BHS Welcome Back Newsletter
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Welcome Back, Panthers!
Dear Students and Families,
We hope this message finds you rested, recharged, and ready for a fresh start as we begin the 2025–26 school year. Each September, we are reminded that while the journey ahead will bring both exciting opportunities and a few bumps in the road, we will meet them together—with patience, optimism, and Panther pride.
Our shared purpose is simple: to create a school community where every student feels safe, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.
We are especially excited to welcome the Class of 2031, our newest Panthers, and to celebrate the Class of 2026, who will soon take their place as leaders of the school.
Together, let’s make this a year of learning, growth, and lasting memories.
Important Dates for September & Beyond
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First Day of Classes: Thursday, September 4
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BHS Open House: Thursday, September 18, 7:00–9:00 PM
- School Pictures:
- 8th–11th Grade & 7th Grade Make-ups: September 11
- Senior Portraits & Grade Level/Argyle Photos: September 12
- JS/SH Make-up Photo Day: October 8
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Patriot Day: September 11
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Homecoming: Saturday, October 11 @ 2:00 PM vs. Port Jefferson
- Parade: 11:30 AM line-up at Gemelli’s lot
- Spirit Week: October 6–10
- Pep Rally: October 10
Student Schedules
- Posted to the eSchool Parent Portal: Thursday, August 21 @ 4:00 PM
- Schedule changes cannot be made based on period or teacher preference.
- Questions? Contact your guidance counselor Tuesday, 8/26 – Friday, 8/29.
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Building Access & Safety
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All students must enter and exit through the Grove Place Doors. Students arriving late (after 8:00 AM) must use the flag circle entrance.
- Students should arrive by 7:35 AM.
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Bicycles must be locked at designated racks; the school is not responsible for stolen or damaged bikes.
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E-bikes are not permitted on campus in accordance with state law.
Attendance Matters
- Students must attend at least five periods to be marked present for the day.
- Students absent, excused or unexcused, may not participate in extracurricular activities that day.
- Please review the district’s Attendance Policy for full details.
Bell-to-Bell Cellphone & Personal Device Policy
Beginning this fall, New York Education Law 2803 requires schools to limit the use of internet-enabled devices during the instructional day.
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As soon as students enter the building, all personal devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, and other electronics—must be powered off and stored in assigned lockers.
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It is simple: Staff should not see students using phones or personal devices during the school day.
Communication with Families:
- If parents need to contact their child during the day, call the Main Office at (631) 893-7920. Messages will be relayed, and students will be given time to return calls when appropriate.
- Students may request to use an office phone if necessary (Main Office, Principal’s Office, Guidance Center).
- Parents may also email the Main Office, Attendance Office, Guidance Office, or Principal’s Office to convey messages.
Purpose:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Increase focus, engagement, and learning
- Promote face-to-face social interaction and connection
Exceptions:
- Approved exemptions for medical, learning, language, or caregiving needs.
- Exemptions must be authorized by school administration in advance and supervised by staff.
Enforcement & Consequences:
- Progressive discipline for violations, including verbal warnings, after-school detention, parent conferences, and potential in-school or out-of-school suspension for repeated infractions.
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P.R.O.U.D. Panther Initiative
Our Patient, Respectful, Optimistic, Upstanding, Determined (P.R.O.U.D.) values guide our students’ behavior and academic success. Through this initiative, we encourage:
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High Expectations: Engage fully in academics and extracurriculars.
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Accountability: Own your choices and actions.
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Support: Build a positive, inclusive school culture.
Health & Safety Reminder
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Immunizations: NYS law requires students entering grade 7 and grade 12 to meet updated immunization requirements.
- For details, visit the NYSDOH Immunization Requirements or NYSED Immunization Guidance.
Family & Student Support
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Universal Free Meals: Available daily for all students. Families may submit Free and Reduced applications for additional benefits.
Student Leadership & Volunteer Opportunities
We had a wonderful Incoming 7th Grade Orientation on August 27th, thanks to the incredible support from our Student Council, Peer Leaders, and Peer Leaders in training. Your energy, guidance, and enthusiasm helped our newest Panthers feel welcomed, confident, and ready for the school year! Welcome BHS Class of 2031!
Opportunities for student leadership continue throughout the year. Students interested in Student Council, Peer Leadership, or other volunteer roles are encouraged to get involved and help make BHS an even stronger, more connected community.
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This year, our focus is on Connection, Accountability, Compassion, and Resiliency. Together, we will:
- Foster meaningful relationships and collaboration
- Encourage responsibility and ownership of learning
- Support one another through challenges and setbacks
- Demonstrate learning in varied, student-driven ways
We invite students and families to embrace the Portrait of a Graduate, participate in diverse learning opportunities, and make a positive impact on the school community.
Let’s make this year one of growth, engagement, and Panther Pride!
Warm regards,
Al Cirone, Principal
Melissa Callahan, Assistant Principal
Babylon Junior-Senior High School
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