April Newsletter

If April showers bring May flowers, then it also brings rainbows, sunnier days and the dawn of Spring hopes eternal. But It also marks the end of March and the madness that our annual March Madness Basketball Game brings. The gymnasium was bursting with energy and excitement as students passed, dribbled and shot their way demonstrating teamwork and sportsmanship, while the Westlake Student Cheer Squad kept the fandom and exuberance high in front of students’ families, district representatives and Westlake staff members. The game was a true example of school spirit and the magic that can happen when school, community and families partner for a common “goal”….or in this case, “basket”.

April’s district theme of Responsibility was embraced in many different facets within the classrooms. Several classes took the opportunity to combine the celebration of Earth Day with the shared responsibility of conservation that we all have. Students researched and identified “One Little Thing I Can Do” to help protect our planet, from recycling to reducing electricity. Students also learned about the importance of trees, planting seeds and the pivotal impact trees play on our environment. Another form of growth that was in full bloom was a “Goals Garden”, encouraging students to challenge themselves with personal goals, as seeds of success to grow from such as “trying new things, reading more and being a good friend”. Student-created Vision Boards were displayed throughout the school showcasing personal goals, dreams and inspirations that reflect on their future and celebrate individuality. Whether helping a classmate, cleaning up their work area or following classroom and school rules and directions, students earned Responsibility Tickets, recognized by classmates and staff members when demonstrating acts of responsibility throughout the school day, which were redeemable for preferential prizes and activities.

Finally, some well-deserved staff members were honored, celebrated and appreciated during designated days, including our Teacher Assistants, who on a daily basis consistently demonstrate that they are vital parts of creating a safe, supportive and nurturing environment for students to learn, grow and flourish. We are extremely grateful for all of their hard work and the positive impacts they make for the well being of our students every single day! As well as our school secretary, Carrie Koch, who as the heart of the front office has the immeasurable ability to manage countless tasks with grace, accuracy, and dedication, which is essential to the smooth operation of our school. Thank you, Carrie, for all that you do for us here at Westlake!

Till Next Time My Friends….Be Good To Yourself and Each Other :)

Claudine T. and Bobby P.

We are having a great time in physical therapy (PT) this month working on our strength, balance/coordination and gross motor skills! In Westlake School PT services are provided both in individual and group sessions. During PT group we have a great time working together with our peers to move and strengthen. We also practice other skills in our groups such as; taking turns, waiting our turn, cheering on our peers and helping our friends.

Our students are doing a great job tracking their progress with balancing on one foot on our balance tracking chart. It is so motivating to watch the numbers go up each week!

We are continuing to have a blast with our exciting new Blaze Pods! These pods are interactive lights that can be programmed for various exercises and games. They can be utilized to improve balance, coordination, and reaction time through activities where students tap or step on illuminated pods.

Our “Fitness Club” continues to meet once weekly to work on cardiovascular endurance on our treadmills. We chart our progress on a “treadmill tracker,” practice lower extremity stretching and use a muscle chart to discuss which muscles are being engaged.

Overall our students are having a great month in PT and are continuing to make steady progress towards their goals!

Aliza Feuerstein PT, DPT, PCS

The students in Room 79 have kept very busy so far this Spring! Our students enjoyed participating in the March Madness basketball game as either players, cheerleaders, or fans! It has become an early Spring tradition and a good time was had by all!

We also recently took a trip to Esposito Park. We were lucky enough to enjoy beautiful weather as the class walked two laps on the path, tossed a football and observed some of the local wildlife!

The boys and girls of Room W79 also like to go to the Sunshine Cafe! It is a Thursday morning treat for the students to take a break from their busy week to enjoy a snack and drink. It also provides a great opportunity to spend time with their friends from other classrooms and work on social skills.