A Note from BCS Superintendent

by Patricia Robinson, Buchanan Community Schools Superintendent

There was no handbook on how to survive a pandemic available last March when our country shut down during the onset of the Coronavirus outbreak. Now, almost a year later we remain in the state of navigating through a time of uncertainty. Our staff, students and parents have adapted to the shifts in modes of learning moving from in-person learning to remote learning throughout this school year. Like so many who have risen above our current circumstances, our students, staff and families continue to show resilience, perseverance and grit.

Academic Data

In grades K-8 our students are assessed three times during the school year using a tool called MAP, or the Measure of Academic Progress, this is a computerized adaptive test which helps teachers, parents, and administrators improve learning for all students and make informed decisions to promote a child’s academic growth. MAP is sometimes referred to as NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association). NWEA is a global educational services organization that provides research-based adaptive assessments (MAP), professional development, and research services.

This year more than 50% of our students met or exceeded their growth targets. There was a slight decline in reading from winter 2020 to winter 2021. Our staff and students are working diligently to improve their academic growth goals .

Essay Winner

Sydney Greave was the first place essay winner in a competition designed to ignite interest in the field of Science. The contest was hosted by the Benton-Michiana Spirit Newspaper and the Building Excellence in Science and Technology (BEST) Program. Congratulations Sydney on a job well done!

School Farm-Hands on Experiences

Each year, our fourth-grade students are given the opportunity to tap maple trees for sap. They learn which tools to use and how to use the tools. I was able to see first hand apply what they learned in the classroom about tree tapping. They knew the appropriate names of the tools, used the drill, cleared the hole, inserted the spile, hung the pail, attached the lid and listened for the drips of the sap. These hands-on experiences help connect academic success to real-world experiences.

As I mentioned above, our students, staff and parents rise to the occasion when challenges are presented and will move forward towards our goal of improving student achievement.

Go Bucks!