What's Inside?
- Annual Clap Outs, Ceremonies Celebrate Students Last Years in Their School
- Congratulations to the 2023-24 Retirees
- It’s Field Day Season!
- Board of Education Recognizes Students, Athletes and Staff During June Meetings
- Students Learn and Grow with BEF Innovation-Grant Materials
- Norup and Anderson 7th Graders Attend Trip Up North and to the Upper Peninsula
- Angell Celebrates Ice Cream Social
- Burton PTA Hosts Ice Cream Social
- Norup Carnival Celebrates the End of the Year
- Rogers TK and Kindergarten Students Visit the Library
- BHS Kicks Off Summer Reading
- BHS LINK Program Enjoys End of Year Celebration
- Norup Student Murals Revealed
- Rogers 2nd Graders Perform Life Cycle Play
- Pattengill Students Showcase Talent
- Burton Student Becomes Jr. Custodian for a Day
- Rogers TK Students Curate Art Show
- Angell Students Enjoy STEAM In House Field Trip
- Introducing Lauren Fragomeni, Burton Elementary School Principal
- Norup 5th Graders Reflect on Their Year with Family Presentations
- Pattengill 3rd Graders Share Animal Knowledge at Annual Zoo
- Norup 8th Grade Students Present Community Projects
- Pattengill 1st Grade Performs Readers Theatre
- District Community Survey - Closes June 18
- June Calendar Highlights
- How to Subscribe to the District Calendar
- Join the Berkley Schools Family - Now Hiring
- Sign Up for Text Messages
Annual Clap Outs, Ceremonies Celebrate Students Last Years in Their School
Elementary and middle schools ended their years with clap outs and ceremonies celebrating 5th and 8th graders as they transition to a new school. Berkley High School and Berkley Adult Transition celebrated their graduates.
Clap outs are an opportunity for older students to say goodbye to classmates, younger grades and teachers. Families often complete the event outside where many students can be found embracing friends and teachers before leaving for the summer.
Angell: 5th Grade Clap Out & Car Parade
On June 11, Angell 5th graders walked the halls one last time on their last afternoon of school. They paraded through Angell wearing their graduation caps, shaking hands, and giving high fives to their peers and staff members lined along the halls as they made their way out to their families who were cheering them on as they completed their last day as 5th graders and students of Angell.
On June 12, Angell 5th grade families lined up outside of Angell to drive their 5th graders through the annual car parade. Angell students lined the sidewalks to wave and cheer for the 5th graders one last time. Families decorated their cars, honked their horns and waved to the audience.
Burton: 5th Grade Clap Out & Promotion Ceremony
On Friday, June 7, Burton families gathered outside for the first annual Burton 5th grade promotion ceremony. Principal Lauren Fragomeni wished the students well, the 5th grade choir performed and teachers called students up to receive their certificates.
On Wednesday, June 12, Burton 5th graders walked the halls one last time during the annual clap out. Students and the 5th grade teachers enjoyed the high fives and hugs and were met with families outside to continue the celebration.
Pattengill: 5th Grade Clap Out & Promotion Ceremony
On Wednesday, June 12, Pattengill 5th graders started their day with a clap out that merged right into their promotion ceremony. After walking the halls to cheers, high fives and hugs, students lined up inside and were called out to the ceremony one at a time to receive their certificates. Teachers and families celebrated the students, wishing them a farewell. One student shared her reflections with the audience and then students took photos with their Pattengill peers to end the morning.
Rogers: 5th Grade Clap Out & Graduation
On June 11, Rogers Elementary 5th graders and their families gathered for the graduation ceremony outside of the school. Students listened to a speech and a story from Principal Jack Gitler. Students were then called up individually to receive their certificates and share a quote that was special to them.
On June 12, Rogers students celebrated their 5th graders with a clap out on the last day of school. Students and teachers lined the halls and families made a tunnel outside to greet their 5th graders. Many students were overcome this year with emotion as they said farewell to their elementary school.
Anderson: 8th Grade Clap Out & Promotion Ceremony
On Monday, June 10, Anderson students and staff lined the halls and clapped out their 8th grade friends the day before the promotion ceremony.
On Tuesday, June 11, Anderson 8th grade students were honored for completing their middle school careers. Students arrived at school ready for their ceremony with family and friends, celebrated in the Anderson gym. Michael Ross, AMS Principal, addressed the 8th graders, sharing well wishes for the students. Special awards were given out with scholarships, students were recognized for special academic achievement and one student addressed their classmates in a speech. When the recognition from the podium was complete, students had their names called one by one and were celebrated as graduates of Anderson Middle School.
Norup: 8th Grade Clap Out & Promotion Ceremony
Norup 8th graders gathered on the afternoon of June 11, to hear words of wisdom from Principal Paul Yowchuang and to receive their end of year certificates. Special recognition was given to students who spent their entire educational career at Norup (Kindergarten through 8th grade), to students who received the John Norup award and the Principal’s award. Each member of the class was called up individually, receiving certificates and a handshake from Assistant Principal, Kaitlin Eickemeyer and Principal Yowchuang.
Norup 8th graders were treated to a clap out after their promotion ceremony. Families started the clap out tunnel outside and as the 8th graders entered the building one last time, students and teachers lined the halls to send well wishes with the soon to be 9th graders.
Adult Transition Program Graduation
On June 11, the Adult Transition Program held a graduation for two students who completed the program. During the ceremony, ATP interim principal Sharon Berke and Special Education Supervisor Nic Farquhar spoke to the students and families as well as teachers Sarah Panfalone and Jen Plater. The graduates were presented with plaques as part of the ceremony. Everyone enjoyed a reception following the festivities.
Berkley High School
Berkley High School’s graduation is so big, we made a whole separate Berkley Beat to cover it. Visit this link to see photos, videos, quotes from speeches, the Class of 2024 facts and statistics, and even more photos.
Angell 5th Grade Events
Burton 5th Grade Events
Pattengill 5th Grade Events
Rogers 5th Grade Events
Anderson 8th Grade Events
Norup 8th Grade Events
ATP Graduation
Congratulations to the 2023-24 Retirees
Congratulations to the Berkley School District retirees. Combined they have 500 years of service to the District. Best wishes for amazing new adventures!
The Communications Office put together a video to honor all retirees. You can watch it below.
Administration
- Stacie Angel - 26 years (Administrative Offices)
- Lawrence Gallagher - 28.5 years (Administrative Offices - December 2023)
Teachers
- Megan Blackwell - 31 years (Berkley High School)
- Angela Church - 24 years (Berkley High School)
- Carrie Danaher - 25 years (Berkley High School)
- Lisa Ficorelli - 32 years (Norup International School)
- Lara Graham - 14 years (Norup International School)
- Steven Hanna - 31 years (Anderson Middle School)
- Jennifer Hiltunen - 25 years (District)
- Anne Kelly - 1 year (Anderson Middle School)
- Steven Lott - 2 years (Anderson Middle School)
- Galina Mednik - 30 years (Berkley High School)
- Carolyn Smarjesse - 30 years (Rogers Elementary School)
- Thomas Whinham - 26 years (Norup International School)
Paraeducators
- Kimberly Belton - 11 years (Berkley High School)
- Barbara Lathrup - 2.5 years (Burton Elementary School)
- Colleen Seewald - 27 years (Pattengill Elementary School)
Secretaries
- Vickie Roy - 25 years (Berkley Building Blocks)
- Kara Watson - 11 years (Berkley High School)
Custodians
- Jimmie Barton - 6.8 years (Angell Elementary School)
- Gary Chamberlain - 10 years - (Pattengill Elementary School)
- Jesse Rosales - 15 years - (Angell Elementary School)
Executive Assistants
- Barbara Tombrillo - 13 years (Administrative Offices)
- Suzanne Tyner - 33.33 years (Administrative Offices)
- Jacqueline Whitehead - 20 years (Administrative Offices - August 2023)
It’s Field Day Season!
Berkley Building Blocks
On Wednesday, June 5, Building Blocks students participated in their annual Field Day! Classes took turns coming outside to enjoy games in the field. Students tried sack racing, ladder ball, parachute games, playing in a shark sprinkler, doing the limbo and running through hula hoops.
Elementary Students
Angell
On Friday, June 7, Angell students rotated through Field Day stations set up along the perimeter of the building. Students enjoyed egg races, water games, basketball games, parachute games, yoga and team building.
Burton
Burton’s Field Day on Friday, May 31, was Olympics themed. Students began the ceremony by running the “torch” around the track and once the opening ceremony was complete, students disbursed to their stations. Activities included hula hooping, parachute activities, water balloon toss, sponge games, relay races and more!
Norup
Norup’s Elementary Field Day was held on Friday, June 7. Students had relay races that included stacking and balancing cardboard boxes, playing dodgeball, tug of war, jump rope and hula hoop games and enjoyed popsicles.
Pattengill
Pattengill Field Day took place on Friday, May 31. Activities were set up around the entire perimeter of the building for students to cycle through. The Pattengill 5th grade class led Field Day by sharing instructions and demonstrating activities to the younger students. Activities included tug of war, a relay race, dancing, basketball, playing on the playground, shoe tossing, parachute activities and more!
Rogers
Rogers students had fun at their Field Day on Friday, June 7, with grades TK-2 enjoying the same games as grades 3-5. Students tried egg races, tug of war, balloon toss, relay races, throwing at parents in the dunk tank and more!
Middle School
Anderson
Anderson 6th and 7th grade students participated in Field Day on Wednesday, June 12. Students cycled through kickball, capture the flag, tag and more on both the AMS field and Community 1. Students cooled off and talked about summer plans in between activities.
Norup
On Wednesday, June 12, Norup 6th and 7th graders enjoyed their Field Day. Students played dodgeball, tug of war, lawn games, relay games and enjoyed popsicles on their last day of school.
Board of Education Recognizes Students, Athletes and Staff During June Meetings
At both the June Study Session and Regular Meeting, the Board of Education recognized students and staff for their accomplishments. The following is a list of all who were honored.
Maxfield Science Symposium Scholarship Recipients
Berkley High School students were invited to participate in the Maxfield Science Symposium this semester. Students worked on science experiments for months, and presented their findings to a panel of judges on Friday, May 3.
The Maxfield Science Symposium is a science competition where students designed, completed and presented an original science experiment to a panel of judges comprised of BHS teacher Scott Doty, alumni Molly Rott and retired teacherMark Meacham. The symposium is named after Dr. Bob Maxfield, who is a retired Berkley School District Superintendent.
Students earn scholarships funded by the Berkley Education Foundation.
Gold - $1,000
- Jacob Carter, 11th grade: Waterfowl Gizzard Size and Diet
- Meena Moritz, 12th grade: Music and Heart Rate
Silver - $500
- Mia Mracna, 9th grade: Mold Growth on Burgers from Different Restaurants
- Madison Pohl, 10th grade: Acacia Seed Germination
Bronze - $250
- Luke Jahnke, 10th grade: Bacteria Growth on Wind Instruments
- Alexandria Sims, 10th grade: Fingerprint Analysis
Copper - $100
- Ann Redman, 11th grade: Sourdough Bread Yeast Growth
- Alyse Muscat, 10th grade: Sugars and Yeast Growth
Honorable Mention - $50
- Jessica Anyanwu, 12th grade: Changes in pH with Red Cabbage Indicator
- Madeleine Andrzejak, 12th grade: Brine Shrimp Salinity Preference
- Emily Cooper, 10th grade: Bacterial Growth on Cell Phones
Unified Sports: Basketball and Soccer
The Board recognized both the BHS Unified Basketball and Soccer teams. Both teams had their inaugural season during the 2023-24 school year.
This year, the Basketball team learned how to play basketball, played nine games and ended their season with a big game at Little Caesars Arena for Unified Showcase Night. The soccer team learned how to play soccer, played two games and all students worked well as a team playing multiple different positions throughout both games.
Unified sports joins people with and without disabilities on the same team. It is dedicated to promoting social inclusion through shared sports training and competition experience. It was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.
E-Sports
The Board recognized the BHS E-Sports team for its inaugural season, as well as students who qualified for the State competition. Under the direction of coach Frank Guglielmetti, the team had an excellent first season competing in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Brothers Ultimate and Rocket League.
The Mario Kart 8 Deluxe team finished top 32 in the State. The team members were:
- Pierce Manter (Freshman)
- Legend Brooks (Freshman)
- Rocco Cusamano (Junior)
- Shira Mendelson (Junior)
- Austin Daugherty (Senior)
The following team members compete at States in the individual tournament for Super Smash Brothers Ultimate:
- Karson Thomas (Senior)
- Ben Fredal (Senior)
- Jonas Grant (Senior)
- Elyse Gauvreau (Freshman)
- Sylvie Reaume (Freshman)
BHS Top 5%
The following students, in alphabetical order, were honored for being among the top five percent of the Berkley High School Class of 2024 graduates.
- Jessica Anyanwu, University of Pennsylvania, Neurobiology
- Sophia Baron, University of Michigan, Neuroscience
- Leo Benner, University of Michigan, Mechanical Engineering
- Aria Dwoskin, Duke University, Public Policy
- Benjamin Fredal, University of Michigan, Mathematics & Secondary Education
- Sherry Gathogo, University of Michigan, Mechanical Engineering
- Isabella Gentry, University of Michigan, Philosophy, Politics & Economics
- Nathaniel Healy, Michigan State University, Computer Science
- Jane Heller, University of Michigan, Environmental Science
- Jameson Hertzberg, University of Wisconsin, Business
- Oliver Moss, Carnegie Mellon University, Mathematics
- Ari Perrault-Victor, University of Michigan, Undecided
- Elie Schulz, University of Michigan, Environmental Engineering
- Lillian Tuite, University of Michigan, Architecture
- Alex Wright, University of Michigan, Business
BHS Track Athletes
The BHS Track and Field team had three students qualify for the State meet. The following are highlights of each students’ season.
- Oliver Moss, BHS senior, was honored for qualifying for the State meet in the 3200 meter race, their 5th state qualification across indoor track, outdoor track and cross country. Oliver was also the league champion in the 1600 and 3200 meter races, was named all-region for the 3200, all-county for the 1600 and was invited to run in multiple elite races this year. Oliver graduates as the school record holder in cross country and will continue his track and field career at Carnegie Mellon University.
- Blessing Nweke, BHS sophomore, was honored for qualifying for the State meet in the 400 meter race by running her personal best and setting a school record of 59.51. In addition to qualifying for the State meet, Blessing was All-League in the 400 meter and 200 meter races, with a season best time of 26.94 in the 200.
- Gabby McCauley, BHS freshman, was honored for qualifying for the State meet in the shot put and placed 20th with a throw of 33-feet-2.75. Gabby was also the OAA Blue/Gold league champion in shot put and threw a season-best 35-feet-6 at the region championship to beat the top seed.
BHS Girls Varsity Tennis Team
The BHS Girls Varsity Tennis Team was honored for qualifying for and competing at the State meet. At the State Championships, the team finished in 15th place. Under the guidance of head Coach Lenny Waldman, this team qualified for States for the third year in a row. In addition, the team finished 3rd at the Regional Championships. This team also earned Academic All-State with a team average of 4.13 GPA, surpassing the 3.25 GPA requirement.
Retirees
The Board of Education honored the 2023-24 staff retirees - all 25! The video (linked earlier in this Beat) debuted at the Board meeting and each person was invited to say a few words on the time they spent with the Berkley Schools.
Students Learn and Grow with BEF Innovation-Grant Materials
Berkley Building Blocks - Planting a Garden
On Monday, June 3, Berkley Building Blocks preschool students in Ms. Soffa’s class took part in a garden planting session. The goal of this hands-on gardening lesson was for preschoolers to learn more about veggies and what it takes to grow them. Students learned how to handle soil, plant and water their seeds as well as splitting apart fully developed vegetables. Students learned about how pea pods worked internally and documented what they saw. The gardening supplies were funded through a Berkley Education Foundation Innovation-Grant.
BHS - Students Learn Keyboarding Skills
BHS Concert Choir students used MIDI Piano Keyboards, purchased this year through a BEF Innovation-Grant, to work with a partner to learn how to play a song of their choice on the piano. Teacher Sarah Noble shared, “As choir students, there are many benefits to having basic keyboard skills. Students have to engage ALL their musical muscles to break down the music on the page and play accurately and confidently at the piano. This is the third year that I have done this project and I think that our students have never been so well prepared for their Piano Project performances, thanks to the MIDI keyboard resource.” Students have time to practice at a real piano during class too, but the keyboards allow them to problem solve and continue engaging in productive preparation while they wait for their turn.
Burton - Students Learn to Cook Family Recipes
Students in Lauren Rentrop’s 5th grade class at Burton enjoyed their last cooking project of the season, family muffin recipes, as part of a Berkley Education Foundation Innovation-Grant. Students enjoyed making Leo’s Great Grandma Estelle's Pumpkin Bread, Ollie’s Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread, and Owen’s Chocolate Chip Zucchini Cake. The Innovation-Grant purchased the cooking supplies to support the grade-wide cookbook project. Each student submitted a recipe, shared the importance of the recipe to them and/or their family and Mrs. Rentrop selected recipes that would be manageable to make in the classroom 'kitchen.'
ATP Students Travel to Detroit Historical Society
On Thursday, June 6, students in the Berkley Adult Transition Program (ATP) visited the Detroit Historical Society, completing a heritage and awareness month field trip circuit funded through a Berkley Education Foundation Innovation-Grant.
Prior to the field trip, students viewed multiple resources on Asian American, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and Jewish Heritage Months. They discovered new inventors, public figures, actors, actresses, political influencers, and much more. They picked one person to research from their learnings.
At the Detroit Historical Society, students enjoyed a private tour through the “In the Neighborhood: Everyday Life on Hastings Street” exhibit. “In the Neighborhood: Everyday Life on Hastings Street” takes visitors on a walk back in history to Hastings Street’s time from 1880-1930 as an enclave for Detroit’s Jewish immigrants, where everyday life was full of the choices, adversities, innovations, triumphs, tensions and synergies that defined this incomparable place.
The Jewish Historical Society of Michigan led the private tour. Jewish Historical Society of Michigan is an independent non-profit organization that interprets and highlights the Jewish history of Michigan, capturing and sharing the past with its communities, state, nation, and the world, producing academic-quality historical knowledge and offering meaningful and engaging programming.
The Berkley Education Foundation funds staff innovation-grants twice a year to enrich students' experiences, to enhance their learning and to open opportunities for Berkley Schools staff outside of the traditional school budget. To learn more about the BEF, visit their website. To support the BEF and the grants program, visit the BEF’s donation site.
Norup and Anderson 7th Graders Attend Trip Up North and to the Upper Peninsula
In the last week of May and first week in June, Anderson and Norup 7th graders had the opportunity to attend a trip to the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan.
Anderson
On May 29-31, approximately 80 7th grade students set out for the annual trip to experience the Upper Peninsula. The purpose of this trip is to allow students to get more hands-on learning connected to 7th grade science content, while enjoying the amazing sights of the Upper Peninsula. Students visited Sleeping Bear Dunes, Mackinac Island, Whitefish Point and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, Pictured Rocks and Tahquamenon Falls.
Norup
On June 3-5, 100 Norup 7th grade students had the opportunity to explore the state of Michigan. On the first day of the trip students ventured west to the Platte River Fish Hatchery and learned more about the salmon they raised in the classroom from November to May. A quick stop for lunch allowed them to play lawn games on the Traverse City Pit Spitters baseball field. The day ended at Sleeping Bear Dunes. Students then traveled to Tahquamenon Falls, Whitefish Point/Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Pictured Rocks Lakeshore on a boat cruise. On the final day of the trip students explored Mackinac Island.
Angell Celebrates Ice Cream Social
On Friday, May 31, Angell Elementary hosted its annual Ice Cream Social, where students participated in various activities and enjoyed treats. Attendees enjoyed photo ops with ice cream cutouts, raffle prizes, snacks, barbecue, playing on the playground and danced to tunes provided by the DJ. The evening also included a giant foam machine which students jumped and played in to cool off from the hot sun. It was a fun event where students, families, and staff came together at the end of the school year.
Burton PTA Hosts Ice Cream Social
On Friday, June 7, Burton’s PTA hosted the annual Ice Cream Social. This year, students enjoyed face painting, dancing with a DJ, a prize walk, dunk tank, hot dogs, baseball games, popcorn and ice cream from Treat Dreams. Students played in the field and on the playground, too.
Norup Carnival Celebrates the End of the Year
On Friday, May 31, Norup International School PTA pulled out all the stops to commemorate the conclusion of another successful academic year. The Norup Carnival welcomed students and families to partake in an array of exciting activities, including a petting zoo, inflatable attractions, tye-dye stations, dunk tank, food trucks, a cake walk and even a video game truck.
Rogers TK and Kindergarten Students Visit the Library
On Wednesday, May 29, Rogers TK and Kindergarten visited the Berkley Public Library to take a tour and learn about the summer reading program. Students learned about everything you can check out at the library: seeds to plant, records and record players, puzzles, videos, music, magazines and course books. Students enjoyed a read-aloud and ended the visit with a parachute activity. Ms. Stout and Mrs. Conger from the library were the guides.
BHS Kicks Off Summer Reading
Berkley High School students often have summer reading to complete for their English classes before the school year begins in the fall. To help students be successful and come fully prepared for the 2024-25 school year, BHS hosted a Summer Reading Kickoff on June 10. Over 900 students cycled through the media center visiting with teachers and learning which books are on the summer reading list. Students were able to shop for their books and check them out with a QR code stick on the covers with links directly to summer reading assignments.
Representatives from Berkley, Oak Park and Huntington Woods libraries were also onsite to register students for library cards, so they can check out their summer reading from the local libraries as well.
BHS LINK Program Enjoys End of Year Celebration
On Friday, June 7, students in Berkley High School’s LINK program enjoyed an end of the year celebration in the BHS courtyard. All of the LINK students and peers were invited to wrap up a great year of the LINKS Program. Students played games, made crafts and even got airbrush tattoos. There were snacks and drinks for everyone to enjoy.
Norup Student Murals Revealed
During the month of April, local artist Daniel Cascardo worked with Norup students to create four murals for the school. And, on Monday, June 10, Mr. Cascardo revealed the final murals to Norup students and staff. Norup middle school students, along with art teacher Lisa Ficorelli, enjoyed the big reveal. The final paintings will hang in the Norup main corridor and outside the gymnasium.
During the creation phase, Mr. Cascardo created the black outlines of the shapes within the mural and then students used paint and paint markers to bring color into the murals. Students could choose any colors and patterns they wanted, while following one rule - make sure the same colors are not next to one another. Older students worked with younger students, helping them reach the canvas, add patterns and think through color choices.
About the Artist
Daniel Cascardo, is a visual artist and interactive artist who specializes in creating paintings and original art. What sets him apart is a unique approach to interactive art, allowing people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to participate in the art making process. Unlike traditional artists who create paintings without allowing others to touch them, Mr. Cascardo embraces the idea of collaboration and inclusion. Participants are invited to add their own colors, patterns, and shapes to the black and white designs, creating a shared experience that captures the energy, diversity, and affinity of the moment.
Rogers 2nd Graders Perform Life Cycle Play
On Friday, June 7, students in Rikki Kwas’ 2nd grade class performed a musical about the life cycle of plants. Students were in costumes, memorized their lines and shared all about what plants and animals need to grow and survive. Roles included snakes, gardners, hosts, plants, forest animals and biologists.
Pattengill Students Showcase Talent
Pattengill held its annual talent show outside for family and friends on June 7, 2024. The Pattengill community gathered on the front lawn to watch musical performances, dance routines, comedy acts and more. Congratulations to all participants!
Burton Student Becomes Jr. Custodian for a Day
At the annual Berkley Education Foundation fundraising event, Off to the Races, District custodians donate a ‘Jr. Custodian for a Day’ package for the silent auction. This package includes an opportunity for students to spend part of a day learning what custodians do to keep buildings safe and clean for students and staff, while forming a deeper relationship with the custodial team.
During the last week of school, Pattengill student Charlie spent time with Burton Head Custodian, Roberto Fournier, doing various projects around the school. Charlie lent a helping hand fixing doors and a sink while learning lessons of teamwork and perseverance from his best buddie Mr. Roberto.
Rogers TK Students Curate Art Show
On Wednesday, June 5, Rogers Transitional Kindergarten students presented an art show for their families. Student art from the year was displayed in the Rogers courtyard and students took their loved ones on a tour, pointing out all the pieces they had created.
Angell Students Enjoy STEAM In House Field Trip
On Thursday, May 30, the Angell parking lot was home to a mobile STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) Farm that inspired students to learn through hands-on experiences.
Students stood along the walls as they learned and interacted with tablets and experiments focused on learning. Students learned primarily about how corn plays a huge role in our everyday lives, the products we use and the foods we consume. At the end of the experience, students created slime together that they were able to take with them.
Introducing Lauren Fragomeni, Burton Elementary School Principal
Lauren Fragomeni joined the Berkley School District at the beginning of this school year as the new Burton Elementary School principal. Mrs. Fragomeni was an elementary teacher in the Troy School District for 16 years prior to joining the Berkley Schools family on July 1, 2023.
The Communications Office sat down with Lauren recently to learn how her first year on the job went. Watch the video, below, to learn more about Lauren!
Norup 5th Graders Reflect on Their Year with Family Presentations
As Norup fifth graders get ready to enter middle school, they take part in the Fifth Grade Exhibition. This year’s 5th graders presented to family and friends on June 4 a reflection on something they did in the 5th grade curriculum that they’re going to carry with them into middle school. Reflections included: Books spark conversation, be brave, bullying is not cool, be helpful, keep trying and don’t give up, friendship and more!
Pattengill 3rd Graders Share Animal Knowledge at Annual Zoo
On Friday, June 7, Pattengill 3rd graders presented at their annual 3rd Grade Zoo. This event showcased student knowledge on an animal they researched. Each student created a diorama about their animal and presented their research to friends and family during the event. The project connects to the third grade science curriculum.
Norup 8th Grade Students Present Community Projects
As Norup eighth graders get ready to enter high school, they take part in the 8th Grade Community Project. The eighth-grade community project is a large-scale research and service project that marks the completion of a student’s time in middle school. The community project focuses on community and service, encouraging students to explore their right and responsibility to implement service as action in the community. The community project gives students an opportunity to develop awareness of needs in various communities and address those needs through service learning. As a consolidation of learning, the community project engages students in a sustained, in-depth inquiry leading to service as action in the community.
On June 5, 8th graders presented their projects to family and friends. This community service project process began months prior when students formed groups and brainstormed issues that would be of interest to them. Topics covered a variety of issues such as revamping the sensory garden at Burton Elementary, ensuring all teachers at Norup are CPR trained, supplying diapers and wipes to families at Berkley Building Blocks, building a little library for Pattengill Elementary and more!
Pattengill 1st Grade Performs Readers Theatre
Pattengill 1st grade students performed a Readers Theatre for family and friends on June 6. The students took turns reading and performing short plays for the audience in small groups. Students made props and costumes out of paper and string to help tell their stories.
District Community Survey - Closes June 18
In 2022, the Berkley School District updated its Strategic Plan. In order for the District to know if we are being successful with our plan, we have created a survey seeking community input. Embedded throughout the Strategic Plan goal areas are a focus on culture and equity. Those are the areas embedded in the survey. Your feedback will help inform programs, learning and investment for this school year and beyond.
This survey should take no longer than 10-15 minutes and has both multiple choice and open response questions. Many of the questions may look familiar to you and that is purposeful. It allows the District to monitor progress on the related topics. You can take the survey online here. The survey will remain open until June 18, 2024.
June Calendar Highlights
The Berkley Schools printed calendar highlights heritage months, holidays, days of observances and recognition days. In the Berkley Beat, we’ll highlight these days with more information for community learning to help us achieve the District goal of creating an environment where all staff, students and community members feel a sense of belonging.
Pride Month
June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the United States. During this month, many pride events are held to recognize the impact LGBTQ+ people have had in the world. Pride Month is also celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots, and works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) Americans.
To learn more about Pride Month, and to see resources to share with your children, check out the list of resources below.
Affirmations Detroit Affirmations LGBTQ+ community center has been the hub for southeast Michigan LGBTQ+ communities and its allies for the last 30 years. Affirmations provides a welcoming space where people of all sexual orientations, gender identities & expressions, and cultures can learn, grow, socialize and access the vital support they need.
Celebrate Pride with Us - Human Rights Campaign The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) strives to end discrimination against LGBTQ people and realize a world that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. HRC envisions a world where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people are ensured equality and embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community. The HRC has developed a website full of Pride month activities, videos and resources.
GLSEN: Terms and Concepts This collection of Key Concepts and Terms is designed to provide a basic understanding of words, phrases and ideas related to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people and their experiences. All language is constantly evolving; new terms are introduced, while others fade from use or change their meaning over time.
It Gets Better Project The It Gets Better Project’s mission is to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth around the globe.
PFLAG: OUR CHILDREN OUR CHILDREN offers a fresh eye for families and others about what to do when a loved one comes out. Full of useful knowledge, helpful tips, expert opinions and first-person stories, OUR CHILDREN--which has a focus on sexual orientation and gender expression--is a must read for anyone looking to learn more about how to support LGBTQ loved ones...or looking for support for themselves.
Trevor Support Center A place where LGBTQ youth and their allies can find answers to frequently asked questions, and explore resources related to sexual orientation, gender identity and more!
Flag Day - June 14
Flag Day commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress determined the composition of the nation’s banner: “Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”
President Woodrow Wilson issued a 1916 proclamation of June 14 as Flag Day and in 1949, President Harry S. Truman signed the formal observance into law.
Learn more about Flag Day and American Flag history on the History website.
Juneteenth - June 19
Did you know that Juneteenth is a holiday that celebrates the end of slavery in the United States? Other names for the holiday include Emancipation Day and Juneteenth Independence Day.
Local Juneteenth celebrations:
Oak Park - June 19, 2024
Oak Park Public Library: Black History 101 Mobile Museum from 4-7 pm
- The Black History 101 Mobile Museum's Music of the Movement Exhibit for 2024 is an immersive experience that delves into the powerful impact of music on the social, cultural, and political movements of the Black experience in America. This project is funded in part by Michigan Humanities, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Oak Park Municipal Grounds
- Walk a Mile in My Shoes: 4 pm. Register for this one mile walk at bit.ly/OPWalk
- Juneteenth Celebration Ceremony: 5-7 pm. This portion of the evening will feature the Oak Park High School Band, a Greek Yard Show, a fashion show, recognition of the Juneteenth Expression Contest winners and more!
- Concert in the Park: 7-9 pm. The Back in the Day Band will finish the evening with music that is guaranteed to fill the crowd with enough energy to get them on their feet!
Huntington Woods: June 19th 6-8 pm, Gillham Recreation Center
All are welcome to join as we gather to learn, reflect, and commemorate Black Freedom.
- Music: Roots Vibration
- Free light fare provided by Egg Roll Diva
- Performance by Tyann Eades
- Sweet delights by Rhonda available for purchase
- Juneteenth book giveaway by the HW Public Library
- Keynote address by Dr. Kefentse K Chike, Assistant Professor in African-American and African Studies at Wayne State University
Learn more about Juneteenth by visiting these websites:
- History Channel: https://bit.ly/3iL0Wbv
- PBS Video for Kids: https://bit.ly/3xrmaiN
- Time for Kids: https://bit.ly/2SHCvky
- Parents Magazine: https://bit.ly/3pZTmLE
Did you know you can subscribe to our school and District online calendars?
Sync the online calendar to your personal device to ensure you won’t miss a thing!
The District’s online calendar system uses iCal Feeds. To access all the iCal links, visit the District’s Calendar page, and click on the red and white calendar link to the top right of the calendar that’s displayed on the page.
Use this Foxbright tutorial to walk you through connecting our calendars to yours.
Be sure to subscribe to both the District AND your school calendar to ensure you have all important dates in your device.
Join the Berkley Schools Family - Now Hiring!
The Berkley School District is hiring! We are looking for talented individuals to fill a variety of positions. Visit our website to apply and share our postings with your networks!
Now Hiring:
- Rogers Elementary School Principal
- Athletic Director - Berkley High School
- High School Math Teacher - Berkley High School
- Third Grade Teacher - Norup International School
- Special Education Teacher of Students with Cognitive Impairments - Pattengill
- Special Education Teacher of Students with Emotional Impairments - Norup
- Special Education Teacher of Students with Autism - Location TBD
- Secondary Instructional Coach - Berkley High School
- Family Consumer Science Teacher - Anderson Middle School
- Special Education Teacher Consultant for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) - Multiple Buildings
- School Social Worker - Norup International
- Community Education Secretary - BBB
- Campus Monitor - BHS
- GSRP and Head Start Substitute Teacher - Berkley Building Blocks
- GSRP and Head Start Associate Teacher - Berkley Building Blocks
- Assistant Teacher(s) - 6 Open Positions - Berkley Building Blocks
- Early Childhood Special Education Substitute Paraeducator - Berkley Building Blocks
- Kids’ Zone Assistant Teacher - Pattengill
- Lunch Aides - Pattengill
- Midnight Custodian(s) - 2 Open Positions - Berkley High School
- Permanent Substitute Custodian - District
- Middle School Girls Swim and Dive Head Coach
- High School Girls Diving Coach
- High Schools Boys Tennis Program Assistant
- 8th Grade Boys Basketball Coach - Norup
- 8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach - Norup
- School Social Worker Long Term Substitute - Berkley High School (Beginning of the 2024-25 School Year)
- School Social Worker Long Term Substitute - Berkley Building Blocks/Beth Jacobs (Beginning of the 2024-25 School Year)
Sign Up for Text Alerts
Quick Steps to Receive Text Alerts from Berkley Schools
In order to receive text messages from the District or your school, you must opt-in. Text messages will be sent out when the District closes or there is an emergency situation. Texts may also be sent from the District and schools for reminder messages during the day that are not urgent.
In order to receive text messages, every parent/guardian must opt-in each cell phone listed in MISTAR.
Steps to Opt-In
- Text the word YES (in the message field) to the phone number 67587 (in the To field). Then you are all set!
District News Online
Want to keep up with the latest District news stories? Visit our new News page to see stories, messages from principals, weekly reminders and more. News articles posted on the District News page will also populate each respective school’s News page. Articles that don’t make it into the Beat will also be posted on our News pages, Facebook and Twitter.