As we begin the 2nd half of the school year, we are continuing our focus and ask you to COME EXPLORE WITH US! Our staff is grateful for the time at the end of December to plan using our midyear data. We also had time to plan some engaging activities for our students and communities. We love the positive energy that comes with the 2nd half of the school year and are looking forward to some deeper learning and meaningful Expeditions.
This year started with some updates to our carpet, furniture and a more secure front entrance thanks to taxpayers who passed the Mill and Bond Initiatives a few years ago. We appreciate your support of our school and students. Another great addition has been that we have a fully supported 1:1 Chromebook or Ipad initiative in place that allows for quicker sign-ons, and allows students to use technology not only as consumers of information but also as creators!
As we focus on "EXPLORING", we continue our efforts around NURTURING, ENGAGING AND INNOVATING to meet the needs of our whole WJES community- students, staff, families and the greater community. We are passionate about our CREW time each day where we focus on strengthening students' Habits of Character and building a strong classroom community of learners.
We are also doubling down on our EXPEDITIONS this year. Teachers have been working to create authentic learning experiences within their classrooms as well as beyond our classroom doors. We are committed to connecting our students in meaningful ways with our school grounds, our local community, and the greater Conifer and Colorado community through partnerships with parks, other recreation areas, museums, businesses and all aspects of being a part of a greater community. Last year we had over 100 community connections across all grade levels and covering many topics of great interest to our students. We hope to continue this as a strength at our school.
One of the most exciting days is quickly approaching. This is our EXPLORE Day on January 27th. We have invited our families and other community members to share their passions, expertise or something else they love with our students. All of our students in Pre-K through 5th grade will get to choose different sessions to attend to learn something new or explore something they are already passionate about.
We are continuing to focus our efforts on knowing each students' name, strength and need and creating robust plans to meet these needs. At WJES we are very committed to supporting growth in ALL of our students. We have rebuilt and strengthened our structures and supports to guarantee no students are slipping through the cracks. Our teachers have engaged in learning over the summer as they do throughout the school year to continually increase our culture of instructional excellence, improve the student experience, and ensure a safe and welcoming learning environment. We have partnered with Americorps and have volunteers working everyday supporting our students in grades K through 3 with reading and 4-5 with math.
We are excited about our plans and already making great movements toward realizing them. With our small class sizes and amazing teaching and support staff, we are feeling confident we can reach new levels. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out via email or phone to set up a time to meet.
In Partnership,