Whale Tales

Dear Webster Community,

Thank you for your understanding during last week’s brief pause in Whale Tales while we were away on our incredible outdoor education adventure! It was truly heartwarming to return to campus and be greeted by so many smiling faces.

Believe it or not, we are officially in the home stretch—just 9 more days until summer (but who’s counting?).

🌟 Special Moments Spotlight

🏞 Yosemite Outdoor Education Trip: Our 5th graders returned from Yosemite transformed—muddy, brave, and more connected than ever. From riverside science experiments and cold plunges in the Merced River to team challenges, solo reflection hikes, and original student poetry around the campfire, this weeklong adventure deepened friendships, resilience, and appreciation for the natural world. Huge thanks to our chaperones and Ms. Johnson for making the magic happen!

🎶 Spring Music Concert: The 4th and 5th grade music concert at Malibu Elementary was a joyful celebration of student talent and teamwork. Under the direction of Mr. Raman, Dr. Sonderegger, and Mrs. Tomita, students performed selections ranging from movie themes to The Beatles and brought down the house with a full-group rendition of Seven Nation Army. Thank you to Principal Wennes for hosting and to all our families for your support!

🩵 PTA Honorary Service Awards: This week we recognized some truly remarkable individuals for their dedication, creativity, and contributions to Webster. From the Golden Oak Award to Outstanding Administrator and Teacher honors, each award was presented with heartfelt gratitude and celebration. Don’t miss the slideshow linked below!

🙌 2026–27 PTA Executive Board Elected: Please join us in celebrating our newly elected PTA Executive Board! We are so grateful to these amazing parents for stepping up to lead, support, and serve our community next year. Your dedication makes all the difference!

📝 You can read more about each of these highlights in the detailed sections below!

We are officially done with all CAASPP testing in grades 3–5—hooray! Thank you to our students for their focus and effort, and to our teachers for guiding them through with care and support.

If you have an incoming student for the 2026–27 school year, be sure their enrollment is complete to secure their spot. For families outside of SMMUSD, the Interdistrict Permit window opened on May 15. Help us spread the word—Webster is a wonderful place to grow and learn, and we’d love to welcome more families into our community.

🔔 Important Reminders

• Returning Interdistrict Families: If your child currently attends Webster on an interdistrict permit, don’t forget to submit your Verification of Continuing Enrollment by June 1 to ensure your spot for next year. 👉 Click HERE

• Promotion Ceremony Details: Please complete the RSVP Form by Wednesday, June 3 at 5PM to let us know how many guests to expect and if anyone in your party needs ADA-accessible seating. Full event details can be found in the section below!

• Field Day Permission Slips: All TK–4th grade students must return their signed field trip forms ASAP to participate in Field Day fun!

• Lost and Found: Our Lost and Found is still packed with sweatshirts, lunchboxes, water bottles, and more. Please take a moment to check the rack next time you're on campus—your child’s missing items may be waiting there! All unclaimed items will be donated by Friday, June 5.

• New Whale Families (2026–27): Please help us spread the word about Webster! Encourage prospective families to sign up on our website or click HERE.

• Playground Update: Big changes are coming! Plans to replace our 20-year-old play structure are in motion and we’re getting closer to construction. Scroll down for renderings and project details.

• Pod Power Problems: This week’s family math challenge is live — have fun solving together!

• Visitor Management: Please bring your ID to check in and remember to sign out when you leave campus.

📅 Save the Dates

📌 June 8: 🎓 5th Grade Promotion Rehearsal (mandatory for all 5th grade students)

📌 June 9: 🎓 5th Grade Promotion Ceremony | 9:00 AM

📌 June 10: Field Day + Minimum Day

📌 June 10: Beach Day (5th grade students only) + Minimum Day

📌 June 11: Last Day of the 2025-2026 school year + Minimum Day

📌 June 11: Spring Report Cards

Wishing you a restful weekend!

GO WHALES!!

Warmly,
Carina Diana

Check out these wonderful moments featuring our incredible students, staff, and parents! If you have a photo that you’d like to share, please send it to Principal Diana—we’d love to include it on our social media or upcoming newsletters.

Thank you for helping us celebrate our school community!

Our 5th grade students returned from Yosemite transformed — a little muddier, a little braver, and a lot more connected. Over the course of five unforgettable days in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural classrooms, students pushed past comfort zones, formed deeper friendships, and grew in ways that only nature can inspire.

🎉 HUGE Thanks to Our Yosemite A-Team
A massive thank you to our amazing parent chaperones — Lauren Franks, Gillian Mosapor, Mia Skeleton, Scott Carpenter, Jared Cohen, and Brad Mancuso. The laughs, the late nights, the long hikes — none of it would’ve been possible without your heart, humor, and energy. The biggest round of applause goes to Ms. Johnson — my fellow adventurer and expert in pretending our feet didn’t hurt while soaking up the mountain views. Your spirit and leadership made this trip unforgettable.

From the moment we arrived, students jumped into trail life with enthusiasm and curiosity. We took in stunning views of Bridalveil Falls and Half Dome, hiked through meadows and alongside waterfalls, dipped toes (and bodies!) into the chilly Merced River, and learned from the land through hands-on science activities. Students explored the Bear Caves, conducted field research on river health with macro-invertebrates, studied the monarch butterfly ecosystem, and tested variables with stick races to apply the scientific method in real time.

Beyond the science and adventure, the week was filled with opportunities to grow interpersonally: team-building challenges, communication games, solo reflection hikes, and appreciation circles created moments of connection and confidence. Students encouraged one another, built trust, and learned the power of perseverance and community. Evenings were equally magical—from glow-in-the-dark capture the flag along the riverbank to s’mores and storytelling around the campfire, where students proudly shared original poems and artwork inspired by their Yosemite journey. Every moment was a chance to laugh, bond, and celebrate. Don’t miss their beautiful creations featured below!

This was more than just a field trip—it was a transformative experience our students will carry for years to come. We’re returning with full hearts and lifelong memories!

A huge thank you to Mr. Raman, Dr. Sonderegger, and Mrs. Tomita for their incredible work with our 4th and 5th grade students this year. Our Spring Music Concert was a joyful celebration of their hard work and creativity — from strings and band to choir, our students shone bright on stage!

Held at Malibu Elementary School, we were grateful to share the experience with our wider Malibu community. Special thanks to Principal Wennes for being such a gracious host.

From movie soundtracks and Beatles classics to an unforgettable full-grade finale of Seven Nation Army, the night was filled with talent and toe-tapping energy. We’re so proud of our students’ bravery and growth and so thankful to our families for their ongoing support!

This week, we had the joy of honoring some truly extraordinary individuals at our PTA Honorary Service Awards celebration. Each award presentation was filled with heart and beautifully captured the unique ways these recipients uplift and enrich our Webster community. In case you missed it, here’s a LINK to the slideshow.

🏅 Honorary Service Awards
This award is given in special recognition of outstanding service to children and youth. Congratulations to Mia Skeleton, Saona Jackson, and Erin Fotos for their unwavering dedication and hands-on support that consistently make our school events run smoothly and joyfully.

🌟 Very Special Person Award
This award honors someone who has contributed to the school community in a special way outside of regular service. Awarded to Larisa Braun for her consistent positivity, creativity, and the bright spirit she brings to our school community.

🌳 Golden Oak Service Award
The most prestigious PTA award in California, recognizing significant contributions to the school community. Presented to Nora Cohen for her legacy of leadership, compassion, and transformative impact on generations of Webster students and families.

👩‍🏫 Outstanding Administrator Award
This award honors an administrator who has made a meaningful, positive impact on students and the school community. Given to April Montes for her commitment to excellence and nurturing guidance that help both students and staff thrive.

📚 Outstanding Teacher Award
Recognizing a teacher’s outstanding service and dedication to the growth and well-being of children and youth. Awarded to Ms. Peri Monte, whose storytelling magic and devotion to literacy has inspired and touched the hearts of countless students.

Thank you to all our honorees for the many ways you give, lead, and love. Webster shines brighter because of you! 🩵

We are so excited to celebrate our incredible 5th grade students as they get ready to soar into middle school! Our Promotion Ceremony will be a joyful celebration of their accomplishments, complete with music, memories, and a few magical moments along the way.

To help us plan, please complete the Promotion Ceremony RSVP Form by 5PM on Wednesday, June 3rd. This will let us know how many guests to expect and whether anyone in your party needs ADA-accessible seating.

🎉 Promotion Day Details
🕣 8:30 AM – The side gate will open to welcome families onto the upper field.
For guests who need mobility support or cannot walk long distances, the drop-off lane in front of the school will be open to allow for easy drop-off near the gate. Please be mindful of other families and keep the lane moving after drop-offs.
🕘 9:00 AM – The side gate will close to ensure the ceremony runs smoothly. Any guests arriving after 9:00 AM will need to check in through the main office.

🌟 Promotion Events Include:

• “Walk of Honor” – Our graduates will make their grand entrance from the top of Webster, cheered on by students, staff, and families lining the path with music playing in celebration.
• SMC Jazz and Hip-Hop Performance – A lively “Shake the Room” and “Just Got Paid” themed number on the blacktop!
• Promotion Ceremony – A heartfelt sendoff recognizing each student’s achievements.
• Breakfast in Poets Park – Hosted by our amazing 4th grade families.

And…we’re working on one more special surprise for the students 😉

✅ A Few Important Reminders

June 2nd - Field Trip Forms
Students will receive two field trip permission slips that must be signed and returned by Tuesday, June 2nd. The first slip is for our SUPER SPECIAL SECRET event on Wednesday, June 3rd. The second slip is for our 5th Grade Beach Day on Wednesday, June 10th. Please review the details and return the forms promptly.

June 8th – MANDATORY Promotion Rehearsal
Any student who does not participate in rehearsal will not be allowed to take part in the promotion ceremony. Attendance is essential to ensure a smooth and successful event.

Library Books, Instruments, Devices, and Fines
Please ensure all library books, instruments, and Chromebooks are returned and any outstanding fines are paid before promotion day. Students with unresolved items will not receive their promotion certificate until everything is cleared.

Thank you for your partnership and support as we prepare to celebrate this special milestone. We can't wait to see you there!

A huge shout-out to our newly elected PTA Board — thank you for stepping up to lead and support our school community next year. Your time, heart, and dedication make all the difference!

👏 Meet the Team:
President: Samantha Carpenter
Executive VP: Christine Waljeski
Secretary: Caitlin Talbot
Treasurer: Anya Sobolevska
VP of Communications: Kate Ward
Financial Secretary: Ryan Farina
Parliamentarian: Zhara Astra
Membership Chair: Lewis Talbot
Room Rep Chair: Yvonne Strzechowski
Valet Chair: Kyle Mlodzik
Yearbook Chair: Courtney Walling
Fundraising/Events Chair: Lauren Ifft

We’re so grateful for your leadership and excited for the year ahead! 🐳

Capture the memories of an incredible school year with the 2025–26 Webster Yearbook! Each edition includes individual and class photos, snapshots from special events, and a dedicated section honoring our amazing 5th graders.

✨ DON'T FORGET: you can personalize two custom pages for FREE with your own photos—these will only appear in your child’s copy. The deadline to complete custom pages is June 5, so there’s still time to make it extra special!

🎓 5th Grade Families ONLY: Want to celebrate your graduate with a recognition ad? Personalized ads are a great way to honor their growth and achievements. See the info above to get started—ads must be purchased and customized by June 3.

📦 Yearbooks are printed to order. To purchase, scan the QR code above or visit www.treering.com/validate and enter Webster’s passcode: 101568223978555.

With incredible support from SMMUSD, our Webster PTA (led by Lauren Franks Ifft) have spent months working with designers and contractors to propose an inspiring, modern play structure to replace our aging 20-year-old equipment. The new design prioritizes safety, accessibility, and active play—giving our students a space that fosters physical development, creativity, and social connection.

The District, in collaboration with Principal Diana, has been advancing plans for the replacement of the current playground equipment and surfacing. The proposal includes ADA upgrades as required by the Division of the State Architect (DSA). Here’s what’s coming up:

• At the May 7, 2026 Board Meeting, the Board approved the agreement with Huckabee for design and engineering services.
• At the May 19, 2026 Board Meeting, the Board approved the purchase of new equipment from Dave Bang Associates, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $157,268.10, using the CMAS contract—saving time and cost by avoiding contractor markups.

The demolition, site preparation, equipment installation, and new play surface will be bid through a separate process while we seek DSA approval. Construction is expected to begin August 2026, with completion anticipated by September 30, 2026, followed by a brief closeout period. Final approval from DSA is anticipated in late July or early August.

Below are a few renderings of the new structure—thank you to everyone working hard to bring this dream to life!

Can you believe it’s already time to start planning for next fall? Whether you’re a returning family or new to Webster, here’s everything you need to know to secure your spot.

📌 Important for Current Families

If you have a younger sibling ready to join Webster in Fall 2026, you must complete a new enrollment — even if an older sibling already attends. Don’t delay! Early enrollment helps ensure your family stays together at Webster.

📅 Key Dates & Deadlines

✅ AERIES Online Enrollment is now open!

👉 SMMUSD Enrollment Portal

You’ll need to upload:

• Immunization records

• Parent/guardian photo ID

• Proof of residency

• Birth certificate

Once completed, please email Stephanie Martinez (s.martinez@smmusd.org) so we can guide you through next steps.

📍May 15 – June 30 – Interdistrict Permit Window

• For students who live outside of SMMUSD but would like to attend Webster

• Requires a release permit from your home district

📌 Returning Interdistrict Families
Already at Webster on an interdistrict permit?
Be sure to submit your Verification of Continuing Enrollment by June 1, 2026 to remain with us next year.
👉 Click HERE to submit your Verification of Continuing Enrollment Form

📩 Permit Questions?

Please direct all permit-related questions to: permits@smmusd.org

Let’s work together to get those applications in early and secure your place in the Whale Pod 🐳 for 2026–27. Help spread the word to friends, neighbors, and anyone interested in joining the Webster family!

At the May 7 Board of Education meeting, the recommended new math curricula for SMMUSD were officially approved and will be implemented districtwide beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.

This decision follows an extensive pilot process led by a dedicated committee of math teachers representing every school site and grade level. Using resources from the California Department of Education and the updated 2023 California Mathematics Framework, the committee evaluated programs for alignment with standards, equity, organization, and support for educators.

🧮 Approved Curriculum:

• K–8 & Algebra I/II, Geometry: enVision, Savvas (2026)
• Pre-Calculus: Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus, 8E, Cengage (2023)
• AP Calculus: Calculus for AP: A Complete Course, 1E, Cengage (2019)
• AP Statistics: Math Medic AP Statistics (2026)

This adoption maintains access to advanced coursework while promoting deeper conceptual understanding across all levels. The rollout will include comprehensive teacher training and coaching beginning in Fall 2026.

📌 Families can preview the adopted materials at the District Office and share feedback through the Let’s Talk button on the SMMUSD website.

📺 Watch the full presentation HERE.

SMMUSD wants to share some clarity around Chromebook and digital tool use at Webster and across the district. Technology is never a replacement for great teaching—our educators remain at the heart of every lesson. Digital platforms like YouTube (in Education Restricted Mode), Google Translate, and Maps are thoughtfully integrated to support learning, foster creativity, and prepare students for a tech-driven future.

All students are automatically opted OUT of YouTube and other “Additional Google Services.”

✅ To give permission, log in to the Aeries Parent Portal, go to Student Info > Data Confirmation > Authorizations, and update your selection under “Additional Google Services.”

If permission is not granted, your student will still have access to core tools such as Google Classroom, Docs, Drive, and Gmail, but additional services will be disabled.

The most commonly used “Additional Services” include:

• YouTube (Education Restricted Mode) – Students can view only age-appropriate educational videos.

• Google Maps / Earth – Used in geography, social studies, and science.

• Google Translate / Arts & Culture / Photos – Support for language development, cultural exploration, and multimedia projects.

🔐 Reminder: All student accounts are protected through ContentKeeper, a robust content filter used by SMMUSD to ensure students can access only safe, age-appropriate content while online.

📧 Questions? Contact Bertha Roman, Director of Ed Tech: broman@smmusd.org
📌 For help with Aeries, please contact Stephanie Martinez, Registrar: s.martinez@smmusd.org

Consistent attendance is crucial for your student's academic success. It ensures that every student stays on track with learning, builds positive relationships, and contributes to a robust school community. Strong attendance goes beyond just being present; it involves being actively engaged and involved in the educational process.

Encouraging Regular Attendance:

• Make Attendance a Priority: Ensure your student doesn't miss out on crucial learning opportunities.
• Set a Positive Example: Motivate consistent attendance with your involvement.
• Establish a Routine: Help your student set daily routines for a smooth transition to school.
• Open Communication: Reach out to us if there are challenges affecting your student’s attendance.
• Celebrate Success: Acknowledge and celebrate your student's attendance milestones.

Absence Reporting Procedures:

If your student is absent, please report the absence by emailing April Montes at amontes@smmusd.org and Stephanie Martinez (s.martinez@smmusd.org) with your student's name, grade, date, and reason for the absence. Absences must be cleared within 5 days. For more detailed information, please review the SMMUSD attendance policies by clicking HERE.

Parents and guardians can now access their child’s CAASPP, ELPAC, and Star Renaissance score reports directly through the Aeries Parent Portal. Please note that hard copy reports are not mailed home.

✅ How to Access

• Parent Portal Login

• Step-by-Step Guide: Locating Test Scores in Aeries

🎥 Helpful Videos:

• How Parents Access the Portal

These resources walk you through exactly how to view your child’s score reports, so you’ll always have the latest information on their progress.

Support looks different for every family — and every bit counts. Each dollar you give helps fund the people and programs that make Malibu public schools exceptional: from classroom aides and arts instruction to academic support and athletics.

While the community ask is $750 per student, every contribution, at any level, makes a meaningful impact. Your generosity directly benefits all four Malibu schools and enhances the work of each school’s PTA — ensuring every student receives the enriching education they deserve.

The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu is committed to youth and community resilience by providing a supportive and inclusive environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Through exceptional customer service and impactful after-school programs, BGCM focuses on academic success, character development, and health and wellness—catering to the unique needs of Malibu’s youth and strengthening our school community.

🏕️ BGCM Elementary Summer Program – Camp Bu
Enrollment for Camp Bu is now open!

👉 Click here to learn more and enroll and see the attached flyer for details.

Who: Incoming TK–5th grade (Enrollment required to participate)
Where: Webster Elementary (3602 Winter Canyon Rd)
When: June 22–August 7 (Mon–Fri) | Closed July 3 for the holiday

• Incoming K–5th: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

• Incoming TK (Half-Day Program): 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
  Weekly calendars highlighting themes and featured activities will be shared in advance.

📚 Academic Year Enrollment

BGCM Academic Year Enrollment is live and open to grades TK–5th! BGCM is committed to providing a curriculum full of fun, educational, and social experiences.

• Programs include: Kindness Is Free, Manners Matter, social-emotional wellness, STEM-based projects, arts & crafts, cooking/gardening, and more!
• 👉 Click here to learn more and enroll at bgcmalibu.org

💛 Wellness Center & Social Support

BGCM’s Wellness Center provides no-cost mental health counseling and social support services to our school community.

• 👉 Learn more: BGCM Wellness Center
• 📧 Request services: wellnessinfo@bgcmalibu.org
• 📞 Call: 310-457-0360 ext. 60146

🌟 Disaster Recovery Services

The BGCM Disaster Recovery Center, in partnership with the Malibu Community Long Term Recovery Group (MCLTRG), continues to support Franklin and Palisades Fire survivors with long-term recovery services. Families who qualify can receive support including:

• Personalized recovery planning to identify urgent and long-term needs

• Resource connection to access available support based on qualifying criteria

• Advocacy to strengthen community-wide recovery efforts and increase financial resources

👉 To be connected with a Care Coordinator, please email drc@bgcmalibu.org

Looking for fun, inclusive activities this summer? The City of Malibu is offering yoga, coloring, sensory swim, and movie days designed for people of all abilities to enjoy together.

🗓️ Programs run June–August
🎟️ Visit MalibuCity.org/InclusiveRec for full details or check out the flyer above!

Did your child love AstroCamp? Take the adventure to the next level with AstroCamp’s summer program! Campers explore unforgettable hands-on activities that go way beyond the classroom—like rock climbing, mountain biking, welding, rocket launching, and even 3D printing and Dungeons & Dragons! 🎯✨

🧭 Camp options include:

• 1-week for ages 8–13
• Specialty week for ages 10–17
• 2-week sessions for ages 12–17
• Camp CHOP for ages 10–17

💥 Special Offer: First-year campers who attended a school trip get $200 off summer camp with promo code SCHOOLAC. Follow AstroCamp on social media to stay inspired. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind summer experience where curiosity, confidence, and community take center stage!

To enhance student safety, all K–5 students will enter and exit through one main gate — located by the main office. This will help us maintain a secure and supervised environment for all students.

As part of our commitment to safety and being good neighbors, we kindly ask that you:

• Use the designated pick-up and drop-off lane each day.

• Avoid using the Our Lady of Malibu (OLM) parking lots.

• Park only in the Webster lot.

• Keep Pre-K/TK green curb drop-offs quick to ensure smooth turnover — this area is reserved for families using the Pre-K/TK gate. If your student enters through the main gate (K–5), please use the lower lot or main valet line.

Thank you for helping us ensure smooth arrivals and dismissals each day. Creating a safe and positive learning environment is our top priority — and it starts with all of us working together. We truly appreciate your support!

We’re excited to announce our new Instagram account! Follow us @websterwhales for all the latest school news, events, and fun happenings around campus. Stay in the know and connect with our vibrant school community, one post at a time!.

Carina Diana, Principal

Webster Elementary School

3602 Winter Canyon Rd

Malibu, CA 90265

Email: cdiana@smmusd.org
Website: www.smmusd.org/webster
Phone: (310) 456-6494
Instagram: www.instagram.com/websterwhales
Twitter: @webstermalibu