Wildcat Buzz
March 8, 2024
Top Buzz -
1. Grade 3-4 Art Show is this coming Monday, March 11 in the WCS Community Room.
2. Walk or Roll to School Thursday, March 14th.
2. CVSD DEI Team presents Somali Bantu Cultural Night March 15, 6-8pm WCS Community Room.
Mark Your Calendar
Upcoming Events
03/11 - Lucky U starts / Folino's Swift Fundraiser Night
03/11 - Grade 3-4 Art Show 5:00 -6:15 p.m. @ WCS Community Room
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
03/22 DAML Event-Planetarium
03/23 - Big Basket Raffle (adults only) & Fun Night @WCSA Message from the Williston Schools Leadership Team
By Greg Marino, Williston School Principal
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
I will be intentional here about not using this space for any personal commentary on the recent failed school budget, or the education finance system in Vermont, or any number of the converging factors that have created the current reality we find ourselves in. I would only like to acknowledge the unprecedented nature of this convergence and the shadow that has been cast by the failed budget votes around the State, including in CVSD. It’s real, and it impacts all of us as we go about our work and our lives. I also want to appreciate the incredibly supportive community of Williston and thank all of you for your partnership in the important work of educating our children. I also want to thank and appreciate the faculty, staff, and leadership here in Williston and all of CVSD. The dedication that you bring to the work on behalf of our children is truly inspiring. Thank you.
Fortunately, there is another convergence happening at the moment. A convergence of important celebrations that seem to be burning brightly at the moment. As we are just transitioning from the celebration of Black History Month in February, we add a celebration and focus on Women during the month of March. In fact, today is International Women’s Day. If you are interested, here is a short pbskids video on IWD. The 2024 theme for International Women’s Day is, Inspire Inclusion.
Yesterday, March 7th, was also Amanda Gorman’s birthday. For those of you who don’t know Amanda Gorman, you can learn more about her here (links to Wikipedia page). She is a gifted human and a personal hero of mine. As a father of three daughters, she is somewhat of a superhero in the Marino household.
So, at this convergence of Black History Month, International Women’s Day and Amanda Gorman’s birthday, I would like to use this space to share a poem by Ms. Gorman, entitled “We Rise”. I have also included a video of Ms. Gorman reading her poem aloud. There’s nothing I can add to these words that would better meet this moment and I am grateful for this opportunity to share them. Thank you.
Amanda Gorman reading her poem, “We Rise” text below:
We Rise
Today, everyone’s eyes
Are on us as we rise.
Today is the day women
Are paving the way,
Speaking our truth to power.
In this hour, it is our duty
to find the brave beauty
In rooting for other women
So they too know we are not victims,
We are victors, the greatest predictors
of progress. We press for change,
A new dawn drawn into the open
By women whose silence is broken.
We push on and act on
Our responsibility to bring visibility
To the most vulnerable:
To bring freedom to those who didn’t have a choice,
To bring volume to those who are using their voice.
We clear a woman’s way,
We don’t fear the day
She steps into the light
Because we are with her
Every step of the fight.
There’s a lot at stake, but making
A difference always takes great courage.
So we encourage women who dare to stare
Fear square in its face,
Women who’ve always shown
That when one woman stands up
She is never alone.
We know that when she steps up to right a wrong,
She will fight to bring others along
To the network, into the conversation,
Working together to change communities
And nations for generations, our world
Made all the stronger the longer
Women are able to sit at the table.
It is her strength, her story, and her spirit
Which inspires other vital voices
to speak up when they hear it.
So let it be said that light will be shed
When our world is led by leaders ahead
of the headlines, the voices
Who are first on the frontline,
These women who stand up,
knowing the wind
Not by where it is, but where it is blowing,
Leading worlds not by how society is
But where change is going.
We all leap forward when one woman tries,
When she defies with her rallying cries.
Here lies, but does not rest, the best
Of tested women who call us all to rise,
Speaking the truth in this finest hour:
That to their own power,
Every single woman is entitled.
But it’s how they empower others
That makes women’s voices so vital.
Amanda Gorman
Special Announcements & Notices
March 8 Budget Update
Superintendent Sanchez has provided an update on the development process for a revised budget. Please see this post on the district's blog for the full text of his update. Thank you!
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
It is becoming Spring....at least soon? And that means pollen and allergies!
BCBSVT has a great "Survival Tips for Seasonal Allergies" link for you to check out.
WCAX AccuWeather has a Vermont Local Pollen Count link you can check daily.
The UVM Medical Center also has a link Hay Fever and Other Seasonal Allergies that help with symptoms and treatments.
If your child has seasonal allergies and especially if taking any medication for them, please let your school nurse know. It can help if we know why they are having "cold-like" symptoms but won't have to send them home.
The Buzz at ABS
The WCS Wildcat What's Up
Indoor Garage Sale!
Clover House of Williston Central School is bringing back its Annual Indoor Garage Sale- Saturday, April 6th from 8:00am - 2:00pm. It is a giant indoor yard sale - high quality household goods, clothing, accessories, sports equipment, toys, art, electronics and more!
Taking place in the WCS Cafeteria, ALL ARE WELCOME! Please enter in the After School Hours entrance, back of the west entrance parking lot. All proceeds go directly to Clover House Overnight Field Trip.
WE NEED YOUR HELP - If you have any quality, sell-able items to donate to this sale we’d be most appreciative!! We are looking for furniture, household items, athletic equipment, working electronics, artwork, toys, rugs or anything that could be a treasure to someone new! Items can be dropped off Friday, April 5th from 6:30pm-8:30pm at the After School Hours entrance, or at the WCS front office any time before then.
Contact Ted Milks at Tmilks@cvsdvt.org with questions.
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
Reminder to Bring in Donations -March 14 Last Day
Helpers Needed for Big Basket Raffle
WFAP Volunteer Crew
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.
French Storytime
Saturday, March 9, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Drop in for stories read aloud in French!
Pokémon Club
Monday, March 11, 4-5 p.m. Join us in themed activities and enthusiastic chats!
Storytime
Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Join Danielle for stories, songs, and rhymes.
After School STEAM Fun Activity
Wednesday, March 13, 2-3 p.m. Explore different STEAM subjects with fun experiments at the library.
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.
LEGO Time
Thursday, March 14, 3-4 p.m. Build something fun with our LEGO collection!
Kids in the Kitchen*
Thursday, March 14, 3-4 p.m. Make flavored butters and an Irish Soda Bread from the comfort of your own kitchen with the help of registered dietician, Joanne Heidkamp! Register to receive Zoom link and ingredient list.
Homeschool Robotics Team Demo
Friday, March 15, 4-5 p.m. Take a look at what this robotics team has put together for an upcoming national competition! Learn about how they came up with the project, see a demo of their robot, and ask questions!
Vermont Reads
This year's Vermont Read title is Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo. Pick up or 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
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. 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
Williston Little League registration is still open! This is a great opportunity for kids of all ages to learn the game of softball or baseball all while having fun and forming new friendships.
During registration, please consider the coaching, Hit-a-thon and other volunteer options available to help make this season the best yet!
We thank you for you continued support of our Little League players, coaches and volunteers. Your partnership and participation help create an amazing program that builds a foundation of confidence and sportsmanship and a strong sense of community.
Vermont Youth Dancers presents The Impossible, A Telling Cinderella's Story at Mount Mansfield Union High School on April 13 at 1:30 & 6:30 pm, and on April 14 at 1:30 pm. VVY brings this classic tale to life with current music in a full length stage production. Do not miss our signature blend of exciting hip hop and inspiring lyrical choreography, imaginative sets and beautiful costumes. Tickets on sale now! vermontyouthdancers.org
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.