroom received several prizes, including a live video chat with Malcolm!
On Wednesday morning, the students could barely stay in their seats when Malcolm appeared on the call. They eagerly raised their hands to ask questions, shared their favorite books, and even offered ideas for future READBowl challenges. Everyone had an absolute blast talking with the Super Bowl champion.
During the call, Malcolm shared stories about growing up in a community that valued football more than education. He explained how discovering a love for reading changed the course of his life and helped shape who he is today. He created READBowl to help shift some of the spotlight from sports to reading and education, inspiring a new generation to pick up a book and fall in love with reading.
Ms. Parrish's Homeroom class will also receive a “Read with Malcolm” Book Bundle for their classroom, 1 copy of Malcolm’s book, The Magician's Hat, per student, a personal library of 5 books per student, a Read with Malcolm READBowl Certificate of Achievement, and a feature on Share the Magic Foundation Website's READBowl homepage until the next annual READBowl begins.
We are so proud of this outstanding achievement. Berea is truly home to some amazing readers. Way to go, Pirates!
Shout out to our amazing BCES families for donating to our breakfast bar and to Best Donuts Berea for the delicious treats this morning! 🍩
You helped make the morning of our first day of Teacher Appreciation Week a huge success. What a great way to kick off a week that ROCKS! 💛
You helped make the morning of our first day of Teacher Appreciation Week a huge success. What a great way to kick off a week that ROCKS! 💛
5th Graders Tour the Middle School!
Today our 5th Graders took a trip over to BCMS to tour their future classrooms, meet their teachers, and watch a performance from our Band and Choir!
The move from elementary to middle school can feel like a big step, but today’s visit helped make that transition a little more familiar. Our teachers, administration, and student helpers are all here to help students learn how to navigate the new freedoms and expectations that come with being in 6th Grade.
At the beginning of their tour, students heard from current 8th graders, who shared helpful advice about staying organized, getting involved, and making the most of middle school life.
One of the highlights of the day was the performance from our Band and Choir, who showed students all the opportunities they'll have in our music department next year. After the performance, 5th graders got the chance to talk to our Band and Choir students and learn more about each instrument.
We’re so proud of this group and can’t wait to welcome them to the BCMS halls! With the support of our dedicated staff and school leaders, they’re more than ready for this next chapter.
Welcome, rising 6th graders!
Today our 5th Graders took a trip over to BCMS to tour their future classrooms, meet their teachers, and watch a performance from our Band and Choir!
The move from elementary to middle school can feel like a big step, but today’s visit helped make that transition a little more familiar. Our teachers, administration, and student helpers are all here to help students learn how to navigate the new freedoms and expectations that come with being in 6th Grade.
At the beginning of their tour, students heard from current 8th graders, who shared helpful advice about staying organized, getting involved, and making the most of middle school life.
One of the highlights of the day was the performance from our Band and Choir, who showed students all the opportunities they'll have in our music department next year. After the performance, 5th graders got the chance to talk to our Band and Choir students and learn more about each instrument.
We’re so proud of this group and can’t wait to welcome them to the BCMS halls! With the support of our dedicated staff and school leaders, they’re more than ready for this next chapter.
Welcome, rising 6th graders!
Testing is Coming, BCES!
3rd, 4th, and 5th grade families, testing is approaching soon. Please be aware of the dates and make sure you're prepared to try your best with a good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast!
We know you're going to knock it out of the park Pirates!
3rd, 4th, and 5th grade families, testing is approaching soon. Please be aware of the dates and make sure you're prepared to try your best with a good night's sleep and a healthy breakfast!
We know you're going to knock it out of the park Pirates!
This morning, Ms. Fraley’s classroom had a special visit from Officer Michael Rothermel and K9 Buddy from the Berea Police Department! 🐾
Officer Rothermel shared what it’s like to serve as a police officer, and introduced students to Berea PD's resident therapy dog, K9 Buddy!
Therapy dogs are trained, affectionate dogs that play an important role in supporting both officers and the community, offering comfort in a variety of situations. And we made sure everyone got a chance to give him plenty of love and pets!
We’re always grateful to welcome our friends from the Berea Police Department and help students learn more about the people who serve and protect our community every day.
Officer Rothermel shared what it’s like to serve as a police officer, and introduced students to Berea PD's resident therapy dog, K9 Buddy!
Therapy dogs are trained, affectionate dogs that play an important role in supporting both officers and the community, offering comfort in a variety of situations. And we made sure everyone got a chance to give him plenty of love and pets!
We’re always grateful to welcome our friends from the Berea Police Department and help students learn more about the people who serve and protect our community every day.
Berea holds onto 3rd place in the Recycling is Like Magic Million Cans Contest! ♻️
Since October, our school has collected an incredible 18,248 cans, but we’re not done yet. With the contest running through April 30, we’re aiming to push that total even higher!
Throughout the state of Kentucky, more than 500,000 aluminum cans have been recycled this year thanks to the Recycling is Like Magic Million Cans Contest. Such an incredible way to stay mindful of our waste and bring our school communities together.
Let's keep that momentum going until the end of the month! Save your empty aluminum cans and drop them off at the school to help Berea finish strong! 💪
Since October, our school has collected an incredible 18,248 cans, but we’re not done yet. With the contest running through April 30, we’re aiming to push that total even higher!
Throughout the state of Kentucky, more than 500,000 aluminum cans have been recycled this year thanks to the Recycling is Like Magic Million Cans Contest. Such an incredible way to stay mindful of our waste and bring our school communities together.
Let's keep that momentum going until the end of the month! Save your empty aluminum cans and drop them off at the school to help Berea finish strong! 💪
Mrs. Parker's 4th Grade class is getting an up-close look at cow eyes!
On Thursday, Superintendent Dr. Neaves joined students in Mrs. Parker's class to learn all about eye anatomy by taking a look at the inner-workings of a real cow eye!
Working in groups, students carefully dissected the eyes while taking notes and identifying the complex structures that make vision possible. Some were a little squeamish, others completely fascinated, but every student walked away with a deeper understanding of how our eyes (and those of animals) work.
Experiences like this bring learning to life, helping students connect concepts to real-world understanding in a meaningful way. A huge thank-you to Mrs. Parker for creating such engaging, memorable lessons that challenge students to step outside their comfort zones and truly explore science.
Way to go, BCES!
Join us in welcoming Mrs. Stacy Reynolds as the new principal of Berea Community Elementary School for the '26-'27 school year!
Mrs. Reynolds brings over two decades of experience in elementary education, having served students from kindergarten through fifth grade, along with leadership experience as an assistant principal. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education from Eastern Kentucky University, completed her Rank One through action research focused on integrating reading and science, and earned her Specialist in Education degree.
Just as important as her experience is her mindset. Mrs. Reynolds is deeply committed to building strong relationships and creating a positive, supportive school environment where students and staff can thrive. As a Berea resident, she brings both professional expertise and a genuine personal investment in our community.
In her own words, she is “thrilled and honored” to join Berea Community Elementary and is eager to partner with staff, students, and families to build a culture centered on success, support, and connection.
Let's extend a warm welcome to Mrs. Stacy Reynolds!
Mrs. Reynolds brings over two decades of experience in elementary education, having served students from kindergarten through fifth grade, along with leadership experience as an assistant principal. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education from Eastern Kentucky University, completed her Rank One through action research focused on integrating reading and science, and earned her Specialist in Education degree.
Just as important as her experience is her mindset. Mrs. Reynolds is deeply committed to building strong relationships and creating a positive, supportive school environment where students and staff can thrive. As a Berea resident, she brings both professional expertise and a genuine personal investment in our community.
In her own words, she is “thrilled and honored” to join Berea Community Elementary and is eager to partner with staff, students, and families to build a culture centered on success, support, and connection.
Let's extend a warm welcome to Mrs. Stacy Reynolds!
3rd Grade Weaving with Berea College Student Craft! 🧶
This week, Ms. May's classroom was visited by Berea College Student Craft Outreach Director Steve Davis-Rosenbaum for a lesson on weaving!
3rd graders were guided through the creative process of yarn weaving on a bowl loom, designing their own unique pieces while experimenting with colors, patterns, and techniques, and learning about weaving as an important tradition in Appalachian craft.
We are so thankful 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 works of art. Thanks to their generous support, all instruction and materials are offered at no cost to students.
We can’t wait to see these beautiful projects come to life! ✨
This week, Ms. May's classroom was visited by Berea College Student Craft Outreach Director Steve Davis-Rosenbaum for a lesson on weaving!
3rd graders were guided through the creative process of yarn weaving on a bowl loom, designing their own unique pieces while experimenting with colors, patterns, and techniques, and learning about weaving as an important tradition in Appalachian craft.
We are so thankful 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 works of art. Thanks to their generous support, all instruction and materials are offered at no cost to students.
We can’t wait to see these beautiful projects come to life! ✨
Elementary KSA Awards! 🥇
Yesterday, Conkin Gym was filled with proud parents, families, and friends as we came together to celebrate our annual KSA Awards ceremony.
Annual KSA testing is one of Kentucky’s measures of student proficiency and progress on the state content standards. These results highlight not only achievement, but the incredible growth happening across our school.
We are so proud to recognize our bright and hardworking students for their outstanding performance on last year’s assessments. Our Pirates continue to go above and beyond, showcasing the strength of our school community.
A huge thank-you to our dedicated teachers and staff who make these accomplishments possible!
Let’s go, Pirates! 🏴☠️
4th Grade is Planting in Raised Beds! 🌱
Before heading off for Spring Break, Ms. Parker’s 4th graders got their hands dirty planting in their raised beds outside the school!
So far, these green thumbs have planted onions, potatoes, cabbage, lettuce, sugar snap peas, beets, and strawberries. We can’t wait to see the beds begin to sprout and come to life!
It’s amazing to see our students engaging with real soil and learning how fruits and vegetables grow through firsthand experience. There’s nothing like feeling the dirt in their hands and watching the fruits of their labor begin to grow, literally!
A big thank you to Ms. Erlena Parker for giving our students this fun, hands-on learning experience outside the classroom! 🌼
Before heading off for Spring Break, Ms. Parker’s 4th graders got their hands dirty planting in their raised beds outside the school!
So far, these green thumbs have planted onions, potatoes, cabbage, lettuce, sugar snap peas, beets, and strawberries. We can’t wait to see the beds begin to sprout and come to life!
It’s amazing to see our students engaging with real soil and learning how fruits and vegetables grow through firsthand experience. There’s nothing like feeling the dirt in their hands and watching the fruits of their labor begin to grow, literally!
A big thank you to Ms. Erlena Parker for giving our students this fun, hands-on learning experience outside the classroom! 🌼
Welcome Back Pirates!
We hope everyone had a relaxing and refreshing Spring Break! Our halls are full again, and we're thrilled to see students and staff back, energized and ready to finish the year strong.
With just 27 days of instruction left, this time of the year can feel both exciting and overwhelming, summer is on the horizon, and our seniors are getting ready for their big moment on stage. 🎓
As we head into this final stretch, let’s take it one day at a time, make the most of every moment, and appreciate the time we have together with classmates, teachers, and friends. Let’s finish this year with pride!
It's a great day to be a Pirate!
We hope everyone had a relaxing and refreshing Spring Break! Our halls are full again, and we're thrilled to see students and staff back, energized and ready to finish the year strong.
With just 27 days of instruction left, this time of the year can feel both exciting and overwhelming, summer is on the horizon, and our seniors are getting ready for their big moment on stage. 🎓
As we head into this final stretch, let’s take it one day at a time, make the most of every moment, and appreciate the time we have together with classmates, teachers, and friends. Let’s finish this year with pride!
It's a great day to be a Pirate!
Elementary SBDM Meeting 📢
Berea Community Elementary School Site-Based Decision Making Council will hold a Special Called Meeting as follows:
Date: April 14th 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: BCES Conference Room
The meeting will be limited to the items listed on the posted agenda
Berea Community Elementary School Site-Based Decision Making Council will hold a Special Called Meeting as follows:
Date: April 14th 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: BCES Conference Room
The meeting will be limited to the items listed on the posted agenda
Berea College CELTS students wrapped up their after-school program this week with pizza and cookies! 🍕🍪
For the past several weeks, our friends from the Berea College Center for Excellence in Learning Through Service have been visiting Ms. Wilson’s classroom after school, leading lessons and working with students on a variety of creative projects. Yesterday afternoon they concluded the program with a pizza and cookie decorating party! Without a doubt, our Pirates enjoyed every bite!
CELTS is a program at Berea College focused on service, mentorship, and civic engagement. As an umbrella organization, CELTS hosts a variety of programs that serve different groups in our community. Throughout the school year, many CELTS students partner with our FRYSC director, Natasha Johnson, to support after-school programs for elementary and middle school students.
Their reach extends to all sorts of programs at Berea Community. CELTS students often assist with classroom support, help with family and literacy events, and provide translation and outreach through their Hispanic Outreach Program.
This is a partnership that has been strong for decades, and it continues to be an important part of how we support and uplift our students throughout the whole school district every day. We couldn't be more appreciative for the time, care, and energy these college mentors bring to our schools.
👏 Thank you to the CELTS team for investing in our Pirates and helping them learn, grow, and create together!
For the past several weeks, our friends from the Berea College Center for Excellence in Learning Through Service have been visiting Ms. Wilson’s classroom after school, leading lessons and working with students on a variety of creative projects. Yesterday afternoon they concluded the program with a pizza and cookie decorating party! Without a doubt, our Pirates enjoyed every bite!
CELTS is a program at Berea College focused on service, mentorship, and civic engagement. As an umbrella organization, CELTS hosts a variety of programs that serve different groups in our community. Throughout the school year, many CELTS students partner with our FRYSC director, Natasha Johnson, to support after-school programs for elementary and middle school students.
Their reach extends to all sorts of programs at Berea Community. CELTS students often assist with classroom support, help with family and literacy events, and provide translation and outreach through their Hispanic Outreach Program.
This is a partnership that has been strong for decades, and it continues to be an important part of how we support and uplift our students throughout the whole school district every day. We couldn't be more appreciative for the time, care, and energy these college mentors bring to our schools.
👏 Thank you to the CELTS team for investing in our Pirates and helping them learn, grow, and create together!
Thank You Heart Heroes! ❤️
A huge thank-you to all BCES students and families who participated in this year’s Kids Heart Challenge fundraiser!
Because of your generosity, we raised an incredible $3,000 to support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association, who advocates for healthier communities, improves patient care and works for equitable health for all people. Although we were 37 students short of receiving the $500 PE equipment incentive, we did reach our fundraising goal and will receive a $300 PE equipment incentive from US Games, which will go towards strengthening our students’ physical education program!
Thank you to everyone who participated and made a difference. We are so proud of all of our BCES Heart Heroes!
A huge thank-you to all BCES students and families who participated in this year’s Kids Heart Challenge fundraiser!
Because of your generosity, we raised an incredible $3,000 to support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association, who advocates for healthier communities, improves patient care and works for equitable health for all people. Although we were 37 students short of receiving the $500 PE equipment incentive, we did reach our fundraising goal and will receive a $300 PE equipment incentive from US Games, which will go towards strengthening our students’ physical education program!
Thank you to everyone who participated and made a difference. We are so proud of all of our BCES Heart Heroes!
Special Called SBDM meeting 📢
Berea Community Elementary School Site-Based Decision Making Council will hold a Special Called Meeting as follows:
Date : April 2nd, 2026
Time : 3:00 PM
Location : Room Number 117
The meeting will be limited to the items listed on the posted agenda.
Berea Community Elementary School Site-Based Decision Making Council will hold a Special Called Meeting as follows:
Date : April 2nd, 2026
Time : 3:00 PM
Location : Room Number 117
The meeting will be limited to the items listed on the posted agenda.
