February Newsletter

5th Edition
February 3, 2025

Bowley Purpose Statement

The Bowley school community will educate and enrich the children of our nation's heroes to become successful lifelong learners.

A Message from the Principal

Bowley Elementary began the second semester of our school year this week.  Our school calendar scheduled less breaks for students when compared to the past few months. As a result, Bowley students will experience more consistency in their schedule.  For this reason, students become acclimated to the school and/or classroom routines and procedures which promotes a positive and respectful school community.  Also, students’ consistent participation in school-related experiences will support their ongoing academic, social, and emotional progress.   

With all new grading quarters, our students have an opportunity to establish a foundation focused on their success during the nine weeks. Attendance is vital to students participating in learning experiences in all content areas.  Consistent attendance will promote each student’s practice and application with new concepts, which will enhance their retention and transfer of concepts.  Also, students may put into practice study habits that can be performed at school or home. Study habits, such as reviewing previously learned material, is an effective strategy.  Although not a complete list of skills and strategies students could implement, putting into practice learning strategies will build students’ self-efficacy.     

Bowley Elementary scheduled a community event for Thursday, February 13.  Our math night will provide our learning community’s experience with math-related concepts Bowley present to students in each grade band.  Additionally, our math night will promote our learning community’s understanding of our new math program, Reveal (K-5), and math learning in our prekindergarten classrooms.  Bowley Elementary looks forward to collaborating and engaging with all learning community members during our Math Night on February 13.

We appreciate our families’ continued support and partnership with Bowley Elementary and look forward to a productive and joyful school year.
 

DoDEA's official photo of Dr. Raymond Burk.

Dr. Raymond Burk

3445 R. Miller Street Bldg 1-3479
Fort Bragg, NC 28307-0089
United States

910-861-7025

Bowley Parent Forum

Parent Forum

The Bowley Parent Forum is more than just a communication tool; it is a cornerstone of our school community. By fostering open communication, building a supportive network, and encouraging active parental involvement, the forum plays a crucial role in ensuring the success and well-being of our students.

At Bowley Elementary, we understand that a strong partnership between parents and the school is key to our students' success. The Bowley Parent Forum, championed by our dedicated Principal Dr. Burk and Assistant Principal Ms. Simpson, is an essential platform that fosters this collaboration and provides numerous benefits to our school community.

1. Direct Communication with Leadership

The Parent Forum offers a unique opportunity for parents to hear directly from Dr. Burk and Ms. Simpson. Regular updates and announcements ensure that parents are always informed about important events, policy changes, and other relevant information. This direct line of communication helps build trust and transparency between the school and families.

2. A Platform for Questions and Concerns

Parents often have questions or concerns about their child's education and school environment. The Parent Forum provides a safe and welcoming space for parents to ask these questions and receive timely responses from Dr. Burk, Ms. Simpson, and other staff members. This open dialogue helps address issues promptly and ensures that parents feel heard and supported.

3. Building a Supportive Community

One of the most significant benefits of the Parent Forum is the sense of community it fosters. Parents can connect with one another, share experiences, and offer support. This network of engaged and informed parents contributes to a positive school culture and enhances the overall educational experience for students.

4. Encouraging Parental Involvement

Active parental involvement is linked to better student outcomes. The Parent Forum encourages parents to participate actively in their child's education by participating in discussions, attending events, and volunteering. This involvement benefits the students and strengthens the school community as a whole.

5. Enhancing School Programs and Policies

Feedback from parents is invaluable in shaping school programs and policies. The Parent Forum provides a structured way for parents to share their insights and suggestions, helping the school to continuously improve and adapt to the needs of its students and families.

Conclusion

The Bowley Parent Forum is more than just a communication tool; it is a cornerstone of our school community. By fostering open communication, building a supportive network, and encouraging active parental involvement, the forum plays a crucial role in ensuring the success and well-being of our students. We invite all parents to participate actively in the forum and contribute to the vibrant and collaborative spirit of Bowley Elementary.

The Rolling Bean: Brewing Up Success

At Bowley Elementary, we are always looking for innovative ways to support our students' growth and development. One of our most beloved initiatives is the "Rolling Bean," a coffee and refreshment snack cart run by our exceptional special education students under the guidance of the dedicated Special Education Teacher, Kathleen Green.

The Rolling Bean is more than just a snack cart; it's a mobile classroom on wheels. Every Friday, our students roll through the halls, delivering delicious coffee and snacks to our staff. This initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for our students to practice essential social and life skills in a real-world setting.

Through the Rolling Bean, students learn to greet staff members, take turns, and navigate the school environment. These interactions help them build confidence and improve their communication skills. It's heartwarming to see our students' faces light up as they engage with the school community and receive positive feedback.

In addition to social skills, the Rolling Bean teaches valuable life skills. Students handle money, prepare orders, and organize deliveries, gaining practical experience that will serve them well in the future. These tasks help them understand the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and organization.

The Rolling Bean has quickly become a favorite among staff and students alike. Every Friday, the sight of our Bobcats rolling around with their cart brings smiles to everyone's faces. The initiative not only provides a much-needed caffeine boost but also fosters a sense of community and inclusion within our school.

None of this would be possible without the dedication and passion of our special education teachers and paraprofessionals. The commitment to the students' success is truly inspiring. The team has created a supportive and nurturing environment where students can thrive and develop essential skills. This innovative approach to education exemplifies the spirit of Bowley Elementary.

We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the success of the Rolling Bean. Their efforts remind us of the importance of inclusion, community, and hands-on learning. So, next time you see the Rolling Bean rolling through the halls, be sure to give our students a warm greeting and enjoy a delicious treat!

Let's continue to support and cheer on our Bobcats as they brew up success every Friday!

Rolling Bean

Through the Rolling Bean, students learn to greet staff members, take turns, and navigate the school environment. These interactions help them build confidence and improve their communication skills.

Bowley Elementary Students Scare Up Success in National Writing Contest

Students featured

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Teacher of the Year (TOY) Program is designed to recognize and honor outstanding educators with more than three years of teaching experience at a DoDEA school who exemplify the qualities of professionalism and excellence in our teaching workforce.

The DoDEA TOY Program is modeled after the National Teacher of the Year (NTOY) Program, which is sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). This program provides an avenue for all STOYs to be nationally recognized and compete for the NTOY. The NTOY and all STOYs are presented at the White House. The DoDEA TOY travels to all NTOY activities and takes a semester-long sabbatical to design and implement a project of choice.

Any stakeholder may nominate a DoDEA teacher for this award. Nominees are highly encouraged to participate in the application process.

 

The process is open from Jan 6th-February 13th.

Teacher of the Year Nominations

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Teacher of the Year (TOY) Program is designed to recognize and honor outstanding educators with more than three years of teaching experience at a DoDEA school who exemplify the qualities of professionalism and excellence in our teaching workforce.

The DoDEA TOY Program is modeled after the National Teacher of the Year (NTOY) Program, which is sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO). This program provides an avenue for all STOYs to be nationally recognized and compete for the NTOY. The NTOY and all STOYs are presented at the White House. The DoDEA TOY travels to all NTOY activities and takes a semester-long sabbatical to design and implement a project of choice.

Any stakeholder may nominate a DoDEA teacher for this award. Nominees are highly encouraged to participate in the application process.

 

The process is open from Jan 6th-February 13th.

PAWSitive BOBCATS

At Bowley Elementary School, the motto "Bobcats Believe, Bobcats Achieve!" is more than just words—it's a guiding principle that shapes our school culture. One of the most exciting ways we bring this motto to life is through our PAWSitive Bobcats program, which celebrates students who exhibit excellent character traits each month.

 What is PAWSitive Bobcats?

PAWSitive Bobcats is a unique initiative designed to recognize and reward students for their positive behavior and character. Every month, teachers and staff nominate students who have demonstrated qualities such as kindness, responsibility, respect, and perseverance. These students are then honored in a special assembly, where they receive certificates, prizes, and lots of cheers from their peers.

Monthly Highlights

The monthly PAWSitive Bobcats recognition via social media is a highlight for everyone at Bowley Elementary. The excitement is palpable as students gather to find out who will be recognized. It's a wonderful opportunity for the entire school to come together and celebrate the positive actions of our students.

Building a Positive School Culture

The PAWSitive Bobcats program plays a crucial role in fostering a positive school environment. By highlighting and rewarding good behavior, we encourage all students to strive for excellence in their daily interactions. This program helps to create a supportive community where every student feels valued and motivated to do their best.

Spotlight on Character

Each month, we focus on different character traits and recognize students who exemplify these qualities. Whether it's showing kindness to a classmate, taking responsibility for their actions, or demonstrating respect for others, our PAWSitive Bobcats set a shining example for everyone.

At Bowley Elementary, we believe that every Bobcat has the potential to achieve great things. Through the PAWSitive Bobcats program, we're proud to celebrate the character and achievements of our students. Remember, "Bobcats Believe, Bobcats Achieve!"

Let's keep spreading positivity and making a difference, one PAWSitive Bobcat at a time! 🐾✨

PAWsitive Bobcats

Whether it's showing kindness to a classmate, taking responsibility for their actions, or demonstrating respect for others, our PAWSitive Bobcats set a shining example for everyone.

Featured News

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Upcoming Events

Activities

At Bowley Elementary School, the Student Council plays a vital role in fostering communication between students and the administratio

Meeting Time: 2:00-2:25

The WBOB Bowley broadcast team is in charge of producing the daily morning broadcast.  

Meets on: Monday- Friday

Meeting Time: 08:05-08:20

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Attendance Policy

In accordance with the policy stated in DoDEA Regulation 2095.01, “School Attendance,” August 26, 2011, as amended, school attendance is mandatory. All students are required to attend school to ensure continuity of instruction and that they successfully meet academic standards and demonstrate continuous educational progress. School attendance is a joint responsibility between the parent or sponsor, student, classroom teacher, school personnel, and, in some cases, the Command. Students with excessive school absences (or tardiness) shall be monitored by the Student Support Team to assist in the completion of all required work and successful mastery of course objectives.

Daily student attendance is identified based upon a quarter of the school day formula. Students will be identified as present or absent, based on the following criteria:

  1. Absent up to 25% of the school day = absent one-quarter of the school day
  2. Absent between 26%–50% of the school day = absent one-half of the school day
  3. Absent 51%–75% of the school day = absent three-quarters of the school day
  4. Absent 76%–100% of the school day = full-day absence

DoDEA considers the following conditions to constitute reasonable cause for absence from school for reasons other than school-related activities:

  1. Personal illness;
  2. Medical, dental, or mental health appointment;
  3. Serious illness in the student’s immediate family;
  4. A death in the student’s immediate family or of a relative;
  5. Religious holiday;
  6. Emergency conditions such as fire, flood, or storm;
  7. Unique family circumstances warranting absence and coordinated with school administration;
  8. College visits that cannot be scheduled on non-school days; and
  9. A pandemic event.

Unexcused absences may result in school disciplinary actions. An absence from school or a class without written verification from a parent or sponsor will be unexcused. Student attendance is calculated based upon the date of enrollment in a DoDEA school, which may occur anytime during the school year. Student attendance monitoring is designed to provide a continuum of intervention and services to support families and children in keeping children in school and combating truancy and educational neglect. Parents should notify the school of their child’s absence 30 minutes after the start of the school day. Too many unexcused absences may trigger the Student Support Team to convene.

Ft. Bragg Wellness Policy

The NC: Fort Bragg District Schools (FBS) believe that children and youth who begin each day as healthy individuals can learn and achieve more readily and are more likely to complete their formal education. FBS also believes that healthy staff can more effectively perform their assigned duties and model appropriate wellness behaviors for students. This policy encourages a holistic approach to staff and student wellness that is sensitive to individual and community needs.

It is the policy of FBS that the following goals be met:

  • FBS will engage students, parents, school principals, administrators, school board members, child nutrition services, health professionals and other interested community members in developing, monitoring, reviewing, and reporting the effectiveness of district-wide nutrition and physical activity policies.
  • All students in grades PK-12 and school staff will have opportunities, support, and encouragement to be physically active on a regular basis.
  • Foods and beverages served or sold at school will meet the nutrition recommendations of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
  • Qualified child nutrition professionals will provide students with access to a variety of affordable, nutritious, and child-pleasing foods that meet their health and nutritional needs. Schools shall provide clean, safe, and pleasant settings and adequate time for students to eat.
  • All FBS will participate in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs and the Summer Food Service Program (Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program upon eligibility and USDA selection). Schools will provide nutrition awareness activities and physical education to all students.
  • All FBS will be registered as USDA Team Nutrition Schools.
Related regulations

School Hours

Student Hours

Grade Regular Hours Wednesday Hours
PK - 5 8:20 a.m. - 2:50 p.m. 8:20 a.m. - 1:50 p.m.
Office Hours 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Teachers 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m..

                                                 First Bell: 8:20 a.m. 

Cafeteria Hours Start End
Breakfast 7:45 am 8:15 am
Lunch 10:30 am 1:00 pm
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