West Hempstead Weekly Update

It is with great RamPride that WHe announce our Class of 2025 Valedictorian and Salutatorian. Please join me in congratulating Victoria Covino, who has earned the distinction of Valedictorian, and Madison AbiAoun, who has achieved the honor of Salutatorian.

These exceptional students have demonstrated outstanding academic excellence, remarkable dedication, and exemplary character throughout their high school careers. Their achievements culminate years of hard work, intellectual curiosity, and perseverance.

Victoria and Madison will be recognized at our upcoming Senior Awards Night and will address their fellow graduates during our Commencement Ceremony in June. Their accomplishments set a high standard for academic achievement in our district and serve as an inspiration to students at all grade levels.

Please join our entire school community in celebrating Victoria and Madison for these well-deserved honors.

"Don't let other people's limited perceptions of you become your reality. As a black ballet dancer, I've had to break down countless barriers and prove that art knows no boundaries. Success isn't about fitting into someone else's mold – it's about shattering it and creating your own path."

The key lesson from Misty Copeland, who became the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer in American Ballet Theatre's 75-year history, is about perseverance in the face of both systemic barriers and personal doubts. She demonstrates that groundbreaking achievement requires not just technical excellence, but also the courage to challenge established norms and the resilience to keep pushing forward even when facing skepticism or rejection.

Grades K-3: "Keep Going" with Mae Jemison

Quote: "Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations." - Mae Jemison, First African American woman in space

Lesson Duration: 30 minutes

Materials Needed: Paper, crayons/markers, scissors (or pre-cut stars if at home), device for showing images (optional)

Learning Objectives:

• Students will understand that they can achieve their dreams through persistence
• Students will practice positive self-talk
• Students will learn about space exploration and scientific discovery

Activities:

1. Introduction & Discussion (10 minutes)
   • In School: Show pictures of Mae Jemison in space and as a doctor
   • At Home: Look up Mae Jemison online with a parent/guardian, or use a book with space exploration images
   • Discussion Questions:
     • What do you want to be when you grow up?
     • Has anyone ever told you that you couldn't do something?
     • What did Mae Jemison have to do to become an astronaut?
2. Star Reaching Activity (15 minutes)
   • In School: Create classroom "Dreams Can Fly" wall
   • At Home: Create a "Dreams Board" for bedroom wall or refrigerator
   • Instructions:
     • Cut out star shapes (or use pre-cut ones)
     • Draw/write future dreams on each star
     • Decorate with available materials
     • Display where visible daily
3. Positive Affirmations (5 minutes)
   • In School: Stand in circle with classmates
   • At Home: Practice with family members or stuffed animals
   • Each person states: "I can be a..."
   • Others respond: "Yes, you can!"

Grades 4-8: "Stand Up" with John Lewis

Quote: "Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble." -John Lewis, Civil Rights Leader and Congressman

Lesson Duration: 45 minutes

Materials Needed: Paper, pencil, internet access (optional)

Learning Objectives:

• Students will analyze the concept of peaceful protest
• Students will identify issues in their environment they want to change
• Students will practice writing persuasive arguments

Activities:

1. Quote Exploration (10 minutes)
   • In School: Class discussion about "good trouble"
   • At Home: Discussion with family members or journal reflection
   • Guiding Questions:
     • What makes trouble "good" or "necessary"?
     • What changes would you like to see in your environment?
     • How can you make positive changes peacefully?
2. Problem-Solution Workshop (20 minutes)
   • In School: Focus on school issues
   • At Home: Focus on family or neighborhood issues
   • Complete Change Plan Template:
     • Problem identification
     • Who is affected?
     • Peaceful solution ideas
     • Action steps
     • Resources needed
3. Persuasive Writing (15 minutes)
   • In School: Write to principal/student council
   • At Home: Write to family council/neighborhood association
   • Key Components:
     • Clear problem statement
     • Evidence of impact
     • Specific solution proposals
     • Action requests

Grades 9-12: "Lead with Vision" with W.E.B. Du Bois

Quote: "Education must not simply teach work - it must teach life. The aim of education is not merely to make citizens, but to make powerful citizens who can live the life of the spirit." -W.E.B. Du Bois, Scholar and Civil Rights Activist

Lesson Duration: 60 minutes

Materials Needed: Journal/paper, pen, internet access for research

Learning Objectives:

• Students will analyze the relationship between education and social change
• Students will evaluate their own educational goals and values
• Students will create action plans for meaningful community involvement

Activities:

1. Quote Analysis (15 minutes)
   • In School: Small group discussions
   • At Home: Personal reflection or online discussion forum
   • Analysis Points:
     • Definition of "powerful citizens"
     • Role of education in society
     • Personal educational purpose
     • Community impact potential
2. Mission Statement Creation (20 minutes)
   • Both Settings: Individual reflection and writing
   • Components:
     • Knowledge goals
     • Educational purpose
     • Intended impact
     • Community contribution plans
     • Personal values alignment
3. Action Planning (25 minutes)
   • In School: Group project development
   • At Home: Individual project planning
   • Plan Elements:
     • Issue identification
     • Research findings
     • Action steps
     • Resource list
     • Timeline
     • Success measures
     • Virtual/in-person collaboration options

Assessment Options:

• School Setting: Teacher evaluation and peer feedback
• Home Setting: Self-assessment and family discussion
• Both Settings: Project portfolio or digital presentation

Extension Ideas:

• Create digital vision boards
• Start online advocacy campaigns
• Connect with community leaders virtually or in person
• Document progress through photos/videos
• Share projects on appropriate social media (with guidance)

As we approach the midpoint of the school year, our students are truly blossoming before our eyes.

In our pre-K and kindergarten, children are actively taking charge of their learning journeys. From confidently approaching interactive smartboards to identify days of the week to engaging in circle time discussions to practicing sight words, our students are developing academic skills and social confidence.

The classroom environments reflect our commitment to diverse, inclusive learning. Students from various backgrounds collaborate at colorful learning stations, supporting each other through daily activities. Our dedicated educators have created spaces where children feel safe exploring, questioning, and growing.

It's particularly inspiring to see how our young learners are developing independence. They enthusiastically raise their hands, volunteer for classroom responsibilities, and proudly share their work with peers. Their bright eyes and eager smiles speak volumes about their growing love for learning.

Let's celebrate these meaningful milestones as we continue through the school year. Our youngest students are not just learning academic content—they're developing the curiosity, collaboration skills, and self-confidence to serve them throughout their educational journeys.

Thank you to our staff and supportive families for nurturing these budding minds. Together, WHe are witnessing the beautiful beginnings of lifelong learning.

This week, our classrooms were buzzing with engaged learning and collaboration! Our young learners have been actively participating in whole-group instruction, and our enthusiastic elementary students are working with their teacher on an interactive whiteboard activity about numeracy in mathematics.

Our small group learning centers have seen wonderful progress as students work collaboratively on literacy skills. Our dedicated teachers and teaching assistants have provided personalized attention to students, guiding them through reading and writing activities while fostering peer support.

Seeing our students working independently on their assignments and projects has been particularly exciting. Many classes have focused on early literacy activities, including vowel team sorting exercises and other activities reinforcing reading comprehension and confidence.

Cornwell's classroom environments, complete with charts, number lines, and student work samples, continue to create an inviting atmosphere that celebrates learning. Our staff's commitment to creating these supportive spaces makes Cornwell Avenue a special place for our students to grow and thrive.

This week at George Washington Elementary, our students are diving deep into fascinating worlds, both ancient and modern! Our young scholars are journeying back to Ancient Egypt, exploring the mysteries of the pyramids and mummifications with wide-eyed wonder. They're conquering decimals and unit rates in mathematics, building the foundational skills that will serve them throughout their academic careers.

Beyond traditional academics, our students are developing crucial background knowledge across subjects and practicing essential life skills that will prepare them for future success. The dedication and effort—what I like to call "mental sweat"—displayed in their classrooms each day is truly inspiring.

The determination I witness during my classroom visits reminds me why we are all #RamProud. Our students embrace challenges and grow stronger with each lesson, embodying the spirit and values of our school community.

Let's celebrate these moments of growth and discovery happening throughout our hallways!

WHe have exciting news to share about our district's participation in the 17th Annual LIU Post Band Festival at Tilles Center. This prestigious event brings together talented young musicians across Long Island for collaborative rehearsals and performances.

This year's festival received nearly 220 student nominations from over 40 high school music programs, with 128 selected to participate. I'm proud to announce that two of our own West Hempstead High School students have earned places in this year's Festival Band:

• Benjamin Mora (Flute 2)
• Daniel Garcia (Tenor Saxophone)

Please join me in congratulating these outstanding musicians on their achievements. Their selection reflects not only their talent and dedication but also the strength of our music program and the excellent instruction they receive.

The Festival Band experience provides our students valuable opportunities to work with renowned conductors and perform alongside other exceptional young musicians. We look forward to celebrating their participation and performance in this prestigious event.

Ms. Caterina Spallino, one of our dedicated Italian language educators at the secondary school, has been selected as an honoree at this year's Cellini Lodge No. 2206 Order Sons & Daughters of Italy in America 57th Annual Scholarship/Charitable Benefit & Dinner-Dance.

The event, themed "La Festa 2025...A STARRY NIGHT—57 YEARS OF BRILLIANCE," is particularly meaningful as it celebrates Italian Language Educators. Ms. Spallino's recognition at this event reflects her outstanding commitment to teaching our students the Italian language and culture and preserving and promoting the rich Italian heritage in our community.

Ms. Spallino's dedication to her students and passion for Italian language education exemplifies the excellence we strive for in our district. Please join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor.

WHe sre thrilled to announce that Ms. Gulisano's 8th-grade Family & Consumer Science students will showcase their innovative culinary skills in this week's Cupcake Wars Competition!

This exciting project blends traditional baking with cutting-edge technology, teaching students that AI can enhance learning rather than simply provide shortcuts. After exploring digital literacy through meaningful hands-on experience, students have created stunning cupcake designs using Canva's AI text-to-photo capabilities.

Students learned to write effective AI prompts through practice exercises, documenting their trial-and-error journey to perfect their designs. They researched current baking trends and studied Food Network's Cupcake Wars as inspiration for their display presentations. The project also incorporated marketing skills as students designed eye-catching promotional fliers to accompany their displays.

This week, the culmination of this creative process was students bringing their digital designs to life in our cooking lab, baking and decorating real cupcakes to match their AI-generated concepts.

We believe that strong communication between home and school is essential for student success. The PowerSchool Parent Portal is a powerful tool that helps bridge this gap, providing real-time access to your child's academic progress.

Access Your Account

Visit the Parent Portal Link below. If you haven't set up your account, please contact the school office for your Access ID code.

Why It's Important

• Monitor grades and attendance
• View teacher comments and feedback
• Track assignments and due dates
• Communicate directly with teachers
• Stay informed about school events and announcements

By regularly checking the Parent Portal, you can play an active role in your child's education, addressing any concerns promptly and celebrating their achievements together.

We encourage all parents and guardians to take advantage of this valuable resource. If you need assistance with the Parent Portal, please don't hesitate to contact your child's main office.

Together, we can ensure every student reaches their full potential!

Parent Portal Link

https://powerschool.whufsd.com/public/

How to Video

https://youtu.be/eNZs_AloU-c

Main Office Phone Numbers

Chestnut Street - 390-3150

Cornwell Avenue - 390-3140

George Washington - 390-3130

Secondary School - 390-3218

We’ve teamed up with MySchoolBucks, an online service where you can easily and securely pay for school meals using a credit/debit card or electronic check.

Using MySchoolBucks you can:

● Add funds to your student’s meal account

● View meal balances & cafeteria purchases

● Receive low balance alerts

Get started in 4 easy steps:

1. Download the mobile app or visit myschoolbucks.com

2. Create your free account

3. Add your student

4. Add funds to your student’s meal account

If you have any questions about getting started with MySchoolBucks call (855) 832-5226. For any general questions please contact your child’s school.

ONEPAY from MySchoolBucks offers a one-time annual fee option to SAVE YOU MONEY!

• Annual savings plan offers reduced program fees when using MySchoolBucks for meal and school payments

  
  

• Allows user to pay program fees upfront from their bank account (e-checks), with unlimited payments for 12 months

• Offers a choice of two program fee payment packages:

• Single Student for $12.95 per year
• Family Plan for $26.95 per year (2 or more kids)

*Both plans cover 12 months from initial signup to ONEPAY

If you have any questions, please call the Food Service Office.

Nasrin Urmye, Food Service Director
(516) 390-3275
urmyen@whitsons.com

With "WHe" as our theme this year, #WHe are inspired to explore, discover, and achieve future wonders. Allow me to share some of the ways one could envision completing the idea of "WHe" throughout this remarkable journey:

• Wonder and Curiosity: Let us ignite a spark of wonder and curiosity in every aspect of our learning. Encouraging students and staff alike to question, explore, and seek knowledge beyond the ordinary.
• “WH”olistic Education: Emphasizing the growth of the whole individual – social, emotional, and academic. We aim to provide opportunities for personal development and well-being in addition to academic excellence.
• Empathy and Humanity: "WHe" stands for "We" as well, reminding us of our collective responsibility to foster empathy, compassion, and kindness. We will create a supportive and inclusive community where everyone feels valued.
• Waves of Change: As a theme, "WHe" also signifies the ever-changing tides of life. We will adapt to new challenges, embrace innovation, and be resilient in the face of uncertainty.
• Expressions of Art and Culture: "WHe" encompasses the essence of artistic and cultural expressions. We will celebrate creativity, appreciate diversity, and nurture talents in various forms.
• Wellness and Health: Prioritizing physical and mental health, creating a safe and nurturing environment where everyone can thrive and grow.
• Leadership and Collaboration: "WHe" represents collective wisdom and the power of collaboration. We will empower our students to be leaders in their own right while fostering teamwork and cooperation.

As #WHe embark on a new academic year, our district introduced three interconnected challenges that will shape our approach to education and personal growth. Under the banner of "WHe Over Me," "Stack the Days," and "The Obstacle is the Way," we're called to embrace collaboration, consistency, and resilience. These principles will guide us in fostering a supportive community, achieving sustainable progress, and transforming obstacles into opportunities. By focusing on these collective challenges, #WHe aim to create an environment where educators and students alike can thrive, learn, and grow together.

WHe Over Me​

Commitment: Prioritize the "we" over the "me." Our strength lies in our collective efforts. Let’s work together to create an environment where collaboration, teamwork, and mutual support are at the forefront. Whether it’s through Professional Learning Communities, cross-department collaboration, or simply supporting one another in daily tasks, remember that our combined efforts will lead to greater student success.

Stack the Days​

The Obstacle is the Way​

The Designing Learning framework is an educational approach #WHe uses to engage students and close the aspiration gap. The framework encompasses several key principles aimed at enhancing the learning experience for students and staff:

The Designing Learning framework consists of: Connection Before Content, Acceleration not Remediation, Rethinking Success Criteria, Higher-Level Thinking, Student Agency, Authentic Work, and Technology Infusion.

1. Connection Before Content: This principle emphasizes building strong relationships and belonging in the classroom. It recognizes that when students feel connected to their teachers and peers, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated to learn.

2. Acceleration, not Remediation: Rather than focusing solely on addressing deficits in students' knowledge or skills, this framework aspect promotes challenging students with content and tasks that allow them to excel and progress rapidly. It recognizes that students can achieve more when they are appropriately challenged.

3. Rethinking Success Criteria: This principle encourages educators to reconsider traditional notions of success and assessment. It involves clearly defining success in a given context and allowing for varied ways for students to demonstrate their understanding and mastery.

4. Higher-Level Thinking: The framework promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity among students. It encourages educators to design learning experiences that push students to engage in deeper levels of thinking and analysis.

5. Student Agency: Empowering students to actively participate in their learning is a fundamental aspect of the framework. It encourages students to set goals, make choices, and take ownership of their educational journey, fostering a sense of autonomy and responsibility.

6. Authentic Work: This principle advocates real-world relevance in educational activities. It suggests that students should work on tasks and projects that have meaning and application beyond the classroom, making learning more engaging and practical.

7. Technology Infusion: Recognizing the role of technology in the modern world, this aspect of the framework encourages the thoughtful integration of technology into the learning process. It aims to leverage technology to enhance and expand educational opportunities.

By Art Costa, Bena Kallick, and Allison Zmuda

There is a growing recognition that mastering subject-area knowledge alone will not be sufficient to prepare your children for their futures. They will need deliberate practice and focused attention to grow their capacity as efficacious thinkers to navigate and thrive in the face of unprecedented change. Habits of Mind are a universal framework for thinking and are as essential now as when we first introduced them 30 years ago. Habits of Mind are dispositions people use when confronted with problems and situations to which answers are not immediately apparent. When we draw upon these intellectual resources, the results that are produced are more powerful, of higher quality and of greater significance than if we fail to employ those intellectual behaviors.

Email: drehman@whufsd.com
Website: www.whufsd.com
Location: 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, NY,
Phone: 516-390-3000

Articles and blurbs may be enhanced/written with various AI tools.