Washington Elementary
December 2025
Message from Principal Gale
Washington families,
December marks the halfway point in the school year. We are looking forward to celebrating the academic success of our students and sharing their progress on the middle-of-the-year benchmark assessments. Students in grades 3–5 will take the MAP Reading test December 1–4 and the MAP Math test December 8–11. In addition, all students in grades K–5 will take the DIBELS assessment on December 8.
As we enter the season of giving, we are grateful for our supportive school community and the many ways students, families, and staff come together to lift one another up. The PTO is hosting the Santa Shop again this year from December 15–17, where students will have the opportunity to purchase gifts for their families. Additional information will be sent home as we get closer to the date.
We will celebrate the end of the first semester on the final day before winter break with a Festival of Fun. Students will rotate through a variety of activities throughout the day. The PTO will also host a cookie-decorating station and will be seeking volunteers to help support this event. A volunteer sign-up will be shared as the date approaches.
Enjoy the season,
Mrs. Gale
Mrs. Simmons, School Counselor
As we step into December, I’m reminded of what a special time of year this is for our students and families. The first half of the school year has been filled with growth, learning, and many moments worth celebrating. I am so proud of the resilience and kindness our students continue to show each day.
This month is often known as the season of giving, and it offers a wonderful opportunity to help children reflect on what it means to give—not just gifts, but also time, patience, and compassion. Encouraging simple acts of kindness at home and at school helps students build empathy and strengthens our entire community.
I wish each family a warm, peaceful, and connected winter season. Thank you for all you do to support your child and our school community.
Warmly,
Mrs. Simmons
Important Dates in December
December 1-5: MAP Reading tests for 3rd-5th
December 4- PTO Meeting at 6:00 in the Library
December 5- Spirit Day/ Treat Sales
December 8-12: MAP Math tests for 3rd-5th
December 15-17: Santa Shop
December 16- HAL Meeting
December 19- Festival of Fun
December 22- January 2: No School Winter Break
Stay Connected!
Parent Portal
We encourage all families to sign up for the Infinite Campus Parent Portal via the website or Campus Portal App. Through this portal you can:
- Access grades and attendance
- Complete the district forms such as Free & Reduced Lunch and Kids Klub applications.
- Update your contact information anytime during the school year.
Also check out our Rooms FAQ Page Link for tutorials. Rooms will allow you to communicate directly with your student's teachers.
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)!
Event Information
Visitor Check-In
🛑 New Visitor Check-In System at Washington 🛑
This school year, we’re introducing Visitor Aware—our new check-in system that replaces Raptor.
All visitors will be required to check in at the front office using a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID.
The safety and security of our students and staff remains our top priority. Thank you for your continued support in helping keep our Wildcats safe and secure!
Washington Elementary's Vision Statement
Through collaboration, we create a caring and supportive environment where all students will achieve their full potential in and out of the classroom.
North Platte Public Schools' Mission
North Platte Public Schools is a destination school district and community that embraces innovative
opportunities and distinguished programs to create highly competitive advantages for all students, instilling the Canteen Spirit in an evolving world.
The Canteen Spirit embodies generosity, selflessness, and unwavering support through
● Service
● Pride
● Collaboration
● Grit
Previous Monthly Newsletters
Title 1 School
Washington Elementary is a Title I School. All teachers and paraprofessionals meet the professional qualifications as required by Federal Law. Parents have the right to request credentials of staff.
Washington Elementary
Email: kmorrison@nppsd.org
Website: https://www.nppsd.org/o/washington
Location: 600 West 3rd Street, North Platte, NE, USA
Phone: (308)535-7142
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NPwashingtonwildcats