A Message from the Principal 

Spring in Wisconsin brings longer days, warmer weather, and a renewed sense of energy to our school community. It’s a time of growth, both outside and inside the classroom, as students continue building on everything they’ve learned this year. One way we measure that growth is through the WI State Forward Exam, where students get to show what they know and how far they've come!

While the Forward Exam is only taken by students in 3rd - 5th grade at Clay, it is important for all families to know about and understand what it is. 

The Wisconsin Forward Exam is a test that is required by the state of Wisconsin for students in grades 3-8, and 10th grade social studies. It is taken each spring to show what they’ve learned in reading and math. In addition, science and social studies are added in grades 4 and 8.

Its purpose is to help teachers, schools, and families understand how well students are meeting grade-level expectations and where they might need more support. We remind students that this is their time to shine and show all the hard work they’ve done! In addition, the Forward Exam serves as a tool for the state of WI to evaluate college and career readiness for all students.

Families with children in grades 3-5 have received further information on testing dates. Please help your child prepare to do their best by ensuring a good night’s sleep, a good breakfast, and encouragement.

Sincerely, 

Sara Markee

Principal

Email Sara Markee

 

• April 3 | NO SCHOOL | Good Friday

• April 5 | Happy Easter!

• April 6-24 | WI Forward Exam | Grade level schedules sent separately 

• April 10 | Beached with a Book Day | Sponsored By Student Council 

• April 14 | Clay Lamberton PTO Meeting | 5 PM | PLC Room

• April 20 | Family Bingo Night | 6 PM in Clay Cafeteria 

• April 20: Missoula Children's Play Auditions | 4 PM - 6 PM 

• April 25: Missoula Children's Play - Cinderella | 3 PM & 5:30 PM Performances 

• May 1 | NO SCHOOL | Staff Development

 

Summer School | June 8-27, 2026

Registration opens April 6th at 8:00 AM and closes April 24th at 4:00 PM.

Additional Information
 

Register for 4K at Clay

Important details:

• Full Day Program: Monday - Friday

• Learning Through Play: We focus on building knowledge and friendships through play-based learning.

• Enrichment Opportunities: Students will have the chance to attend art, music, physical education, and more.

• Eligibility: Children must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2026.

Register
 
 

Missoula Theater is Coming to Berlin

Audition deadline is April 19 at 5 PM!

Register to Audition
 

Have you noticed your child is feeling more stress, frustration, or high energy that is hard to manage?

Did You Know?

Unstructured outdoor play is one of the best ways to help kids feel calmer and think better. Being reminded of this will impact our schedule next year to include more recess. What small change can be made at your home?

 
 

Clay Lamberton families are invited to enjoy a Family Day at the ballpark on Sunday, May 31 at 1:10 PM! This is a great opportunity to spend time together as a school community while supporting our students.

Order tickets:
bit.ly/fangsreadingclub

Direct ticket link:
https://www.gofevo.com/event/Claylamberton26

Can’t attend on May 31?
Families can still purchase tickets for another game using this link:
https://www.gofevo.com/group/2026reading3

Students who earned tickets will receive them soon!

 

Red, White, and Read!

Red, white, and blue filled the halls as our Cougars celebrated Read Across America in style! Dressed in patriotic colors and ready to read, students showed that books can take you anywhere.

 

Read Across America Dress Up Day 2

We celebrated “Reading Builds Character,” and our students (and staff!) truly brought their favorite book characters to life! We love seeing imaginations shine.

 

Day 3 - "Books Flex Your Mind" 

At Clay, we exercised more than just our bodies, we exercised our minds, too!

Students stayed active by jumping rope, running, and moving their bodies, while also strengthening their brains with great books. Reading and physical activity go hand in hand!

 

"Brighten Up With A Book" Dress Up Day

Reading helps our minds grow and makes every day a little brighter. Students were loving all the neon colors! 

 

Twinning With a Reading Buddy 

It was the perfect way to celebrate the final day of a week filled with reading, creativity, and lots of book-loving fun!

 

A Little Kindness Goes a Long Way

Members of the BHS KIND Committee visited our second graders to read “kind” themed books and talk about what it means to be a kind person. The second graders loved learning from the “big kids!”

 

Supper for Scholars Brings Community Together

Our Spaghetti Supper for Scholars was a fantastic success! We loved seeing families gather and connect over dinner. Thank you to all who joined us in supporting Berlin Area School District students. Your support truly makes a difference!

 

New BMS Principal Starting July 1, 2026

We’re excited to introduce Samantha Behnke as the new Berlin Middle School Principal, starting July 1, 2026!

Samantha brings strong leadership experience, most recently serving as a 4K–8 principal in the Ripon Area School District. She has also worked as a middle school instructional coach, literacy teacher, and elementary teacher.

She is passionate about building positive school culture, supporting staff, and helping every student reach their full potential.

Please join us in giving Samantha a warm BMS welcome—we’re excited for what’s ahead!

 
 

Clay Lamberton Yearbooks Available for Purchase

Simply copy our school's passcode:

101723489392749

Special for 5th Grade: All 5th grade students will receive a free yearbook from the PTO. No need to order—just enjoy!

Don't miss out on capturing the memories!

Order Today!
 
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School Board Newsletter

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To stay informed, please click on the link below to subscribe.

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