The library at West Hills Middle School transformed into a place of peace and reflection thanks to eighth-grade students. Language arts classes read “The Diary of Anne Frank” and a collection of poems from children who were in the Terezin Concentration Camp titled “I Never Saw Another Butterfly.” Students decorated butterflies, each representing a poem written by a child during their imprisonment at Terezin. Butterflies in flight represented children who survived the Holocaust, while those on tables represented the 1.5 million Jewish children who did not survive.

Thank you to Ms. Hensel, Ms. Young, and all of the students who together created a powerful exhibit to remember and honor victims of the Holocaust.

There’s a new sound echoing through the halls of Butterfield Canyon Elementary, and it’s giving students a reason to sing!

Students have been busy mastering their brand-new school anthem—a collaboration born right out of the heart of the school. The lyrics, penned by Principal Kimberly Andersen, and the melody, composed with the help of BTS Arts Teacher Tina Workman, do more than just provide a catchy tune. The song brings to life the “ROAR” motto that defines the school’s culture:

• Respectful
• Optimistic
• Accepting
• Responsible

A huge thank you to Ms. Andersen and Ms. Workman for giving the students a musical way to celebrate their values. We can’t wait to hear the whole school ROAR together!