The School Bell
Williston Schools / October 27, 2023
In this issue...
A message from Greg Marino, Williston Schools Lead Principal - A Note from our Nurses - Williston Craft Show Volunteer Signup - Picture Retake details - SPARK session 2 - Connecting Youth & ParentIN Updates - Williston 2050 Roudtable details - and more...
In every issue...
- DAMLibrary - Upcoming Events/Programs
- Williston Recreation & Parks - Upcoming Events/Programs
- School and District Calendars
- Food Service / Transportation Links
- Families as Partners & Four Winds
- CVSD District and School Board Links
- Important Family Resources
A Message from the Williston Schools Leadership Team
by Greg Marino, Williston Schools Lead Principal
The Power of Partners, Families as Partners Annual Fund
Families as Partners Annual Fund
Williston faculty, staff, and our leadership team places the highest of values on the genuine partnership between families and school. We are proud to work and learn in a school community with an organization that has the word “partners” in its name.
The Williston Families as Partners organization embodies a collaborative and effective partnership that supports all students. A group whose volunteers work tirelessly to support and enrich the educational experience for nearly 1000 students PreK - 8. No one could argue with the premise that when there are effective partnerships between teachers, staff, school leaders, students and families, we are substantially elevating the potential for raising happy, healthy, students who are prepared for a happy, healthy, and productive life.
I could not possibly list here all of the many programs, supplies, pieces of equipment, special field trips, guest artists, performers, and guest educators that the F.A.P. has helped make possible for the students of Williston. Of course, this support and programming takes money. I am grateful that the Williston F.A.P. has committed to providing its support to Williston Students, PreK - 8, in an equitable way. As you may know, the group is very intentional about not asking students and families to engage in the selling of products from catalogs, wrapping paper, frozen cookie dough, the list is endless. Not only are these activities an imposition on families’ time, it is often not an equitable approach to raising funds. These activities can also often be ecologically irresponsible.
Instead, the F.A.P. asks families to do their part and chip in to the F.A.P. Annual Fund. The Annual Fund is an effective low-impact model of raising funds where the responsibility is shared across families. These funds are then equitably distributed to enhance education for all Williston students. I wanted to use this Bell article to celebrate and express gratitude for all the programming that is made possible as a result of this fund. Effective partnerships require that both parties commit to their responsibilities and place trust in the other. Effective teams require all to chip in for the good of the team and its collective goals. With this in mind, I hope you will consider making a contribution to the Annual fund today. Your contribution, regardless of amount, makes a real and tangible difference to the opportunities available to Williston students.
Mark Your Calendar
Upcoming Events
10/30 - Picture Retake Day - WCS @8:15am, ABS @10:30am
11/02 - Clover 6th Grade to Green Mtn Audubon Center
11/04 - Craft Fair @WCS
11/08 - 4 Winds Training, 8:15am - 10:30am @WCS Community Room
11/09 - Families as Partners Monthly Meeting, 8:30 - 10:30am @WCS Community Room
11/10 - 7th & 8th Grade Dance, 6:30 - 8:00pm / DEI Town Hall - Latinx Community
11/16 - ParentIn CVSD Virtual Event, 7-8:30pm
11/20 - 11/24 - No School / Thanksgiving Break
Our School Days
Allen Brook School - Start Time @ 7:50am;
Dismissal for PreK & K at 2:25pm - grades 1 & 2 @2:30pm
Williston Central School - Start Time @8:00am;
Dismissal grades 3 & 4 @2:35pm - grades 5-8 @2:45pm
**REMINDER: Early Release Wednesdays are 1 Hour earlier every week**
📸 Monday is Picture Retake Day 📸
For picture retakes, students MUST bring in the original photos with the envelope. If students were not here for the original day, you may use the link below to order photos.
Please Note: This link is only for families who have not ordered previously and their student is being photographed for the first time.
Williston Central School:
Event: Williston Central School Fall Pictures 2023
Passcode: WCS323 - case sensitive
Allen Brook School:
http://bsnap.hhimagehost.com/AllenBrookSchoolFallPictures2023
passcode: ABS323 - case sensitive
It's time to clean out the medicine cabinet of your unused medications!
NATIONAL RX TAKE BACK DAY is this Saturday, October 28 from 10am-2pm.
This link has collection site locations.
This site has permanent drop-off locations that are available year-round.
Health Office Updates
PLEASE CHECK YOUR CHILD’S HEAD FOR LICE!!!! THEY NEVER TAKE A VACATION
The Health Office staff urges everyone to check for head lice at least once a week. Students who had head lice in the past should be checked more often for reinfestation. Students who attend ovenight field trips, stay in hotels, have sleep overs, or go camping should have their heads checked prior to leaving and once they return by a parent. Also check routinely with baseball and softball season, if helmets are being shared. Please remind your child NOT to share, brushes, combs, hair ties, hats, scarfs, hooded sweatshirts and coats. If you discover your child has head lice, please notify the Health Office. Communication is important to help prevent Head Lice from spreading. All staff members will continue with prevention measures. If you have any questions, please call the Health Office.
Here is a CDC link on lice prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/prevent.html
Thanks so much for your cooperation,
Maria Harlow RN, BSN, MSN/Ed WCS: 871-6170
Carol Albertelli RN, BSN WCS: 871-6171
Sylvia Love RN, BSN ABS: 871-6248
Happy head lice!
Not so happy human!
Connecting Youth & ParentIn
Connecting Youth Seeks Mentors
CVSD’s Connecting Youth (CY) seeks new community members to join our team of mentors for 5th - 12th grade students. This is a meaningful volunteer opportunity to be engaged with your community and truly make a difference in the life of one great kid!
Mentors and mentee pairs meet weekly for about an hour. *We work with mentors' personal/professional schedules*
School year commitment
Mentor training and continual support provided by CVSD mentor coordinators.
Middle school mentors have access to dedicated spaces for cooking, crafting, playing games and developing a friendship.
High school mentors work alongside students to grow their skills and resilience, guide in goal-setting, and even explore possible career paths through new interests and experiences.
If you consider yourself fun, caring and trustworthy, your consistent presence can enhance a young person’s self-confidence, improve their academic performance, prevent substance use, and help them discover new passions. All while enriching your own life.
LEARN MORE by contacting a CVSD Mentor Coordinator today
- Charlotte Central School, Kate Rooney, krooney@cvsdvt.org, 802-425-6682
- Hinesburg Community School, Livy Bulger, lbulger@cvsdvt.org, 802-482-6248
- Champlain Valley Union, Alison Duback, aduback@cvsdvt.org (802) 482-8921
Lunch Menu
All About ABS...
Winter is Coming!
As the weather starts to change with the seasons please remember to send in boots, hats, mittens, jackets, etc. for the season. All grades will go outside for recess year round unless it is pouring rain, thunder and lightening or below zero. Teachers and staff will remind students to wear appropriate gear each day as they are getting ready for recess, and student will be expected to keep their jacket on anytime the feels like is 40 or below.
Help our student make the most of outdoor time by planning and packing for the weather!
If you need help locating outdoor gear please contact your school guidance counselor.
Reminder Note: Allen Brook School End of Day Changes
Please remember: If there is any change to your student's typical end of day plan, please be sure to contact the front office and teacher BEFORE 1:00PM (or 12:00 pm on Wednesdays). Changes in your student(s) schedule will not be accepted after this time unless it is an emergency.
Send all emails regarding attendance and end of day changes to:
The classroom teacher
Front Office: absfrontoffice@cvsdvt.org
The Team Assistant for your grade:
Kindergarten - cplouffe@cvsdvt.org
First/Second Grade - lsaladino@cvsdvt.org
What's Up at WCS...
Attention 6th Graders!
CVU Theater is inviting all 6th graders in the district to their Invited Dress Rehearsal of "Newsies" on Thursday, 11/9 at 5:30pm. This is just for 6th graders and one guardian. Doors will open at 5:15pm - general seating. Running time should be about 2 hr 45 minutes with intermission.
WHO: Champlain Valley Union High School invites all 6th graders in the district and 1 accompanying guardian
WHAT: FREE Invited Dress Rehearsal of the Disney Musical "Newsies" (see attached flyer)
WHEN: Thursday, November 9th at 5:30pm (approx running time 2hr 45 minutes)
WHERE: CVU High School Theatre (369 CVU Rd, Hinesburg)
HOW: General Seating, Doors open around 5pm. Please RSVP to secure your seats using this Google Form: Newsies Invited Dress Rehearsal RSVP Form
Please RSVP to secure your seats using this Google Form: Newsies Invited Dress Rehearsal RSVP Form
SPARK Enrichment After School Session 2
We are excited to offer your child an opportunity to participate in Spark Enrichment, an after-school applied learning program for students in grades 5-8. Sessions will run for 5 weeks from 2:50 p.m - 4:20 p.m. with our 2nd session starting November 9th and ends December 14th. These small group classes will be facilitated by school faculty and staff. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that can be found on the link below. Accommodations for any food allergies will be made. Caregivers will receive an email (using the email given on the form) informing them of the assigned workshop on Monday or Tuesday of the week that workshops begin. In order to take full advantage of this learning opportunity, students will need to make a commitment to attend all five Thursdays. If your child decides to not take part in this session after having registered please contact Julie Rogers so that others may fill the spot. The after-school activity bus will provide transportation home for students in need of a ride home.
The dates of the session are: November 9, 16, 30, December 7 & 14. When registering, students will be able to rank their choices for better placement! Students will be placed on a first come first serve basis as well as ensuring that students do not repeat workshops unless there are open spots. Please use this registration form and a listing of workshop descriptions. Contact Julie Rogers (jrogers@cvsdvt.org) with any questions.
4th Grade Beginner Band Starts in November
Important dates:
Thursday, 10/26- Students attend information meet and sign ups begin
Friday, 11/3- deadline for signing up for Beginner Band AND for
completing instrument rental contracts.
Monday, 11/13- Ellis Music Co. delivers instruments and supplies to Kim Thompson
Friday, 11/17- Beginner lessons start (Schedule will be shared with students. Instruments and
materials delivered by Ellis Music Co. will be given to students at their first lesson.)
At this time, the beginner band program is available to all interested students in grades 4 and up. All beginners will attend a weekly small group lesson during their school day and will perform later in the school year. Students may choose:
flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, or percussion.
*Percussion Notes:
In order to provide a quality experience to all musicians, there is a limit of 8 percussion spaces. If interest exceeds space, places in this class will be chosen by lottery. Please note that omission of a second choice will not increase your chances of acquiring a space in percussion. Thank you for your understanding.
How to sign up:
Here is the Beginner Band sign up form. It is also available on the WCS Band webpage. Please be sure to sign up by 11/3 in order to ensure your child is enrolled in a class.
How to get an instrument:
Most WCS band students rent an instrument from Ellis Music Company. WCS Music has had a successful relationship with this Vermont family owned business for over 25 years. Renting from Ellis Music Company is encouraged, but you are welcome to rent from elsewhere or purchase a reputable used instrument from a private sale. If financial support is needed to participate, please indicate this on the sign up form.
- Buyer beware: “Instruments” sold at general retail stores and websites are not recommended. They are typically made from lower quality materials, are difficult to play and repair, or not repairable at all. If it’s brand new and the price is really low, be suspicious. If it comes in an unconventional color or if it comes with gloves, be suspicious. When in doubt, please ask a music teacher.
If you plan to rent from Ellis Music Company:
Please sign up on time (11/3) AND complete your rental contract transactions online. Click here for pricing.
Percussionists can rent a snare drum kit OR purchase a book sticks and a drum pad.
If you cannot complete an online contract, please call or email Ellis Music Company for an alternative
method. (802-234-6400).
If you already have an instrument or plan to get one elsewhere:
Please allow Kim Thompson to help you determine that your instrument is in working condition.
Please purchase the book which will be used in class.
(wind players- Tradition of Excellence book 1, percussionists: Alfred Drum Method, Book 1)
Questions? Please contact Kim Thompson: kthompson@cvsdvt.org or 871-6033
Four Winds Nature Institute
This Year's Theme: The Earth
Sunlight & Shadow (Sept.)
Erosion (Oct.)
Rocks & Minerals (Nov.)
Blanket of Air (Jan.)
Nature of Sound (Feb.)
Water Cycle (March)
Wind & Clouds (April)
Get Your Bearings (May)
Nature's News
Contact Four Winds
Families as Partners
The Craft Show is Sew Much Fun!
Calling all art lovers, book readers and crafty types -- we need YOU!
Calling anyone with two hours to give back to your schools in service -- we need YOU!
Calling all energetic teens, dads and grandparents -- we need YOU!
The beloved annual Williston Craft Show returns Saturday, November 4, which is closer than you think. We need dozens of volunteers to assist the crafters and customers. Want to spend a few fun hours with a friend, walking around the craft show and helping the 100+ vendors find what they need? Want to greet customers warmly at the door and welcome folks to WCS? We can't put on a great show without YOU.
We would love to have you in our Crafter Crew at the Craft Show November 4! Please sign up for a shift(s) at this link: https://signup.com/go/GuqFSni
Thank you from Erin and Lindsay, Williston Craft Show Co-Chairs
Arrival & Dismissal
Williston & CVSD Services and Resources
Bus Information
Thank you for your continued patience and support as our students and drivers learn the routes and routines at the beginning of the school year.
Williston Schools Food Service
Williston Schools Safety Team
School Year Calendars
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.
Pumpkin Carving*
Saturday, October 28, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Come out to the Town Green to carve a pumpkin to take home! Williston and St. George residents, one pumpkin per family please! Registration required.
Trunk or Treating
Sunday, October 29, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Find us at the Rotary Club’s Trunk or Treat event this Sunday! Dottie the Bookmobile will be near the tennis courts at WCS.
Storytime
Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Join Danielle for stories, songs, and rhymes.
Baby Time
Wednesday, November 1, 10:30-11 a.m. Enjoy interacting and bonding through these gentle baby activities (twice monthly).
After School LEGO Time & Board Games
Wednesday, November 1, 2-3 p.m. Make something exciting with the library’s LEGO collection and enjoy some favorite games!
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.
Read to a Dog (Lola)*
Thursday, November 2, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Call to register for a 10-minute time slot to read to (or hang out with) Lola the Therapy Dog!
KinderRec Basketball
Ages 5-6- Coed. This is a parent/child program designed to teach the fundamentals of the game. Each week youngsters will be introduced to a new skill and fun activities that will enhance their learning. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February. Instructors: Rec. Staff. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29932
1st-2nd Basketball
There are separate boys’ and girls’ programs offered if numbers allow. The program provides the opportunity for youngsters to learn the game, improve their skills, and enjoy playing. The program meets on Saturdays in January and February. The hour session will consist of a practice and scrimmage. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30201
3rd-4th Basketball
There are separate boys’ and girls’ leagues offered if numbers allow. Leagues provide the opportunity for youngsters to play and improve their skills. Teams meet twice a week with a weekday practice and Saturday game. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30239
5th-6th Basketball
There will be separate boys’ and girls’ leagues offered if numbers allow. The leagues meet twice a week for 1 hour each time- 1 practice and 1 game. Separate boys’ and girls’ leagues offered if numbers allow. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30239
7th-8th Basketball
There is a league for boys’ if the numbers allow. The team meets twice a week for 1 hour each time- 1 practice and 1 game. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30239
Note: The 3rd-8th leagues are part of the CVRA League, which plays other Rec. Depts. in the area. Games will be played in Williston and other towns. Schedule to be determined.
Ninja Kids Intro
Age 4-8 or 7-11. The play-based curriculum increases strength and self-confidence, while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Programs start in October. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff
Age 4-8- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30097
Age 7-11- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30206
Ninja Teens Intro
Age 9-15. The play based curriculum increases strength and self-confidence, while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30098
Safe Sitter Courses
Grades 6-8. Safe Sitter® prepares teens to be safe when they’re home alone, watching siblings or babysitting. The course offers four main content areas: Safety Skills, Childcare Skills, First Aid & Rescue Skills, and Life & Business Skills. Instructor: Rec Staff. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29842
Learn to Ski/Ride
Information and Registration for the Learn to Ski/Ride Program will be available on the Rec. website November 2. Be sure to register before the early bird discount to save- December 18. There will also be two fitting dates for equipment. You must register your family for a fitting time. Info is on the registration page.
Snowmobile Safety Course
12+. This in-person course will provide the opportunity to earn the certification necessary to legally operate on Vermont’s Statewide Snowmobile Trails System. VT State Law requires that all VT snowmobile operators born after July 1, 1983, must take and pass a state approved snowmobile safety course before operating on Vermont Trails. Registration Deadline: Nov. 27. Dec. 2, 9:00a-3:00 p.m. *Lunch Provided. $10.00 per person. The program will be held in Shelburne Town Municipal Center. Instructor: Richard Spitzer. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29925
Information in 1-Click
Family Resources
Resources to keep accessible:
- 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.
Allen Brook School and Williston Central School