Hillside News Brief

On Wednesday, October 30th, students participated in the Hillside Spelling Bee. All students in grades 4-6 took a written test prior to this event to determine who would compete. Congratulations to Megan O., our school winner and Ian K., who placed second in the competition. Sophia S. earned third place. Megan and Ian will move on to the Westside School District Bee, which will be held on November 15th at the Westside Middle School Performing Arts Center. We wish them much luck!

Here are the finalists in this year's bee: Ahmad, R., Samuel L., Ian K., Lilya M., Andrew E., Sophia S., Julian H., Victor P., Caitlin W., Avery K., Megan O.

What Are Unified Activities?

The Special Olympics Unified Schools Program is a fast­ growing initiative that brings students with and without intellectual disabilities together. This year we are excited to bring a Unified Fall Festival opportunity to our

schools.

Westside Community Schools is excited to offer our next Unified Activity this year, a Unified Fall Festival.

Where: Loveland Elementary, 8201 Pacific St, Omaha, NE 68114

When: Nov 14th, 2019 - 5:30-6:30

What: An opportunity for fun and friendship aimed at partnering peers with and without an intellectual disability. There will be activities, games, and crafts for kids to enjoy. Craft projects will benefit the residents at Ambassador Health of Omaha.

RSVP Needed for Participation

If you and your child(ren) are interested in participating, please complete the RSVP Form. This helps us plan for how many to expect at the event. https://tinyurl.com/WCSUAR1920

Dear Parents/Guardians,

This year, Hillside families who would like to participate in holiday assistance programs will have two opportunities to choose from for gifts.

First, the Holiday Gift Program will continue from past years. Participation in this program is confidential.

Additionally, the UNO Athletic Department has invited students to spend an afternoon with athletes! This event will be held on a school day. Participating students will take a bus to UNO, enjoy activities, have lunch and receive gifts from their wish lists. This opportunity is for K-5 students and there are limited spots that will be filled first come, first served.

Please contact me if you are interested in one of these opportunities.

Also, a limited number of Thanksgiving meals are available for families on a first come, first served basis. You may also contact me if you would like one of those.

Sincerely,

Kathie McGill, LMHP

Hillside School Counselor

mcgill.kathleen@westside66.net

402-408-8462

A huge thank you to all families who donated to the fall clothing drive!

The Closet continues to benefit from the kindness of Westside students, teachers, and staff. Our recent coat and clothing drive was a big success and we would like to thank all of the families who participated. Your donations will help keep your fellow students warm this winter. Another big thanks goes out to those who donated during professional development day.

We will hold another drive in the spring for warm weather clothing but until then, if you are looking for a way to help throughout the year, please remember that toiletries and new-in-package underwear (youth and adult sizes) are an ongoing need and may be donated through your school’s social worker at any time.

As always, Closet volunteers are available to pull clothing for any family in need and deliver it to your school or families may opt to visit The Closet with their social worker.

Sincerely,

Marci Crone and Veronica Martinez

Clothing Closet Chairs