As we enter the month of February, we proudly celebrate Black History Month—a time to honor the rich tapestry of African American heritage, achievements, and contributions that have profoundly shaped our society. This month, we shine a special spotlight on one of the most influential figures in American legal history, Thurgood Marshall.

Thurgood Marshall’s legacy is one of perseverance, justice, and unwavering commitment to equality. As the first African American Supreme Court Justice, he broke barriers and set a new standard for civil rights and social justice in our nation. His tireless efforts in challenging segregation and advocating for equal treatment under the law have inspired countless individuals and continue to serve as a beacon of hope for future generations. Marshall’s work reminds us that the pursuit of justice is a collective endeavor—one that calls upon each of us to strive for fairness, compassion, and the betterment of our communities.

In reflecting on his contributions, we are inspired to extend this spirit of community and service to our own neighborhood. We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and hard work of our volunteers, who recently helped make our very first Community Food Bank an outstanding success. Your generosity, time, and dedication ensured that local families in need received essential resources, and your efforts truly embody the spirit of service that Thurgood Marshall championed throughout his career.

The Community Food Bank initiative is more than just a charitable endeavor—it is a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can create lasting change. Each volunteer played a vital role in creating a welcoming, supportive environment for those who needed it most. Whether you spent hours organizing donations, assisting families, or simply offering a kind word, your contributions have had a significant and positive impact on our community.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us carry forward the legacy of leaders like Thurgood Marshall by continuing to serve and uplift one another. May the values of justice, equality, and community that he exemplified inspire us all to create a brighter, more inclusive future.

Thank you once again to everyone who volunteered and helped bring our Community Food Bank to life. Your commitment to the well-being of our community is deeply appreciated, and together, we will continue to honor our history by building a better tomorrow.

Happy Black History Month!

February is Kindness Month, a time to focus on the power of compassion, empathy, and making a positive impact on those around us! Throughout the month, we will encourage students and staff to engage in acts of kindness, reflect on the importance of caring for others, and build a stronger, more inclusive community. Ms. Megan, our counselor, has been planning fun ways to celebrate the Kindness Month.

In honor of showing kindness, we are also having a food drive to help stock the Wilson Community Center Food Pantry. The Primary School and the Elementary School are competing to see which school will collect more items! Some item we are collecting are peanut butter, cereal, jelly, pasta, pasta sauce, mac & cheese, and canned meats.

Let’s work together to make February a month filled with kindness, generosity, and positivity!

Registration for incoming Kindergarten students is now open! If you have a child or know someone who will be entering Kindergarten in the fall, please visit our office or website for enrollment details.

Important Dates

· February 10 – Week of Kindness

· February 13 – Sweetheart Family Dance

· February 17 – No School-Presidents’ Day

· February 26 – Parent Meeting

· February 26 – Read Across America Week

· February 27 – Family Night-Books on Blanket/World Fair/4th Grade Concert

Thank you for being a part of our school community! We look forward to another wonderful month of learning and fun. Hope to see you all at these family events!

Mrs. Wojcicki

As we step into February, we take this opportunity to celebrate Black History Month, honor the achievements of African Americans, and recognize their profound impact on our nation’s history. This month also brings exciting events, academic updates, and important reminders for students and families across our district.

Thank you to those who participated in the parent-teacher conferences. Parent-teacher conferences are a great opportunity for parents to gain insight into their child's academic progress, social development, and overall school experience. Thank you for your continued support in fostering an inclusive and enriching learning environment for all! If missed the parent teacher conferences, please reach out to your child’s teacher to set another time to meet. We hope that parents were able to gain a clear understanding of how their child is doing and ways to support their growth both in and out of the classroom.

We are excited to announce that our 8th-grade students have been visiting high schools and participating in guest speakers about high schools to explore their future school and learn more about high school life! Interested students have toured the campus and classrooms and shadowed some high school students. They also have been meeting high school teachers, counselors, and student leaders to learn about academic programs, electives, and extracurricular activities. These visits have helped our 8th graders feel prepared and excited for their transition to high school. Looking forward to providing more experiences.

Thank you for your continued support in making Wilson Elementary School a welcoming and enriching place for our students. Let’s make February a month of learning, kindness, and celebration!

Mrs. Wojcicki

Talise Berry

Dear Wilson Community,

Happy Black History Month! During this month, let's reflect on Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson and her groundbreaking contributions to science and technology. Her journey from a student in D.C. to the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in physics from MIT is a powerful story of perseverance and leadership.

What Can We Learn from Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson?

1. Power of Vision: Dr. Jackson's groundbreaking research led to innovations like the portable fax, touch-tone phone, solar cells, fiber optics,

caller ID, and call waiting.

· Lesson for our students: Believe in your vision!

2. The Power of Persistence: Dr. Jackson overcame challenges as one of MIT's first African American women, proving resilience breaks barriers and commitment leads to success. Her story teaches us the importance of staying committed to our goals, even when faced with obstacles.

· Lesson for our students: Never give up, believe in yourself

3. Diversity in STEM: As a pioneer in a male-dominated field, Dr. Jackson’s work encourages us to embrace and advocate for diversity in all areas of work, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

· Lesson for our students: There is room for your gifts and creativity! The world needs you!

4. Leadership and Impact: Dr. Jackson's ascent to becoming the first African American woman president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute highlights the power of leadership. She has not only contributed to scientific advancement but has also mentored and led others to success.

· Lesson for our students: Reach back as you rise, lifting others along the way!

5. Lifelong Learning and Growth: Throughout her career, Dr. Jackson’s work was always focused on the betterment of society through science and education. Her journey exemplifies the importance of lifelong learning.

· Lesson for our students: Readers are leaders- never stop learning!

As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s honor the incredible contributions of African Americans like Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, whose legacy continues to inspire us all. Remember, each of you has the potential to make a difference, just as those who came before us did. You are amazing!

Wishing you a beautiful February!

Jevon

Celebrating Black History Month

February is Black History Month, a time to reflect, celebrate, and educate ourselves about the rich contributions of Black individuals throughout history. We encourage our community to take part in events, read about influential Black leaders, and engage in meaningful conversations that honor this important month.

Food Pantry Update – A Huge Success!

We are excited to share that the launch of our food pantry was a tremendous success! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, and participated. Your generosity and support have made a meaningful impact on those in need.

To continue improving our pantry, we welcome your input! If there are specific food items you would like us to have available, please let us know. Community feedback helps us better serve you.

Food Pantry Schedule:

🗓 First Wednesday of the month: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
🗓 Third Wednesday of the month: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
⚠️ Reminder: One visit per household per month.

PCH Services Available

We’re happy to have PCH providing services at the center every Monday and Friday from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. If you or someone you know needs assistance, stop by during these hours. PCH offers essential services, resources, and guidance to support our community members.

Upcoming Events & Reminders

• The library is open Tuesday and Thursday 3:30 PM-5:30 PM

• The playground/ field and track are open Tuesday and Thursday from 5:00 PM- sundown

• The veggie bus is at the community center on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday from 11 AM-12 PM

• Adult nutrition class on Tuesdays from 5 PM-6:30 PM in the library

• Produce Your Life Audio Production After school program for 5th-8th grade Tuesday and Thursday 3:30 -530 PM

As always, thank you for being a part of the Wilson Community Center. We appreciate you and look forward to a great month ahead!

Warm regards,

Building the Future: The Legacy of Black General Contractors

Black general contractors have played a crucial role in shaping communities, overcoming systemic barriers, and leaving a lasting impact on the construction industry. One such inspiring figure is Paul R. Williams (1894–1980), a pioneering Black architect and general contractor whose work redefined American architecture.

Born in Los Angeles, Williams faced racial discrimination early in his career but refused to be discouraged. He became the first Black member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and designed over 3,000 structures, including luxury homes for celebrities, public buildings, and housing developments. His expertise extended beyond design—he managed large-scale construction projects, ensuring that his visionary structures came to life.

Williams’ influence in construction and architecture opened doors for future Black general contractors, who continue to break barriers in a predominantly white industry. Today, Black builders, engineers, and developers are shaping cities, advocating for diversity, and creating opportunities for the next generation.

As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the resilience, skill, and contributions of Black general contractors who continue to build not just structures but legacies that stand the test of time.

The Elementary School will have roofing contractors on campus starting at 5p.m. to 12 p.m. Tues, Weds, and Thurs and all-day Sat and Sun for the next 14 to 16 weeks.

Have a Great Month

Roy Sucanick

Director of Maintenance/Transportation

Child Find, a component of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), enables states to locate, identify, and evaluate all children with disabilities, aged birth through 21, who need early intervention or special education services. Special education services are available for children of any age (birth through 21 years). Wilson School District is responsible for locating, identifying, evaluating, and serving all children with disabilities (ages 3-21) and referring children ages 0-3 to AzEIP for evaluation and appropriate services. AzEIP is the Arizona Early Intervention Program for infants and toddlers. Wilson provides free and appropriate public education that includes special education and related services to children at public expense, under public supervision and direction without charge to parents. For all school-age students who are new to the district, the classroom teacher will complete screening activities within 45 days of enrollment. If any concerns are noted, the child will be referred for help. Parents who have concerns regarding their child’s education may contact the Special Education Department at Wilson, (602) 683-2400, ext. 8500.

Are you currently experiencing temporary living arrangements due to eviction, job loss or a traumatic event? Wilson School District offers services to families through the McKinney-Vento Assistance Act. Services such as enrollment and immunization assistance, uniforms or school supplies, community referrals and in some cases, transportation can be available. Your family may qualify due to living with another family or friend due to financial hardship or living in a shelter, transitional housing, or motel. Please contact your school office or Josue Parra at 602-683-2515, ext. 6008 for more information about this program.

Excellence in Education

Website: https://www.wsd7.org
Location: 3025 East Fillmore Street, Phoenix, AZ, USA
Phone: (602) 681-2200
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WilsonSchoolDistrictNo7