The Westgate Wire
December 19, 2025
Celebrating the Holidays at Westgate
Music For Youth Students Playing Holiday Songs at Morning Arrival
South Middle School's Wind Assemble Holiday Concert
Mr. Greg reading to first grade!
Westgate's Annual Winter Sing!
Erin's Law Presentation
Child Sexual Abuse Prevention lessons will begin after winter break at Westgate. Illinois Public Act 097-1147, requires public schools to provide child sexual abuse prevention education for children in prekindergarten through twelfth grades. Age-appropriate instruction helps students recognize unsafe situations, keep themselves safe, and understand how to respond to unsafe situations. School social workers work with each grade level to provide age-appropriate information on topics such as safe versus unsafe touching, the touching rule, secrets, and reporting.
The following link includes more information, including presentations and opt-out forms:
If you choose to opt your child out of the presentation, please share the form with Dr. Buch.
Important Information from Our Health Office
Winter is the time of year when we notice cases of lice in our school community. While lice are a common occurrence and not a health hazard, it’s important to remain vigilant.
Please take a moment to read this INFORMATIONAL LETTER on HEAD LICE which includes helpful information about identifying and preventing the spread of lice.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
New Session of Chess Club Starting Soon!
Looking for something fun to keep your kids busy when it’s cold outside? Try Chess Club!
The Westgate Chess Club Winter Session starts Friday, Jan. 9! Beginners are welcome, and new members can even try the first week FREE. Kids will learn new tactics, play games and tournaments, and earn certificates and prizes. All while having a blast!
Fridays | 3:35–4:35
Westgate Library
Register at www.IllinoisChessTeachers.com
Give your child a cozy, brain-boosting winter activity. They’ll love it!
Upcoming PTA Events
Parent Night Out
It's officially time to get registered for the best Back to the 90's Parent Night Out Ever! Don't take my word for it-see what Zack and Will have to say!
Come to Arlington Ale House, Saturday January 31, 2026 to party like it's 1999 with a bunch of totally awesome Westgate parents. Amazing BINGO prizes, special in-person raffle items, and more! Register now before the holiday madness sets in!
REGISTER HERE or https://forms.gle/xR8pVwxtWycNPZ1V6
New to Westgate and not sure you feel comfortable attending this awesome event? Reach out to Kelley Balmer (kelley.balmer@gmail.com) or Ali Smazik (alisonsmazik@gmail.com)
Spirit Days
Mark your calendars for this year's Spirit Days!
Jan. 9th- Favorite Winter Animal
Feb. 6th- Pajama Day
March 6th- Sports
April 10th- Crazy Wear
May 1st- Westgate Spirit Wear
We wish you a safe and happy winter break!
See you in the New Year!
Important Dates- New Information
12/22-1/5- Winter Break (No School)
1/8-Spirit Day-Favorite Winter Animal
1/19- No School- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
1/28-PTA Meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the LMC
1/29-5th Grade Music Program at 6:30 p.m.
1/31-PTA's Parent Night Out
2/10-2nd Grade Music Program at 6:30 p.m.
2/16- Parent/Teacher Conferences (No School)
2/27- Westgate Variety Show