Will Rogers Roundup

Near the top right of the newsletter click "translate." Use this feature to translate the newsletter to your desired language. Cerca de la parte superior derecha del boletín, haga clic en "traducir". Utilice esta función para traducir el boletín a su idioma deseado.

Dear WRLC Families,

As the golden hues of November settle over our campus, I’m reminded of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s words "cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously". He emphasized including all things, both good and bad, in your gratitude because all experiences contribute to your advancement. Nothing could be more true of our community this month. Every day, I see gratitude reflected in our students’ joy, our teachers’ dedication, and the unwavering support of our families. Together, we create a learning environment filled with appreciation and happiness. And what better way to celebrate that spirit than by coming together for a night of fun and connection?

Grown Ups’ Night Out — Disco Edition

Silent Auction begins: Friday, November 8
Main Event: Saturday, November 15 at 6:00 PM
Location: Maple Street Disco Speakeasy (walkable from Rogers; address shared upon registration)

Get ready to enjoy:

• A live DJ spinning disco classics

• A photo booth for great memories

• Food and signature drinks

• Live auction, raffles, and paddle raises

• A full dance floor with a professional disco dancer

Tickets go on sale!

• $35 per person presale (includes dinner and two drinks)

• $45 at the door

• Free for Rogers teachers and staff

Auction Highlights Include:

• Ice Cream for a Year from Handel’s

• Annual membership plus one month tuition at Flip First Gymnastics

• A new kids’ bike from Helen’s Cycles

• Tickets to Santa Monica Playhouse and Crow Comedy Club

• Art and music lessons, camp passes, and special experiences with Will Rogers teachers

The auction link is already live — you can start browsing and bidding here:
https://biddingforgood.com/willrogers/gno25

This season reminds us how gratitude connects and strengthens us. I hope you’ll join us for an evening that celebrates our wonderful community — a chance to gather, dance, and enjoy the company of friends who make Will Rogers such a special place.

With appreciation,

Principal Daruty

Mondays: Art Cart at lunchtime we would love more volunteers! 11:30-1:15 p.m.

Mon. 11/10 Last Day to shop in-person for the Book Fair!

Tues. 11/11 NO SCHOOL- Veteran's Day

Thurs. 11/13 Let's meet up for community FUNdraising at CPK Santa Monica!

Fri. 11/14 Peacemaker Meeting Group #1 @ 9:00 a.m. room 508

Sat. 11/15 Grown-Ups Night Out! See information below!

Sat. 11/15 Regenerative Farm Family Farming Day 11-1:00p.m.

Mon. 11/17 Volunteer Training @ 8:30, 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. in the library

Mondays: Art Cart at lunchtime we would love more volunteers! 11:30-1:15 p.m.

Wed. 11/19 Prospective Parent School Tour @9:00 a.m.

Wed. 11/19 3rd Grade Solar Bug Assembly: With Schneider Electric @12:50-1:30pm and 1:45-2:30 in cafeteria.

Thurs. 11/20 ELAC Mtg. @ 8:30 a.m. in the library

Thurs. 11/20 SSC Mtg. @ 3:15 p.m. Via zoom

Fri/ 11/21 Peacemaker Meeting Group #2 @ 9:00 a.m. room 508

Fri. 11/21 Kinder Classrooms Friendsgiving @10:15 a.m.

Mondays: Art Cart at lunchtime we would love more volunteers! 11:30-1:15 p.m.

Wed. 11/26- 11/27 NO SCHOOL -THANKSGIVING Break

SMMUSD Calendar 2025-26

WRLC PTA Calendar 2025-26

We are so thrilled to announce the winning candidates of the Student Council Elections! We are incredibly proud of all 20 fifth graders who ran wonderful campaigns. They were brave, full of creative ideas, and demonstrated outstanding leadership and support for WRLC. Each and every one of them is a winner!

Eco Champion
Daniella C.
Spirit Advisors
Sawyer B. and Abi T.
Friends of the Community
Charlotte E. and Scout Z.
Co-Captain
Bixby M.
Captain
Deven J.

Congratulations, students! We look forward to seeing all the great things you will do.

There's still time to shop the Fall Book Fair! Tomorrow (11/10) is the last day to shop in-person in the library, before and after school. You can also visit WRLC's online Scholastic Store through 11/16, with an even wider selection of titles available, including brand-new releases.

Let’s all do our part to stay safe out there! Silvia, our amazing crossing guard, works hard every morning to help families cross the street safely, so let’s make sure it’s safe for her too. Please keep an eye on her signals, cross carefully, and avoid blocking driveways.

Save the DATE! November 15 • To be announced Speakeasy Location. Dance, dine, and disco the night away —with a live auction to keep things spinning! Tickets on sale soon.

Get tickets here:https://auction.biddingforgood.com/ticket-event/341822273

Get ready to sparkle, strut, and stay alive at our grooviest night of the year! It’s Grown Ups’ Night Out! The fun kicks off at our silent auction beginning on 11/8.
Then the party gets rollin’ on Saturday 11/15 at 6p and keeps rollin’ late — so dust off those platforms and let the mirror ball guide you. Hosted at our Maple Street Disco Speakeasy, walkable from Rogers. Address shared upon Registration.
Get ready for:

• Live DJ spinning disco hits

• Photo booth for those glam poses 🕺🏻

• Food + signature drinks

• Live auction, raffles & paddle raises

• A real dance floor — and yes, a professional disco dancer!

Tickets go on sale next week! At a new lower price! (Includes food and drinks)
Tickets for $35/person presale, $10 more at the door. Free for Rogers teachers and staff!

- Ice Cream for a Year from Handel’s!

- Annual membership + 1 Month tuition at Flip First Gymnastics!

- New Kids bike from Helen’s Cycles!

- Santa Monica Playhouse + Crow Comedy Club tickets!

- Art, Music lessons, Camp tickets, and special dates with Will Rogers teachers!

$35 gets you dinner + 2 drinks and entertainment!!

Auction Link is already live!: https://biddingforgood.com/willrogers/gno25

We’re excited to announce the return of ART CART at lunchtime! Starting this year, students can enjoy creative art projects and hands-on crafts every:

• Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. for grades 1st-5th

AND

• Fridays from 11:30 -12:45 p.m. for grades TK/K

ART CART offers students a chance to express their creativity, relax, and connect with others—all thanks to the support of our incredible WRLC Wellness Team of counselors. We need your help!

Many hands make light work, and we’re looking for parent volunteers to help supervise and support our young artists. If you’re interested in volunteering on Mondays or Fridays, please email Mariela at mmartinez@sewi.org.

Volunteer Requirements:

• Level 1 volunteer clearance

• Willingness to supervise students using art tools and materials safely

• Enthusiasm for working with children

• A love of crafts, creativity, and fun!

Let’s make lunchtimes a colorful, creative experience for all our students!

Dear WRLC Families,

Every year, our district asks all of our families to complete the California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS), an anonymous, confidential survey of school climate and safety, student wellness, and youth resiliency. Your input is very important to us. Please go to this link for more information and to access the survey link. The survey will be open from November 3-25, 2025.

Please contact Ms. González, Assistant Principal, if you have any questions.

Thank you very much!

****************************************************************************************************

Estimadas familias de WRLC,

Cada año, nuestro distrito les pide a nuestras familias que completen la Encuesta de Niños Saludables de California (CHKS), una encuesta anónima y confidencial sobre el entorno y la seguridad escolares, el bienestar de los estudiantes y la capacidad de recuperación de los jóvenes. Su opinión es muy importante para nosotros. Por favor haga clic en este enlace para más información y para tomar la encuesta. La encuesta estará abierta del 3 al 25 de noviembre.

Por favor comuníquese con Ms. González, subdirectora, si tiene alguna pregunta.

¡Muchisimas Gracias!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0545A5AE23A7F5C25-59313411-popsicle#/

OPEN-MINDED: An Open-Minded student knows that all people are different. They listen to the points of view of others and consider many possibilities before making a decision. They celebrate the differences that make all people unique.

How can parents help to develop this Open-Minded trait at home?

• Encourage your child to try new things – new foods, new games and new activities.
• Expose your child to different festivals, celebrations and traditions and be sure to present them in a non-judgmental way.
• Encourage your child to really listen to others when they speak.
• Introduce literature about many different cultures into your home library. Be sure that it is appropriate and reflects the culture in an appropriate way.
• When you observe your child being Open-Minded, reinforce this positive behavior and use the PYP Learner Profile terms.

Below please find a list of links to local, seasonal happenings, including special events featuring technology, arts/culture, civics, and literacy, application support for social services and government benefits, and free ESL and citizenship classes via SMMUSD Adult Education.

• Santa Monica Events/Activities/Opportunities 2025-26 Running List




FEATURED HIGHLIGHT




26th Annual Malibu Veterans Day Ceremony November 11, 11:00 a.m.

The City of Malibu honors men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces at 26th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony, hosted in partnership with Malibu Navy League, Pepperdine University, and the Malibu Association of Realtors. The event is free and open to the public.




This year’s theme, “Veterans: Stronger Together, United We Stand,” celebrates the strength, unity, and sacrifice of veterans and their families. The program includes a color guard, guest speaker, and musical performances by the Pepperdine University Choir, along with stories shared by local veterans.

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to enjoy refreshments from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at City Hall. Now in its 26th year, Malibu’s Veterans Day Ceremony remains a cherished community tradition, bringing residents together in gratitude and remembrance for those who have served.

Have you done your AERIES student data validation this year? If no, log in now to complete.

https://santamonicamalibu.aeries.net/Student/LoginParent.aspx

Data Validation Flyer - English

Data Validation - Spanish

• Score reports for CAASPP, ELPAC and Star Renaissance are available to parents in the Aeries Parent Portal. Hard copy score reports are no longer mailed home. These videos help explain to students & parents/ guardians on how to access their portals. Student Portal and Parent Portal.

• This guide with help parents ocate their Test Scores and State Test Scores Reports: Parent Portal: Test Scores [Aeries]-attachment.

• School materials including books, homework, projects, etc.
• Re-fillable water bottle ( We have several refilling stations on campus)
• A morning snack
• Lunch is available to all students free of charge. You may also pack a lunch from home.
• Sunscreen (put on prior to arriving at school)
• Hat
• Layers of clothing (sweatshirt, windbreaker, etc.) Keep an eye on the weather.
• A growth mindset for a successful day!

Breakfast and lunch are free for all students! Make a plan with your child each week about the days they will be eating food prepared at school or bringing lunch from home.

https://www.smmusd.org/domain/476

We encourage you to pack a snack for your children for morning recess.

Please send your child to school with a re-fillable water bottle! We have water stations located throughout campus.

JOIN the Parents/Guardians Regenerative Farm Committee that we are forming for the 2025-26 school year. The Committee's tasks are to:

• Support the stewardship of the Regenerative Farm.
• Help organize the Regenerative Farm Events ready in the school calendar (monthly Family Farming Days, Earth Week Farming Day), in addition to organizing harvests and other school community engagement activities.

For any questions, contact:

Paola Vezzulli, Program Director - Regenerative Initiatives [Cayton Children's Museum] email: pvezzulli@caytonmuseum.org

Join the Will Rogers PTA for $10 to support activities and events that enrich your student's education and strengthen our school community.

https://jointotem.com/ca/santa-monica/will-rogers-elementary-pta

As an International Baccalaureate Programme School, we believe there is a broad range of capacities and responsibilities that go beyond academic success. We make a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them. We do this through the development of students according to the IB learner profile. The profile aims to develop learners who are:

Inquirers

Knowledgeable

Thinkers

Communicators

Principled

Open-minded

Caring

Risk-takers

Balanced

Reflective

The IB Mission Statement

The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

We know the current federal government shutdown is creating uncertainty and real financial strain for many in our community, especially families with federal employees who may miss a paycheck, and families who rely on programs like CalFresh/EBT that could experience delays or disruptions. WRLC is here to help.

How we’re supporting students and families

• The Weekend Bag Program will continue each Friday for students who need extra food to take home.
• FREE Breakfast before school - Arrive at 8:00 a.m. for free breakfast for all students.
• FREE Lunch for all students.

Links to Local Food Pantries and Community Food Resources

• Santa Monica Food Pantry
• Free Food Resource List
• Venice Family Clinic – Food & Housing
• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank Pantry Locator
• Feeding America – Find Your Local Food Bank
• Westside Food Bank

Need support?

If your family could use assistance, whether short-term or ongoing, please reach out confidentially to Principal Daruty. We are committed to responding quickly and with care.If you or your child is experiencing feelings of anxiety or needs emotional support during these challenging times, please know that we are here to help. Reach out to your classroom teacher, so we can work to provide counseling services.

As a school community, we remain committed to caring for one another. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if your family needs assistance or connection to resources. We are stronger when we support each other.

We encourage all families to submit the Free and Reduced Meals application by Friday, October 4. Although California provides free meals for all students, this application is crucial for determining eligibility for additional programs and resources, including Title 1 school designations for the 2026-27 school year. The state uses this form to assess which families qualify for benefits beyond free meals, so widespread participation is essential. To support this effort, please share the application link with your families and distribute the flier through your school's communication channels.

Application Link: https://bit.ly/MealApplications-SMMUSD

You can view and download the flier here.

Principal, Ms. Lila Daruty M.Ed

Email: ldaruty@smmusd.org
Website: https://www.smmusd.org/rogers
Location: 2401 14th Street, Santa Monica, CA, 90406
Phone: 310-452-2364