We are thrilled to welcome you back to another exciting school year! As we embark on this journey, we want to keep you informed about the key events and activities happening this month. Please take a moment to review our September newsletter.

We look forward to a year filled with growth, learning, and memorable experiences. Should you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

In both 7th and 8th grade, students are focusing on annotation and plot analysis. 

The 7th graders are beginning to read Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, where they are identifying key plot elements and annotating important details that highlight the rising action leading to the climax. 

Meanwhile, the 8th graders are starting A Tell-Tale Heart, applying similar skills by marking significant moments that build suspense and drive the story toward its climax. Both classes are learning to analyze plot structure, with a focus on understanding how the rising action contributes to the overall narrative.

In 7th graders, the students are focusing on applying and understanding the four operations with rational numbers, emphasizing addition and subtraction of integers and rational numbers on a number line. It helps students grasp concepts like absolute value and opposites in real-world scenarios. 

On the other hand, for 8th graders dive into the properties of integer exponents, teaching students how to generate equivalent numerical expressions. It includes rules such as multiplying powers with the same base and using exponents to simplify complex calculations, which is crucial for higher-level algebraic thinking.

For 7th grade focuses on the legacy of the Roman Empire and its influence on the world. Students explore the political, legal, and cultural impact of Rome, including its governance, art, architecture, and the development of law. They also study the spread of Christianity and how it shaped European history.

In 8th grade, they have been focusing on founding of the United States, emphasizing the principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Students analyze how these documents established a government based on liberty, equality, and democracy, and the challenges of implementing these ideals in the early republic

In 7th graders, students explore the structure and properties of matter, focusing on atoms, molecules, and chemical reactions. They learn how atoms combine to form different substances and how these processes conserve mass. 

In 8th graders,, students dive into the laws of motion and forces, investigating concepts such as gravity, friction, and the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces. They explore how forces affect the motion of objects and analyze real-world examples to understand the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration. 

In the first eight days of the "Leader in Me" program, students establish a foundation for leadership by defining their mission statements and understanding their roles. They learn about proactivity and the importance of personal responsibility while exploring strategies for regulating emotions through a Calm Corner. As they progress into middle school, the focus shifts to fostering a "Think Win-Win" mindset, encouraging collaborative solutions in peer interactions. Students also delve into the "3rd Alternative" problem-solving approach, which promotes creativity and valuing diverse perspectives. This combined emphasis on personal leadership and teamwork cultivates a supportive community and enhances emotional intelligence among students.

Students engaged in a variety of hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of history and literature. They designed protest posters, capturing the spirit of the Colonies' resistance against British rule, which combined artistic expression with historical insight. In World History, students created Venn diagrams to compare the three Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—highlighting their shared beliefs and unique differences. Additionally, they analyzed projects inspired by their favorite books, which enriched their understanding of plot development and storytelling techniques.

When your child is absent from school, enroll them in Independent Study. We are here to support them with the classwork that they are missing. This will prevent them from falling behind. It's an easy straightforward process, and assignments can be completed either at home or upon their return to school. Please send your request via email to: IS@bellamentecharter.org.

9/11 Minimum Day for Staff Development 

9/12 Coffee Mingle

9/26 Fall Pictures: Dress to Impress

9/27 Spirit Day: College Day