November 2026

As we welcome November, we look forward to continued opportunities for students to learn and grow.

We appreciate the continued collaboration with families that make Washington Heights a place where "staff want to work, students want to be, and families want to live."

Thank you for all of the support you showed as a community during our October events. Many of you showed up for book bingo and McTeacher night. Your students also enjoyed shopping at the book fair.

November 2 - Wear purple and green to support Epilepsy Awareness

November 2 - PTO Meeting @ 6:30 in the library

November 9 - PTO Skate Night

November 11 - Drive Up Veterans Appreciation Event 9-10:30 and 1-2:30

November 19 - Children's Grief Awareness Day - Wear Blue

November 20 - Education for Children & Youth Experiencing Homelessness Day - Wear Red

November 25 - 30 NO SCHOOL - Fall Break

Dear Washington Heights Families,

I am incredibly proud of how smoothly the students transitioned back into the school routine. Their focus, enthusiasm, and adaptability set the tone for a great 26-27 school year. At Washington Heights, we are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where all students can succeed.

🏫 What to Expect This Year:

• Engaging academic experiences

• Providing a positive school climate

• Strong family-school partnerships

• A focus on student well-being and success

• Opportunities to get involved!

🤝 Let’s Stay Connected!

We know that strong relationships with families make all the difference. Be sure to follow us on social media and check Seesaw and emails for updates. Thank you for being part of our Washington Heights community. Let’s continue making this a great year!

Sincerely,

Dr. Peck
Principal, Washington Heights Elementary School

Hi Families,

I have enjoyed the past few months and getting to know your students. I am frequently out in the hallways and classrooms, where I see the amazing learning happening.

Let’s continue having a strong school year through a great partnership. Check in regularly with your child’s teacher and encourage your student to attend school regularly.

If there is anything the office can do to support you, please reach out.

I look forward to continuing a great school year.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Ray
IME, Washington Heights Elementary

We are looking forward to focusing on Gratitude this coming month! For additional information regarding CharacterStrong, including our middle school monthly traits, please visit our CharacterStrong & Social Emotional Learning website

Washington Heights has a Student Assistance Program or SAP team. The SAP team is a group of trained professionals from the school and local community agencies that offer assistance to students who need support for many different reasons. The goal of the SAP team is to help remove any barriers to learning that students may be experiencing. The SAP team will help you find services and assistance within the school, and if needed, in the community. We will provide you with information and you make the choices that best fit your needs and wishes. If you would like to learn more about our SAP team or think that your child may benefit, please contact Mr. Connell.

If any student is in need of sneakers, book bags, food for the weekend or anything at all, please reach out to our school counselor, Mr. Connell. You can message him on Seesaw or email him at jconnell@wssd.k12.pa.us

First and Third Grade - If you have not already submitted your dental reports, please do so.

If you have not turned in your students physical, it is not too late to turn it in.

Medications:

Per district policy, students are not permitted to carry to school any medications. This includes, cough drops, Tylenol, etc. All medications that are to be given at school must be brought to school by an adult. Please refer to the school handbook, district handbook and school district website regarding the medication policies.

Attendance procedures for when your student is sick:

You must report the absence within 3 days using one of the approved methods, or they will be marked unlawful:

* PowerSchool: Enter the absence online

* Email: whabsent@wssd.k12.pa.us

If your child is absent 3+ consecutive days, a note from a licensed practitioner or the healing arts is required. Board policy allows 6 parent-verified absences per year; all other days require a note from a licensed practitioner of the healing arts (ex. Doctor's note).

Unlawful Absences :

* 3 unexcused days - written note will be provided and possible School Attendance Conference

* 6+ unexcused days - referral to children & youth and possible court citation

Educational Trips During the School Year

District policy permits up to 5 days each school year. Complete the Educational Field Trip Form on the district website and return it to the office at least 5 school days before your trip for approval. If you have students in other buildings, the educational trip form goes to the youngest student's building with all students and their school listed. Once approved, you will receive an email.

Please click on the link to access food service menus:

https://wssdk12pa.nutrislice.com/menus-eula

Please join the Washington Heights PTO

We need your help - please consider joining a committee, attending a meeting, or helping a member!

Follow the PTO on Facebook at WashingtonHeightsPTO

For bus stop issues and transportation exception request questions, please email:

Transportation Department

transportation@wssd.k12.pa.us

You may also call:

Transportation Department Phone
717-938-9577
Press 2 for List of Departments
Then Press 4 for Transportation

Reporting a Late Bus or Item Lost on a School Vehicle

Families are reminded that if a bus is late or has not arrived within an acceptable time frame to call the District’s transportation provider Rohrer Bus at 717-280-8900. This contact number puts parents in direct contact with Rohrer staff who can radio a driver to inquire as to their whereabouts. Please do not call your student’s school or the District main office as a first option. Contacting Rohrer will yield an immediate or faster response.

Kegan Pontius

Rohrer Bus Location Supervisor
KPontius@rohrerbus.com

717-280-8900

Joseph Martin

Assistant Supervisor
JMartin@rohrerbus.com

717-280-8900

Thank you for your continued flexibility and patience as the district works with Rohrer Bus company. The district continues to review routes and make adjustments.