The following post is the first of two in which we are highlighting something new at Brainerd Baptist School this year. We strive to develop a culture were creativity and innovation are normal parts of our day. These are traits that we want our students to develop, so it is important that we, as a school, also embody these traits. I believe that schools operate best when there is no fear of failure of trying something new.

Much is made about the excitement of children as the first day of class approaches. Today marks the first day of class at Brainerd Baptist School. A LOT of preparation has gone into making this day fun as smoothly as possible for our students. My youngest child had her first day (junior year) on Monday and I certainly understand the anxiety that can accompany this momentous occasion from a parents perspective. Moms spend time shopping (often with their child) for the various necessary, (and often unnecessary school supplies -hello locker wallpaper and chandeliers). Schedules are analyzed and memorized. New shoes are purchased, and in many cases, other things like picking out a new backpack is a tradition for many. Today marks the 20th consecutive year where I have experienced a “1st day” professionally.

When trying to think of the right adjectives to adequately describe Cathy Creed, several instantly come to mind like affectionate, compassionate, witty, sincere, observant, patient, intuitive, friendly, loyal, supportive, funny, and most importantly, a champion for doing what is best for students.

We are a few weeks removed from our annual auction, and I have some exciting news to share with our families. As was stated on the night of our auction, our goal was to raise enough money to purchase a new bus.

When a student is fighting a devastating disease, it isn’t easy to stay on track with the school curriculum.  Brainerd Baptist School isn’t just going the extra mile to provide an education for seven-year-old Hayden Hudgens.  We’re going 350 extra miles.

This past Tuesday, Feb. 19th, we launched our first ever food waste reduction challenge.  As I began researching food waste in our nation, I was blown away and saddened by the statistics.  According to a study conducted by the Natural Resources Defense Council, “Up to 40% of the food in the United States is never eaten.  But at the same time, one in eight Americans struggles to put enough food on the table.” 

The month of February has been designated as Black History month since the 1970s when President Gerald Ford urged Americans to, “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Over the years, our teachers have done an amazing job of incorporating meaningful activities into our curriculum that celebrate the accomplishments of African-Americans throughout our history.

Rachel Adams, our school nurse, has done a phenomenal job of developing challenges to help our students focus on improving their health. Last year, Mrs. Adams partnered with our PE program to develop a monthly fitness challenge. This year, Mrs. Adams and Mr. Owens have developed another fun and challenging month to help our students focus on their health. I asked Mr. Owens to write a blog post that gives more details about this special challenge and those details are listed below.

From the first moment the visiting accreditation team arrived on campus for the three-day visit, the welcoming, caring, considerate and loving school culture of Brainerd Baptist School was evident. Incredibly loyal and appreciative parents, interested and supportive board members, delightful, engaged and happy students, a devoted, cohesive and competent faculty, and a committed and dedicated leadership team all presented Brainerd Baptist School in a most positive manner. With a healthy enrollment, a sound financial position, innovative programming, and legions of community supporters, Brainerd Baptist School finds itself in an enviable position in a highly competitive independent school market in Chattanooga, Tennessee. A focus on continuous school improvement, servant leadership, and student achievement distinguishes Brainerd Baptist from other educational options. In a faith-based school, parents view teachers as living out their individual calling and vocation in the classroom. In a Christian school setting, students at Brainerd Baptist not only benefit from a top-notch educational experience, but they also acquire values and a moral education which provide an exceptional foundation for their future. The visiting team was clearly impressed with the warm, friendly, wholesome and positive culture that permeates every aspect of Brainerd Baptist School.