Whale Tales

Dear Webster Community,

Please forgive the delay in this week’s newsletter—I needed a moment to rest and recharge after our incredible Yosemite adventure! Spending the week with our 5th graders was the highlight of my week. Watching them explore with confidence, courage, and compassion was nothing short of magical. They hiked, laughed, supported one another, and truly embraced every moment of the experience. I know they’ve built lifelong friendships, and the memories we made together will stay with me forever. A huge shoutout to Ms. Johnson for partnering with me to make the trip such a success!

Back on campus, things were just as lively thanks to the unforgettable Kidchella celebration! A heartfelt thank you to Lauren Franks and Erin Fotos for organizing a day full of fun and flair. Students made flower crowns, got their hair braided, added face jewels, and enjoyed custom embroidery and patchwork by Sam Carpenter and Rachael Sokoloff. With music spinning from DJ Not Joel and DJ Eddie Makabi, the energy was electric—students danced, played, and enjoyed each other’s company all day long. Check out this week’s spotlight section for a glimpse into the magic!

Looking ahead, our CAASPP testing window for students in grades 3–5 begins Monday, May 12 and runs through Friday, May 30. Consistent attendance during this time is essential, as teachers will be reviewing key concepts daily to prepare students for success.

Here are a few helpful tips to support your child during testing:

• 💤 Get to bed early and limit screen time the night before

• 🥣 Eat a big, balanced breakfast each morning

• 📅 Avoid scheduling appointments before 2:00 PM during the testing window

• ✏️ Prioritize attendance and homework

• 💬 Keep in touch with your child’s teacher if anything comes up

• 💗 Offer plenty of positive encouragement!

One special request—some teachers are asking families to send in short motivational messages for their children. These can be quotes, affirmations, or personal notes that will be placed on students’ desks each morning before testing. These small but meaningful boosts can really help set a positive tone for the day. Above all, remind your child to be confident in what they already know and to try THEIR best. We believe in them, and we know our Webster Whales will shine!

Next week brings more adventure, as our 4th graders head to AstroCamp. I can’t wait to welcome students back on Monday and jump into the excitement with them.

🏆 Webster Wear Winners!
Congrats to Ms. London's class for winning this week’s Webster Wear Challenge! After a short break, they brought the whale back home—way to go!

🔔 Important Reminders

✅ AstroCamp DROP OFF @ 8AM – Wednesday, May 14

📸 Webster School Portraits – Now available! See below for ordering details

📅 Save the Dates

📌 May 12–23: 🧠 Grade 3 CAASPP Testing Window
📌 May 12–30: 🧠 Grade 5 CAASPP and CAST Testing Window

📌 May 19–30: 🧠 Grade 4 CAASPP Testing Window

📌 May 26: 🇺🇸 NO SCHOOL – Memorial Day
📌 June 3: 🎼 Spring Music Concert (6 PM – 8 PM)
📌 June 5: 🥞 5th Grade Breakfast – SHHH…it’s a surprise! (9 AM – 12 PM)
📌 June 6: Gratitude Breakfast & Honorary Service Awards
📌 June 9: 🎓 5th Grade Promotion Rehearsal (mandatory for all 5th grade students)
📌 June 10: 🎓 5th Grade Promotion Ceremony (9 AM)

As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support in any way.

Here’s to a joyful and strong finish to the school year 🫶🏼

GO WHALES!

Carina Diana

Check out these wonderful moments featuring our incredible students, staff, and parents! If you have a photo that you’d like to share, please send it to Principal Diana—we’d love to include it on our social media or in upcoming newsletters.

Thank you for helping us celebrate our school community!

Our 5th graders returned from an unforgettable adventure in Yosemite, where curiosity, courage, and connection took center stage. From the moment they arrived, students embraced the great outdoors—hiking, exploring, learning, and growing together in one of the most awe-inspiring places.

Each day brought new challenges and discoveries: climbing above the tree line on the Snow Creek Trail, spotting rare snow plants, testing river-crossing techniques, dipping their toes in the Merced River, and even conducting real-time scientific research for the National Park Service. Both groups journeyed to the iconic Lower Yosemite Falls, where they reflected, recharged, and soaked in the breathtaking beauty of one of the park’s most majestic sights. They also explored the base of El Capitan, scrambled through caves, restored a meadow, and painted by Mirror Lake—all while cheering each other on and pushing themselves in new ways.

Evenings were filled with laughter and bonding, from counselor-led games to the final night’s cozy campfire and s’mores under the stars.

The trip wouldn’t have been possible without our dedicated parent chaperones—Shannon Dunn, Alex Ensafi, Drew Jackson, Tatiana Jacobs, and Gus Peterson—who brought heart, humor, and helping hands every step of the way.

Welcome home, Hyped Hikers and Grizzly Bears - we are so proud of you 💚

Parents and guardians—mark your calendars! The SMMUSD Parent Academy is happening on Saturday, May 17th from 8 AM to 3 PM at Lincoln Middle School. This is a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of how to support your child’s educational journey.

Sessions include topics like:

• Project-Based Learning

• 504 Plans vs. IEPs

• Social-Emotional Learning Supports

• Aeries Technology Tools for Parents

• Family Communication Strategies

• Language & Literacy Resources

Enjoy a continental breakfast, keynote speaker, and your choice of informative sessions throughout the day.

👉 Register today: bit.ly/SMMParentAcademy

Your child's school portrait proofs are now available!

TO VIEW AND ORDER:
📷 Click HERE: Trish Alison Photography
🔑 Enter YOUR CHILD'S LAST NAME as the "keyword" when prompted.

📢 IMPORTANT DETAILS

✨ Customizable Orders: Choose exactly what you want! Order single prints, digital downloads, print packages, or photo gifts. Options are listed on the left side of the ordering screen.
💻 Best Ordering Experience: Use a desktop rather than a phone for easier navigation.
🖼️ Photo Editing Available: Retouching options include teeth whitening, acne removal, and glare reduction (available at checkout).
💾 Digital Files: $39 per image or $46 for a retouched file (includes fine editing). Bulk discounts are available for 8 or 15 images.

📏 Customize Your Crop: Adjust the crop before finalizing your order.

For any ordering questions, please contact Trish Jochen directly at trishajochen@gmail.com. The school is unable to assist with portrait orders.

We’re excited to announce that the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) is transitioning its communication system to Parent Square, powered by Aeries, starting January 1, 2025. This new platform will replace the current Finalsite (formerly Blackboard) Connect system.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• No Action Required: Parents, guardians, and staff do not need to take any steps to accept this change.
• Features: Parent Square provides emails, voice messages, text messages, teacher emails, and even social media posting options.
• Data Privacy: Parent Square is an Aeries partner, ensuring a smooth transition and secure handling of student information.
• Opting Out: We recommend not opting out of emails, as doing so will unsubscribe you from all communication, including vital updates from both the school and the District.

TIPS FOR A SMOOTH TRANSITION:

• Download the Mobile App: Download the Parent Square app from your app store to stay connected and fully engage with the platform. The app allows you to customize preferences and manage notifications easily.
• Check Your Spam/Junk Folder: If you’re not receiving emails after January 1, 2025, check your spam or junk folder. If you still don’t see them, contact your school office to verify your contact information.
• Set Preferences: Through the Parent Square app, you can adjust how and when you receive messages to suit your needs.

If you have questions or comments about Parent Square, please submit them through Let’s Talk under "General Comments."

The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu (BGCM) is dedicated to creating a fun, safe, and enriching environment where Malibu youth can grow, thrive, and build lifelong skills. Read below for current programs, upcoming events, and how your family can get involved!

🌟 BGCM Membership Enrollment is Now Open!

BGCM provides a nurturing space where students can participate in academic, creative, and social-emotional learning activities. Members benefit from:

• Positive mentorship

• Fun, engaging enrichment opportunities

• A supportive community space

Visit bgcmalibu.org to enroll and learn more.

☀️ Camp Bu: BGCM Summer Enrollment Coming Soon!

Get ready for an exciting summer!

• Location: Malibu Elementary School

• Dates: June 23 – August 8, 2025

• Time: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

More information will be shared soon—stay tuned!

🥋 Warrior Academy – Bruce Lee Foundation

Available to BGCM members in grades 3–5, this unique program combines martial arts and mindfulness, developed by Shannon Lee to share her father’s legacy. Led by professional martial artist Joey Escobar, sessions promote physical fitness, mental resilience, and emotional growth. If you have questions, email tylerhawkins@bgcmalibu.org.

💚 Wellness Center & Social Support Services

BGCM’s Wellness Center provides no-cost mental health counseling and social support for youth and families—available both in-person and remotely. No current waitlist!

🔗 Learn more or request services at: bgcmalibu.org/wellness-center
📺 Missed a parent workshop? Access recordings: bgcmalibu.org/wellness-center-resources

🐾 City Afterschool Program: Animal Invasion Workshop

Enjoy hands-on fun while learning about fascinating animals. FREE for all BGCM members!

• Webster Elementary: Tuesday, June 3 | 3:00–4:30 PM

• Malibu Elementary: Wednesday, June 4 | 3:00–4:30 PM

📩 To register, email your completed form to tylerhawkins@bgcmalibu.org. Do not register via the City website.

🍕 Support BGCM with Pizza Night!

Head to Prince Street Pizza and order the “Princey Pizza’s The Best”—a delicious combo of marinara, vegan cheese, peppers, olives, and a touch of honey drizzle (Available at the Malibu location only.) This creative pie was crafted by BGCM’s very own Nico (1st grade!) as part of a special “Create Your Own Pizza Pie” contest. 20% of proceeds will support BGCM’s Disaster Relief & Community Recovery Services—so every slice makes a difference!

🆘 BGCM Disaster Relief & Community Recovery Services

In the wake of recent events, BGCM is providing immediate and long-term support for families impacted by disaster. Drawing from experience during the Woolsey Fire, BGCM is committed to a 4 to 6+ year recovery plan focused on restoring stability and hope in our community.

Current services include:

• 🧒 After-School Care & Mentorship Programs

• 💬 Crisis Counseling

• 🧠 School-Day Mental Health & Wellness Services

• 📦 Essential Supply Distribution

• 🧍‍♀️ Whole-Person Trauma-Informed Case Management

  • Public systems navigation

  • Unmet needs assessment & long-term recovery planning

  • Housing stabilization assistance

  • Social support services

Your support makes this possible. 💌 Donate today: Click here to give

Need help? Visit the BGCM Disaster Relief Center:
📍 23357 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265 (around the corner from Wells Fargo)
🕒 Open Wednesday–Friday, 10 AM–5 PM
🌐 Learn more: www.bgcmalibu.org

Together, we can rebuild lives, restore hope, and support lasting recovery for our community.

Consistent attendance is crucial for your student's academic success. It ensures that every student stays on track with learning, builds positive relationships, and contributes to a robust school community. Strong attendance goes beyond just being present; it involves being actively engaged and involved in the educational process.

Encouraging Regular Attendance:

• Make Attendance a Priority: Ensure your student doesn't miss out on crucial learning opportunities.
• Set a Positive Example: Motivate consistent attendance with your involvement.
• Establish a Routine: Help your student set daily routines for a smooth transition to school.
• Open Communication: Reach out to us if there are challenges affecting your student’s attendance.
• Celebrate Success: Acknowledge and celebrate your student's attendance milestones.

Absence Reporting Procedures:

If your student is absent, please report the absence by emailing Vitty McClung at vmcclung@smmusd.org with your student's name, grade, date, and reason for the absence. Absences must be cleared within 5 days. For more detailed information, please review the SMMUSD attendance policies by clicking HERE.

Each new academic school year, all families are required to verify and update their student’s information, including emergency contact details, which are critical for effective communication during urgent situations. We recommend completing this process on a desktop or laptop computer for the best experience.

Please log in to your Aeries Parent Portal, or click the following direct link:

https://santamonicamalibu.aeries.net/

If you did not use the direct link above, please log in to your Aeries Parent Portal and select Student Info, then click on Data Confirmation to access the correct form.

If you have forgotten your Aeries Parent Portal credentials, please use the Forgot Password? link located at the bottom of the website.

Our Student Office Specialist, Vitty McClung, will be reaching out to families who have not yet completed this process to offer any needed assistance.

To enhance student safety, the bottom gate near the Boys & Girls Club will remain closed as we no longer have adult supervision available for that area. Moving forward, there will be one main point of entrance and exit to the campus for grades K-5, which will be the gate by the main office. This change will help us ensure a secure and supervised environment for all students.

As part of our commitment to safety and being good neighbors, we kindly ask that you use the designated pick-up and drop-off lane each day. Additionally, please refrain from using the Our Lady of Malibu (OLM) parking lots and only park in the Webster lot.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we prioritize the safety of our school community!

We’re excited to announce our new Instagram account! Follow us @websterwhales for all the latest school news, events, and fun happenings around campus. Stay in the know and connect with our vibrant school community, one post at a time!.

Carina Diana, Principal

Webster Elementary School

3602 Winter Canyon Rd

Malibu, CA 90265

Email: cdiana@smmusd.org
Website: www.smmusd.org/webster
Phone: (310) 456-6494
Instagram: www.instagram.com/websterwhales
Twitter: @webstermalibu