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January 9th, 2026

January 9th, 2026
January 9th,2026

New information will always appear above the blue line, while

reminders and helpful links can be found below it.


Cherry Creek High School and CCSD information is at

the bottom of this newsletter, past the WMS reminders!

WMS LEADERSHIP TEAM WMS LEADERSHIP TEAM

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Principal ~ Aspen Burkett

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Aristotle


As we begin the second semester and step into 2026, I want to welcome our students and families back and thank you for the many ways you support and celebrate our school community. This time of year is a great opportunity to reset, reflect, and recommit to the habits that help our students grow, showing up, trying again, asking questions, and supporting one another along the way.


A heartfelt thank-you to our PTCO and to the families who continuously give their time, resources, and presence, whether through the coffee cart, event support, or simply being there for our students. Your partnership and generosity make a meaningful difference and help create a warm, connected school community.


We have many exciting events and learning experiences ahead this semester, and we look forward to connecting with you at school activities and celebrations. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything, and as always, thank you for continuing to take care of yourselves and one another.


Here’s to a strong, healthy, and connected start to the new semester.

UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS

🎉Please see below for the next two weeks of events at WMS! 🎉

You can always find the Activities and Athletics schedules on the website as well! 😀

Monday 1/12:

Homework Help before & after school in the commons.

NJHS after school in the Design Hub.

Yearbook Club after school in A212.

Drama Rehearsal after school in the Cafeteria.

Tuesday 1/13:

Homework Help before & after school in the commons.

Minecraft Club after school in D111.

YBL after school in B102

Jazz Band after school in D126.

Wildcat Orchestra after school in D125.

Drama Rehearsal after school in the Cafeteria.

Strategic Games after school in A112.

6th Grade Girls Basketball game @ Horizon - game starts when WMS arrives (~4:45pm).

8th Grade Girls Basketball game @ WMS - game starts when other team arrives (~4:45pm).

Band Futures Concert at CCHS starting at 7pm.

Wednesday 1/14:

Homework Help before & after school in the commons.

Robotics Club after school in D111.

Drama Rehearsal after school in the Cafeteria.

Orchestra Futures Concert at CCHS starting at 7pm.

Thursday 1/15:

Homework Help before & after school in the commons.

WMS PTCO General Meeting VIRTUAL from 9:15am-11:00am (with Principal Silva from CCHS).

Voices of Color Meeting in the Design Hub from 1:30pm-2:30pm.

Brain Bowl after school in B205.

eSports after school in the Design Hub.

Drama Rehearsal after school in the Cafeteria.

8th Grade Girls Basketball game @ Campus - game starts when WMS arrives (~4:45pm).

6th Grade Girls Basketball game @ WMS - game starts when other team arrives (~4:45pm).

Choir Futures Concert at CCHS starting at 7pm.

Friday 1/16:

Homework Help before school in the commons.

Monday 1/19:

Dr. MLK Jr. Day ~ No School

Tuesday 1/20:

Homework Help before & after school in the commons.

Minecraft Club after school in D111.

Jazz Band after school in D126.

Wildcat Orchestra after school in D125.

Drama Rehearsal after school in the Cafeteria.

Strategic Games after school in A112.

6th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball practice after school in the gym.

Wednesday 1/21:

Homework Help before & after school in the commons.

Robotics Club after school in D111.

SAGA after school in A214.

Drama Rehearsal after school in the Cafeteria.

6th Grade Girls Basketball game @ Laredo - game starts when WMS arrives (~4:45pm).

8th Grade Girls Basketball game @ WMS - game starts when other team arrives (~4:45pm).

Thursday 1/22:

Homework Help before school in the commons.

NO AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITES - CONFERENCES (see details below).

Friday 1/23:

Homework Help before school in the commons.

CLINIC CLINIC

From the Clinic:

Health Updates: Please notify Nurse Brenna (phone: 720-554-5117, email: bsalas@cherrycreekschools.org) of any changes to your child's health that may have been affected over winter break. This may include a new diagnosis (such as a concussion), new injury requiring crutches/cast/brace, new medication to be taken during the school day, and/or anything else related to your student's health that could possibly impact their experience at school for which the clinic should be made aware. In school, medication forms and permissions may be accessed using this link https://www.cherrycreekschools.org/programs-and-services/office-of-student-health/office-of-student-health/health-services and must be turned into Nurse Brenna.


Immunizations: If your student had a physical exam over winter break and received any immunizations, please send an updated immunization record to Nurse Brenna. For information regarding general Colorado Immunization Information you may access this link https://cdphe.colorado.gov/school-resources.


Resources for vaccine clinics can be found at the following link https://www.cherrycreekschools.org/programs-and-services/office-of-student-health/office-of-student-health/wellness/vaccine-clinics.


Hearing/Vision screenings: WMS hearing/vision screenings will be completed on February 5th during the school day. All 7th grade students and 6th & 8th grade students who are new to the district or have an IEP will be screened, and parents/guardians will be notified of any deficiency found. Please contact Nurse Brenna with any questions.

Asthma & Winter Weather

Winter can be hard for kids with asthma. Cold air, indoor allergens, and respiratory illnesses can make breathing more difficult. Here are some simple tips to help:

  • Common Winter Triggers

    • Cold air can make airways tighten and cause breathing problems.

    • Indoor allergens like dust and pet dander build up when windows stay closed. This can irritate airways and cause coughing.

    • Colds and flu can make asthma worse by adding mucus and swelling in the airways.

  • Tips to Help Your Child Stay Healthy

    • Reduce allergens: Change air filters, clean often, and use an air purifier or humidifier (keep humidity between 30–50%).

    • Avoid irritants: Limit candles, strong scents, and sprays that can bother sensitive lungs.

    • Prevent illness: Get a flu shot, wash hands often, and keep away from people who are sick.

  • When to Call a Healthcare Provider

    • Your child is coughing or wheezing more than usual.

    • They need their rescue inhaler more often than normal.

    • Breathing looks hard or fast, or you see skin pulling in between their ribs when they breathe.

    • Symptoms don’t get better after using rescue medicine.

    • Anytime you are worried about their breathing or overall health.


With these easy steps, you can help your child with asthma breathe easier and stay healthy all winter long!

CONFERENCES CONFERENCES

We look forward to welcoming you to Family/Teacher Conferences on January 22, March 4, and March 5. To support family planning and ensure equitable access, we are sharing sign-up opportunities for all three conference dates at the same time.


Please watch for an email from Blackboard Connect next week with instructions on how to sign up for a conference time slot. We ask that families select only one conference date so that we can ensure availability for as many families as possible. If your preferred time is not available on one date, you will have the opportunity to sign up for a future conference date.


Thank you for your partnership and flexibility as we work to support all families!


We will host our Spring Conferences on the following days:

  • January 22nd - 4:30pm - 8:00pm (in-person)

  • March 4th - 4:30pm - 8:00pm (in-person)

  • March 5th - 9:00am-12:00pm (in-person) and 12:30pm - 3:00pm (virtual)


We will share links to sign up with families on Monday, January 12th. If you have any questions, feel free to email your child's teacher or Ann Flanagan, Campus Administrator, at aflanagan@cherrycreekschools.org

HONOR ROLL HONOR ROLL

Parents & Guardians

Grades will be finalized on January 9th, which means Honor Roll certificates will be distributed in the next couple of weeks! If your student earned Honor Roll, they will receive their certificate during Advisory.


As we move into the remainder of the school year, we also want to remind you about our Grade Level Recognition Nights held at the end of the year. These special events are by invitation only for students who meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Excellence in one or more core classes
  • Excellence in one or more elective classes
  • 4.0 Honor Roll - all A grade for the first 3 quarters
  • 3.75 Honor Roll cumulative for the first 3 quarters
  • Activity Awards for Achievement in extracurricular activities

DATE CHANGE DATE CHANGE

Accountability Meeting Date Change

Please note that our January 15th meeting at West has been canceled.


In its place, we will join our feeder schools for a joint accountability meeting hosted by Cherry Creek High School on Tuesday, February 11 at 5:00 p.m.


More information and details will be shared as we get closer to the date.

8th GRADE REGISTRATION 8th GRADE REGISTRATION

Hello 8th grade families!


I hope everyone is staying warm and ready for 9th grade registration which starts next week! Please read on for some important High School registration information:


On Monday 1/12, 8th graders will watch a pre-recorded video showcasing many of the programs available at Cherry Creek High School with additional information about graduation requirements, world languages and getting ready for their 9th grade year! CCHS Counselors will then hold a live Q&A with our 8th graders during their Advisory time on Thursday 1/15. 9th grade registration cards will be distributed (parent signatures are required) next week and students will officially register for their 9th grade classes on January 29th during Advisory. Below is a timetable of upcoming events and links to the videos so that you have the same information at home!


*On Jan. 20th, 8th graders will take a tour of CCHS from 9:40AM-12PM. Three permission forms are needed in order to attend (see attached). Please print, sign and return these three forms to your child’s period 1 teacher by Friday 1/16!


Schedule of Upcoming Events:

1/12 Watch pre-recorded CCHS video in Advisory and 9th grade registration cards distributed

1/15 Live Q&A with CCHS Counselors during Advisory

1/20 Tour of CCHS (9:40AM-12PM) *Must have all 3 permission slips signed

1/20 5:30PM - 8th Grade Information Night at CCHS Fine Arts (FA) Theatre (for families)

1/29 Register for 9th grade classes during Advisory with CCHS Counselors (parent signature required on form)


CCHS Registration Video: https://youtu.be/U3GOgcHW8rc?si=6WubifvuO7lrd1b9

*World Languages Video (3:30min)


Justin Cantrell

8th Grade Counselor

AMC AMC

Optional Math Competition on 1/28/25 @ 3:45pm

Interested in competing in a math competition sponsored by our Math Counts Club?


The AMC 8 test is a 25-problem exam open to all middle schoolers in the U.S. Students are given 40 minutes to solve all problems, which increase in difficulty as students progress through the math tournament.


WEST will administer the test on Wednesday, January 28th at 3:45pm in the cafeteria. Students MUST be able to stay after school to compete. We only have 40 spots available. Complete this form if you're interested NO LATER than Friday, January 16th. Your child will be notified and provided with more information if they are selected to compete. You may email Ms. Langberg at rlangberg@cherrycreekschools.org should you have any questions.


The material covered on the AMC 8 test includes topics from a typical middle school mathematics curriculum. Possible topics to appear in the math competition include but are not limited to:
  • Arithmetic and Logic
  • Number Theory
  • Algebraic word problems
  • Counting and probability
  • Estimation, patterns, and proportional reasoning
  • Elementary geometry
  • Reading and interpreting graphs and tables

In addition, some of the later questions may involve linear or quadratic functions and equations, coordinate geometry, and other topics traditionally covered in a beginning algebra course.


Practice tests may be found here:

https://artofproblemsolving.com/wiki/index.php/AMC_8_Problems_and_Solutions

FIT & FIERCE FIT & FIERCE

A fun and challenging intramural for GIRLS designed to build strength, agility, and flexibility while promoting confidence and injury prevention. Sessions focus on smart training, proper movement, and overall athletic development in a supportive environment.

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LOOK AT THIS! LOOK AT THIS!

WMS Spotlight on Community Giving and Support

West Community & PTCO,


We owe you a huge thank you for everything you do for our staff and students! Thanks to your generosity and ongoing support, we were able to provide all of our teachers with classroom-level enrichment funds to help them enhance their learning spaces and elevate the daily experience for your children.


“When communities invest in schools, they invest in the future, because every contribution strengthens the opportunities and experiences our students receive.”


Please enjoy the photos below showcasing the wonderful items our teachers were able to purchase! We’re excited to make this a recurring feature in our newsletter so we can continue sharing the meaningful impact your support has on our classrooms throughout the year.

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Mrs. Brickley

Thank you for supporting Ms. Brickley’s drama classroom with essential materials like rain sticks, egg shakers, wooden blocks, a groan tube noise maker, a voice changer, index cards, tape, masking tape, and poster boards. These tools help bring performances to life, encourage creativity, and support engaging, hands-on learning for students.
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Ms. Lovato

Thank you for supporting Ms. Lovato’s Tech Graphics classes through this grant. The button-making machine and supplies will allow students to turn their digital designs into real-world products like wearable buttons and fridge magnets. This hands-on experience connects creativity with technology, builds design skills, and gives students a sense of pride as they create and share their own work.
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Ms. Lovato

Thank you for supporting Ms. Lovato’s tech classroom with essential supplies such as hand sanitizer, screen-cleaning wipes, laminator sheets, a three-hole punch, and computer microphones. These materials help maintain a clean, organized, and engaging technology learning environment for students.

PTCO PTCO

Middle school is a time of big changes—for students and families—and the PTCO plays an important role in making these years supportive, fun, and successful for everyone.


As we look ahead to next school year, we’re inviting parents and caregivers to consider getting involved with the PTCO. Whether you have a little time or a lot, there’s a place for you—and your involvement truly makes a difference.


Why join the PTCO?

  • Support school programs, events, and enrichment opportunities
  • Build community and connections with other families and staff
  • Have a voice in initiatives that directly impact our students
  • Model leadership and service for your child


You don’t need prior experience, and you don’t need to commit to everything. Volunteering can look like helping with a single event, joining a committee, or stepping into a leadership role—whatever fits your schedule and interests.


Middle schoolers may act like they don’t notice… but they do. When families are involved, students feel supported, and our school thrives.


Interested in learning more or joining us next year? Please email our slating chair Stephanie Dahl at volunteer@westptco.com or our PTCO President Erin Hornstein at president@westptco.com. We’d love to hear from you!


Thank you for being part of our school community—we hope you’ll consider being part of the PTCO too.


Warmly,
The Middle School PTCO Board

REMINDERS REMINDERS

The WMS Website is where you’ll find everything! It’s your one-stop resource for staying connected and informed throughout the school year. Here are some helpful links to help you stay plugged in and connected all year long! 😀
  • WMS Athletics
  • WMS Activities & Clubs
  • WMS Attendance
  • WMS Parent Resources
  • WMS Student Resources
  • WMS Campus Admin Office
  • WMS Counseling

Important Contacts

  • Main Office (720) 554-5100
  • Attendance Line (720) 554-5110 or (720) 554-5111
  • Counseling (720) 554-5156
  • Campus Admins (720) 554-5155
  • Clinic/Nurse (720) 554-5117
  • Transportation (720) 554-4664

YEARBOOK YEARBOOK

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📚 Yearbooks for Sale ! 📚

Our presale ended on December 20th, and our online system, RevTrak, will no longer be available.


Starting January 1st:

  • The yearbook price increases to $40.

  • We are beginning the transition to MySchoolBucks for online payments; however, we do not yet have a confirmed date for when the new link will be active. While we wait for the system to go live, yearbooks can be purchased in cash only with Ms. Wheeler in the Main Office or Mr. Klein in Bookkeeping.


Not sure if you’ve already ordered a yearbook?

Email our yearbook sponsor, Caroline Rose Wheeler, to double-check!

8th Graders Baby Ads

Celebrate your 8th grader’s milestone year with a special Baby Ad in the 2025–2026 Yearbook! Honor their journey with a favorite baby or childhood photo and a heartfelt message.


Baby Ads are available for purchase at the bottom of the page. When prompted, use West Middle School’s yearbook code: 6636.


If you need assistance, please email cwheeler@cherrycreekschools.org

8th GRADE BABY ADS - BUY THEM HERE
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WMS Baby Ads PDF (have questions, look here!)
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RIDING THE BUS RIDING THE BUS

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Transportation is required by CDE Regulations to account for all students on the bus and unauthorized passengers are not permitted. However, the Transportation Department recognizes that circumstances may arise, e.g. a family emergency, parents out of town, etc., when a student needs to ride home with another student on a one-time only basis. The student must get off at the assigned stop of the student they are riding with (no exceptions).


Make sure to fill out and turn in the linked Permission Slip to the Campus Admins office no later than 9:00 AM on the requested ride date. Forms can be printed and handed to the Campus Admins Assistant. Hard copies of the form can be picked up from the Campus Admins office if they are needed but must be picked up prior to the day they need to ride a different bus. No emails will be accepted. If there is an emergency, please call the Campus Admins office at 720-554-5155.

HOMEWORK HELP HOMEWORK HELP

Are you looking for extra help with homework, studying, and/or class projects?

West Middle School offers HW Help! Please review the available options below, and reach out to your teachers for specific support, as needed. We’ve listed the teachers and room numbers for your convenience. Can’t wait to help you out!


Please note:

  • Teachers highlighted in RED are Language Arts teachers
  • Teachers highlighted in GREEN are Math teachers
  • Teachers highlighted in BLUE are Science teachers
  • Teachers highlighted in ORANGE are Social Studies teachers
  • Teachers highlighted in YELLOW are elective teachers.
  • PURPLE highlighting indicates the teacher specializes in both Language Arts and Math.


Expectations:

  • Use the restroom and fill your water before entering.
  • Stay in the Commons.
  • Bring a charged device.
  • Sign in. Find a seat. 1 person per table.
  • Keep your phones off.
  • Work on school work quietly until dismissal.

At the end of Study Hall…Push in your chair and take all your belongings.

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CHERRY CREEK HIGH SCHOOL CHERRY CREEK HIGH SCHOOL

Support Power Week: Giving the Power of Play to Kids in Need

Each year, Cherry Creek High School hosts Power Week, a school-wide fundraising effort benefiting Bags of Fun. Bags of Fun provides backpacks filled with games, toys, books, and other comfort items to bring joy (and the Power of Play) to children facing critical, long-term, and life-threatening illnesses.


This year, Cherry Creek High School’s fundraising goal is $67,000. While ambitious, this goal is achievable with the support of our community and we would love for our WMS families to participate!


Ways WMS Families Can Support Power Week

  • Attend the Cherry Creek High School basketball game on Tuesday, February 11 and show your support.

  • Dine out for a cause at the following participating restaurants—each will donate a portion of proceeds to Power Week:

    • February 9: Birdcall (Hampden)

    • February 10: Noodles & Company (Hampden)

    • February 11: Jersey Mike’s

    • February 12: Jet’s Pizza (Holly)

    • February 13: Torchy’s Tacos (Arapahoe)


Additionally, WMS students will have opportunities to support Power Week through school-based activities, including student-led fundraising efforts (more details to come).


Thank you for helping our students make a meaningful impact and bring joy to children who need it most! 💙

Middle School Girls LAX Pickup at Cherry Creek Highschool Jan and Feb!

Calling all West Middle School girls lacrosse players!

Open to all — even if you've never played girls lacrosse before!


This camp is for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade girls lacrosse players. These practices are pickup style lacrosse, playing with boy's sticks, tennis balls, and on small nets, playing small, sided games like 3x to work on our skill development and playing creatively and freely! Open to all players, from new to well-experienced. Please bring a boys lacrosse stick, goggles, a pinnie, and layers (it gets cold in Jan/Feb!).

​

Details:

​​​​​Dates & Times | Wednesdays 1/14, 1/21, 1/28, 2/4, 2/11, 2/18 from 4:45-6pm

​​​​​Location | Stutler Bowl

​​Staff | CCHS Head Varsity Girls Lacrosse Coach Jess Hanson

​Cost | $175

​Contact | Coach Jess Hanson jhanson@cognelite.net


Registration: https://www.milehighsportscamps.com/cc-middle-school-girls-lacrosse-winter-pickup-26

CCHS World Languages

Are you an 8th grader planning to attend Cherry Creek High School Next year? Did you know that CCHS offers SIX world languages? Click on this link to see our informational flier with FAQs and QR codes for some pamphlets and videos.

CCSD EVENTS CCSD EVENTS

January 12th, 2026

Board of Education Meeting

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Thunder Ridge Middle School (5250 S Picadilly St, Aurora, CO 80015)


January 13th, 2026

Indigenous Parent Action Committee Meeting (learn more here)

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Cherry Creek High School (9300 E Union Ave, Greenwood Village, CO)


January 14th, 2026

District Accountability Committee (learn more here)

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Instructional Support Facility (5416 S Riviera Way, Aurora, CO 80015)


January 19th, 2026

No School ~ All Schools

MLK Day


January 21st, 2026

District Voices of Color (formerly District P.A.S.S.) (learn more here)

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Cherokee Trail High School (25901 E Arapahoe Rd, Aurora, CO 80016)


January 22nd, 2026

Pasifika Parent Group Meeting (learn more here)

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Eaglecrest High School (5100 S Picadilly St, Aurora, CO 80015)

Welcome back, Cherry Creek families!


In recognition of the Cherry Creek School District Board of Education, we invite you to participate in a district-wide virtual donation drive benefiting our school-based food and resource pantries. These pantries provide essential support to students and families across our district.


You may see posters displayed around our school (see attached), each with a QR code that makes donating quick and easy. Families are encouraged to use the QR code or visit the district website to learn more and contribute.


District Communications will be sharing information about the drive throughout the month via social media, newsletters, and the district website. An informational slide is also attached and may be featured on school homepages.


Thank you for supporting our Cherry Creek community and helping ensure all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. Your generosity truly makes a difference.


And a special thank you to the Cherry Creek Board of Education for their continued support of initiatives that uplift students and families across our district.

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January Donation Drive
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January Donation Drive - Spanish
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