Westwood Wire

Algebra students working on solving equations and linear equations.

Pre-Algebra GT students working in groups on Simple and Compound Interest problems.

Topic: Linear Functions , Proportional and Non-proportional relationships

• Graduate Profile Connection: Solving linear functions strengthens critical thinking skills and builds a strong foundation for future math courses.

• Key Dates:

• CIA October 20th/21st

• Quiz October 30th /31st (Tentative)

• Quiz November 12/13th (Tentative)

Topic: Linear Functions , Proportional and Non-proportional relationships, GT Lesson - Non-Proportional Problem Solving

• Graduate Profile Connection: Solving linear functions strengthens critical thinking skills and builds a strong foundation for future math courses.

• Key Dates:

• CIA October 20th/21st

• Quiz October 30th /31st (Tentative)

• Quiz November 12/13th (Tentative)

Topic: Point-Slope Form, Standard Form, Parallel and Perpendicular Lines, Linear Transformations

• Graduate Profile Connection: Linear equations help students predict outcomes, make informed decisions, and apply math to real-world contexts such as financial planning.

• Key Dates:

• Unit 3 Quiz - Oct 16th/17th (tentative)
• CIA #1 - Oct 22nd/23rd

Topic: Point-Slope Form, Standard Form, Parallel and Perpendicular Lines, Linear Transformations. GT Lesson - College Debt Forecast with Linear Regression

• Graduate Profile Connection: Students learn to model situations, simplify complex problems, and apply mathematical thinking to real-world innovations.

• Key Dates:

• Unit 3 Quiz - Oct 16th/17th (tentative)
• CIA #1 - Oct 22nd/23rd

Topic: Polynomial Operations, Factoring Quadratics, Factoring Polynomials, Unit 5 - Quadratics (Parent, Solving, and Writing)

• Graduate Profile Connection: These topics build the analytical skills and mathematical foundations needed for success in advanced STEM courses.

• Key Dates:

• CIA #1 - Oct 22nd
• Unit 4 Test - October 30th

Topic: Parallel and Perpendicular lines, Triangles, Rigid Transformations

• Graduate Profile Connection: Deductive reasoning improves critical thinking and teaches students to recognize flawed arguments, a valuable life skill in decision-making and problem-solving.
• Key Dates:
• CIA Oct 20
• Mid Unit Test Oct 30 ( tentative)
• Proofs Quiz November 11th ( Tentative)

• Pre-Algebra students need to work on iReady

• Encourage students to attend tutorials during posted times.

• Check student work and progress regularly.

• Practice solving equations (short daily practice goes a long way).

• ALEKS for Algebra 1: Aim for 45 minutes each week (if assigned).

• RTI support: Sign up for Algebra 1/Algebra 2 weekly RTI sessions (as applicable).

• Pre-Algebra GT Step-by-step help: Use MathGPT as a math resource for guided solutions.

• Mr. Parker - PreAlgebra/ Algebra 1/ Algebra - Paxton.Parker@risd.org
• Mr. Johnson - Algebra 1 - William.Jonhson@risd.org
• Coach Tibbets - Algebra 1 - Carter.Tibbets@risd.org

• Mrs. Wilkin - Pre-algebra/Geometry - Christine.Wilkin@risd.org
• Mr. Sabri - Pre-Algebra - Amir.Sabrialias@risd.org
• Mrs. Witkowicz - Pre-Algebra - Cynthia.Witkowicz@risd.org

Before your student can attend before- or after-school tutorials, they must speak with their teacher to sign up in the RTI Scheduler. This sign-up acts as their “pass” to tutoring.

Accelerated Science: Chemical Reaction Stations

Enriching Science knowledge by interacting with outdoor ecosystems.

Advanced Physics & Chemistry launched rockets!

7th Science Lab: How temperature affect diffusion.

Science students engaged in Destination Imagination challenges during Wolf Den.

Students explore the relationships between force, mass and acceleration!

Topic: Force and Motion, Balloon Cars

• Graduate Profile Connection: Understanding force and motion builds problem-solving skills and helps students see science in everyday life.

• Key Dates:

• Test: November 11th and 12th

Topic: Force and Motion; Force and Motion Fair — students will create and design games using principles of physics.

• Graduate Profile Connection: Applying physics principles in a creative project fosters critical thinking, innovation, and real-world problem solving.

• Key Dates:

• Fair week of November 3rd
• Test November 11th and 12th

Topic: Mouse Trap Cars

• Graduate Profile Connection: Designing and building mouse trap cars blends real-world application with critical thinking, strengthening engineering and problem-solving skills.

• Key Dates:

• Tentative Mouse Trap Car Date: Week of November 17th

Topics: Chemistry and Physics

• Graduate Profile Connection: Interpreting real-world data sources sharpens analytical skills and deepens understanding of science in everyday contexts.

• Key Dates:

• Quiz: October 12-13

Topic: Waves, Weather Patterns, and Organization of the Universe

• Graduate Profile Connection: Exploring these concepts strengthens critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to communicate scientific ideas clearly.

• Key Dates:

• Test: Oct 28/29th
• Test: Nov 11/12th

Topic: Waves, Weather Patterns, and Organization of the Universe— with real-world applications and cross-curricular alignments.

• Graduate Profile Connection: Applying physical science to real-world situations promotes higher-order thinking and effective communication across disciplines.

• Key Dates:

• Test: Oct 28/29th
• Test: Nov 11/12th

Topic: Electricity, Circuits, and Waves

• Graduate Profile Connection: Studying electricity, circuits, and waves enhances critical thinking and equips students to connect scientific principles to real-world problems.

• Key Dates:
• Test: Week of Oct 20t
• 2nd Lab Write-up: Week of November 17th

• Encourage students to review notes nightly (10–15 minutes).

• Have your child create and study notecards.

• Ask to see projects/designs as they work on them.

• Remind your child to study vocabulary before bed.

• Review exit ticket (ET) and quiz scores on their device.

• Look over written lab reports when sent home.

• Encourage completion of all homework assignments.

• Mrs. Cooper - 7th Science / 7th GT Science - Amanda.Cooper@risd.org
• Mr. Godinez - 7th Science - Heriberto.Godinez@risd.org
• Mr. Heinen - Accelerated Science / Math Based Science - Nicklaus.Heinen@risd.org
• Mrs. Pearce - 8th Science / Physics & Chemistry - Megan.Pearce@risd.org
• Mrs. Zeito - 8th Science / 8th GT Science - Kristin.Zeito@risd.org

Before your student can attend before- or after-school tutorials, they must speak with their teacher to sign up in the RTI Scheduler. This sign-up acts as their “pass” to tutoring.

• 10/22 - Fall Band Concert @ 6 PM
• 10/24 - Fall Picture day
• 10/27-31 - Red Ribbon Week
• 11/3-4 - Student Holiday/Staff Professional Learning Day
• 11/05 – Road to RHS (8th grade parents at WWJH @ 6 pm)
• 11/06 – MST Ed Talks
• 11/18 - Orchestra Fall Concert @ Richardson HS Auditorium @ 6:30 PM
• 12/16-19 – Fall Exam Week

Haga clic aquí para español.

Earlier this week, our students gathered in the small gym to cast their votes in the Student Council elections. We’re excited for the new officers to shine as leaders at Westwood!

A big thank you to all the families who attended our Fall Choir Concert! Our students gave a wonderful performance. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to sharing more music with you throughout the year!

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful PTA for bringing delicious treats to our teachers this week! Your support truly makes a difference in our school community. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to join our PTA to continue fostering a supportive environment for our students and staff.

We held our very first Wolf Buck Store of the 2025-2026 school year! Students receive Wolf Bucks for exhibiting safe, respectful, and responsible behavior. Students get so excited to spend their bucks once a quarter.

Dear Families,

As the holiday season approaches, we understand it can be a challenging time for some. If your family is in need of assistance this year, we want to make you aware of a helpful resource.

The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program offers support to families by providing gifts and essentials for children during the holidays. If you would like to learn more or apply for assistance, please visit the link below.

All information submitted is kept confidential. Please don’t hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity if it can help bring a little extra joy to your family this season.

A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention

In honor of Red Ribbon Week, we want to provide our parents with some resources on how to talk to your kids about substance use. This can be a difficult topic to broach and we want to give you tools to begin your conversations. Please see the flyer below for this year’s theme. As always, we are here to help.

We will be hosting an informational night for all 8th grade parents here at Westwood called Road to RHS. This event is designed to educate and equip you as you prepare to transition your student from junior high to high school. We will be discussing Personalized Graduation Plans, high school credit requirements and course offerings, extra curricular activities, and parental involvement at RHS and with their PTA. Westwood and RHS counselors will be present, as well as RHS Principal, Chris Choat, and CTE Counselor, Jennifer Sweaks. Please RSVP for the event using the QR code below, and we look forward to seeing you!

Hello Westwood Families,

It’s that time again! Westwood Junior High, Math, Science, and Leadership Magnet is excited to invite speakers to chat with our students about how the skills they are learning in the classroom connect to future careers. This year’s event will take place on November 6th.

We are so grateful for the incredible community support we’ve received in the past and would be thrilled to have you join us again this year—either in person or virtually!

If you’re willing to share your time and experiences to help inspire and develop young minds, please let us know by completing this Google Form.

Our students truly benefit from the knowledge, stories, and skills our community members bring, and we deeply appreciate your involvement in continuing the tradition of Westwood EdTalks!

If you have any questions, please contact:
Melissa Compton 📧 melissa.compton@risd.org

We’re looking for parent volunteers to support behind the scenes during our MST Ed Talks on Thursday, November 6th! Help us create a smooth experience for our student speakers by assisting with Green Room responsibilities.. Your support at this event is invaluable!

Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure—Westwood Wolves are heading to London for Spring Break 2026!

For the past four years, Westwood 8th graders have experienced six incredible days exploring London’s sights, culture, and history. Now, we’re thrilled to open the 2026 trip to both 7th and 8th grade students—and parents too!

✨ Trip Highlights:

· 6-day guided tour of London

· Iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and historical sites

· Fun and educational travel opportunity with classmates and staff

📌 Important Info:

· Spaces are limited, so act fast!

· Flexible payment plans are available through our travel provider.

📣 Stay Informed:
Details will also be shared in the weekly Westwood Wire: Learning with the Pack.

For questions or more information, please contact:

· Beverley Lockett, Trip Advisor

· Katie Mottram, Principal

Let’s make Spring Break 2026 one to remember—join the London Wolves adventure!

The staff at Richardson ISD are increasingly more concerned about the increase of adolescents

using drugs and alcohol in recent years. Fundamentally, it is important that we provide students

with comprehensive drug education.

We are continuing “The More You Know” series this year with several lessons from the Stanford

Reach Lab’s prevention curriculum as well as information from the National Institute on Alcohol

Abuse and Alcoholism. These lessons were chosen because they are evidence-based and

provide science-based information for the risks of drugs for adolescents.

During the months of October, January, and March, 6th - 12th grade students at our secondary

campuses will receive the following lessons chosen to inform them of the dangers of drugs on

their growing brains, the risks of opioids/misuse of prescription drugs, harm reduction, and

positive ways to cope with stress.

Additionally, feel free to contact the Counseling and Prevention Services department at

469-593-9112.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lauren DeBose

Director of Intervention Services

Counseling and Prevention Services

Dr. Summer Martin

Executive Director

Counseling and Prevention Services

Dear Families,

As we prepare for the upcoming admissions process for our elementary and junior high magnet programs, we want to share important updates regarding eligibility requirements.

Before students may be considered for the magnet lottery, they must first meet basic academic, attendance, and behavior expectations. These criteria ensure that students are well-prepared to thrive in our rigorous and specialized magnet learning environments.

Please take time to encourage your child to:

• Maintain regular attendance (at least 90% or higher).

• Strive for high academic achievement by keeping an overall average of 80 or above in the core subjects—Math, Reading/Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies and avoiding course failures.

• Demonstrate positive behavior that reflects our Code of Civility by being safe, respectful, and responsible. Students with repeated discipline incidents or suspensions may not be eligible.

We are sharing these expectations early so that families and students are fully aware of the requirements well before the application window. Our goal is to prevent any student from losing access to the lottery process due to attendance, academic performance, or behavior concerns.

Finalized entry and acceptance guidelines, as well as application timelines, will be communicated soon on our district website and other district publications..

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students excel both in and out of the classroom. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed and thrive in our magnet programs.

Annual Snap Raise Fundraiser:

We’re excited to kick off our Westwood Junior High Boys and Girls Athletics Snap! Raise fundraiser on October 17th - November 14th! Our goal is to raise the funds needed to give every athlete the best possible experience — both on and off the court and field. Your support helps us cover important program costs such as awards, team ties, events and activities, and wishlist items. These items directly impact our athletes’ growth, confidence, and success throughout the season.

This is the only fundraiser for the 2025-2026 school year. Together, we can reach our goal and make this year one to remember. Thank you for your continued support of Westwood Athletics—where teamwork, dedication, and pride make us legendary!

Basketball Tryouts:

The 2025-2026 basketball season is just a few weeks away. As we approach basketball tryouts, there are a few things to remember:

1. All students participating in open gym and tryouts must be cleared in Rank One with an updated preparticipation physical and all online forms completed prior to October 29th.

2. Information for Rank One can be found on Westwood Junior High website.

3. Boys: Open Gym 10/29 - 10/31 and official tryouts will take place November 5th - 7th.

4. Girls: Skills day 10/31 and official tryouts will be November 5th - 7th.

Fall Sports Update:

FOOTBALL:

• The Wolves will compete against Parkhill Junior HIgh at JJ Pearce Field on Tuesday, October 14th.
• 7th Grade game starts at 5:30 PM
• 8th Grade game will begin at 7:00 PM

VOLLEYBALL:

• The volleyball teams will play Parkhill Junior High next week. The next competition is set for Thursday, October 23rd.
• The 7th grade games will travel to Parkhill Junior High.
• 7A will play at 5:30 PM, followed by the 7B team at 6:30 PM, and 7C will close out the night at 7:30 PM.
• The 8th grade teams will play at Westwood Junior High.
• Game times are set for 8B @ 5:30 PM and 8A @ 6:30 PM.
• WWJH TEACHER APPRECIATION NIGHT
• Tickets can be purchased online https://richardsonisd.brushfire.com/ or at the door.
• Volleyball will show appreciation to our teachers and Staff members on the following dates:
• 8th Grade Teachers:
• Thursday, October 23rd. Games are set for 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM.
• 7th Grade Teachers:
• Monday, October 27th. Game times are 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:30 PM.

Cross Country:

• Boys: 8th grade finished in 1st place and 7th grade earned 2nd place this past week. The next competition is at Huffhines Park on Thursday, October 16th at 4:30 PM.
• Girls: 7th and 8th grade girls earned a 1st place finish in Division II against North Junior High, Lake Highlands MS, and Forest Meadow MS during the October 14th meet.
• The next competition is Tuesday, October 21st at Huffhines Park. The start time is 4:30 PM.

Westwood Athletic Coordinators

• Girls: Beverley Lockett beverly.lockett@risd.org

• Boys: Andres Cervantes andres.cervantes@risd.org

IMPORTANT: All students must have an updated physical using the correct 2024 form and all UIL Rank One paperwork completed prior to participating in any tryouts, practices, or games. Updated and valid athletic physicals allow students to actively participate for one calendar year from the date of the doctor's examination. All UIL information can be found on Westwood, RHS, and RISD Athletics websites. In order for a student to remain in the Athletics period, all eligibility requirements (physical and Rank One) must be completed by Friday, August 29th. If you have any questions or would like to speak with one of the athletic coordinators at Westwood, please contact Coach Lockett or Coach Cervantes.

Tickets for all RISD Athletic Events can be purchased at the gate or by visiting the link below:

https://richardsonisd.brushfire.com/

Join the WWJH PTA and show your support for our students! We welcome and encourage parents, grandparents, neighbors, extended family, friends and members of the community to join the WWJH PTA! Support your school and your child by joining WWJH PTA!

PTA Reflections is a nationally acclaimed student recognition program to encourage artistic creativity in the classroom and at home. Students of all grades and abilities may participate and explore the arts. For more information, visit our website WWJH PTA Reflections 2025-26 or email artsed@westwoodpta.org.

The theme for 2025-26 is "I Belong..." Express your artistic talents with PTA Reflections in the categories of dance choreography, musical composition, photography, visual arts, film production, and literature. Entries due Oct 29!

On November 4, registered voters will have the opportunity to vote on a $1.4 billion bond package proposed by the RISD Board of Trustees.

These are the bond projects included in the bond proposal that would impact our campus.

Early Voting: October 20-31

Election Day: Tuesday, November 4

Visit the Bond Website for Details.

RISD recognizes the work our teachers perform to support every child, every day. And we believe there is an opportunity EVERY day to show our appreciation for all they do to ensure student success. Click here to learn more about the Thank a Teacher program and how to sign up, and we will connect you with a campus.