BRMS Cub Corner

Email: powersj@rushville.k12.in.us
Website: https://brms.rushville.k12.in.us/
Location: 1601 North Sexton Street, Rushville, IN, USA
Phone: 765-932-2968
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenjaminRushMS
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BRMSCubs

Principal: Mr. Jeremy Powers - powersj@rushville.k12.in.us

Assistant Principal: Mr. Dusty Neal - neald@rushville.k12.in.us

Guidance Counselor: Ms. Amy Hedrick - hedricka@rushville.k12.in.us

Student Assistance Counselor: Mrs. Jessica Mastin - mastinj@rushville.k12.in.us

Athletic Director: Mr. Kerry Brown - brownker@rushville.k12.in.us

Athletic Director: Mr. Isaac Sliger - sligeri@rushville.k12.in.us

Athletic Secretary: Mrs. Paula Shelton - sheltonp@rushville.k12.in.us

Technology Coordinator: Mrs. Chrissy Tabeling - tabelingc@rushville.k12.in.us

Nurse: Mrs. Becky Wicker - wickerbe@rushville.k12.in.us

Secretary: Mrs. Julie Mahan - mahanj@rushville.k12.in.us

Treasurer: Mrs. Carri Flannery - flanneryc@rushville.k12.in.us

Attendance & Cafeteria Secretary: Mrs. Connie Amos - amosc@rushville.k12.in.us

April 8th - No School

April 12th - End of Fourth Progress Report

April 18th - Lion's Snack Shack, 3:30-6pm at RCHS

Spring means flowers are blooming, the trees are starting to show their leaves, and we start to get outside more. It can also mean spring fever can come into play for all of us. April is a busy month for our students with ILEARN testing and it's hard not to have that spring fever and not focus on school. We encourage everyone to keep working hard, stay focused, and give their best effort this month. Spring fever is alive and well!

Students of the month: Elizabeth Robben, Emily Rouse, Jalen Johnson, Trinity Foster, Caleb Wall, Jakob Sloan, and Jerry Blaylock

Amy Hedrick and Becky Wicker were both nominated by multiple people. Below are some of the comments about each of them.

Becky Wicker:

I would like to nominate Becky Wicker. She is incredibly dedicated, and compassionate. She always goes the extra mile for the well-being of not just our students, but for the adults too. Thank you Becky, we know we can count on you!!

Becky goes above and beyond for her fellow staff and students. She continues to show patience with the frequent flyers. I love how she is willing to help all in need, and we greatly appreciate it.

Amy Hedrick:

Always available to help out where needed, listens to students needs and concerns, listens to all the teachers that need help in class, class schedule, field trips, testing, etc. She is always here and tries to come with a smile, even if things get a little crazy.

Amy has done a great job this year filling in areas where needed. Many times, Amy is dealing with so many behind the scenes tasks, that others don't realize what it takes. She has put in a lot of efforts for scheduling, field trips, dress code police, and a listening ear. Thank you Amy for all that you do at BRMS! You are AMAZING!

Amy does many things behind the scenes. Between scheduling classes, organizing field trips, handling dress code, and the things I don't know, she has rocked it out with hard work and determination.

We had several Positive Office Referrals for the month of March. We are incredibly proud of our students and the hard work they are putting in every day!

RUSH COUNTY SCHOOLS

Mr. Jim Jameson Ed.S, Superintendent Mr. Grant Peters, Asst. Superintendent

Dear Parents,

I hope this message finds you well. We are thrilled to inform you about a rare and incredible celestial event that will take place in 2024 – a total solar eclipse! This natural wonder provides a unique opportunity for both learning and creating lasting memories with your children.

On April 8, 2024 the moon will pass between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow that will completely block out the sun's light for a brief period. This event is known as a total solar eclipse, and the path of totality for the upcoming eclipse will pass through Rush County. We encourage you to consider taking advantage of this exceptional opportunity to share an awe-inspiring moment with your family.

Here are a few reasons why experiencing the solar eclipse together can be an enriching and educational adventure:

• Science Education: Witnessing a solar eclipse is a hands-on science lesson for both children and adults. It provides an opportunity to discuss astronomy, the solar system, and the mechanics of eclipses.

• Rare Experience: Total solar eclipses are relatively rare events, and being in the path of totality offers a chance to witness one of nature's most stunning spectacles. It's an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.

• Family Bonding: Sharing the excitement of a solar eclipse with your children can strengthen family bonds. Whether you plan a viewing party, take a trip to the path of totality, or simply observe from your backyard, it's an occasion to enjoy together.

• Safety Precautions: While viewing a solar eclipse is an incredible experience, it's crucial to take safety precautions. Ensure everyone has proper eye protection, such as solar viewing glasses, to avoid any harm to their eyes.

In light of this celestial occurrence and recognizing the educational and memorable opportunities it presents, we have made the decision to NOT be in school on April 8, 2024 due to Rush County being in the Path of Totality. This was already a snow make-up day on the calendar. We feel it is in the best interest to NOT be in school on April 8, 2024. There are several factors that have contributed to this decision:

(1) Rush County is in the path of totality, they are anticipating the eclipse to last a total of 3 to 4 minutes. Rush County EMA has had several meetings in preparation and is planning on a major influx of people in Rush County to view the Solar Eclipse.

(2) With the anticipation of a large number of visitors to Rush County, they are predicting traffic issues / wrecks as visitors will want to follow the eclipse to the next primary destination once it leaves Rush County.

(3) The timing of the solar eclipse is when students will be on school buses heading home. We are very concerned about student safety of viewing the eclipse. Lack of supervision for students on the buses to make sure students are not viewing the eclipse with the naked eye.

If you have any questions or concerns about the solar eclipse or if you'd like resources for safe viewing, please don't hesitate to reach out. We hope you take advantage of this rare opportunity to marvel at the wonders of our universe together as a family.

Wishing you an unforgettable solar eclipse experience!

Warm regards,

Mr. Jim Jameson Ed.S.

Superintendent

Rush County Schools

I hope your 2024 is off to a great start! I am excited after a short hiatus that we plan to resume First5 Coalition meetings in 2024. Many things to help the advancement of early learning + support the littlest in our community have been happening behind the scenes in 2023, but we are ready to get the First5 name out in 2024!

One of my goals for 2024 is to share an activity for littles each month + info about Early Learning. Attached you will find a PDF that I would encourage you to share with your families or add it to your newsletter.

Another exciting item to share if you have not heard is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library is LIVE in Rush County! Any parent/guardian of a Rush County resident (age 0 - their 5th birthday) can register and receive a FREE book mailed to them each month! We currently have 300 littles signed up! A JPG is attached with more details.

Thanks for your time and the difference you are making in the lives of our littlest residents! If you have any questions, please let me know. Feel free to share this info with others as well. More details to come on coalition meetings!

Thanks,

Arika Marlatt

First5 Early Learning Coalition Director

-Please refer to student handbook (BRMS Student Handbook) for dress code, attendance policy, cell phone policy and other important expectations.

-Clarification on extra curricular events:

May NOT attend and/or participate IF:

1. You leave school early due to illness (sent home from the clinic)

2. You leave school early due to parent choice/parent coming to pick you up

3. You are sent home from someone in the office for disciplinary or other reasons.

May attend and/or participate IF:

1. Leave early due to a doctor's, dentist, or other medical appointment

2. Leave early due to a funeral

3. Leave early due to a school activity or other school sponsored event

-We look forward to continuing an incredible year of growth at BRMS!

Stress and anxiety can get even the best of us. There is help available. Our guidance department is here for social/emotional support while at school. If you need help, click the Guidance Department link above. In addition, BRMS has a dedicated Centerstone therapist in the building, and we work with all and any outside agencies to promote the well-being of our students.

Centerstone is also providing most services via telephone or telehealth (video). We are concerned that those in need have access to mental health, addiction, and counseling services during a time of crisis. You may contact us for additional information, to make a referral, or to access our 24/7 crisis services at:

• Information or Appointments: (800) 344-8802

• 24 Hour Crisis Line: (800) 832-5442

If you would like to start the referral process, please reach out to Mrs. Mastin.

Recently, Rush County Schools partnered with the STOPit Solutions group. Your Trusted Partner in Safety & Wellness for Schools, Workplaces, and Communities.

STOPit works with more than 8,000 organizations nationwide to help protect their physical, social, and emotional well-being.

To find out more: CLICK HERE

To report an incident for BRMS: CLICK HERE and find Benjamin Rush Middle School. You can do it on the website or download the STOPit Solutions App.