WEbster Nation,

Feeling super heavy on this final Friday at Webster. I am so grateful to be surrounded by the love of these incredible kids. Thank you for sharing them with me this year...they are one of a kind and I feel super lucky to have had the chance to work with them. Such a busy week here on campus. Check out all the joy in this week's newsletter and thank you all for showing up.

Just a quick update on PE for next year. We want to thank Coach Taylor for his service to our students over the last three years. In August, we will welcome certificated PE teacher, Lisa Lambert to Webster. She will be working alongside Michael Holmes as our new PAS. Together, they will work with our students in grade-level groups on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and every other Friday. While this will be a slight change from what we're used to, we look forward to new games and activities for our Whales on the yard.

I can't believe we've only got three days left together. Let's fill them with love and joy and celebrate all we've accomplished over the last few years. Enjoy this week's newsletter and be good to each other out there. Have a beautiful weekend.

*Please note that both Tuesday and Wednesday next week are minimum days.

(See my email regarding Tuesday)

With gratitude,

- Tedd

twakeman@smmusd.org
(310) 456-6494

JUNE 2024

6/10 5th Grade Graduation 9:00a

6/11 FIELD DAY and BBQ for PK-4th (9:30a - 12:30p) (minimum day)

6/11 5th GRADE BEACH DAY (minimum day)

6/12 Last Day of School (minimum day)

DJ Joel emerges from the student tunnel with his son, Nugget (or at least that's what I call him), after he and Shannon Dunn receive the Honorary Service award from Laura Angotti...Shaggy-style. You two are amazing and we are so grateful to have you both at Webster.

Wednesday's "Gratitude Breakfast" was something truly special. What a great reminder of what's really important in life. The love, talent, and creativity filling that room was overwhelming and so beautiful to be a part of. We are lucky to have such a supportive community here at Webster. There were songs (The Buckmans crushed it...again) and poems and the most heartfelt sentiments shared about the many people who impact our school. Regardless of who won awards, it was clear how much we value the contributions of all the members of this community.

As I said that morning, gratitude is such a powerful force and we can make it a part of our mindset each day. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to work in an environment where this can be a meaningful part of our focus. Thanks to all who put in their time and effort toward making this end-of-year event so special. Whether you presented, won an award, cooked or bought food, or just showed up to be a part of the joy, I am truly grateful for such a love-filled morning. By the way, my mom loved being here with all of you.

Special thanks to our coordinators extraordinaire, Saona Jackson and Tatiana Jacobs. Love you both a ton.

Dearest Webster Community,

This week, I received confirmation of my new placement for next year. I will be moving to a Santa Monica school, Grant Elementary. I’m unsure of which grade level, but it will be an upper grade (3-5) classroom.

This comes with a full recipe of emotions. A lot is out of my control and it an exhausting feeling knowing I have a long road ahead of me starting at a new school. It takes quite a bit of effort with any job change (as many of you know).

This entire process has not gone without notice of how much fight we all fought. Every email, phone call, signature, and hug has been unbelievable. I understand that standing up for someone is never easy, and I truly appreciate the time, energy, and commitment you invested in my situation. The connections and bonds I have made with each of you are not lost on me, and I hope we can keep in touch in some capacity moving forward.

I’m remembering that this change can also have its benefits for me personally. A shorter commute is a big one (traffic is soul-sucking), but the possibilities the future holds are unknown and we never know what can happen. Let’s end this incredible year with a bang, and squeeze in as much fun as possible.

All my love and appreciation,

Callie xo

Just a final plea to get you all to come and join us on Monday, June 10, at 9:00a for the 5th grade graduation. It's the last time we really get a chance to gather as a community in honor of love and joy and all things good about Webster. How beautiful it will be to see a packed field for our class of 2024.

(Be sure to bring blankets or lawn chairs so that district-provided seating can be preserved for our 5th grade families)

Having raised the most money during the JOG-A-THON a few months ago, Hero's prize was the chance to have lunch with ME. (I know what you're thinking...how is that a prize?) Believe it or not, I'm great lunch company. Her dilemma was choosing between two really close friends, Janne and Moral. Well, we solved that problem by bringing them both. So Tuesday afternoon, the four of us bounced down to Cafe Habana for tacos, quesadillas, chicken fingers, and brown rice bowls. After some enlightening lunch conversation, we wrapped up our excursion with a scoop of ice cream from Malibu Yogurt. Nothing beats chocolate peanut butter!!! Thanks to Hero, Janne, and Moral for a really lovely afternoon and a chance to get away from the grind for a little while.

Well, we tried our best to surprise them. Sometimes, having older siblings who have been through the the breakfast doesn't work in our favor. Either way, we told them they were ALL going to the middle school for an orientation that I totally forgot about. Dressed in their best jammies, we excitedly headed for the bus. Meanwhile, a sneaky group of dedicated parents were decorating Ms. Keisha's bus and readying it for a trip to Malibu Farm. There was relief and joy as our 5th graders realized they weren't going to the middle school, but were rather heading over for a delicious breakfast. Cheers to all who pitched in to make this such a fun event for our beloved graduates. Shout out to Malibu Farm for being the BEST hosts!

Big thanks to Cindy Ransier and Michelle Wolfe for heading up the 5th grade activities committee.

This is the fifth year that the Santa Monica College Dance Department will be providing World Dance for the SMMUSD Elementary Schools. The SMC Dance Academy is an instructional program taught during the school day and leads to the performance we were treated to on Thursday morning. This specialized college pathway program is designed to encourage students to think independently, to be able to work with others, to value creative thought and diversity, and to be responsible global citizens.

The SMC Dance Academy’s goal for delivering dance instruction to SMMUSD’s students is based on our mission to nurture the development of a skill set that students will use to build fulfilling lives for themselves and their community. According to the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO), dance is a powerful ally for developing every aspect of elementary age children. Dance helps children develop physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively.

The fourth graders at Webster learned both Folklorico and Hawaiian Dances this year, concluding their program with a beautiful performance for their families. Much thanks to all involved for making this happen. Candie Khoe, Joaquin Gamboa, Ke alii Ceballos, and Caron Eule.

After a premliminary round that took place here in the library earlier last month, Webster sent three students to the final round of the Optimist Club of Malibu's, "Kids Speak Out!" competition. This was held on Wednesday in Raitt Recital Hall at Pepperdine. Students wrote speeches based on the prompt, "Why choose optimism?" Tulee Earnest, Lyle Sokoloff, and Naomi Jackson presented their speeches to a panel of judges and well....(drum roll, please)... Webster's own Tulee Earnest brought home the bronze!!! All three of Webster's finalists were incredible on Wednesday afternoon. We are so proud of ALL of our 4th grade students who put in the time and effort to present their speeches.

A huge congratulations to you, Tulee, Lyle, and Naomi! That's cool stuff, my friends. Kuddos to parents, teachers, and peers for their support as well. Thanks to Mona Kyle for her constant support of Webster students and to Mr. K and Mrs. Morris for guiding these kids through.

This morning we were treated to an absolutely beautiful display of courage, acting, singing, history, comedy, and so much more as Mrs. Stark's third graders took to the stage to perform "American Symbols on Parade." With everything else going on as we wrap up the year, Mrs. Stark and her gang put together an amazing performance for a packed house here at Webster. We were thoroughly enchanted by their knowledge, playfulness, costumes, and singing. Well done, team!!!

And to Mrs. Stark, your efforts toward and dedication to engaged learning does not go unnoticed. What a beautiful achievement this morning was.

Next Tuesday, June 11, from 9:30-12:30, is TK-4th grade FIELD DAY!! That's when we take over the big yard and transform it into a menagerie of games and activities. With Kyle Mlodzik at the helm this year, we're blowin' the doors off this thing. Make sure your kids are dressed to run, jump, kick, throw, and have the time of their lives. We are BBQing and pulling out all the stops. I even heard a rumor that there might be an opportunity to dunk the principal???

*Please note that Tuesday will be a minimum day

Don't miss out on a chance to see several of our amazing Webster kids performing in the Off Broadway Kids production of Aladdin. Dax as the Genie, Skye as the Magic Carpet, Theo as Aladdin, and Maisy as Jasmine!

They've been working on this show since January and we are beyond proud of their perseverance and grit. The big performance is this Sunday, June 9th, at 6:30pm, at the Malibu High School Theater. Let's pack that theater in support of our young thespians.

Here's the link for tickets -https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdcDXKu66tmpDgmN8v1wtpLz5LXCQuPMS7ZyEGEbDlmj-J9qQ/viewform

What an unbelievably cool program this has been this year. I want to take a moment to sincerely thank Cassidy and Blue Benadum for their weekly love and support of our kids. Taking a unique approach to developing healthy habits, these two have started a tradition I hope will last a lifetime here at Webster. Starting our day with activities, games, and running has been such a welcome thing this year. Keep it up, gang!!

If you have questions or want to get involved, please email Cassidy & Blue Benadum at maliburungroms@gmail.com.

Attention 3rd – 5th Grade Parents,

We encourage our Webster students grades 3rd – 5th to participate in the Wait Til 8th Pledge. Our goal is to gather more support from the families to wait longer for children to get Smart Phones & Watches, to help minimize tech distractions in the classroom, and allow parents to feel supported in waiting longer before getting their child(ren) access to this technology. You can read more about it at www.waituntil8th.org.

- Pledge forms are coming home for you to sign with your child(ren)

- Return them to school by next week, Wednesday, March 20th.

- Thursday, March 21st, every student who turns in a pledge form will receive a coupon for a FREE

slice at Prince Street Pizza

- If you have any questions, please email Kim at KimEbeling44@gmail.com.

Thank You!

Here at Webster, we're putting out best foot forward and making a case for good education.

Here are our current Board positions for 24/24!!!

Congratulations and THANK YOU to all our PTA representatives.

Co-Presidents*: Bobbi Thomason

Treasurer: Elena Eggers

Secretary: Anya Fernald

Financial Secretary: Sarah Ryan

Volunteer Coordinator: Saona Jackson

Community Liaison: Sion Roy

Communications Chairs: Shannon Dunn and Kate Ward

Student Involvement Chair: Kyle Mlodzik

Room Representative Chair: Anya Fernald

Party Book Chairs: Lauren Ifft & Erin Fotos

Historian: Carley Devlin

Honorary Service Awards: Carley Devlin

Volunteer Bookkeeper: Farah Flores

Reflections Chair: Dana Orescan

Valet Chairs: Tatiana Jacobs and Heidi Saban

Yearbook Co-Chair: VACANT

Fundraising Chair: Yama Lam

Webster Wear Chair: Lauren Ifft

Parliamentarian (to be appointed by the new Board): Kate Pritchett-Skene

* Because the PTA bylaws do not permit Co-Presidencies, technically, their roles will be President and Executive VP, respectively.

Webster Information - Week of June 10, 2024

The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu aims to provide a fun, safe, and creative environment for all Malibu youth to thrive, find support through positive mentorship, develop important life skills, and receive social and emotional support.

• BGCM Camp Bu Enrollment is LIVE! June 24-Aug 9 Visit bgcmalibu.org to learn more and enroll. For grades TK-5th located at Webster Elementary. BGCM is committed to providing a summer curriculum that will include a variety of activities geared towards fun, educational, and social experiences. Programs include: STEM based projects, arts & crafts, cooking/gardening, kindness, social emotional wellness, and more!

• BGCM & Prince Street Pizza For your next family night out, please consider supporting BGCM! BGCM & Prince Street Pizza teamed up on a pizza design contest. Order BGCM member Violette's Sunshine Surprise, a vegan, GF pizza crust with marinara, vegan cheese, mushrooms, peppers and banana peppers. The specially-designed pizza is available at Prince Street Pizza (Malibu location only) 20% of the proceeds benefiting BGCM’s mental health services and educational initiatives for youth.
  
  

• 1 in 5 Youth-Led Suicide Prevention Clothing Line The 1 in 5 project is a youth-led suicide prevention clothing line created by members of the BGCM. 100% of proceeds benefit BGCM Wellness Center mental health and wellness services. Shop to support by visiting us in store or shopping online! To learn more and purchase, visit thirdspacemalibu.org/products/1-in-5-crewneck-sweater

• Family Friendly Jewelry Making Experience - Join us at Third Space for Kidd's Jewelry Heist, a family-friendly jewelry-making experience unlike any other! Every Sunday, from 12 to 5pm, come and create your own necklaces, bracelets, keychains, and earrings with the help of our expert team.Explore a curated selection of beads, charms, and chains, and let your creativity run wild. Kidd's Jewelry Heist is renowned for merging entertainment with the art of jewelry making. Enjoy an hour-long session and take home two unique pieces of jewelry for $45 per person. No reservation needed.
  
  

• Wellness Center & Social Support Offerings The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu Wellness Center operates remotely and also in-person to provide no-cost social support & mental health counseling to all in the community. Visit https://bgcmalibu.org/wellness-center/ to learn more or to request services for you/your child! There is currently NO WAITLIST for services. PSA: Parents! If you've missed any parent workshops, they are available on our website at https://bgcmalibu.org/wellness-center-resources/

• Malibu Chili Cook-Off 2024 IS ON SALE Tickets launch starting JUNE 6! We have EARLY BIRD ticket pricing, $15 ANY DAY! Don't delay as ticket prices increase July 15. Visit www.malibuchilicookoff.org to purchase. Follow us @malibuchilicookoff

• Malibu Chili Cook-Off 2024 Volunteer with Us! Your support is a huge part of what makes this event successful! Please consider volunteering with us Aug 30-Sept 2, 2024. We've got some pretty AWESOME perks for our volunteers. To learn more, please email mcco.volunteer@gmail.com
  
  *To contact the Club please call 310-457-1400 (Admin) or 310-241-3675 (Programs) Email info@bgcmalibu.org For updates on Club news & events, subscribe to BGCM E-Newsletter Here

Third Space is OPEN at Malibu Village! Third Space is a storefront, gallery and an innovation space for youth to be mentored and inspired. A project of the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, made possible by many generous community contributors. A percentage of all store purchases benefit BGCM:

• Safe spaces after-school
• Mental health services for youth, families and aging population
• Drug and alcohol prevention programming
• Innovative and inspiring opportunities for youth
• Regenerative systems and educational initiatives

Here, in our vibrant community, we value care, connection, and creativity. We offer youth, families, and visitors of all ages the chance to explore products from local, sustainable and social entrepreneurs. To learn more, visit thirdspacemalibu.org Follow us on IG/FB: @thirdspacemalibu

"We are so thrilled to welcome the community to Third Space. We love being able to highlight products and art created by local, young entrepreneurs including Malibu High and BGCM alumni! This is a very special space made possible by amazing community contributors and we just can't wait for everyone to experience Third Space and all that it has to offer". Kasey Earnest, Boys & Girls Club of Malibu CEO

Third Space is made possible by the following contributors: Blue Star Painting • Bold LA • Devon Meyers Photography • JL Designs • 129 Builders Inc. • Jones Builders Group • Koum Family Foundation • The Little Market • The Dorn Family • Peak Power Electric • Quality Indoor Air - Heating and Air Conditioning • Venue Creation Resources

Developing strong character and valuable mindsets is essential. This remains a major focus at Webster. As we build community here on campus, at home, and across Malibu, we will continue to model the kind of behavior that promotes unity, kindness, and thoughtful problem solving. In addition, we will value these traits in others and recognize outstanding efforts.

Every Friday we sport our Webster Wear to show school spirit and celebrate the coming weekend. Classes with the highest percentage of Webster Wear win the whale for the week. Be sure to show your spirit and pick up some Webster Wear in the main office when you stop in to say hello.

The AERIES Parent Portal

Tedd's Welcome Letter 2023

Tedd's Welcome Back Video 2023

AERIES Parent Portal Tutorial

Student Services Registration Documents 23/24

Family Engagement & School Parent Compact

Webster Bell Schedule

PTA Membership

PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Class Change Request Form

Hour of Code