Skip to main content

Portland Public School

Community - Inquiry - Agency

BIS Buzz

Posted Date: 05/22/26 (01:32 PM)


BIS Logo

BIS Buzz Newsletter

May 21th, 2026

Principal's Message

Happy Friday, everyone!

A short and sweet BIS Buzz this week. Over the past week, students have been hard at work on SBAC testing. We truly appreciate their effort and perseverance during this time and continue to emphasize the importance of simply doing their best.

As the weather gets nicer, we have many exciting activities coming up during the final month of school. Next week, we will take time with both grade levels to review expectations so students can finish the year on a high note. For students in grades 5 and 6, repeated reminders or difficulty meeting expectations may impact participation in some of these activities.

Additionally, please remind your child that we only allow students to bring water for drinks during the school day. Other beverages—such as juice, energy drinks, slushies, or drinks from places like Starbucks or Dunkin’—should not be brought to school. These types of drinks can be difficult to clean up and may spill on school materials, clothing, or other belongings.

Finally, congratulations to Mrs. Trayes on being named Brownstone Intermediate School’s District Finalist for Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Trayes consistently goes above and beyond for her students, is incredibly supportive of her colleagues, and provides students with meaningful opportunities to grow through activities such as Student Council and helping to organize our annual talent show. Congratulations, Mrs. Trayes!

Wishing you all a wonderful long weekend! As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.


Sincerely,
Joe Santavenere

Pictures From Around BIS

NUTMEG
Mock trial
mock trial
mock trial
nurse

From the Nurse

6th Grade Parents: As a reminder, students must have a completed Physical Health Assessment on file upon entering 7th grade per the Connecticut General Statute Section 10-204a and 10-206. This is a mandated physical request by the State of Connecticut. Physicals will be accepted with an exam date on or after 1/1/2025 and should be completed before the first day of seventh grade. The most current physical is preferred. Please contact Nurse Ashley if you have any questions.




How much caffeine is ok for adolescents?  The American Academy of Pediatrics states that caffeine and other stimulant substances contained in energy drinks have no place in the diet of children and adolescents. Some of the dangers of energy drinks include:

  • Dehydration (not enough water in your body).
  • Heart complications (such as irregular heartbeat and heart failure).
  • Anxiety (feeling nervous and jittery).
  • Insomnia (unable to sleep).
  • Headache
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Upset stomach 
  • Seizures
  • Hallucinations

Many of these drinks also have other ingredients whose safety and effectiveness haven't been tested in children, including herbal supplements, guarana (a source of caffeine), and taurine (an amino acid thought to enhance performance and caffeine's effects). Water is the best! See below for further information.  




Upcoming Activities and Athletics

Soccer
Yard Goats
Slamma Jamma
Register Here
Library

SBAC Testing Schedule

SBAC schedule
 

May Menu's

See Links below for Lunch and Breakfast menu's
Lunch Menu
Breakfast Menu