May School District Newsletter
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Teacher Appreciation Week!
Last week we honored the dedication and hard work of our educators who are the backbone of our district. Join us in celebrating their unwavering commitment to shaping young minds! Watch heartwarming moments as students express gratitude to our incredible teachers!
2023-2024 Teacher of the Year Recipients
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year Awards for all schools within the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District. These exceptional educators were nominated and voted on by their peers in recognition of their outstanding dedication, innovation, and commitment to our students' success.
As the heart of our district's mission lies the understanding that it takes each and every one of us to create an environment where ever student feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. We are so grateful for the tireless efforts of all of our staff members who work relentlessly every day to foster a sense of belonging and to provide enriching educational experiences.
The recipients of the Teacher of the Year Award embody the essence of The West Way. They are not only exceptional educators but also inspiring leaders who continuously seek opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation. They are dedicated to meeting the diverse social, emotional, and academic needs of our students, and they consistently strive for excellence in their practice.
Recently, these incredible teachers were celebrated at the MMABSE Teacher of the Year Gala, where they were honored for their outstanding contributions to education. Additionally they will be recognized again at our upcoming West Allis-West Milwaukee Employee Recognition event at the end of May.
Please join us in extending our congratulations to these deserving teachers. Their passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students, families, and district truly make a difference in the lives of those they serve. We are incredible grateful for their contributions, and we look forward to witnessing their continued impact as leaders and role models within our district.
Prioritizing Mental Health: A Vital Aspect of Student Well-being
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight a topic that is often overlooked but crucial to our overall well-being: mental health. In the hustle and bustle of school life, it's easy to get caught up in academic pressures, extracurricular activities, and social engagements, but we must not forget to take care of our mental health.
Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, shaping how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Just as we prioritize our physical health by eating well and exercising, nurturing our mental health is equally important. For students, the demands of school can sometimes feel overwhelming. The pressures can affect their mental well-being, from exams and deadlines to peer relationships and societal expectations. That's why it's essential to recognize the signs of mental distress and seek help when needed.
Promoting self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and hobbies can help students manage stress and build resilience. It is key to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable discussing their mental health. Whether it's through school counselors, trusted teachers, or peer support groups, having outlets for open dialogue can make a world of difference.
One peer support group that is present in many of our buildings is Hope Squad. Hope Squad is a group of students who are trained to note signs of distress and connect peers to help and hope. Last week, our Hope Squads celebrated Hope Week with spirit days, visual representations, and much more. On Friday, May 31, at 4:00 pm, our Hope Squads will participate in the West Allis Hope Walk located at Liberty Heights Park. This event will boost mental and behavioral health and offers an uplifting path to connect with nature, practice mindfulness, and promote positive mental health habits. All are welcome to join!
Experience the Magic this Summer with WAWM RCS Summer Youth Theater
The WAWM RCS Department is excited to share that the WAWM Youth Theater will be putting on a fantastic show of Legally Blonde Jr, directed by the talented Jordan Pollard.
Follow the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery, and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. When Elle’s boyfriend, Warner, dumps her and heads to Harvard, claiming she’s not “serious” enough, Elle takes matters into her own hands, crafting a showy song-and-dance personal essay and charming her way into law school. Befriending classmate, Emmett, and spunky hairdresser, Paulette, along the way, Elle finds that books and looks aren’t mutually exclusive. As Elle begins outsmarting her peers, she realizes that law may be her natural calling after all.
You won't want to miss this amazing performance happening on August 8th-10th at 7 pm and August 11th at 2 pm at Nathan Hale High School (11601 W. Lincoln Ave.).
NEW this year! The WAWM Youth Theater is expanding. The WAWM RCS Department will be presenting 101 Dalmatians KIDS, an Elementary Musical that's directed by Ashley Patin.
Pet owners Roger and Anita, live happily in London with their Dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita, stalwart dogs devoted to raising their puppies. Everything is quiet until Anita’s former classmate, the monstrous Cruella De Vil, plots to steal the puppies for her new fur coat. The Dalmatians rally all the dogs of London for a daring rescue of the puppies from Cruella and her bumbling henchmen.
Don't miss out on an incredible performance happening at James E. Dottke High School (7815 W. Lapham St.) on July 12th at 4:30 pm and July 13th-14th at noon.
Mark your calendar! Join the WAWM RCS Department and the WAWM Youth Theater this summer for fun-filled musical adventures!
Important Dates đź“…
May 27: NO SCHOOL- Memorial Day
June 6: Dottke Graduation
June 7: Last Day for Students
June 7: DLVA Graduation
June 8: Nathan Hale and West Allis Central Graduation
Upcoming School Board Meeting information can be found HERE.
Community members interested in receiving our meeting notices can be added to the list by emailing their contact information to Suzette Zimmerman.