Willow Parent Bulletin # 20

Truth be told, teachers never stop learning. Some of that is individualized, like working towards an endorsement or advanced degree, but much of it also takes place in group settings. As a district, we have made the commitment to further our knowledge and practice around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. DEI is a big buzzword, so I thought I would share with you one of the ways we have worked towards being better.

During our last staff meeting, Counselor Lindsay Lang and Social Worker Wendy Gatewood presented to staff regarding LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual and more). You might be thinking....What does that have to do with PreK-2nd graders? According to HealthyChildren.org, "Gender identity typically develops in stages: Around age two: Children become conscious of the physical differences between boys and girls. Before their third birthday: Most children can easily label themselves as either a boy or a girl. By age four: Most children have a stable sense of their gender identity. So simply put, it has everything to do with students our age.

For some of us, the terminology and use of pronouns can be a little confusing. That's where the ongoing learning and striving to be better (teachers, mentors, leaders, people) comes into play. If we want to be inclusive, as a school, district and community, then we have to commit to continued growth. As a staff, we are all in!

Part of the presentation included a video from The Human Rights Campaign that depicted 6-12 year olds sharing what they knew on the topic. It's worth the 13 minute watch and their comments may surprise you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjYTAGZgl7o&t=2s

We appreciate your help and effort in making Willow a welcoming place for everyone.

On Tuesday night, Willow hosted the District's Bilingual Parent Education Meeting (BPEM). It was an evening filled with food, familes, books and a special yoga session with Liz Smith from Serendipity Yoga. A big thanks to all the families who came and participated with their students. Thank you, too, to the staff who coordinated and set up this fun event! If you'd like to learn more about Serendipity Yoga: https://serendipityyogaandwellness.com/

During last week's Day of Service, some of our Wildcats headed over to Homewood Flossmoor High School to hang out with their wrestling team! Thanks to our students for getting involved and the HF students for being their mentors!

This week, demonstrate for your Wildcat how to say something positive to another person about a trait that makes that person unique. Be sure to let them know you value their uniqueness, too!

Help the PTA and get a deal! Lou Malnati's sells their pre-baked frozen pizzas in store for $15-$18 each. Homewood PTA can sell you the pizza vouchers for $13 each and a portion from each goes to PTA!

CLICK HERE TO ORDER ONLINE.

Jan 31: Send in Shield test

Feb 1: Early dismissal at 11:40 AM

Feb 8: 100's Day

Feb 9: report cards come home

Feb 13: No school- Lincoln's birthday

Feb 14: Valentine's Parties 9-10 AM ( NO FOOD/CANDY)

Feb 15: Session 2 of clubs begin

Feb 22: School Bus Appreciation Day

Feb 24: PreK Fun Friday

Mar 1: Early dismissal at 11:40 AM

Mar 3: End of the 2nd trimester

Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day

Mar 6: Institute Day- no school

Mar 10: Report cards can been viewed after 3PM on the Parent Portal

Mar 24: PreK Fun Friday

Apr 3-7: Spring Break- no school

Apr 28: PreK Fun Friday

May 19: PreK Fun Friday

If there is a staff member that you'd like to tell that he/she /they are doing a great job, you can leave a few words by clicking the link. I'll be sure to let them know!

https://forms.office.com/r/a7tgKcAjkK

The Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Program provides direct financial assistance to prevent mortgage delinquencies, defaults, displacements, and foreclosures for income-eligible homeowners experiencing pandemic-related hardships.

The state is currently accepting applications for ILHAF assistance. If you have already submitted an application, you may check your status by logging into your ILHAF account here.

Email: melissa.lawson@hsd153.org
Website: www.hsd153.org
Location: 1804 Willow Road, Homewood, IL, USA
Phone: 708-798-3720
Facebook: facebook.com/homewoodschooldistrict153