Today is our last food distribution for the summer. We look forward to seeing you one more time for pick up at 11. We are even more excited to have our kiddos back in attendance next Monday!!
Congratulations to Mr. Wingo, who has accepted a high school assistant principal position. Unfortunately, that means we are looking for a Dean of Students to join our team. Please see the attached posting.
Boys high school baseball tryouts will be held Thursday, August 13 at 6 30. Any boy entering freshman to seniors should plan to attend.
We will have a school supply drop off for grades K-5 as follows:
Kindergarten- arranged by K teachers
Grades 2, 4, 5- Thursday, August 13, 4:00 - 5:00
Grades 1, 3- Friday, August 14, 4:00 - 5:00
(These are split in order to limit the number of people in the building.)
Junior high and high school can bring their supplies in their book bag on the first day of school.
A face covering is required for anyone in the building.
Junior high softball tryouts will be Wednesday and Thursday of this week from 5:00 - 7:00. All girls entering grades 4-8 are welcome to try out.
The landscape of our athletic scene is ever changing but we are proceeding safely as per official guidelines at my direction, With that in mind: High School Boys Basketball open gym this Tue. and Thurs. 7:00, H.S. Baseball open field Wed. Aug. 5, 6:00 and Mon. Aug. 10, 6:00
Have you completed online registration? If you have, thank you. If you have not, please do so. If you are not completing online registration, for whatever the reason, then you must call the school tomorrow, August 4th to complete the process over the phone.
Due to the recent rain, today's grade school girls softball is cancelled and has been rescheduled to Thursday from 5-7 pm.
Here is our full Return to Learn plan. School begins Monday, August 17, daily from 8:10 - 3:10. The video below provides some additional information.
https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/830786/Return_to_Learn.pdf
https://youtu.be/ARl7gegvzME
Good news sports fans, there will be athletics at Webber this year after all. Through collaberative efforts of the IHSA, IDPH, and ISBE, as well as just recent SIJHSAA guidlines are out for us to have a successful sports year. Rest assured I am staying abreast of all the safety guidlines and have shared those with coaches. We will continue to conduct everything we do in a safe manor and continue our preparations for a strong, competetive athletic year. Parents please continue to support and encourage our student/athletes to be part of workouts as we prepare to represent Bluford. Go Trojans, Jr. Trojans, and Trojanettes(???)!
Due to wet conditions the junior high softball open field scheduled for tonight is cancelled.
We have received many inquiries about masks. Since a face covering will be required by all students and staff, the district will be providing two cloth masks for everyone. We will collect and launder masks daily for students in grades K-5. We also have a stock of disposable masks. If a student finds a face covering that is more comfortable for them, they may bring their own.
This goes back a while. "Bluford" High School is featured in this months Basketball Museum of Illinois magazine.
https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/823169/Basketball_Museum_of_Illinois_August_2020.pdf
We have something special added to the meal deliveries today! Thank you Frey Farms for the donation for our families.
There will be a junior high softball open field on Thursday from 6:00 - 7:00.
The after school program through the YMCA is still on for this year. Details are provided in the registration material attached.
Sam Settle is going to be conducting a Free Hunter Safety Education course at Bluford USD on August 7 from 6-9 pm and August 8 from 8 am - 4 pm. Space is limited to 40 people, masks must be worn and social distancing will be required. Call 732-8242 to register.
Webber High School will be hosting a freshman orientation on Monday, August 10 in the high school gym. Students whose last name begins A-L should come at 5:00 pm. Those whose last name begins M-Z should come at 6:30 pm. For questions call 732-8242.
One of our projects over the last couple of months was upgrading the jr. high classrooms with the help of excess Title funds. New seating and upgraded technology including digital displays that interact with an iPad similar to the way a Smartboard would. We are ready to have kids back in this new learning environment!
The district is selling these shipping containers. They are available first come, first served, and as is. Three 20' are available for $1,750 each. One 40' is available for $2,500. The buyer is responsible for moving them. If interested call 732-8242.
Bluford USD #318 is hosting a Substitute Teacher Orientation to review policies and procedures for the 2020-21 school year. Any substitute teachers registered or willing to register in ROE 13 are invited to attend.
Boys Jr. High baseball open field for tonight, Thursday July 23, has been canceled due to wet grounds. Next scheduled event will be tryouts July 30 and 31.
With the wet conditions, junior high softball open field has been canceled again. The next scheduled open field is next Tuesday from 6:00 - 7:30.
Jr. High boys baseball tryouts will be Thursday, July 30 at 4 to 6 pm and Friday , July 31 from 5 to 7 pm. All boys entering grades 5 to 8 interested in trying out should attend. Tryouts will be conducted at the high school baseball field.
The 2020-2021 student handbook is ready and available to view at the link below.
https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/813351/2020-2021_Student_Handbook__1_.pdf
As we transition back to in person student attendance in August, one way we will work to keep students safe is to properly sanitize areas where students gather between each group of students. The district has purchased electrostatic sprayers to help with the sanitation process.
With the rain, the junior high softball open field scheduled for today is cancelled. They will try again tomorrow from 6:00 - 7:30. Incoming fourth grade girls are welcome to attend.
2020 BGS/WHS graduation videos are in and ready for pickup! Feel free to stop by or call the office (732-8242) to arrange pick up or delivery. The videos may also be viewed on YouTube by using the following links:
Grade School
https://youtu.be/Hhl1PMCaejs
High School
https://youtu.be/IgCYQP0tofc
Registration will open Monday, July 27. Also, at the July board meeting, the BOE approved waiving the $40 district registration fee for 2020-2021! So, for this school year, there will be no school district fees and everyone still qualifies for free lunch and breakfast.
Several Webber students were in the paper recently for receiving scholarships!
Please see the attached document for further information about our current return to learn plan. Please note that face coverings will be required by all students and staff while in the building, on buses, and when distancing cannot be maintained outdoors.
The open field for junior high softball scheduled for tonight has been canceled. The next one is scheduled for Monday, July 20 from 6:00 - 7:30.
As we continue to plan for in person instruction, we want to remind you about health and physical requirements. The document attached details what is necessary for each grade level.
Our fabulous maintenance staff is nearing the completion of the district's new maintenance building!
Online registration will begin on Monday, July 27. Simply login to your TeacherEase account to complete the process. Due to COVID and due to the fact that all registrations are completed online anyway, we will not have a walk in registration. If you do not have computer access, call the school on Tuesday, August 4, from 8:00 - 3:00 and we will be happy to go through the process over the phone.
Any new students to the district can pick up a registration packet from the grade school office any day from 8:00 - 3:00 beginning August 3.
The open field for junior high softball scheduled for tonight has been canceled. The next one is scheduled for Thursday from 6:00 - 7:30.
2019-2020 BGS yearbooks are in. If you ordered a yearbook, you may come pick it up at the grade school office this week from 8-3. There are several that can go out with lunch pickup Wednesday. Those unable to be picked up this week will be held until the start of school unless other arrangements are made.
Bluford Community:
Please find a letter with information pertaining to the opening of school and a link to a survey to gather your opinions below.
https://forms.gle/6qXfQMkJAxC1tzdM7
Junior high baseball will have an open field on Monday, July 20, from 5:00 - 7:00. Any boy entering fifth through eighth grade is welcome to attend. Since this activity is outside, masks are not required as long as everyone stays distanced.
Junior high softball will have an open field on Monday, July 13, from 6:00 - 7:00. Any girl entering fifth through eighth grade is welcome to attend. Since this activity is outside, masks are not required as long as everyone stays distanced.
Any high school girls interested in playing volleyball this next school year, please contact Donna Wilkey at 618-214-5239
There will be an open gym this Friday, July 10th from 9am-11 am.
Attention ladies going into grades 9-12: If you are interested in playing girls' basketball in the 2020-21 season, please call or text 618-731-6732 stating your name and that you are interested.
BUSD has the following job opportunities. The elementary positions are available as a result of COVID restrictions as the district is attempting to decrease class sizes in an attempt to keep everyone as safe as possible.
Don’t forget today is Wednesday, our food distribution day! We are here ready to load you up.
Graduation always provides closure for the school year. This has been a year in which we all want to out behind us. Congratulations to all of the 2020 graduates!
Graduation Day has arrived! It will be great to see our Class of 2020 graduates with their diplomas.
Juniors & Seniors, be sure to check your school email account for the ballot to elect the 2020 Webber High School Prom King & Queen. Voting will conclude on Friday, June 12 at 3 pm.
We are excited to have graduation plans coming together so that we can celebrate our Class of 2020 graduates!
BUSD is proud to announce that during the school closure, staff served 21,663 meals to children throughout the district. This means we averaged almost 471 meals a day! Thank you to food service staff, transportation staff, and other staff who helped coordinate deliveries each week. Summer meals continue today with pick up from 11:00 - 12:00.
Baylee was awarded the Modern Woodmen American History Award
If you weren't able to yesterday make sure to swing by today between 9:00 and 10:00 to pick yours up!
GS Yearbook Update: Due to the pandemic, the printing of the 2019-20 grade school yearbooks is delayed. Lifetouch did not have a timeline when the yearbooks will be printed and shipped to the school. Once the school receives the yearbooks, the school will make an announcement.
2020 Senior Spotlight: Levi Wilson
2020 Senior Spotlight: Kambyl Shelton
2020 Senior Spotlight: Bryson Landreth
This message is for anyone receiving summer meals. We received word this morning that our delivery truck will not arrive until around 11:00 today. Staff will be packing bags as quickly as possible, but pickup will be slower than anticipated. Arrival after 11:30 will help. Please pull up to the front of the school. Also, unfortunately we learned yesterday that the Cusumano produce and dairy boxes will not be delivered until tomorrow. We will have pick up times from 10:00-11:00 on Friday and 9:00-10:00 on Saturday.
2020 Senior Spotlight: Megan Lake
2020 Senior Spotlight: Peyton Hill
2020 Senior Spotlight: Brendan Frazier
2020 Senior Spotlight: Kobe Donoho
2020 Senior Spotlight: Zachary Craig
2020 Senior Spotlight: Dalton Adcock
2020 graduates and families....graduation plans are in the works!
2020 Seniors: Here is a scholarship opportunity if you are interested in going into the field of education.
Here is the link for the high school athletic awards program.
Topic: Webber High School Athletic Awards Program
Time: May 21, 2020 05:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85387783220?pwd=bVprd1pMQkdIeGRLYVJWSnV6VTZNZz09
YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCes8KnjzyT-puat9nBKQXSQ/
Here are the links for the grade school athletic awards program.
Topic: Bluford Grade School Athletic Awards Program
Time: May 21, 2020 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86226067851?pwd=MVU4Z3JqNDU1TVU2ZXpJVUszOTdkZz09
YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCes8KnjzyT-puat9nBKQXSQ/
To honor our senior athletes who were unable to compete in the Spring season. Click the link to view the WHS Spring athletes.
https://youtu.be/ufmaRIxR9wU
We’re so grateful to have received a $10,000 grant from @Walmartorg and @NoKidHungry to help make sure kids and families get the food they need during this crisis and beyond.
As we close the school year, we want to recognize our final students of the month for May! Congratulations for all of your hard work and persistence through remote learning!
We are proud to announce the April students of the month. These kiddos have work hard in despite the remote learning circumstances!
2020 Senior Spotlight: Alison Baird
More from 5/16/2020
It was a beautiful day to celebrate and honor the BGS 8th grade class. Jessica Baird spearheaded this event along with other parents. Congratulations BGS Class off 2020!
We will be hosting athletic awards programs Thursday, May 21. We will share a Zoom link and it will be streamed on YouTube. High school will begin at 5:00 and the grade school will begin at 7:00. We will share the viewing links this week.
Reminder: We will be at the school from 10:30-11:30 to pass desk and locker belongings. Drive up to the front door and we will bring it out to you.
Webber High School Seniors were scheduled to have their graduation ceremony tonight, May 15. We are all disappointed we are unable to host it as scheduled, but want to honor and celebrate these young men and women with a graduation video. As soon as graduation plans are finalized, we will get that information made public. Congratulations WHS Class of 2020!
Click the following link to view the video: https://youtu.be/sgCM4uUkSRY
Our 8th grade class was scheduled to have their graduation ceremony yesterday, May 14. While we were unable to host it as scheduled, we would like to honor and celebrate them at this time with a graduation video. As soon as graduation plans are finalized, we will get that information made public. Congratulations grads!
Click the following link to view the video: https://youtu.be/-Lvypf63U58
We will be at the school tomorrow morning from 10:30 - 11:30 for anyone who wants to pick up desk and locker items that are still at the school. Drive up to the front door and we will have your student's belongings ready to bring out.
Your 2020-2021 Bluford FFA Officer Team! Congratulations to all of you! And a big thank you to everyone who voted! Make sure if you see them to give them a “Good luck!” and a “Congratulations!”
Our kiddos love Mystery Doug. Check out the info below for a live event through Mystery Science next week.
Mystery Doug invites you to another
LIVE SCIENCE SHOW. Doug is excited to answer kids’ questions with the help of astronaut Jessica Meir, who filmed videos for us while she was in space! (Seriously!)
Make this part of your lesson plans.
Forward this email to your families to invite them.
Thursday, May 21
12:00 pm Central
mysteryscience.com/live
2020 Senior Spotlight: Brittney Withrow
Go to Twitter and vote for the Webber High School gym! Search @hslogoscom and find Webber vs. Freeport.
2020 Senior Spotlight: Kaitlyn Stroup-Dinkelman
2020 Senior Spotlight: Caleb Stroud
2020 Senior Spotlight: Amber Stewart
2020 Senior Spotlight: Ashtyn Arnold
2020 Senior Spotlight: Lilliane Stoeber
I wanted to pass along a quick update with our meal program. We are scheduled to wrap up the "school year" program with our last delivery on Wednesday, May 20. This day will include six days of meals (20, 21, 22, 25, 26, & 27). We had intended to begin our summer program with a pick up on Mondays. However, due to available food deliveries, the first day for summer meal pick up will be Thursday, May 28. From there moving forward, we will receive our food deliveries on Wednesdays, so meal pick up will have to occur on Wednesday each week beginning at 11:00 on June 3. If this causes an issue for you, please let us know. Also, if you would like to still sign up, please call the school or complete this form.
https://forms.gle/LX78fD44XPcHnMmq6
Seniors: Thursday 5/14 from 2-5 pm and Friday 5/15 from 8-11 am, you may stop by to pick up your cap and gown as well as your locker belongings. If these dates & times do not work for you, please call the school and make alternate arrangements. We are in the process of collecting information about your preference for a graduation ceremony. If you have not yet filled out the survey, please do. We hope to have a clearer direction next week and will update you.
2020 Senior Spotlight: Kolby Yanez
We are honored to present the March BGS students of the month! These kids have have gone above and beyond given the current circumstances. Nice work!
https://youtu.be/4i16V4mx_DE
2020 Senior Spotlight: Cheyanne Pepple
2020 Senior Spotlight: Hunter Marlow
Check out @hslogoscom on Twitter tomorrow to vote for our beautiful hs gym! Over 200 IL high schools have entered the contest! #vote
2020 Senior Spotlight: Ryan Pierce
2020 Senior Spotlight: Hunter Drew
2020 Senior Spotlight: Lawson Gray
Attention K-11 students: Friday, May 15 is your last scheduled remote learning day. All course work should be completed and turned in by this Friday to receive credit and be promoted.. Any students receiving an incomplete for a given course or subject can expect follow-up phone calls or visits.
2020 Senior Spotlight: McKenzie Sellers
2020 Senior Spotlight: Walker Heinrich
2020 Senior Spotlight: Cord Hails
2020 Senior Spotlight: Rebekah Marlow
2020 Senior Spotlight: Clarissa Groff
2020 Senior Spotlight: Hannah DeJournett
A special THANK YOU to the BGS Booster Club for providing goodies to the staff for Teacher Appreciation week! Who is the best? You are the BEST!
In the News .... RLC donates 2 engines to the Ag department.
Attention Seniors: Friday, May 8 is your last scheduled remote learning day. All course work should be completed and turned in by this Friday to receive credit. Any students receiving an incomplete for a given class can expect follow-up phone calls or visits.
5/2/2020
More from 5/2/2020
Pictures from yesterday afternoon where many came out to help honor the WHS Senior Class of 2020. This event was organized by Sarah DeJournett and Amber Shelton with help from many others. It was a fun afternoon!
BUSD students and families, please help us celebrate our teachers and staff next week by showering them with love and support!
Caleb has done a fine job of caring for the tomato plant he started from seed. He is sure to have some nutritious & delicious tomatoes this summer.
We received the following information from ISBE: I am passing this along for any families who may want to take advantage. With our CEP program (free breakfast/lunch) all families who live in the Bluford school district would be eligible for this.
Pandemic EBT Application Available
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) launched the Pandemic EBT application for families on May 1 at https://abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/. P-EBT is a new special benefit that can help families buy food for their school age children who would normally receive National School Lunch Program (NSLP) free or reduced-priced meals when schools are in session. All families with school age children who attend schools approved for Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) are eligible for the benefits as they receive NSLP meals at no charge.
Families that currently receive SNAP benefits do not need to apply for P-EBT benefits. These additional P-EBT benefits will be loaded into Illinois LINK EBT accounts along with regular SNAP benefits. Families who do not currently receive SNAP benefits but do have children who receive NSLP free or reduced-priced meals will need to apply directly with IDHS. The fastest way for families to receive benefits is to complete the application for P-EBT available online (Click “Apply for Benefits” at the link.) A paper application in English and Spanish is also available and can be submitted by email to DHS.FCS.PEBT@illinois.gov. IDHS created a flyer to help families with the application process. We are asking NSLP sponsors to share this flyer with their families.
Webber proudly announces the completion of a new Home Economics Lab!
Presidential books are coming in and looking quite impressive!
It's time to feed the dog!
https://youtu.be/pPv6n-KbgSg
Another successful home science project!
https://youtu.be/23alKV7mDNA
One of our high school art students has made the front entrance a little more colorful!
We released information yesterday about the end of the school year. The last remote learning day for seniors is May 8. The last remote learning day for all other students is May 15. More information can be found at: https://www.blufordschools.org/article/238064?org=bluford-unit-school-district-318
Current juniors or parents of current juniors: You should have received an email through TeacherEase which details how you can select courses for next school year. If you did not receive the email or would like a paper copy, please let us know. 618-732-7242
One of the high school science courses had an assignment to make a Rube Goldberg. Check out the finished product!
https://youtu.be/8mJjCOVDb14
Bluford USD is a proud supporter of our 2020 graduates!
8th grade students & parents: 8th grade shirt orders are now being taken. Mrs. Putt created a form to take orders and students have access to it through their Google Classroom account. There are also forms available in the grade school office. Contact Mrs. Putt with questions.
Just a quick note from Mrs. Henson and I. Hope you all are doing well! https://docs.google.com/document/d/18AIXG_14kENFa9nUMdjkrByPPrYpr641Lhq01PdcNQE/edit?usp=sharing
The Teacher Parade for Roy's White bus route, scheduled for today, is postponed until next Thursday, April 30. The weather forecast looks better for next week than today.
Greetings from the Staff of Bluford Schools. We hope everyone is doing well and staying healthy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BntE3iiCQ8
Happy Administrative Professionals Day to these three fabulous ladies! We would be in a world of hurt if we didn't have them. They are the best! Thank you for your dedication to our school.
Attention Juniors & Seniors: Here is another two week dual credit (0.5) opportunity offered through RLC. This would be beneficial for those considering the nursing field as a career. Here is the link: https://rlc.coursestorm.com/category/healthcare
For many of us with younger children at home the thought of "teaching" reading is scary. The link below provides a short framework to help with the disruption we are experiencing. One thing to remember is as your child is reading to you don't let them guess words. Have them implement the phonic strategies their teachers have taught them. They can go back and sound it out. If they can't, simply say the correct word for them.
https://righttoreadproject.com/2020/04/07/the-abcs-of-teaching-reading-at-home/
Since I was unable to recognize these outstanding BGS students at the Jefferson County Principal's Collegial Network dinner in March, I want to take a moment to acknowledge their strong academic and moral character. Congratulations on your achievements!
Since I was unable to recognize these outstanding WHS students at the Jefferson County Principal's Collegial Network dinner in March, I want to take a moment to acknowledge their strong academic and moral character. Congratulations on your achievements!
The state is compiling a map of "drive up wifi spots." Notice any gaps? Hopefully this drives investment in rural infrastructure. It's 2020, why can't everyone have internet?
Unfortunately today we learned that the school closure has been extended until the end of the school year. For more information check out the link below.
https://youtu.be/JS808718KhQ
Appreciate seeing the hard work and creativity our amazing students continue to put into their work!
Tomorrow is the last day to log your child’s hours for Read to Succeed. As. A reminder, your child must have 6 hours logged to get a free ticket. Please have your child’s hours entered by Noon tomorrow so I can close it out.
Here is an updated link to the Career Exploration course RLC is offering. https://rlc.coursestorm.com/course/career-exploration-in-healthcare#!
SOPHOMORES: Rend Lake College has virtual registration for the ACCUPLACER. You will need to pass this test in order to enroll in dual credit classes.
Click on the link to register. Zoom access will be needed.
ACCUPLACER placement testing: 10 testing slots per day, Monday-Friday
rlctesting.youcanbook.me
JUNIORS and SENIORS: Here is an opportunity to earn some dual credit in a two week course offered by Rend Lake College
Check this out ... These individuals are keeping Bluford students fed. #blufordstrong
https://youtu.be/JC7YS3-xt2k
To Bluford's Awesome Teachers and Staff .... Thank You!
Thank You!
In the news!
Learning continues at BUSD. Here are a couple pieces of student work dropped off today!
I believe there were 16 vehicles leaving out for the parade!
Attention SENIORS: If you plan on attending Rend Lake College during the Summer '20 or Fall '20 semesters, you can schedule a registration appointment now to meet with a counselor. Here are the links:
rlcjj.youcanbook.me
rlchb.youcanbook.me
rlcjb.youcanbook.me
rlckt.youcanbook.me
As a reminder, Friday, April 17th is the last day to enter hours for Read to Succeed. Students who read at least 6 hours qualify for a free Six Flags ticket. Use the school code SJRU9 to register your child at the website below.
https://feedback.sixflags.com/rts/parents/welcome.aspx
Here is a link to the folder with learning resources that teachers have put together. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-dUwcVMCKAyXulcJC5a7FUr9VTooUCiA
Also, attached is information about the shift in student expectations.
Sorry!!! That should be 2020jdoe@stu.blufordschools.org
Students, if you have not logged on before, your email will be you graduation year, first initial, last name @stu.bufordschhols org. Example
2020jdoe@stu.blufordschiols.org.
Hey Students! If possible, please remember to check your school email. Your teachers want to hear from you! There are a variety of ways to communicate and return school work including Google Classroom, email, meal delivery days, and drop boxes outside of school.
Hey everybody! BUSD teachers are going to be out on parade in the coming weeks. Step outside to wave and say HI because we are all missing you!
In the news! A great read during the slow sports time.
We came across this free resource from Audible. Your students can listen to books and you don't have to set up an account!
https://stories.audible.com/start-listen?ref=adbl_ent_anon_pdp_hm_hb
There is a blood drive scheduled for April 3, at the Ruritan building.The Red Cross has stated that there is a critical need for blood donations right now. Click below to sign up!
https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=Bluford
At this point, we are unsure how long the school closure will last. In order to best serve our students, the district needs to gauge how much access our students have to computers and the internet. Please help us by answering the questions below.
https://bit.ly/33RCbRt
This is what it looks like the prep 1,250 meals! Great work ladies!
To all who are receiving meal deliveries: Given the current "shelter in place" proclamation from the Governor, the district is shifting to delivering meals twice a week. Monday will include food for Mon/Tues. Wednesday will include food for Wed/Thur/Fri. We are now serving over 200 kids and happy to do so!
No PJs for me today, but Elephant and Piggie from Ms. Flexter’s 1st grade classroom are keeping me company! What does your Lazy Day look like?
Part of today's governor's address included announcing that the school closure is extended until at least April 7. We will continue with food delivery for the duration of the closure. As we move through next week, we will further develop plans to help with the continuity of learning and will share more information. We miss our kids. Stay healthy.
Even though we are out of school, we can still connect and join one another in having a little fun! Each day, we will post a picture on our Facebook page--just add your photo to our post to join the fun. I can't wait to see what you're up to!
In the news!!
Lonely. Schools aren't supposed to be this empty on a Tuesday in March. We miss our kiddos! #ILschoolstories
The first day of non attendance for our students and our fabulous cooks were busy preparing lunches this morning. Meals are now out for delivery by our fine crew of bus drivers and volunteers.
We are taking orders to begin food delivery tomorrow! As of now, we have orders for 168 meals a day. Breakfast for tomorrow is being sent with kids today. Beginning tomorrow, we will deliver lunch for that day and breakfast for the next!
https://forms.gle/vyq9AFH9gu5GhSfB9
The hunter safety course scheduled for April 17th and 18th has been cancelled per IL DNR instructions. There is no reschedule date at this time.
Savanna Hulbert was the January student of the month at Webber. Savanna is active in basketball, softball, drama club, scholar bowl, ACES, book club, and Beta Club.
Emmali Petersen was the December student of the month at Webber. Emmali is active in drama club, student council, Beta Club, and on the prom committee. Outside of school she likes to bake, go to the movies, and hang out with friends.
Gavin Johnson was the Webber student of the month for November. Gavin is a junior and active in scholar bowl, ACES, and book club.
If you would like to receive meals during he shut down, please visit this link https://forms.gle/KQKxmSpgumAaotYi8 , email kphelps@blufordschools.org , or call the school at 732-8242.
BUSD Community: As all are hopefully aware, we will be shut down from March 17, through at least March 30. We are tentatively scheduled to return on March 31. Attached and through this link (https://bit.ly/2J1cnch) is a document with various pieces of information relevant to the shut down. If you have any further questions not addressed here, please contact me through email sgordon@blufordschools.org or by calling the school at 732-8242. The office will be staffed by administration during the shut down.
Plans are in the works for the district to provide breakfast and lunch to every child in the school district who wants a meal. The details will be provided soon.
Update on school sponsored activities.https://docs.google.com/document/d/11cntnjfBLyZfxINUdEbb8L38TWVLBf1gxdNomghFc4M/edit?usp=sharing
2nd graders blowing watercolor to create beards for their leprechauns.
Two hours ago, I posted a message that we intended to stay open. An hour ago the Governor announced that all schools are required to close.
BUSD community:
Here is the latest update on the Coronavirus situation.
If you or someone you know is need of some extra assistance, here is some information from Crosswalk.
Woohoo! Thanks to your generosity, we now have 83 households signed up for the Kroger Rewards Program. This quarter, the district received $348.52, which helps provide various incentives for our kids!
Congratulations to our BGS students of the month for February!
Information on current Illinois Department of Public Health guidance.
Webber 2 placed 3rd over all in Envirothon
Parents are invited to stop in to view a "Hidden in Plain Sight" display that will be set up in the Junior High gym on Thursday, March 12 from 3-7 during parent-teacher conferences. The display looks like a typical bedroom. However, among the “normal” items are dozens of items that could signal a young person might be involved in risky activities. It’s a great way to learn how to spot possible warning signs and get tips for communicating with your teens. Stop in and check it out!
More herpetology presentation photos.
Wayne City Herpetology Club came to BGS today. They shared their reptiles and insects with grades K-4 and gave a more in depth presentation to grades 5-8.
Parent reminder:
We dismiss early at 2:10 on Wednesday and Thursday this week because we have parent/teacher conferences scheduled from 3:00 - 7:00 each night.
Wow, incredible! That's about all that can be said about this work of art. It is much more than that though, persistence, dedication, and attention to detail are necessary as well!
Jefferson County All Star games for jr. high are tonight at MVTHS!
We Have Babies....
It was dress as your favorite Suess character day!
It’s always a glorious start to the day when it begins with honoring the hard work and achievement of outstanding students. Being able to celebrate it with their family makes it even sweeter.
BGS Chorus and 5th grade students visited Woodlawn Grade School to see the Air Force band “Roots in Blue.”
In the News .... Kindergarten USA Show
Hannah will advance to state competition with here SAE in Agricultural Services. Congratulations, Hannah!
It was soooooo much fun to visit Ms. Flexter's first grade class this week to read The Cat in the Hat!
The kitchen is getting into Dr. Suess week! The truffula trees are blooming!
GS Spring Picture Day is Tuesday, March 24th.
The Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce recognized teachers from throughout the county this morning for being awarded grants for classroom projects. Ms. April Flexter, a first grade teacher at BGS, received a grant for an iPad and an Osmo kit. Jessica Case, a BUSD board member and first grade teacher at the Primary Center, received a grant for the school's PBIS store!
There will be a meeting on Wednesday, March 11, at 6:00 p.m. in the high school media center for the parents of any sophomore who wants to participate in the dual credit program at Rend Lake College. This meeting will be informational in nature and will detail the programs available and the benefits of participating in the program. If your student has any interest in taking academic or vocational courses including automotive and welding, I encourage you to attend.
It was a treat to get to celebrate the hard work of several Webber students. Keep being awesome!
Congratulations to Bekah Marlow for making the MTC All-Conference Girls Basketball Team.
JV defeated Wayne City in three. Varsity is getting warmed up for the next match.
Today was dress as your favorite teacher day for FFA week. Jack in second grade pulled this one off! Especially with the CUBS tie!
In the News .... HS Boys Basketball
Western Wayne Little League (WWLL) registration has been set. See the attached flyer for more information.
The HS Boys Basketball team begins regional action tonight at Edwards County. The Trojans face Wayne City at 7:30pm. Also tonight, the JH Lady Trojans play at home against Field in volleyball. C game begins at 5:00 followed by JV at 5:30 pm
Kindergarten Registration and Screenings will be Thursday, March 12th from 12-7. Please call the school to schedule an appointment. See attached flyer for more information.
Parent Teacher Conferences are scheduled for March 11th and 12th from 3-7 pm. If interested in having a conference, please contact your child's teacher or call the school to schedule a time.
Halftime of the Webber vs Cisne game. Seniors will be recognized at the conclusion of the JV game.
The kinders put on quite the performance today! Party in the USA!
BUSD has the follow employment opportunities. The high school track position is of pressing importance. We are nearing a point in which we may not be able to offer the program is we do not find a coach soon.
For anyone who was not able to join us today for the Kindergarten USA show, here is a link to the performance!
https://youtu.be/xsd5B350lAA
In the News .... HS ACES Team, formally known as WYSE
Join us this afternoon at 1:00 for the second Kindergarten USA show!
The sewing class is making patterned pillows!
Staff & Students filled the hallways this morning
to congratulate Dr. Shane Gordon!
Pee wee girls finished the morning with another big win!
Big win against Field for our fourth grade team.
Third grade pee wee boys get the win today against Field.
BCAA kindergarten teams playing hard.
Pee Wee cheerleaders full of Trojan spirit.
Our high school students are getting a lesson on what can happen if you text and drive. Put the phone down...it can wait! Thank you to the Illinois State Police for coming to speak and to those who made this possible!
Students using some Dell 2 in1's to program robotic arms in Technical Inquiry.
https://youtu.be/gZ-RrDBlNY8
Mark your calendar for the JCGSAA 2020 All Star Game on March 7!
Reminder: We dismiss at 11:30 tomorrow and there is no school on Monday!
We will serve students a sack lunch tomorrow. Every student in grades K-8 will receive one in addition to any high school student who signs up for one.
Cellular Respiration...waits for no one...
The second graders are creating bird feeders. They have to consider where the food will go, where the birds will stand, and how they will be protected from animals such as cats.
Illinois FFA Alumni and Supporters Polaris Ranger Raffle: 1 Ticket for $10, 3 for $25, or 20 for $100. Proceeds will go towards scholarships for IL FFA members. See a FFA Member or the GS or HS offices to purchase raffle tickets. See the attached flyer for more information.
Mr. Sam (as the kids call him) is going to be conducting a hunter's safety course at BGS on April 17 and 18. Check out the attached flier for more information.
BCAA 2nd grade exhibition game during halftime of Webber Varsity game.
BCAA 1st grade exhibition game during halftime of Webber JV game.
Learning labs skills
Home Games Tonight!
HS Boys BKB Trico vs Webber 6 pm start.
JH Vball New Hope vs Bluford 5pm C -game JV 5:30pm
Cupid left a sweet surprise by the office today. Thank you, Cupid!!
Congratulations to the January students of the month! Also, thank you to the BGS Booster Club for sponsoring the program.
First game of the high school girls regional is tonight. Webber plays Elverado at Marissa. 6 pm start
Reminder that winter sports pictures are tomorrow!
Just a reminder: For our students’ safety, we ask that if you’re picking your child/children up from school you should use the care rider line. This policy is to ensure the safety of our students and reduces the congestion where our students load the buses. Thank you for your patience and cooperation!
First grade is building bigger and safer houses for Yeti. His other one had a leaky roof and that made him sad. It also made him mad it wasn’t big enough for his friend.
Second grade is blending chalk pastels in art. So many masterpieces!
Preschool screenings are happening now at the First Baptist Church in Bluford. They will be there until 11:30.
More ACES Results
ACES results
Engineering results....
Engineering challenges have begun
Engineering challenges have begun
Engineering challenges have begun
ACES Team 2020
We have a new piece of equipment in the ag. shop! A Sawstop table saw would save a finger in the event of an accident. Watch this video to learn more.
https://youtu.be/eiYoBbEZwlk
The Read to Succeed deadline has been extended this year to mid-April. There is still time for parents of students in grades K-6 to log 6 hours of reading to earn a free ticket to Six Flags St. Louis. To earn the free ticket, parents must log their child’s hours on sixflags.com/books. Use the school code SJRU9 and select your child’s teacher from the list to register and begin logging your child’s reading minutes. Tickets for students who complete the program will be issued in late May.
One of the most recent jr. high science projects is creating Star Wars themed 3d printed chess pieces!
Some interesting pieces of high school work.
In the News ..... HS Girls Basketball
In the News ... HS Boys Basketball
Third through fifth grade grandparents day is Friday, February 14!
Tech class....it is harder than it looks....
Appreciate Coach Helm stepping in to help Coach Beaty this evening. Didn’t get the win we hoped for, but the boys played hard.
Second grade learned about pine cones and made predictions about how they would react when placed in water that was different temperatures. They are great scientists!
Successful Team Quest Adventure.....Strong showing today.
Team Quest! Let the fun BEGIN!
UPDATE! Tonight's HS Girls game against Galatia will be Varsity only! Varsity starts at 6:00 pm
HS Girls BKB will be at home tonight vs Galatia! JV will start at 6:00 pm.
The ag. shop was a busy place Friday morning!
Our fifth/sixth grade team is ready for Team Quest to begin.
JV action against Spring Garden has started. There is still time to make it out for 8th grade recognition!
Congratulations to the third/fourth grade Team Quest participants, who placed second today! There were around 40 teams from throughout southern Illinois.
Sports pictures for winter sports are scheduled for Friday, February 7. These will include basketball and cheerleading for Pee Wee, Jr High, and High School. Jr High volleyball will also be photographed along with clubs.
How about this program!?!? For anyone with a bachelor's degree, this may be an avenue for you to obtain a teaching license! Check out the details on the flier.
Third and fourth grade Team Quest is ready to go this morning!
Artwork by some of our talented high school students.
The high school Booster Club is looking for help. Beth has done a wonderful job over the last couple of years, but she is looking to step down as the Booster Club President. If you have any interest in stepping into that role, we are looking for someone. Please reach out to the school or Beth Moser.
A Pre-K screening opportunity in Bluford is coming up on February 6, 2020. Call the school for an appointment 732-8242.
Just a reminder!
Webber Lady Trojans are warming up for tonight’s contest against Edwards County.
Third graders are scanning QR codes and learning new compound words.
Due to the possibility of inclement weather this evening. The HS Boys BKB game against at Sandoval has been cancelled. A make-up date TBD.
The after school program is up and running every day! However, we have not had the response we had intended. In order for it to be successful, we need more kids involved. If you are interested, please contact the school for registration.
Reminder:
Tomorrow is grandparents day for grade K-2!
With our 11:30 dismissal tomorrow, we are trying something new. We will serve a sack lunch to all K-8 students to eat in the classroom at approximately 11:10. All high school students will have the option to sign up for one to grab on their way out at 11:30.
With grandparents day tomorrow, second grade will be sent home with them as well.
JH Volleyball Tryouts!
In the News .... HS Boys Basketball
The HS Boys MTC Bracket has been released!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TeyDy3gD8wwYc8clNRARhRiIqzLrioOev9ZKQWlcatA/edit?usp=sharing
Tonight the JH girls travel to New Hope to play Field Elem. at 6pm for the first round of Regionals. Also HS Boys play at home tonight against Johnston City. JV starts at 6:15pm.
Jr High boys’ basketball is taking on Bethel this evening. JV action starts at 6:00. Only one more opportunity to watch these boys in action at home. 8th grade night will be January 23.
Bluford Trojans are bringing home the 1st place trophy from the Spring Garden Tournament. Congratulations!
Congratulations to the December students of the month!
Waltonville comes to WHS tonight for HS Boys BKB. JV game starts at 6 pm.
In the News .... Bekah Marlow
Bekah Marlow represents Webber as a member of this year’s Midland Trail Conference All Tournament Team. Congratulations!
MVP Savanna Hulbert
Congratulations Webber JV Scholar Bowl Team, Conference tournament Champions !!
In the News
What does it take to be the tallest tower?
We had some surgeons in third grade, who performed a procedure on their math work. All of the doctors successfully stitched together the number progression!
Our buses are now equipped with an exterior camera, which will help identify any cars who pass a bus when it is stopped for students. With a recent scare, this is one of the measures the district is taking to help keep kids safe.
I wish we had a before photo, but these doors used to be covered in an ugly carpet. The maintenance staff did a great job bringing them back to life in the grade school gym!
In just a few moments this classroom will be full of kids learning music for the first time in several years! Welcome aboard, Mrs. Pierce!
BGS is excited to announce that Friday, January 17, will be grandparent's/special person's day for grades K-2! See the flier for times and more information.
The JH Lady Trojans capped off 8th grade night with a win over St. Marys.
Lady Trojans win their first round of MTC Tournament play at Wayne City. They played a great game beating Sandoval. Lady Trojans will be in action again Wednesday night at 6:00 vs. CORL.
Congratulations Varsity Tourney Champions, and Coach of the year and Conference champs
Congratulations Webber Varsity team, MTC Conference Champions
Updated January Menus. There have been a few changes made to this month's menus. The daily menu can be found on the website under the "Dining" tab. In the future, paper menus will be provided upon request only.
One of our excellent teachers, Mrs. Putt, put together an awesome video for Teresa Phelps, who retired in December. Check it our here.
https://youtu.be/47DtMDgz6Xg
Parents: The long two weeks is almost over. We will see all of your kiddos smiling faces on Monday!
Students in grades 4-12 will soon be completing the UChicago Impact 5 Essentials Survey. Click/Copy the link below for more information.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11nEZhC1svDMNvFXztvf5t7lFK3Y-vhxMXT50h7eXosw/edit?usp=sharing
BUSD has the following coaching opportunities available!
Season's greetings from BUSD!
Jennifer Sarver from Cedarhurst taught fourth and fifth grade students how to make clay pinch pots as a part of their Navajo Pottery lesson.
Thank you Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce for inviting the BGS bell choir to perform at the December monthly luncheon!
Bluford Grade School is looking for a part-time classroom aide. The hours would be approximately from 7:45 - 12:45 each day.
WHS was honored this morning to host a visit by alum, Randy Mills, who recently released a book about his experience playing high school basketball in the late 1960's!
Getting warmed up for game two of the Conrad Allen Holiday Tournament against Wayne City.
Our kindergarten classes traveled to the food pantry today to make their donation!
Tech Inquiry class is competing with their balloon cars.
BGS is thrilled to announce that we will be starting an after school program through the YMCA beginning Monday January 6. The program will run daily from 3:05 - 5:30. A registration form must be completed. More details are available on the attachment.
For anyone interested, here is a link to the grade school Christmas program from today.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2L8eDXhA9n0&feature=youtu.be
Reminder: our grade school Christmas program is today at 1:00 in the high school gymnasium. Please do not arrive before 12:30.
With the potential for the weather to continue to deteriorate, the Bluford Unit School District will dismiss students at 2:00 p.m. Also, all PM events are canceled for this evening.
Ready for HOCO 2019 at Webber.
Another great year of competition!
Bluford USD placed 3rd in the Pigskin Cap collection this year, earning our school another $2,500. Thank you to the family, friends, and community members who continue to support our collection. We couldn’t do it without you. A special thanks to Ms. Baine for leading our school in this project!
First game of pool play at the Conrad Allen Holiday Tournament. Tough 44-49 loss to Gallatin Co. Webber will play again Monday night at 7:00 pm.
Reminder: If you or someone who lives away from this area are unable to attend games at WHS, we stream all of our high school basketball games on the NFHS network. Visit https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/ for subscription information.
Gingerbread house day is always great every year in KG!
Scholastic Bowl was hard at work this morning!
There was a lot of giggling and learning going on in the stem lab today. Second grade worked with Botley.
Fifth grade partnered with Jefferson County 4-H and WTHS Ag students to build marshmallow catapults. The winning team launched a marshmallow 16’ 7”.
Four HS teen teachers, trained by Ramona Girtman from Jefferson County 4-H, helped fifth grade students make marshmallow catapults. The fifth grade students made marshmallow catapults to culminate their study of simple machines.
Secret Santa Providing Random Acts of Kindness. We LOVE our chocolate Santa candy. Thank you, Secret Santa. ;)
The high school art class is helping spread holiday cheer by painting the entrance windows.
Bell choir practicing for their performance next week.
A special thank you to all of you who have signed up for the Kroger Community Rewards program. This quarter the school received $340.18 just by you shopping at Kroger! If you haven't signed up, please visit the link below.
https://www.kroger.com/topic/community-rewards-9
Webber varsity comes away with a 59-48 win over Agape in their home opener.
The JV boys kicked off the night with a big win!
A reminder for all Trojan basketball fans that there is also plenty of parking behind the school as well.
Webber Trojans JV is warming up for their home opener against the Agape Knights.
5th grade league was in action this morning at BGS.
The Webber Drama Club did an extraordinary job writing and performing their Christmas skits. They are such an entertaining and enjoyable group to watch!
Webber High School is pleased to have three students from the Webber graduating class of 2020 recognized as Illinois State Scholars. Congratulations Clarissa, Rebekah, and Hannah!
Webber High School is excited to announce that we have recently added a broadcasting system in which all high school athletic events held in the gym at WHS will be streamed for you to view anywhere. You do have to purchase a subscription to be able to watch. Details can be found at this link, https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/webber-high-school-bluford-il
Congratulations to the November students of the month and thank you to the BGS Booster club for sponsoring the program!
We have a need for substitute cooks! If you would like to help out, please call the office at 732-8242. We still have days in December for which we need help.
First grade was working on fact families today. It was great to watch as peers shared their work and offered to help one another!
2019 Homecoming Court
Bare Minerals
Adjectives of the morning science class..gross, ugh, fun...owl pellets
The girls are in action tonight taking on Mt. Carmel!
The school district is thrilled to announce that we are adding a K-12 music program beginning in January. Ms. Pierce will be joining the team to teach vocal music to all students K-5 twice a week. Junior high and high school will be by student choice as an elective!
Feeding time in the critter corner in Mrs. Birkner's room
4 switch challenge
Tough one point loss for the Trojans against Jasper in their first round of play at the Wayne City Jr High Holiday Tournament. They play again Wed. night at 6:00.
Webber boys’ basketball plays at Elverado Thursday, December 5. Elverado is hosting a benefit that night for Coach Emling’s family. Their son, who will arrive sometime in January, has been diagnosed with a cleft palate. Attached is the flyer for the event. If you’re planning to attend the game, please consider supporting the fundraiser while there.
BUSD wishes everyone a happy Thanksgiving!
First and second grade teamed up to conduct a book tasting today! They read various themed short stories to each other.
Here is the December BCAA basketball practice schedule.
Cheyenne is representing Bluford Grade School as a winner of the Wither’s Broadcasting Letters of Thanksgiving writing contest. Be sure to tune into 106.9 tomorrow as her writing will be read on air numerous times throughout the day. Congratulations!
Thank you to Karen Pelker and the Mt. Vernon Rotary West for providing, "The Best Dictionary for Students" to our third grade! I learned that the longest published word in the English language has 1,909 letters. Look it up to see how to spell it!
In the News ..... HS Trojans and Lady Trojans
Check out this job posting for employment opportunities in the district.
Meet Botley. A few teachers explored what is possible with coding robots for the lower grade levels.
Kindergarten is getting ready for the holidays!
Rebekah Marlow was the October Student of the Month at Webber HS. Bekah is active in cross country, basketball and softball. Other activities include Scholar Bowl, Beta Club, WYSE, and Envirothon. She is Beta Club President and Senior Class Treasurer. Congratulations Bekah!
Lifetouch check refunds have arrived for those who purchased pictures with cash or check. Those refund checks will be sent home tomorrow, Wednesday, November 20 with the students. Please be sure to ask your child about the check. If you have any questions regarding the refund, please contact Lifetouch at 618-288-7896.
Parents:
Here is a look ahead at our school calendar.
November 22- No School
November 27-29- No School
December 20- 2:10 Dismissal
The school district is occasionally in need of substitute custodians. We primarily need help during second shift, but it is occasionally for the day shift as well. If you are interested please contact the school at 732-8242 and ask for Jeff.
Learning about pH.
Attention 3rd & 4th grade cheerleaders and parents!
Lastest decor at Webber HS! Turned out great!
Great turnout for Webber’s Meet the Team Night and Alumni Games.
Congratulations Savanna Hulbert Hamilton County Scholar Bowl Invitational All Conference Team
3rd, 4th, and 5th grade’s went to Cedarhurst today to see a live performance called “Native Pride.”
In the News ...... Junior Achievement Day
I sure enjoyed my time in first grade today! This wonderful group included me in their lesson by providing me with my very own surgeon gear. What a fun way to learn about contractions!
Webber High Booster is in need of volunteer workers and dessert donations for the “Meet the Team Blue & White Night”. It is scheduled for this Saturday, November 16 beginning at 5 pm. Come on out to support our athletes and booster club!
WHS is proud of these kids, who participated in the Jefferson County job shadow day hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.
Reminder: Picture retakes for grade school students will be tomorrow!
How about these fifth grade biomes? So much creativity!
Biology is checking out their cheek cells
In the News ..... GS 1st Quarter High Honors and Honors Students. Congratulations! Keep up the hard work.
In the News ..... More from the Veterans' Program
In the News .... Seth Hamerski at the State Cross Country Meet
In the News .... The Veterans' Program
The boys’ Junior High home basketball game this evening has been postponed. Makeup game TBA.
RLC students will not need to report to the school tomorrow because the Rend Lake College campus is closed Tuesday, Nov. 12, due to inclement weather.
Due to hazardous rural road conditions, Bluford schools are canceled for Tuesday, November 12.
The Jr. High girls’ basketball game against Spring Garden, originally-scheduled for tonight, has been been cancelled.
Congrats to Seth Hamerski who ran at the state cross country meet! As a sophomore, he placed 61 out of 209 with a 5:19 per mile pace. The state champ broke the state record, running 14:30, which is a 4:50 per mile pace.
Cross Country State finals...go Seth
Fifth grade had three more biome projects turned in this week.
Very proud of our students and staff!! A lot of hard work for a good cause! Happy Veterans Day to those who have given so much!
Working on Binary logic boards
In the News .... Seth Hamerski. Good Luck at State!!!
Coming Soon!
More artwork
The Vetetan tributes were hung on the walls with care in hopes that our heroes soon would be there. Our Veterans Day Programs is at 1:30 this afternoon in the jr high gymnasium.
What a great day for our hs jrs. Jefferson County Manufacturing Day brought awareness to the variety of careers available in the area. Thank you to Magnum Steel, Truck Center, Continental, and Outland Airport for hosting.
The third grade was battling with some tug of war. The girls took two of three!
Join us Friday at 1:30 for the Veterans Day Assembly! The kids have been working hard and will recite various original writings as well as vocal and instrumental performances.
Two fifth graders have turned in their biome project. We are eager to see the others.
The science club was busy today putting the finishing touches on their trebuchets.
Congratulations to the October students of the month sponsored by the BGS Booster Club.
Six Flags Read to Succeed is for students in grades K-6. Students who read at least 6 hours can earn a free ticket to Six Flags. Parents can log their child’s hours at sixflags.com/books from Nov. - Feb. Use school code: SJRU9 and select your child’s teacher from the list to register your child. Tickets for students who participate in the program will be available next May.
The BUSD grade school booster club is selling spirit wear. Students will be bringing home an order form today or tomorrow. Checks should be made to "Grade School Booster" and orders are due by November 15. Go Trojans!
Here is the bracket for jr. high boys basketball at Rome.
Cross Country Sectionals at Benton
Cross Country Sectionals at Benton
Best wishes to Bekah and Seth as they compete in the Sectional Cross Country Meet at Benton tomorrow!
Third graders had a blast wrapping one another up as a mummy.
How about this scientific expedition going on in fourth grade!
First grade had some design and building concepts going on today. We had a castle, cattle pen, theater, and go cart!
The high school gym got some new decorations this week.
Preparations are well under way for the Veteran's Day Program! The kids really enjoy the display wall. Join us November 8, at 1:3] in the junior high gym.
The high school cheer coach position has been posted since October 15. As of now, we have not received any interest in the position. The boys basketball season begins on November 11, so we are nearing the point at which we would not be able to offer the cheer program if we do not have a coach. If you have any interest, please contact the school at 732-6121.
Second Grade Math Scoot
A little rain and cool temperatures won’t keep these athletes from running. Great day for the Regional CC meet at West Frankfort.
The link I sent out earlier for the video requires permission. I am working on a way to get the video out that does not require you to ask permission to view the Google video. In the meantime, I will give access to those as I receive them.
We have had some questions about getting alerts about sport schedule/time changes. Here is a quick tutorial on how to add alerts for the sports teams that you are interested in. Copy and paste the link into Chrome.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_iS0HW16LmH2xz-V0Q7ZTnQr99SMr7PM
Practicing phonics on dry erase packets.
A few of second grades science activities from this week.
The Jr. High girls basketball game against Thompsonville tomorrow night 10/24, will be a varsity game only starting 6:00pm.
Fifth grade played a “Math Action” multiplication game to culminate their study of Unit 1 in math.
Civics, History and Tech classes on a fields trip to New Harmony Indiana with Mr Gilley and Mrs. Birkner
Scholar Bowl Season is now underway! 4 wins in 4 matches!
It has begun!! Come get some BBQ and dessert before the game. Don't forget to get your raffle ticket for a 50 inch TV!!!
Ramona Girtman from 4H came to teach fifth grade a lesson on pointillism.
Reminder: We will have the drawing for the chair seats for boys and girls basketball during P/T conferences on Thursday at 5:00 p.m. To have first pick, please be present for the drawing. If you cannot attend, we will call after the drawing to ask your preference. If you want to be added to the list, please call 732-6121.
First grade is bringing a character to life from a book of their choice!
Hey kiddos, let's make it a great one today! #bekindalways
Our ecosystems were a success!
Junior Achievement of Jefferson County got off to a great start today with our junior high! Thanks to Shawna and Hollie from SSM, John from Crossroads, and Deanne from District 80 for joining us!
Using multibeam sonar for Bathymetric mapping
Learning from the real thing rather than a diagram....Health
We have a short week with PT conferences on Thursday and MV conference on Friday, so let's make it a great one!
State cross country meet at Centralia this morning.
The Bluford Ruritan Club is hosting a Halloween costume contest at the breakfast on October 26. Come for breakfast and a goodie bag. Costume judging will be at 8:30.
Bluford kiddos in the news!
Health class learned from Nurse Mary today about how to take blood pressure, listen to their hearts, pulse, and oxygen daturation
Hey Everyone! In addition to our BBQ fundraiser, we are raffling off this 50in. TV!! $10/ticket. Tickets are now on sale in the HS and GS office and will be sold up until halftime of the boys junior high game on October 22nd. You do not have to be present to win. Good Luck!
Parents:
We have continued to follow up with our photo company in regards to the grade school pictures from August 23. The company has a technical glitch which they are trying to fix. We have been informed that the company is going to process refunds tomorrow and has remained committed to still printing the photos which have been ordered. Unfortunately, they do not have a timeline for when the photos will be printed. If you have issues receiving your refund, please let administration know and we will continue to pursue that. Hopefully soon, they will figure out how to print the photos and we will receive those as well.
Due to a shortage of available bus drivers, we will have to run a double route during the afternoon of Friday, October 18. Ray's (blue bus) town route will be dismissed at 2:25 to board the bus. All other students will be dismissed at the normal time. However, students on Marla's (yellow route) will be held in the cafeteria until she returns from running the blue route. Students should be boarding the yellow route around 3:20.
Check out this event going on this weekend at WHS!
Last call for 1 pound BBQ pulled pork preorders! Call Julie at the GS office if you are interested!!
All high school sports parents or others interested in helping with booster events are encouraged to attend a meeting on Monday, October 21 at 6:30 pm. The main topic of this meeting will be to plan “Blue & White Night” to meet the teams.
The HS Technical Inquiry class has been working on a Rube Goldberg challenge. Sometimes the best learning is through what went wrong so we can adjust. Shortly after this attempt, they were successful!
https://youtu.be/ZP2EUhGCQIM
Thank you to all of the staff who pulled off a surprise lunch for Boss's Day! The administration was a little spoiled today!
Reminder! We are hosting a benefit BBQ dinner on Tuesday, October 22nd starting at 4:15pm. If you want to preorder a pound of BBQ pulled pork, call the school by noon on October 17th. Help us support this great cause!
It is hard to believe that we are already at the point in the year in which we are celebrating senior night. Congrats girls!
We are still looking for a couple of people to join us at BUSD. Feel free to share with anyone who you think you be great!
Please join Bluford USD staff as we help to support Barb, one of our cooks, with medical expenses.
5th grade league schedule.
The October Board of Education meeting will be held on Thursday, October 17, at 4:45 p.m. in the high school media center.
The volleyball regional schedule has been posted.
Parent-teacher conference time is quickly approaching! Our parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for Thursday, October 24 from 11 am - 7 pm. Please call the grade school/high school office or contact your child's teacher to set up a time. This is a great opportunity for you to learn about your child's progress.
Big thanks to Webber TWP. Fire District for coming out on this rainy day and talking to our students about fire safety!
The BUSD Administration is coming around the classrooms this morning to show our appreciation. #trojanmorningexpressO
The high school ag. department was learning how to calculate a slope with survey equipment.
Chess club was hard at it this morning!
Digital signage is up and rolling at WHS!
High school art is working on various perspective projects!
This group of second graders enjoyed having lunch with their teacher, Mrs. Sherwin, today.
Biology day 1 testing for simple suars
Check out this event hosted by the BGS Booster Club on Thursday night!
We came across this community resource. If you are looking for contact information for community resources, check this out.
http://www.roe21.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Resource-Guide-2019.pdf
Biology class is figuring out what is in our food.
Environmental science made magic today
Pink Out 2019 at Webber ended with with a varsity victory in two. Way to go Lady Trojans!
Warming up for the Varsity match! JV beat Sandoval in two.
Pink Out game is underway for the JV team. We have an enthusiastic fan club showing their support.
Due to a scheduling conflict, Webber Homecoming has been rescheduled for Saturday, December 14, 2019, 7-10 p.m.
First grade recess is pretty awesome!
It is enrollment time for 4-H! Marlow Cardinals 4-H Club invites you to come see what 4-H is all about.
Marci Sherwin, a second grade teacher, was awarded an Excellence in Education Grant through the Illinois Retired Teachers Association Foundation (IRTAF). There to present the $375 check was Larry Pearson, a member of the IRTA. Congratulations, Marci!
Today was National School Custodian Day. We appreciate the work our custodians put in on a daily basis, but thought they deserved special recognition today. We are blessed with the best! Thank you Jeff, Sam, and Ethan for all you do!
Cord Hails is Webber’s September student of the month. Cord is active in FFA. He is the Chapter Vice President. Congratulations, Cord!
Congratulations to the September students of the month! Those selected were: Koy Kiel, Adalynn Rinsma, Kylie Phelps, Lyla Gordon, Owen Burke, Landon Cook, Clayton Drew, Chloe Adams, and Dylan French.
In the News - 9/30/19
The new BUSD Sports Calendar is up and running. In Google calendar, add a calendar by URL. Copy and paste the link below to add our sports calendar to your personal calendar.
webcal://ical.schedulestar.com/iCal_NOW.cfm?i=A045B89F-9287-428F-9E439E86E92A5635
Grade school pictures have not come in yet. As a result, picture retakes will not be on Friday, October 4 as previously announced. Retakes are not going to be rescheduled until we have received our first set of pictures. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
We are proud to announce that BGS is one of 142 Early Childhood programs recognized at the Gold level from the Illinois State Board of Education.
We are currently looking for a Pee Wee (3rd and 4th grade) girls basketball coach. Last year, there was not a team because not enough girls signed up, but eight girls are interested in playing this year, so now we are looking for a parent volunteer. If you are interested, please contact Mrs. Henson at the school.
Attention High School Students. We want to hear from you! Please take this short survey about our grab and go lunch and breakfast options. The first ten students to respond to the survey will receive a PBIS token! Copy and paste the link below.
https://forms.gle/7GoYQEavcFNDJx5f7
Wow! As it was put, the house is becoming a home. Thank you Terri Helm for organizing the trophy cases!
Mr. Jeff got a new piece of equipment today. This will be a little safer than that 28' extension ladder.
A special thank you to Captain Weeks and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department for demonstrating the capabilities of his K-9 today for our third grade!
Part time employment opportunities at BUSD!
Attention JH Boys Basketball Players!
Basketball tryouts for junior high girls will be held on Monday, September 30, after school until 5:00 p.m. for any girl (5th-8th grade) interested in playing. Please wear practice clothes and gym shoes. If you have any questions please call, 618-731-0967.
Tech class working on the “Shipping Challenge”.
High school health demonstrating their knowledge of the 12 cranial nerves.
Kindergarten was working on the letter N today. So, they came to Nurse Mary with a Nice surprise!
A message from the WHS Booster Club: Check them out in Facebook.
We need volunteers for concessions this Saturday for the HSBB Round Robin Tournament!!! Beth and I simply cannot do this alone!! Lmk if you can help at least part of the day. THANK YOU!!
Reminder: Friday, September 27, is a 2:10 dismissal.
Congrats to junior high baseball on their first round regional win tonight! They play Thursday at Waltonville.
How about Mt. St. Helens being printed?!
Lady Trojans at Zeigler-Royalton!
High School cross country at Nashville
The jr. high boys' regional game at home today, against Spring Garden, has been postponed to tomorrow 9/24 at 5:00 pm
Recognized our 8th grade softball and baseball athletes this afternoon. We appreciate the time and hard work they put into playing this season and seasons past. They both begin regional play next Tuesday.
Hannah DeJournett, a Senior, is Webber High School’s Student of the Month for August. Hannah is active in FFA, Beta Club, Senior Class Vice President, WYSE, and cross country manager. Congratulations, Hannah!
In jr high cross country at Norris City, Jaxon was 1st and Brennan was 43rd out of 57 boys.
Hey sports fans! Our new sports website is up and running. We are still working on a few items so please be patient. This website includes up to date schedules. Visit www.blufordsports.org
Grade school cross country meet at Salem yesterday. Out of 100 boys, Jaxon was 8th and Brennan was 88th.
Lady Cardinals take the first set 5-25. Second set coming.
Webber baseball action at Cisne.
The school district now has two separate phone numbers for the grade school and high school. The grade school can still be reached at 732-8242 and the high school number is 732-6121.
Pictures tomorrow will be for the following:
high school retakes
high school fall sports
grade school fall sports
We have not yet received the grade school pictures, so grade school retakes are going to be rescheduled for October 4.
Come support the local blood drive next week at Webber High School. Please enter at the new high school entrance. Parking is available at the front entrance.
Dan Lovin came in to speak about his experience at Ground Zero after the 9/11 attack.
Fourth grade spent some time in the STEM lab this afternoon! Dream/design/build.
Fourth grade spent some time in the STEM lab this afternoon! Dream/design/build.
We are super thankful for the contribution from the BGS Booster Club! A $2,100 donation equals six new iPads to supplement our kids learning. Thank you!
Jr High cross country at West Frankfort. Jaxon finished in first place.
I am thrilled to announce that because of your participation in the Kroger Rewards program, the school received $249.87 this quarter! This money is used to provide extra incentives for our kids. (pizza parties, PBIS rewards ect.) We currently have 61 households signed up for the program. If you haven't signed up and would like to, simply visit this site. https://www.kroger.com/account/enrollCommunityRewardsNow/
Sorry for the late notice, but the parking lot was lined today so students may begin using the lot tomorrow to park! Also, parents you may drop off your high school student at the front door.
The Marlow Cardinals 4-H Club recently constructed and donated a lending library to Bluford USD. Today, the 4-H club helped Jeff, our head of maintenance, install it. Please feel free to leave a book you have read and would like to share with others, then look through the selection to find a book that interests you. Thank you Marlow Cardinals 4-H Club for commitment to bettering our school and community!
Spent some time today reading the book “All are Welcome” to most of the elementary grades and then the 8th grade science students surprised me with a name plate made from the 3 D printer. No better way to end a week than with the best students around! #blessedbeyondmeasure
Congratulations to the August students of the month and thank you to the BGS Booster Club for sponsoring the program! Pictured are Hailey Popplewell, Embry Raney, Izabel Andrews, Parker Withrow, Lily Rains, Hailei Marlow, Waylon Jones, Baylee Adams, and Jersi Tate.
What an awesome surprise! Thank you to JH Science!
Great work using the 3D Printer!
In the News .... Bekah Marlow and Seth Hamerski
Jr High baseball and softball are in action at Wayne City this afternoon.
Have you read the Student Handbook yet? Copy and paste the link below into your web browser and check it out. You can also visit our website. Need a paper copy? No problem. Call or stop by and see us!
https://5il.co/8tr3
Hallelujah! Paving is in progress.
This post is a little late, but thank you to Mt. Vernon Menards for coordinating a school supply drive for us. This is just a small portion of what still remains.
I am hopeful that the wait has finally come to an end. Those pavers are supposed to be fire up and rolling in the morning!
It took three sets, but the JV comes away with a big win over Wayne City. Varsity action is about to get underway.
How cool is this?!? King City Books in Mt. Vernon has a program for students to review books prior to publication. We have several students who have signed up to be "professional" book reviewers! And we get to keep all of the books for our library!
The Science/Robotics Club had their first meeting of the year this afternoon. Thanks to the Jefferson County 4-H chapter for partnering with us for robotics kits!
Junior High baseball and softball games are cancelled for today, Tuesday, Sept. 3. The opposing teams did not have enough players to field a team.
In the News HS VB Game
The parent/player volleyball game is underway. Believe it or not, the girls are already up 8-0!
Thank you to the coaches, maintenance staff, and volunteers who recently helped us make improvements to our softball field.
We utilized the afternoon to train staff on CPR and use of the AED.
Varsity action against Mt. Vernon. Tough loss for the Lady Trojans tonight.
It's time for the varsity!
JV defeats Mt. Vernon in three.
It is excellent to see such a good crowd here to cheer on the girls at the first game in the new Webber High School gym!
First home game in the new gymnasium. Go Lady Trojans!
Your child won't be at school today? Running late and on your way? Whatever the case, give us a call by 9 am and let us know. Thank you!
Tonight is our first home volleyball game. Season tickets for the chair seats will be available for $20. For volleyball, you will get to choose which seat you would like. As we get closer to basketball season, we will have a drawing for seats for anyone interested.
More PBIS fun
PBIS kickoff fun!
In the news!
How awesome is this second grade door decoration?!?!
Join us Friday, August 30, for a fun night with the volleyball team!
What a fabulous morning for our district! Thank you to everyone who joined us this morning to celebrate the new building!
We are ready for you! Join us for breakfast at the Ruritan Club beginning at 7:00 and then come help us celebrate at ribbon cutting at 9:30. Please park in the north lot an then feel free to use either the grade school entrance or the new high school entrance!
How about this fourth grade science assignment! Working "tendons" inside paper digits. Our new Mystery Science curriculum is pretty cool!
We accepted delivery of our new school bus this morning! This will be on Roy's route. We now have three newer buses and will continue to make progress to ensure we have the safest most reliable fleet.
Just a quick reminder that we have a 2:10 dismissal tomorrow (Friday, August 23) and we have an 11:30 dismissal next Friday (August 30). There is no school on Monday, September 2, in observance of Labor Day.
The Jr. High softball and baseball games scheduled for Thursday, August 22 against Spring Garden have been cancelled.
In the news!
Please join us Saturday, August 24, at 9:30 a.m. for our official dedication ceremony for the new Webber High School. We will begin the gymnasium with a formal ceremony to recognize individuals who played significant roles in the project. Following that, the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce will be on hand to conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony. We hope to see you there!
The jr. high softball and baseball games scheduled for Tuesday, August 20 have been cancelled due to the weather.
The junior high students got the first 3D printer put together today!
After several attempts over the last year to create a district Facebook page, it appears as though the Facebook police have allowed us to do so. Please like and share so we can reach as many people as possible with all of the excellent things going on with BUSD #318.
We had a wonderful turn out today at our open house! I hope everyone enjoyed the new building.
We couldn't be more pleased with the new gym flag. Thank you to Superior Steel for helping make this possible.
High school teachers learned how to navigate the new technology in their classrooms.
It was an awesome day with staff! Teachers got to try out the STEM lab!
For an update on the high school and information on procedures for the first day of school, check out this article.
https://www.blufordschools.org/article/125866?org=bluford-unit-school-district-318
We are set and ready to begin paving on Monday!
Webber High School will be hosting a Freshman Orientation for students and parents/guardians on Tuesday, August 13 at 6:30 pm. Please park in the existing parking lot and use the main entrance to the grade school. I look forward to meeting you and showcasing our new facilities!
Welcome back to school!
https://www.blufordschools.org/article/124053?org=bluford-unit-school-district-318
Reminder: This Thursday is the Back to School Splash at the Aquatic Zoo hosted by the BGS Booster Club from 6:15 - 8:00. Admission is $1 and all students need to be accompanied by an adult.
Farmyard Folly fun!
Webber FFA participated in Farmyard Follies hosted by Cisne FFA at Johnsonville Days.
WHS!!! The school district took ownership of the interior of the building today, so we moved in! The asphalt company is scheduled to be here on Monday to continue and hopefully complete that work. We are so close with this project and it is going to be so nice for our students!
The Booster Club is hosting a back to school splash at the Aquatic Zoo next Thursday, August 8, beginning at 6:15 p.m. All Bluford Grade School students are invited to attend. Admission is only $1!
Parents: This is a reminder that online registration is still active and can be completed at any time. Also, a reminder that walk in registration is scheduled for tomorrow from 8:30 - 2:30. This will also be completed online with a school device.
Bluford Grade School cross country will begin voluntary conditioning on Monday, August 5 at 6:15 a.m. Please be sure to bring a towel and something to drink.
Check out this job opportunity with Bluford schools!
Junior high baseball tryouts have been postponed to Friday, July 26, from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Webber High School baseball will have open field on Tues. July 23 and Thurs. July 25 at 7:00 pm.
Bluford students and 4H members presented at the BOE meeting last night on their Lending Library project which will be placed at BGS for all to use. Take a book, leave a book!
Webber High School cross country will begin voluntary conditioning on Monday, July 22 at 6:15 a.m. Please be sure to bring a towel and something to drink.
Junior high softball tryouts will be on Thursday, July 25, and Friday, July 26 at 5:00 p.m.
Parents: Here are the supply lists for the upcoming school year! They are also available at Walmart and Staples.
https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/406321/School_Supply_Lists.pdf
Did you know that BGS will have a new STEM lab this year. Think of it as a mini interactive children's museum which allows kids to design, create, and build. This was accomplished mostly through grant money. Join us at Bluford!
This message is for any fifth through eighth grade student interested in playing junior high baseball this fall. Coach Hicks will have "open field" next week (July 15 - July 19) Monday - Friday from 5:00 - 6:30.
Tryouts will be on Monday, July 22, and Tuesday, July 23, from 5:00 - 6:30.
Please be reminded that each student must have a physical and proof of medical insurance on file with the school. Physicals are valid for 395 days. Also, as a reminder the Orthopaedic Center is providing sports physicals for our students on Friday, August 2, from 8:30 - 12:00. If you need paperwork, please contact the school.
A similar announcement will soon be made for junior high softball.
Did you know that Bluford schools, with the help of the BGS Boosters, invested over $20k into our playground to make it safer and more fun for our kids. Healthy and happy kids = better learners. Join us at Bluford schools!
We need some coaches for the upcoming year. Please share so we can find the best people to work with our kids!
Everyone is invited to come out for “Coffee and Conversation” at the Bluford Village Hall in two weeks.
Did you know that Webber High School offers more dual credit opportunity than any other high school in the Rend Lake district? Students have access to at least 26 courses offered in house and through the college.
Hey, Bluford community, check this out!
https://www.blufordschools.org/article/118768?org=bluford-unit-school-district-318
Bluford Unit Schools welcomes Garrett Wingo as our new Dean of Students!
Please consider taking time to come out and donate blood on July 3.
Three of our students are featured in this article for receiving the Arrow of Light award. Congratulations Jimmy, Roman, and Walker!
Parents: Here is a copy of the final approved 2019-2020 school calendar! The first day of school for students will be Friday, August 16!
Some of our Webber High School girls are attending National Beta Club Convention in Oklahoma City this week. Congratulations to Kadi for placing 5th in Division 2 Jewelry Making at the national level!
The videos from graduation have arrived. Feel free to stop by next week or call the office (732-8242) to arrange pick up or delivery.
Ellie was at the Illinois State FFA Convention in Springfield today to receive her plaque for winning the Specialty Crop SAE and to receive her State Degree. Congratulations Ellie!
Webber FFA at the 91st Illinois FFA Convention in Springfield, IL.
Thanks to your generosity, the school district received another $268.68 this quarter from Kroger Rewards. We now have 56 households signed up for the program. If you haven't signed up yet, visit this site to get going.
https://www.kroger.com/account/enrollCommunityRewardsNow/
Congratulations to Noah Raudenbush being voted to the Midland Trail All Conference baseball team! Also, congratulations to Dakota Tate being named Honorable Mention! ⚾️
Congratulations to Emma Moser and Mia Simmons on being voted to the Midland Trail All Conference Team. 🥎
Congratulations to Dakota Tate on being accepted to the National CEO Trade Show!
The Village of Bluford did a wonderful job with the Memorial Day program!
Time to register your child online for the 2019-2020 school year. Just log into Teacherease and click on the "Online Registration" link. It's simple, quick, no trip to the school, and available 24/7. Online registration is available until Friday, May 31st.
Congratulations to the May students of the month! Those selected by the teachers were Izabel Andrew's, Rendley Robertson, Parker Withrow, Kylie Snow, Emma Withrow, Serenity Bryant, Kylee Halbin, Caleb Hardy, and Lily Taylor.
These arrived after school today. Check it out if you have any interest.
Webber High School Athletic Awards
Congratulations to the Class of 2019!
Bluford Grade School Class of 2019 award recipients.
