Wildcat Buzz
April 12, 2024
Top Buzz
1. WCS Drama Presents: The Addams Family, April 12, 13 @WCS Auditorium
2. Walk or Roll to School, Tuesday April 16th
3. Budget Informational Meeting , Monday April 15th, 5pm - Hybrid Format: @CVU/Online/Phone
Mark Your Calendar
Upcoming Events
04/12 - WCS Drama Presents: The Addams Family, 7pm @ WCS Auditorium
04/13 - WCS Drama Presents: The Addams Family, 2pm @ WCS Auditorium
04/15 - CVSD Budget Informational Meeting 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
04/16 - Walk or Roll to School
04/16 - CVSD Revised Budget VOTE
04/18 - Q & A with the Superintendent, 8am @ WCS Community Room
04/22 - 04/26 SPRING BREAK - NO SCHOOL
05/03 - 6th-8th Grade Dance, 6:30pm @ WCS
05/08 - Four Winds Training
05/09 - Walk or Roll to School / Williston Families as Partners monthly meeting
A Message from the Williston Schools Leadership Team
by Greg Marino, Williston Schools Lead Principal
Despite the snow day last week, there are so many physical signs of spring popping all around us. As educators and parents we also have the great privilege of witnessing another, perhaps more inspiring type of springtime - the visible growth in our students that comes as a result of care and effort over time - from both our students and our dedicated educators. There are too many to name here for sure, but one exciting example of this human springtime of personal and collaborative growth is the WCS drama club’s musical production, The Addams Family. Last night I had the great pleasure of witnessing the production’s opening night performance. This production involves a cast and crew of 34 students. This enthusiastic and talented group had audience members chuckling, applauding, toe-tapping - and of course - finger snapping, throughout the evening.
What we all witnessed last night was such a great example of what happens when students have the opportunity to explore different avenues of expression, tap into gifts and talents, and work together as part of a team to create something more exceptional than they could ever create on their own. It was so impressive to see what this cast and crew were able to do in just a few months of preparation, under the enthusiastic guidance and coaching of their production team. Congratulations go out to the cast and crew, as well as the production team: Angela Pollock, Danielle Triasciatti-Holberg, Steve Smith, Henry Robinson, and Carol Spradling. Of course, thanks and congratulations also go out to the many parent volunteers who were able to help with this year’s production, as well as to the parents who cheered their students on from home! This production was a great example of the spirit of the Williston Community coming alive! It’s not too late to get your tickets for tonight’s performance or the Saturday matinee.
Budget Vote, April 16, 2024 - I could not miss the opportunity for these short reminders
Your voice matters and needs to be heard.
Exercising your right to vote is an important way to model responsible citizenship for our students.
Be informed. Seek primary sources who have first hand information. You can find details about the school budget here on the CVSD website and below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Budget Reductions List (subject to change)
Ask Questions. If you have any questions, you can reach out to Jackie, Angela, and me, or the School Board.
Please encourage your friends and neighbors to let their voices be heard and vote on Tuesday. Early voting is also available.
Thank you!
Special Announcements & Notices
Recycle Your Eclipse Glasses at School!
Please send your eclipse glasses in with your student to put in the collection boxes located at ABS and WCS! CSWD has partnered with Astronomers Without Borders to collect solar eclipse glasses to be diverted from the landfill and reused. These glasses will then be redistributed to communities who might not otherwise have a safe way to view the solar eclipse. Our schools are acting as collection sites for our community. The collection boxes will be in the front office/lobby of each school until April 17.
WCS Theatre Presents:
THE ADDAMS FAMILY, a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, features an original story and it's every father's nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family– a man her parents have never met.
CVSD Budget Information and Informational Meeting
Letter from the CVSD Board Chair
Please see this letter from CVSD's School Board Chair, Meghan Metzler.
Voting Information
Ballots are now available in town offices for those who would like to vote early. They will not be automatically sent to you if you voted by absentee ballot on Town Meeting Day unless you had previously requested absentee ballots for all elections for calendar year 2024.
Polls will be open on April 16 from 7am-7pm.
Get Informed!
If you have not yet voted, learn more about the proposed budget.
Please see the Budget page of the district's website for additional information about the budget including a Budget Overview and FAQs.
CVSD Budget Informational Meeting - Hybrid format
Please join district administrators and school board members for an informational meeting about the proposed budget. This will be a hybrid meeting.
Physical location: CVU room 160
Zoom information: https://cvsdvt-org.zoom.us/s/87255024696
passcode: cvsd11
Join by phone: 1-646-931-3860
Passcode: 140966
Monday, Apr 15, 2024, 05:00 PM
Cvu High School, Hinesburg, VT, USA
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
More Families Now Eligible for Child Care Financial Assistance
Did you know? The state of Vermont helps cover child care costs. Starting on April 7, more families will qualify for tuition assistance based on family size and income. For example, a family of four making $124,800 a year can get help paying for our program.
You can find out more about eligibility requirements online. To apply, contact your local Community Child Care Support Agency.
Lunch Menu
The Buzz at ABS
Attention: End of Day/Attendance Notification Change
Any time a student is going to be absent, or has a change to their dismissal/end of day plan,
please notify the following:
The classroom teacher
Front Office: absfrontoffice@cvsdvt.org
ABS Team Assistant Celeste Plouffe: cplouffe@cvsdvt.org
School Nurse (if due to illness): slove@cvsdvt.org
Reminder: If there is any change to your student's typical end of day plan, please be sure to contact the school 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.
The WCS Wildcat What's Up
SPARK Enrichment After School Session 5
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 5th session starting April 18 and ending May 23.
Williston Families as Partners
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)
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
Be SMART for Kids campaign
The district was approached by a volunteer with the Vermont Chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. They have a campaign called “Be SMART for Kids” which promotes secure firearm storage. Volunteers have distributed 10 cable locks to the front office at each of our schools. See the flyer below for more details.
CVSD: School Board - DEI - Superintendent
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.
Please note that on Friday, April 19, the Library will have a delayed opening at 12:30 p.m. due to staff training.
French Storytime
Saturday, April 13, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Drop in for stories read aloud in French!
Littles D&D
Saturday, April 13, 1-2 p.m. A mini session of Dungeons & Dragons for children ages 6-8. No prior experience required. Adults should plan to stay to help their campaigner(s). Please register each individual child that plans to participate!
Vermont Reads Book Discussion
This year's Vermont Read title is Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo. Check out a copy of this book in the library. The upcoming Book Discussion will be held on April 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the library with light refreshments. Find more details at our website.
Storytime
Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Join Danielle for stories, songs, and rhymes.
Baby Time
Wednesday, April 17, 10:30-11 a.m. Enjoy gentle activities with your baby!
After School Movie
Wednesday, April 17, 2-4 p.m. Rated G. You don’t need two eyes for this movie to make you scream with laughter!
Space Café
Wednesday, 5:30-6:30 p.m. All ages! Bring your space questions and come talk with folks from the Vermont Astronomical Society about their interests! Light refreshments provided.
Music & Playtime
Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Sing and dance with Linda Bassick! Then, stay to play.
Read to a Dog (Lola)
Thursday, April 18, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Call to sign up for 10 minutes to hang out with (or read to) Lola the Therapy Dog!
Teens Dungeons & Dragons
Friday, April 19, 5-6 p.m. Ages 12+. Join our D&D campaign! If you’re new to D&D, feel free to stop by early for help setting up a character.
Dick's Sporting Goods 20% Shop Event
This weekend April 12-14. Use the link below to see the coupon. Must present coupon when purchasing. CLICK HERE
Day Camp Counselors Wanted!
Applications are now being accepted for Summer Day Camp Counselors. Positions are 40 hours a week from June 24- August 16. Send a resume and cover letter to recreation@willistonvt.org or get an application on the Town’s website- https://www.town.williston.vt.us/ under General info.
Summer Camps- Registration is Now Open. Detailed information on the camps is available on the Recreation website. Check the website for dates, times, fees, and added camps it is always changing. Be sure to use the Camp Grid, a great tool for planning out your child’s summer. The Grid will be updated with new camps and those that fill. New Caps Added- 4 Art Camps, Disc Golf Camp. Updated Grid- 3\29/24- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/forms/6000_campgrid.2024.8.pdf
Kids To Parks Day- Saturday, May 18.
Two great programs are being offered on this Day to get kids and families outside and playing together.
Village Community Park Kid’s Fest- All Ages. Come out to Village Community Park on May 18 for Kids to Parks Day. A Family Friendly Day at the Park for all ages. There will be children's activities, games, giveaways, food, and Fun! Come dressed to be active. Activities will be planned for 12:00-2:00 pm. Pre-registration Not Required. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30328
Let's Go Fishing- Age 6-16. FREE PROGRAM- Pre-registration is required. Learn how to fish or learn new tricks to help you catch more fish. Learn where to find fish and what they like to eat. Build your own fishing lure. Equipment and bait provided. This is a Family Program. Children must be accompanied by an adult. May 18. Instructor: Chuck Goller. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30071
Vocal Percussion and Improvisation Workshop with Root7
Ages 13+. Root7, Vermont's contemporary A Cappella group for 17 years, will host a free workshop introducing participants to vocal percussion, vocal improvisation, and creating collaborative songs. For beginner and intermediate vocalists. Instructors: Root7
https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30303
Line Dancing
Age 6+. Learn the hottest moves, groove to great music, and make unforgettable memories. The program consists of the first hour of instruction/review of a line dance, and the second hour is open dance time. The instruction is at a beginner level, but all experience levels are welcome. Instructors: Country’s Best VT
https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30330
Boater Safety
Age 12+. Boating safety education is required for any motorboat operator, 12 years or older, born after January 1, 1974. The Boat Vermont, 8 hour classroom course will enable you to get the certification you need. Instructor: Jon Fick
https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29866
Ninja Science Camp
Age 8-13. This camp combines martial arts, tumbling, and parkour that your kids love, with environmental science education!
We'll be doing lots of technique-oriented Karate, playing martial arts games, breaking boards, and delving deeper into meditation and the moral and ethical precepts of the martial arts. April Camp- April 22-26, 9a-3p. Instructors: ONTA Studio Staff
https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30219
RecKids 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.
https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29862
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
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
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
Vermont Youth Dancers presents The Impossible, A Telling of 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. VYD 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.