September 2025

We are off to a strong start this school year, and the energy in our classrooms and hallways has been nothing short of inspiring. As we step into September, our Capturing Kids’ Hearts word of the month is Empathy—the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

Here are three simple ways families can nurture empathy at home:

• Model it daily: Talk about your own feelings and show kindness in everyday interactions.

• Ask perspective-taking questions: Encourage your child to imagine how someone else might feel in a situation.

• Highlight empathy in stories: When reading together, pause to discuss how characters might be feeling and why.

Together, we can help our Wildcats grow into compassionate, caring leaders who will make our community a kinder place for all!

We are excited to announce that Washington Elementary is officially launching the Let Grow program this month! This initiative is rooted in one powerful idea: when children are given the chance to practice independence, they become more confident, capable, and resilient.

So what does that look like at Washington?

• The Let Grow Project – Each month, students will be encouraged to complete a simple, age-appropriate “independence challenge.” Examples include making a meal for the family, walking the dog, organizing their own backpack, or greeting a neighbor. These small steps add up to big growth in responsibility and self-confidence.

• At School – Teachers will guide students in reflecting on their experiences, celebrating successes, and learning from challenges. The program helps students recognize that independence builds perseverance and problem-solving skills, both of which are central to lifelong learning.

• At Home – Families play a key role. Parents and caregivers will receive ideas and resources to support their child’s independence journey. The program encourages families to step back a little so children can step up.

• In Our Community – As Fayetteville’s “Community Connectors,” Washington is uniquely positioned to extend this work beyond the classroom. We’ll be connecting Let Grow to service opportunities, neighborhood projects, and ways our Wildcats can take ownership in their own community.

Why are we so excited? Research shows that kids who are given safe opportunities to try new things, solve problems, and manage responsibilities become more motivated, less anxious, and more ready for the future. Let Grow aligns perfectly with our mission of belonging, respect, curiosity, perseverance, and future-readiness.

We can’t wait to watch our Wildcats rise to the challenge of independence—and we’re grateful for your partnership in cheering them on. Stay tuned for updates, student stories, and opportunities for families to celebrate the Let Grow journey with us.

Start your morning with smiles, high-fives, and a front-row seat to the best part of the day—our kids arriving at school. Wildcat Watch volunteers open car doors, welcome students with warmth, and help mornings run smoothly. Just a few minutes of your time makes a big difference in creating a safe, cheerful start for every Wildcat. Sign up today and be part of the morning magic.

Click HERE to join the morning team!

You can view breakfast and lunch menus, add funds to a meal account, and fill out your free lunch application HERE.

We are excited to announce that our annual Fun Run is just around the corner! This beloved tradition brings our community together for a day filled with energy, teamwork, and school spirit—all while raising funds that directly benefit our Wildcats. This year we are raising money for a pump track outside of the gym. This addition will give our Wildcats the space and opportunity to hone their cycling skills right here on campus. Be on the lookout for more details coming home soon from our wonderful PTO.

• 9/1 - LABOR DAY - NO SCHOOL
• 9/2 - YRCC after-school program begins
• 9/5 - 3rd & 4th Grade ELA ATLAS interim
• 9/9 - 3rd & 4th Grade Math ATLAS interim
• 9/12 - 3rd & 4th Grade Science ATLAS interim
• 9/15 - Annual FUN RUN kick-off!
• 9/15 - Bowers & Jackson classes to Apple Seeds
• 9/16 - Neumayer class to Apple Seeds
• 9/16 - PTO MEETING IN THE LIBRARY 5:30
• 9/17 - Fall Picture Day
• 9/18 - Cub Scouts Sign Up Night - 6:00
• 9/19 - Character Award Assembly (EMPATHY) 2:30
• 9/26 - ANNUAL FUN RUN FUNDRAISER!

This presentation holds the keys to success at Washington Elementary. Check it out for details regarding transportation, lunch, and life at Washington.