Whitson Elementary Newsletter
CUB NEWS
October 2025
Principal’s Corner
Dear Whitson Families,
What a wonderful start to the school year! I feel truly fortunate and proud to serve as the principal of such an incredible school community.
A big thank you to all of the families, staff, and PTO members who helped make our Welcome Back BBQ on September 18th such a success. It was a fantastic evening, and we were thrilled to serve nearly 700 hot dogs while enjoying time together as a school family!
It’s hard to believe, but conference week is already right around the corner. In past years, more than 95% of our families have attended, which is an amazing turnout and a true reflection of your commitment to our students’ success. Family participation in conferences is one of the most important ways we can support children’s learning and growth. I’ll be in the front hallway during conferences—please stop by and say hello!
If you have any questions or if I can support you in any way, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at 509-493-1560.
Go Cubs!
Todd McCauley
Principal, Whitson Elementary
UPCOMING EVENTS
October 8 - Family Math Night - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
October 10 - Hearing Screening
October 16 - Picture Retake Day
October 31 - FALL PARADE at 9:00
- Kindergarten - 4th grade students can wear their costume to school.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
October 27 - October 31
Night Conference Monday, Oct 27 and Wednesday, October 29
BOOKFAIR: October 27 - October 31
After School during Conference Week!
Remember to sign up for eWallet, your child’s digital payment account.
Bring or send a shopping bag for students to bring their purchases home.
Online shopping at https://www.scholastic.com/bf/whitsonelementaryschool3
Early Release & No School Notice
1:30 Release
October 6
October 13
October 20
Showing Up Matters
Showing up to school every day makes a big difference. When kids are in class, they’re learning new skills, building friendships, and staying connected to their teachers and school community. Missing just two days of school a month—whether excused or not—can add up quickly and make it harder to keep up in reading, lead to academic struggles, and even increase the risk of not graduating later on. We also know there are times when kids aren’t feeling well, and that’s when it’s important to make the right call. To help with those decisions, check out our “Too Sick for School?” poster for assistance: WSVSD Too Sick for School?
October is Disability Awareness Month
October is Disability History and Awareness Month in Washington, a time to increase awareness, respect, and acceptance for people with disabilities, and to celebrate the pride and contributions of the disability community. Throughout the month, our students will engage in classroom activities designed to build understanding and strengthen inclusivity. We encourage families to learn more by exploring the resources in this Disability Awareness guide.
PTO Meetings & Coffee with The Principal
October 14 - PTO Meeting
Monthly meetings are on the second Tuesday of the month at 6:00pm. In the Whitson Library.
October 15 - Coffee with the Principal
Monthly meetings are on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 8:30am. In the Conference Room.
Reminders
Cold & Wet Weather
Remember, cold weather is upon us, please send your student to school with a hat, gloves, boots and coat. We will be going outside.
Also, sending an extra change of clothes in their backpack would be appreciated.
Cub Pride Assembly & Celebrations
BE RESPECTFUL
Friday, October 24@ 2:00
Spirit Theme - Cub Pride T-shirt or Red Day