Not sure how all of you are holding up - but some of us are drowning over here. It seems like no matter how much we do, we are not done. It’s going to be a long year and we am really glad that we all have each other to lean on and talk to. Our BAT spaces are even more important than ever - spaces for conversations that show us we are not alone in our experiences - but also spaces where we can come together to create the change that we need to see. I know one thing. What we are doing right now is not going to be sustainable.

There are a few items that we wanted to highlight briefly - not that you need any more to think about!

BAT Survey - MAKE SURE YOU ARE HEARD!

It’s important to participate in research surveys like this because the data and information that is gathered is used to shape policies in the future. This one is being led by two members of our BAT Board of Directors - Dr. Denisha Jones and Brianne Kramer. The bit.ly link in bit.ly/355vT0K (that is a zero!!) It will take you about a half hour to get through the survey. But please, take the time to submit your answers and help us create an official record of all we have experienced during the pandemic.

Census - MAKE SURE EVERYONE IS COUNTED!

The census will be ending soon - September 30th!! The end date was changed and is making it harder for us to make sure everyone is counted. How can you help? Incorporate information and activities about the Census in your lessons! We are working on communication with families and full family involvement in our classroom so now is the perfect opportunity to include the Census. They have Warm-ups, games, videos, and activities that are easily incorporated into your lessons - no matter what your current classroom situation is! https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/sis.html

Black Lives Matter at School - MAKE SURE EVERYONE HAS A VOICE!

The folx at the Black Lives Matter at School National Week of Action have been working hard to grow this movement into a YEAR OF PURPOSE. What first started as a day, quickly expanded to a week, is now growing into a year. Read more about this here: https://medium.com/national-blm-week-of-action-in-schools/clarifying-the-movement-history-of-the-black-lives-matter-week-of-action-or-6f917d7b75de

Sign the pledge and check out the new resources here! https://www.blacklivesmatteratschool.com/year-of-purpose.html

It’s been 7 years for BATs!! Some of BAT leaders, past and present, have some birthday messages!