Dear Mountaineer Community,

As the Principal of Berlin Middle High School, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our entire community for your overwhelming support during the five town hall forums we recently conducted. Your participation and the insightful questions and discussions from community members have been invaluable. It is clear that we all share a common goal—ensuring the success and well-being of our students.

I’m particularly grateful for the overwhelming support we have received from the community regarding our updated cell phone and electronic device policy. We understand that this change may require some adjustments, but your backing reinforces our belief that this policy will benefit our students in many ways.

Here’s a reminder of why we made this decision:

1. Reduce Distractions:
   Cell phones can be a significant distraction in the classroom, disrupting both teaching and learning. By updating this policy, we aim to minimize interruptions and help students focus more fully on their academic activities.
2. Enhance Social Interaction:
   Without the constant presence of electronic devices, students will have more opportunities for face-to-face interactions, which we believe will foster stronger communication skills and deeper relationships with their peers.
3. Improve Focus and Productivity:
   By removing the temptation to check their devices during the school day, students will be better able to concentrate on their studies and participate meaningfully in class discussions.
4. Promote a Safe Environment:
   This policy also helps to prevent issues such as cyberbullying and unauthorized recordings, contributing to a safer and more respectful school environment for everyone.

With the updated policy, students will be required to store their cell phones, electronic devices, and book bags in their lockers from 7:20 a.m. to 2:07 p.m. However, they will still have the opportunity to use their devices on the bus to and from school, as well as after school hours.

We understand that change can be difficult, and we are committed to working closely with students as they adjust to this new policy. As educators, we will be positive role models by adhering to the same guidelines—faculty and staff will not use cell phones in the hallways or during instructional time.

I would also like to extend a special thank you to the Petersburg Public Library, Grafton Community Library, Berlin Free Town Library, and Stephentown Memorial Library for being so welcoming to us during our town hall forums. We greatly appreciate their support and look forward to continuing our collaboration throughout the school year.

Please know that every decision we make is with the best interest of our students in mind. If you have any questions or concerns as the new school year approaches, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at dbernsley@berlincentral.org or (518) 658-1500 x1005.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support. I look forward to a successful and engaging school year together.

Warm regards,
David Bernsley
Principal
Berlin Middle High School
dbernsley@berlincentral.org

PDF Community Letter From BMHS Principal David Bernsley Follow Up on Code of Conduct Town Halls

 

 

Updated Code of Conduct 

Cell Phones Policy

 

Code of Conduct Update Slide Presentation

 

Recording of Code of Conduct Town Hall on August 7, 2024