Reflecting. Learning. Growing.
Hello WHES Families,
A couple of weeks ago, we published our DESE School Report Card. Just as a student’s report card shows how they are doing in different subjects, the school's report card shows how we are doing in different areas. The school report card includes a variety of information and is a guide for us to see what we are doing well and what we need to improve.
We know that our report card doesn't reflect all the amazing things that are happening at WHES. We also know that we have work to do so that every student will have what they need to be independent, curious, and be confident as they learn who they are and the world around them.
We are confident that the plans we have put in place this school year are making a difference in the Social Emotional and Academic growth of all our students. Take a look!
So what is REALLY happening at WHES?
In the area of Instruction:
-New curriculum and on-the-job support with our Literacy and Math coaches and Literacy consultant
-Focus on DATA and next steps to support gaps in learning: Weekly progress checks in Math and Reading and STAR (district assessment 4x/year in Math and Literacy)
-Small Group Instruction-This is where focused teaching occurs to meet the needs of our students!
-Targeted support: High-dosage tutoring (in school and after)
-Building capacity: Instructional paraprofessionals conducting small group lessons
-Students: Goal setting-Students owning their learning and progress!
Communication
Focus on connecting with ALL families as partners in their child's education
Attendance Counts!-How we can help to make sure every student comes to school everyday!
Building an anti-Racist Community
Educational Equity-making sure that all students have access to grade-level standards and the opportunity to demonstrate their learning in different ways.
Our school community and structures are shifting to be more inclusive, and the part of this work is remodeling our school playground so that it is ADA compliant and a welcoming environment for every child (be on the lookout for our new playground design coming soon!)
-Sue
Nurse's Office
March is Vision Awareness Month. I am making my way thru each grade for testing. If you have received a notice in your students folder, it is very important to their learning, to follow up with an eye doctor as soon as possible. For more information on children's eye health see https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/tips-children-eyes-vision
Coaches Corner
Library
During the month of March we will be celebrating Literacy Month and Women’s History. The kids will be reading a lot during the school days and we have many excellent titles for them to choose from here at the library. Please also check out the Salem Public Library and the LIBBY APP!
Please encourage your children to read for enjoyment, it just takes that one “right” book to get them hooked for life. For me, it was the Judy Bloom book Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing. I have read that to many of the students here as well as to my own children and they always seem to love it.
I have included some of my favorite titles below that are full with amazing female characters in honor of women’s history month.
Happy Reading!
SEL (Social-Emotional Learning)
Exposure to natural light, which is often more intense and varied in outdoor settings, can also help regulate the body's circadian rhythms and improve sleep, which is crucial for overall mental health.
Additionally, spending time in nature can also help to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. https://explorermindset.org/outdoor-sel/
Family Connections
SPREAD THE WORD! We will be hosting Kindergarten Tours during the week of March 6th and March 13h. The tour times are 9:30am or 1:00pm. If you know anyone that is interested please share our contact information! Main office at 978-740-1271 or Arabelis Luciano at 781-771-7151.
5th Grade Families
DESE Student Achievement Award!
Congratulations to the following students!!!
Kerris Bela
Ian Sulejmani
Melannie Alemar
Alexander Salsgiver
Nova Ruiz Pena
Bailey Gentleman
Irwin Perry
Family Engagement Facilitator
These can include any ASPEN or PARENT SQUARE Challenges!
As a reminder, ALL FAMILIES MUST be on PARENT SQUARE as this is our main communication tool!
