Wildcat Buzz

February 23, 2024
Top Buzz -
1. NO SCHOOL next week, see you on Monday 3/4!
Mark Your Calendar
Upcoming Events
02/26 - February Break - NO SCHOOL 2/26 - 3/1
03/06 - Ski & Ride (Williston Rec Program)
03/11 - Lucky U starts / Folino's Swift Fundraiser Night
03/12 - Intergen Book Groups
03/13 - Four Winds Training @WCS Community Room
03/14 - Walk or Roll to School
03/14 - Williston Family as Partners Monthly Meeting, 8:30 - 10:30am @WCS Community Room
03/15 - DEI Community Forum
03/20 - 7th & 8th Grade Band Concert 6pm@ WCS Auditorium
03/22 - No School for Students / Conference Flex Day
03/23 - Big Basket Raffle (adults only) & Fun Night @WCSA Message from the Williston Schools Leadership Team
Co-Written by Ainaka Luna, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coach and
Lauren Goracy, Director of Special Services
February is Black History Month and is an annual recognition of the achievements and contributions of African Americans and their central role in the history of the United States of America. Since 1976, every US president has officially designated February as Black History Month “to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history”.
When learning about Black History, it is important to recognize both triumph and despair. Segregation and slavery are important parts of Black History that need to be learned and recognized. Despite those enormous barriers, there are also many examples of genius, justice, and joy.
Black History is embedded in our everyday lives. The people of Timbuktu, Mali (West Africa) during ancient times viewed literacy and books as treasures and roadmaps. This was the main source of their nation’s wealth. Home security systems, three light traffic signals, refrigerated trucks, automatic elevator doors, and electric microphones are all examples of the many black genius inventions. African music is another important contribution to American and World history - we cannot talk about Jazz, Hip-Hop, Rap, Salsa, Rock and Roll, or Soul, without the influence of Black music.
A small group of Williston’s faculty and staff created a book group and are currently reading a text called, Unearthing Joy by Gholdy Muhammad. This is a guide to culturally and historically responsive teaching and learning. The group is meeting bi-weekly to discuss the book, reflect on their own learning, and share how they will bring these aspects of genius, justice, and joy into their classrooms.
In the same way we celebrate Black History month, there are more Heritage months incorporated/honored by our Federal government. These celebrations are created to highlight the achievements and contributions of historically marginalized communities, most of these groups are members of categories protected by Federal law.
Check out this website to the view all of the different Heritage Months:
https://www.state.gov/state-department-celebrates-heritage-and-history-months/
CVSD District is committed to the success of every student. It is our duty that every child feels seen, safe and represented. Principles of equity are incorporated in all policies, programs, resources, and practices. We understand that we live in a diverse world containing many different beliefs and traditions. We welcome and embrace all identities students bring to our classroom and we are preparing them to respect and learn from each other, in and outside our school, our community, and Vermont. At our core, we believe in the importance of human rights, this includes respect, tolerance, and participation within a community. If we prevent the interaction with multiple beliefs we are not supporting these rights.
If you would like to learn more about Black History Month, here are some resources:
Special Announcements & Notices
CVSD's Proposed 2024-2025 Budget Update
At the February 20, 2024, school board meeting, the board voted to adopt the finance committee’s recommendation to move forward with the originally warned budget that they spent more than six months reviewing and evaluating.
We've updated the Budget page of the district's website to reflect this decision and to provide information to help voters learn more about the proposed 2024-2025 budget. Please see the items below on that page, along with additional resources.
- At the meeting, CVSD Board vice chair and finance committee chair Meghan Metzler read this statement to begin the discussion.
- After the meeting, Superintendent Sanchez shared this letter.
- Here are some budget highlights in a Frequently Asked Questions format to help our community understand important elements of the proposed budget.
- On Wednesday, February 21, the district's administration and school board hosted a virtual Budget Town Hall. These slides were shared at that event.
- Here is the recording from the Budget Town Hall
Please contact any of the CVSD School Board members with questions. Send an email to cvsdschoolboard@cvsdvt.org or use the School Board or Budget topics on Let’s Talk, found on the district’s website. https://www.cvsdvt.org/
Be sure you don't miss out... keep scrolling all the way to the end!
There's a lot to know - sometimes it doesn't all fit - click the link for the full message at the end of the email
FUN NIGHT at WCS during the Big Basket Raffle!
Drop off your children (grades K - 4) at the Swift House Fun Night. Your student will enjoy an evening of adult supervised fun which supports the Swift House end of the year field trip to Boston, Massachusetts.
What's Happening: Games, activities, crafts, a movie, food and a PRIZE TABLE!!
Where: Drop-off / Pick Up through the FRONT entrance of WCS.
Who: Students grades K - 4.
When: Saturday, March 23, 2024 ~ 6:00 - 8:00 PM.
Click here to print out a registration form. Forms should be returned to the front office of ABS or WCS. Families who pre-register receive a discount! Please reach out to Caleb Sampson, Swift TA (csampson@cvsdvt.org) with any questions!
Saturday, Mar 23, 2024, 06:00 PM
Hosted by Swift House
Lunch Menu
From the Health Office
The Buzz at ABS
Kindergarten Registration is now open!
Will your student turn 5 before September 1, 2024? If yes, Fall 2024 Kindergarten registration is now open. Please visit our information page for details.
Find out more information about SEL day here
Mix it up at lunch day information here
Questions? Reach out to Nicole Pfende at npfende@cvsdvt.org
The WCS Wildcat What's Up
WCS Athletics
Registration is Open
Volleyball and Spring Sports registration is open
Visit our WCS Athletics page for details and to register
Williston Families as Partners
WFAP Volunteer Crew
Got Baskets?
Williston Schools Annual Fund
Four Winds Nature Institute
This Year's Theme: The Earth
Blanket of Air (Jan.)
Nature of Sound (Feb.)
Water Cycle (March)
Wind & Clouds (April)
Get Your Bearings (May)
Nature's News
Contact Four Winds
If you have any questions or would like to volunteer please contact: wsdfourwinds@cvsdvt.org.
Transportation - Food Service - Safety Team
Williston Schools Food Service
Williston Schools Safety Team
Click here for meeting highlights and updates throughout the school year
CVSD: School Board - DEI - Superintendent
DEI Event: Somali Community in Vermont
Join the CVSD Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Team as we celebrate diversity and connect with the diverse cultures of our community. At these in-person events, we will learn the history of the various communities in Vermont. There will be shared cultural experiences, including art, food, and conversations about educational experiences. At each gathering various groups, community members, and stakeholders will present about their lives, work, and contributions to our state.
The next DEI event takes place on March 15 from 6-8 pm at Williston Central School where we'll be learning about the Somali community in Vermont. This event takes place during Ramadan. Come experience a traditional break-the-fast meal.
Friday, Mar 15, 2024, 06:00 PM
Williston Central School
Community Connections
Hello from the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library Youth Department! Find out more about programs at http://www.damlvt.org or by calling 878-4918.
*YOUTH PROGRAMMING*
Children in 5th grade and up may use the library unattended, while those in grade 4 or under must be supervised by a person over 16 years of age. For information on the Unattended Children Policy, see above or visit www.damlvt.org. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stop by or call 878-4918 to chat with a youth librarian about expectations and the library's after-school experience.
Saturday Music
Saturday, February 24, 10:30-11 a.m. Stop by the library to sing and dance with Linda Bassick!
Littles Dungeons & Dragons*
Saturday, February 24, 1-2 p.m. A mini session of Dungeons & Dragons for children ages 6-8. No prior experience required. Adults should plan to stay to help their campaigner(s). Please register each individual child that plans to participate!
Teen Night: Trivia
Monday, February 26, 5-6 p.m. Ages 12+. Come test your trivia skills at the library and win prizes! All jeopardy topics were chosen by our Food for Thought group.
Storytime
Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Join Danielle for stories, songs, and rhymes.
Food for Thought
Wednesday, February 28, 5-6 p.m. Ages 12+. Join our teen advisory group! You bring the thoughts, we bring the food.
Preschool Music & Preschool Playtime
Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Sing and dance with Linda Bassick! Followed by preschool playtime from 11-11:30 a.m.
Saturday Storytime
Saturday, March 2, 10:30-11 a.m. Start your weekend off with stories read aloud by Cindy!
Vermont Reads
This year's Vermont Read title is Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo. Check out a copy of this book in the library. Events related to this book will noted on our website and calendar!
Indoor Soccer
Grades 3-5. Coed. The 5-week program will focus on playing through scrimmages. Teams will be made up each week from the registered participants. A great opportunity for kids to stay active. Open to all levels of experience. Instructors: Rec Staff. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30325
ParKids
Age 4-6. The program teaches the foundation of parkour movements and concepts. Children will learn basic movements including floor skills, vaults, bars/ropes, and wall movements. This is a Beginner-level Program. Children can take a bus from Allen Brook School to the Center. Instructor: Green Mountain Training Center. Instructor: Green Mountain Training Center. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30151
Express & Impress- Young Communicators & Debaters Academy
Age 8-12. This is an innovative program specifically designed for children focusing on enhancing their communication skills, interpersonal and intrapersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and proficiency in debating. Instructor: Diana Popa. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30321
Knitting
Grades 3-8. The program offers the basics for first-timers, as well as provides early and intermediate knitters with specific how-to and help with projects. All materials are provided. Instructor: Christine Heavner, Owner of Knitting Circle. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29959
Youth Tennis
Grades K-2 & 3-5. Now, it’s easier for kids to play and develop a love for the sport! Taught by certified tennis professionals who are trained to instruct kids of all ages. Players learn basic stroke techniques. Instructors: The Edge Tennis Staff. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29967
Horseback Riding Intro
Age 8-14. The Livery Horse Farm, Hinesburg is offering Introductory riding programs. The focus is on English riding. Horses provide a variety of skill levels for children to learn. Programs are offered after school or on Saturdays. Instructor: Kim Johansen, Owner. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29937
Summer Camps- Registration is Now Open for Williston residents. Non-residents start Feb. 15. A Summer Camp Guide was mailed to homes. Detailed info on all the camps is now available on the Recreation website. Be sure to check the website for dates, times, fees, and added camps before registering, it is always changing. Be sure to use the Camp Grid, a great tool for planning out your child’s summer- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/forms/6000_campgrid.2024.4.pdf
KinderRec Lacrosse
Age 5-6. Coed, Child/Parent. The program teaches the fundamentals of the game using a fun and energetic curriculum that has been tailored to this age group. All sessions are held in a fun and positive environment, where players are encouraged to learn and play with a parent and each other. Instructors: Rec Staff- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30268
Youth Lacrosse
Grades 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, & 7-8. Lacrosse is a fast-paced sport that combines the power of football and hockey and the endurance of soccer and basketball. The programs offer separate boys and girls teams. Volunteer Coaches are needed.
1st-2nd- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29862
3rd-8th- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29960
Ninja Science Camp
This camp combines all the martial arts, tumbling, and parkour that your kids love, with environmental science education! There will be lots of technique-oriented Karate, playing martial arts games, breaking boards, sword fighting, and delving deeper into meditation and the moral and ethical precepts of the martial arts. We'll also be talking about ants, space, and animal tracking! We help girls and boys realize their full potential in an environment that is playful, supportive, and fun. Instructor: ONTA Studio- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30219
One-Click Information
Allen Brook School
Start Time @ 7:50am;
Dismissal for PreK & K at 2:25pm - grades 1 & 2 @2:30pm
Wednesday Early Dismissal @ 1:25 & 1:30
Williston Central School
Start Time @8:00am;
Dismissal grades 3 & 4 @2:35pm - grades 5-8 @2:45pm
Wednesday Early Dismissal @ 1:35 & 1:45
Resources for Families
- First Call - 488-7777: phone support, crisis intervention, assessment and referrals
- In Crisis: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) (National Hopeline Network: USA)
- National Suicide Prevention Life line- 1-800-273-TALK (8255), call or chat online
- Crisis Text Line - text HOME to 741741 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)
- Outright Vermont - support for LGBTQ+ community
- UVM Breathe In Breath Out - How to deal with stress due to COVID-19
- Vermont 211 -Vermont database of resources and services
- Vermont Support Line (833) 888-2557) - peer support warmline open 247 - 365 for call or text
- COVID Counselors @ VT-211
- Teen Crisis Text Line - Crisis Text Line provides free emotional support and information to teens in any type of crisis, including feeling suicidal. You can text with a trained specialist 24 hours a day. Text “HOME” to 741741.
- Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide - Website where you can find information to help yourself or a friend who may be having thoughts of suicide.
- Trevor Lifeline - 1-866- 488-7386 - provides suicide prevention and crisis intervention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people. It offers free, 24/7, confidential counseling. TrevorText—text START to 678-678; TrevorChat—instant messaging at TheTrevorProject.org/help. It also runs TrevorSpace, an affirming social networking site for LGBTQ youth at TrevorSpace.