BHS Community Newsletter ~ February 26, 2026

Hello families,

Students have begun registering for classes for the 2026–2027 school year. Counselors have met with groups of students to review the process and answer questions. If you or your student has any additional questions, please reach out to their counselor. For our planning and scheduling for next year, it is important that course requests are as accurate as possible. Requests are due by March 9.

I enjoyed my first week getting to know your students. They have been welcoming, friendly, and a joy to work with. I have had the chance to visit classrooms, chat with students during passing periods, and see the positive energy they bring to our school each day. Their curiosity, kindness, and willingness to engage have made my transition into this role especially meaningful, and I am looking forward to continuing to build relationships with them in the weeks ahead.

This week, we are also remembering Paul Brainerd and the legacy he and his wife, Debbi Brainerd, created with the founding of IslandWood in 2000. By transforming 255 acres of Bainbridge Island forest into a world-class environmental learning center, The Brainards ensured that generations of children would have the opportunity to connect with and learn from the natural world. I am personally grateful for the extraordinary gift he gave our community. The beauty of Bainbridge Island—and the learning opportunities IslandWood provides—has been something I have experienced myself and have watched countless students enjoy over the years. His generosity has shaped not only the landscape, but also the experiences and growth of so many young people in our schools.

Best,

Ruth Medsker

Check out post-high school options and hear from the experts! Brought to you by the BHS Counseling Team & CTE Department

9-12th grade students are invited to walk through this fair to visit with representatives from various post-high school options including:

This event is designed to help students and parents/guardians navigate the post-high school process and the world beyond BHS. This night is intended for 10th and 11th-grade students and their parents/guardians, but all are welcome!

Attend up to three 30 minute sessions on the following topics:

BHS students will be completing the Character Strong Youth Needs Screener during CCS on Tuesday, March 10th. As part of our BISD ongoing commitment to student well-being and belonging, we administer this screener twice each year.  

This screener—along with teacher input and other data (e.g., attendance)—helps us better understand students' social-emotional well-being and determine if additional support may be helpful. It also allows us to assess the effectiveness of our Tier 1 Social-Emotional and Behavioral (SEB) supports within our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). If you do not want your child to participate, please sign and return the attached form to your child’s counselor by March 7th.  

Check out the upcoming opportunities happening in the Career Center with more information linked above:

BHS Gymnastics placed 5th at State last weekend--congrats Coach Lashmet and team!

Boys Basketball continues on the road to State in Round 1 at University of Puget Sound this Saturday, game time 4 pm. 

BHS Boys Swim are the 2025/26 2A State Champions! All 14 BHS State competitors placed in finals earning points toward the victory with 1st Place Finishes in the 200 Medley Relay, 200 Individual Medley, 100 Fly, 100 Back, 100 Breaststroke, 400 Free Relay. Carter Cox was awarded Swimmer of the Meet for his 4 gold medal finishes. Congrats Coaches Pal and Carr!

Spring sports start Monday, March 2. Make sure you’re registered through Final Forms and have a valid sports physical on file to be cleared for participation. 

Parents and caregivers are invited to attend Hidden in Plain Sight, a virtual presentation designed to help families better understand current youth trends and how to recognize potential warning signs of risky behavior. This informative session will provide practical tools for navigating the teen years and tips for starting meaningful family conversations.

Click on this link to join the Zoom: Hidden in Plain Sight