Wildcat News

A few reminders for the week:

~ February Wildcat Rally: This was held on our early release morning, just like we do each month. The Special Area teachers were in charge of planning this month's rally, and they knocked it out of the park! We focused on our theme of KINDNESS and check-ins related to the OKAY campaign. We also celebrated our wonderful school with lots of movement, student involvement, and revisiting the "Count on Me" song from last year's music concert. A 2nd grader told me afterwards that she loved that song so much it made her cry! AND, check this out--a song that Mr. Shevy wrote and put to music--it's nothing short of AMAZING!

~ Kindergarten Connection: IF you have an incoming Kindergarten student for the 2026-27 school year, please join us for Kindergarten Connection from 4:30-6:00 on Monday, February 23, 2026. This is an Open House style event, with a short informational session for parents at about 5:15pm. If you have any questions, please call Diane in the Washington office at 507-345-3059.

~ PTO Family Game Night was a smashing success! Thank you to everyone who attended, who volunteered, who brought games, or who donated a silent auction basket. We inadvertently forgot to put out one of the silent auction baskets. If it was YOU who donated the adorable green basket filled with spring craft kits, we are heartfully sorry and would love to be able to ask YOU how you would like us to handle that. Let us know, please!

~ PTO Panda Express Fundraiser is Wednesday, February 18. See flyer below.

~ OKAY Campaign: How's it going? For those of you who are new, the OKAY Campaign reinforces with students the importance of being a first-time listener! Hopefully you are encouraging your child at home by filling up the OKAY chart at home! We've already had some rocking Wildcats do this, and they have earned a special prize!!

~ February Title I Info: At Washington, we believe that strong parent-teacher collaboration is essential for our students' success. When parents and teachers work together, we create a powerful support system that enhances student learning and achievement. We encourage you to engage in open communication with your child’s teachers, participate in school events, and provide feedback on school programs. Your involvement not only helps us understand your child's unique needs but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility for their education. Together, we can help our students thrive academically and socially. Thank you for being an integral part of our school community!

Thanks for always being so supportive of our work!

Ann

Ann Haggerty

Washington Principal

ahagge1@isd77.org

Please read the attached letter regarding the Noro Virus affecting families at Washington.

Noro Virus Exposure Letter

What do the students at Washington call you? Miss Didi

What is your job at Washington?

I am the clerical, and I also work in the cafeteria as the POS person.

How long have you worked for Mankato Area Public Schools?

This is my eighth year working for MAPS. I was at Eagle Lake Elementary for five years and this is my third year at Washington Elementary.

What is one of your favorite things about your job?

One of my favorite things about my job is that I get to see most of the students every day either by greeting them in the morning, seeing them in the hallways or in the cafeteria.

What is an interesting fact about you?

When I was younger I wanted to be an astronaut.

Tell us about your family.

I have three children. My son, Trevin, is 29 and loves city life in Chicago. My daughter, Kaylyn, is 26 and pursuing a career in nursing. My son, Owen, is 12 and attends Prairie Winds Middle School where his latest newfound interest is Robotics.

Where did you go to elementary school?

I went to Vernon Center Elementary school.

Anything else you would like to share with families?

I enjoy writing poems and writing in general. I hope to have a book published some day. Everyone has their own story. Thank you for letting us be part of your children’s and family’s story.

If you haven't submitted your yearbook order form yet, you can still get it turned in! Try to get it to the Washington Office by Monday, February 16 so we know how many yearbooks to order! Yearbook order forms are also available in the office. Thank you.

Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every student, Every day.

Email: ahagge1@isd77.org
Website: https://we.isd77.org/
Location: 1100 Anderson Drive
Phone: 507-345-3059