WESTWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS

December is here and so is the cold and snow. This is also a very busy time for many as the holidays are in full swing. With the chance of snow, ice, and cold temperatures coming back to us this winter, please make sure you are watching the news, The Elyria City schools Facebook page but most importantly, getting the robo calls for the district. If you are not getting the robo calls, please call the school office so we can make sure your number is correct.

We were fortunate to partner with the Sheriff's office last month on an assembly for your students. This was included in last months newsletter but it is so important, we wanted to include it again. This was all about Words Matter! What students say to each other and about themselves matter. We have to take this all very seriously! A few points from the assembly are:

• Words matter!
• Threats are taken seriously in all situations.
• Report any online threat - Do NOT repost it.
• Use kind words.
• If you are frustrated - find someone to talk to, do not lash out with your words.
• Report any threats

Please reach out if you have any questions.

We have partnered with the Cleveland Browns for their Stay in the Game campaign to improve attendance. Each month, our grade levels are competing for an incentive based on their attendance. Novembers challenge was to increase the overall total percentage of students to school on time for each grade level. Our October challenge winner was 8th grade. That had a great Friday afternoon in the gym completing challenges and being able to have some fun.

As always, we appreciate your support and working together as a team in your child's education.

Please click the red button above if you have not completed your students back to school information. This must be completed each year. This is important so we have the most up-to-date information about your student and in case there is an emergency.

Car riders get picked up and dropped off on the elementary side of the building. Doors open at 7:25 and we dismiss starting at 2:12 with the final bell dismissing at 2:15. Please pull through the loops and drop off along the curb. Please do not drop off or pick up in the driving lane. Also we do not allow students to cross on their own. If you are in the parking lot, please park and cross your student in the crosswalk. We do NOT allow student to cross into other areas of the parking lots, especially the old Elyria West or old school board office lot. In the morning, please pull up to the curb near the door, drop your student off, and keep moving. This lane is for quick drop off’s. If you need to talk to your child, please pull into a parking spot and then walk them across or get back into the line to drop off. We do not sit along the curb and drop off.

Just a quick reminder that hoods may not be worn up during the school day.

The Student Code of Conduct offers guidance on attire. Clothing must be school appropriate and may not present a health or safety hazard or disrupt the educational environment. Pants and tops must fit properly and be in good repair. Crop tops are not permitted.

Additionally, footwear must be school appropriate--slippers and slipper socks are not permitted. Blankets also may not be worn in school.

Students may bring their cell phones and headphones to school but they must be turned off and put away during the day. This is a district policy.

Parents may contact Westwood Office to reach their student during the school day.

As winter season approaches, it is important to recognize how this time of year can impact our mental wellbeing. The days are short and with less sunlight and the approaching holiday season coming, it can bring up feelings of sadness, anxiety, and loneliness. Taking care of your own mental health is just as important, in order to be there for others. Here are some tips to take extra care of yourself and those around you.

Set boundaries: It’s OK to say, “no” or ask for help when feeling overwhelmed. It’s important to know your limits.

Seek support: Colleagues, friends, or professionals can be a great support to talk to when going through difficult situations.

Engage in activities that recharge you: Reading, meditating, physical activity, spending time outdoors, find activities that you enjoy.

When supporting others: Be aware of how reduced daylight may affect mood or energy levels. Encourage regular breaks and exposure to natural light when possible.

Create a safe space to talk: With holidays approaching, some people may feel more stressed or want to isolate themselves. Offer a listening ear without judgment.

Promote self-care: It can be helpful to remind those that you are supporting, of the importance of small, daily activities that can have a positive impact on their mental wellbeing. Exercise, mindfulness, and proper rest are especially important during this time.

MAIN OFFICE - phone: 440-284-8017 fax: 440-284-1055

For Attendance and General school related inquiries.

• Secretary - Mrs. Dana Kolesar -kolesardana@elyriaschools.org
• Receptionist - Ms. Lisa Boesken - boeskenlisa@elyriaschools.org
• School Counselor - Ms. Angela Caprara - Capraraangela@elyriaschools.org
• Assistant Principal - Mrs. Michelle Nimene - nimenemichelle@elyriaschools.org
• 5/6 Principal - Mrs. Katie Kalamasz - kalamaszkathrine@elyriaschools.org
• 7/8 Principal - Mr. Jim Rollence - rollencejames@elyriaschools.org

CLINIC - 440-284-8153

Nurse - Mrs. Amanda McCall - mccallamanda@elyriaschools.org

Health Aide - Ms. Hannah Croskey - croskeyhannah@elyriaschools.org

TRANSPORTATION: GGC BUS of Elyria - 440-284-8030

For any transportation requests or questions.

FOOD SERVICE / PAYSCHOOL CENTRAL - 440-284-5225

For any school lunch or free & reduced lunch questions.

ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT - 440-284-8257

For any student athlete questions or needs.

Our PBIS matrix for expected behavior here at Westwood Middle School. PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.

12/10 - Band/Choir/Orchestra Concert

12/19 - End of 2nd Grading Period

12/22 - Records Day No School

12/23-1/2 - Winter Break No School

1/19 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day No School

1/30 - PD day No School

2/16 - Presidents Day No School

3/12 End of 3rd Grading Period

3/13 - Records Day No School

4/3-4/10 - Spring Break No School

5/25 - Memorial Day No School

5/27 End of the 4th Grading Period - Last day of school