BRIDGEPORT – Bridgeport Elementary School celebrated the students for their hard work through the year and the families whose support is vital to their children’s success. Families from across the district recently gathered in the cafetorium to see their children presented with awards.
Elementary School Principal Kamaron Sabinski welcomed the attendees, adding that their award certificates would hang in the hallways during the school year. Awards include Principals List, High Honors, Honor Role, Excellent Behavior, Homework Completion, Kindness Champion, Respect Rock Star, Outstanding Effort, Art, Music and PE.
Sabinski said families are owed gratitude as well, since support from the home makes all the difference.
“I want to start by thanking all of you. Because of you, we are able to get every child the education that they deserve. Without you, we wouldn’t be able to get nearly as far as we do during the school year.”
While teachers work hard every week in planning lessons, families have a vital role in ensuring attendance, and that their children are in class on time.
“Thank you for assuring your children are in our building,” she said. “Being present is so necessary for them getting the education they deserve.”
Sabinski said their children work hard. Completing their homework assignments also prepares them for school by practicing what they have learned.
Communication is another important element. Their children’s teachers are available to answer any questions from the home.
Sabinski personally congratulated each kiddo after their teachers called them on stage, then they got a high-five from the district mascot Bruiser the Bulldog.
The teachers called this ceremony a celebration of growth. The kindergarten teachers said this was a year of firsts for the students as they began their journeys as Bulldogs.
Kindergarten teacher Morgan Castilow was proud of her students for learning their letters and numbers, how to be friends, share and help each other, and to speak in front of others for the first time.
“What a year it has been for our kindergarten class. It feels like just yesterday we were learning how to line up, raise our hands,” she said. “We practiced being brave when things felt a little tricky, and we didn’t give up when something was hard.”
Miki Clegg commended their dedication, perseverance and willingness to learn.
“They’ve worked incredibly hard and shown growth in so many ways,” she said. “It’s been a joy to watch them grow throughout the year. Kindergarten is such an important year. It’s a foundation and they have truly given their all.”
Caitlynn Miller said they have accomplished much.
“They worked very hard to meet our learning standards, and we’re very proud of them.”
The first-grade teachers recounted how their students discovered mistakes are part of learning. They showed perseverance through challenges and built skill and confidence by reinforcing their lessons with homework.
Jennifer Teasdale reflected on their progress reading books, solving math problems and sharing their thinking.
“Today you’re here to celebrate something really special,” she said. “The progress this class has made is something to be proud of.”
Kimberly Vitale said they have grown as readers, writers, mathematicians, and are growing into the culture of kindness and hard work.
This is Caroline Watkins’ first year teaching first grade. She said her students have become reliable problem solvers and are living the motto of being safe, kind and responsible.
“Your support means the world to our students, and they are so proud to have you here.”
For the second graders, Rachelle Brinker said their students all met their own challenges and grew as kind friends, responsible classmates and confident learners.
“Growth looks different for every child, and we have seen that in a lot of meaningful ways,” she said. “Keep growing, keep learning, and remember that you are meant for big things.”
Third grade teacher Patty Tuston said they could not do their job without support from the home. Expectations are high, since at third grade student will begin state testing in English and Language Arts and Math.
“It means the world to them that you are here. There is so much to be proud of, and their success begins with you at home,” she said. “Each one of your children stepped up to the challenge with determination and put in their best effort. Again, there’s just so much to be proud of.”
Jill Boyer agreed it is rewarding to guide them.
“They come to school ready to learn, even when things go hard, and that effort truly shines.”
The fourth graders will have their ceremony 9 a.m. May 19, followed by a kickball match off at 1 p.m. They look forward to middle school next school year.
