Greetings Washington Families,

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Washington Weekly! Today marks the start of EOG testing, and with it comes a mix of emotions—for our students, our staff, and you, their families. There's pressure, there are nerves, and there's the hope that everything our students have learned this year shines through at just the right moment.

These tests are just one way we measure growth and progress. One test. One day. One snapshot.

But there’s so much more to your child’s story!

The EOGs can’t measure the courage it took to ask for help, the kindness shown to a classmate, or the confidence that grew one book, one math problem, one encouraging word at a time. They can’t measure creativity, empathy, or perseverance. And they certainly can’t measure how deeply your child is known and valued here at Washington. 💙

So yes, we’ll cheer them on to do their best—and we thank you for doing the same. But most importantly, let’s remind them that they are more than a score. Their year has been filled with successes that no test can capture, and we are incredibly proud of each one of them!

Let’s make it a great week at 1000 Fayetteville Street!

Magically,

Catie Burnette

Principal

About: I am so thrilled to be a part of the WashinGTon Elementary crew! I have been teaching since 2013. I have taught 1st , 3rd , 4th , and 5th grades. I am a proud graduate of Meredith College as a NC Teaching Fellow. I live in Raleigh with my husband, two daughters, and two dogs. I begin each day with a meditation and yoga practice. I enjoy teaching yoga and social emotional learning to kids. I am exceptionally gifted in taking time to nap on the weekends, often cuddling with my dogs. I enjoy taking care of my many indoor house plants (currently 74 and counting!). I love eating Mexican and Indian food. I enjoy playing board games with friends and family (Settlers of Catan is our favorite!). We enjoy sitting by the fire with friends, listening to music, and watching our kids enjoy quality time playing together. I absolutely love making people smile and laugh, being a comic relief around others.

I became a teacher to inspire children to learn through play and exploration. I believe in the value of making mistakes to learn new things. Truly, I aspire to be a modern-day Mrs. Frizzle, a true G.O.A.T. in teaching.

Alumni: Meredith College, '13

Favorite Quote: "Take Chances. Make Mistakes. Get Messy." - Ms. Frizzle

Favorite Children's Book: Elephant and Piggie - By: Mo Willems

Gifts & Talents: Humor, Mindfulness & Meditation, Yoga, Organizing, and Napping

Our Lost and Found is overflowing! Please check for any missing items before Thursday, June 13. After that date, all remaining items will be donated. Don't miss your chance to reclaim those jackets, water bottles, and lunchboxes!

We love welcoming families for lunch! If you join your child, please remember they are welcome to invite two friends to sit with them. For everyone’s safety, we kindly ask that students do not climb on the brick walls or tables during this time. Thanks for helping us keep lunch both fun and safe!

We are incredibly proud of Reyansh for his outstanding performance in the National Science Bee!

Out of 120 students from across the country, Reyansh advanced through four challenging preliminary rounds and was one of only 18 students to make it to the semifinals.

Way to go, Reyansh!

We're getting ready to celebrate our amazing 5th graders as they prepare to "move up" from Washington Elementary! To make this milestone memorable, we’re planning a special celebrations complete with games, activities, food, and fun keepsakes.

We’re asking families to help by contributing in two ways:

🎉 Monetary Donations – Suggested minimum of $20 to help cover the cost of the celebration. Donations can be made via Givebacks—every bit helps!
🍎 Food/Supply Donations & Volunteer Sign Up – Sign up to bring items or volunteer your time using this link: 5th Grade Moving Up Sign-Up

Thank you for helping us make this a special send-off for the 5th Grade Class of 2025!

Kindergarten: Ry'Lon (not pictured)

1st Grade: Deepshika

2nd Grade: AJ

3rd Grade: Riley

4th Grade: Neet

5th Grade: Srinika

Staff: Mr. Wall (not pictured)

• Monday, June 2: EOG Testing- 3rd ELA, 5th Science
• Tuesday, June 3: EOG Testing- 3rd Math
• Wednesday, June 4: EOG Testing- 4th ELA, 5th ELA
• Thursday, June 5: EOG Testing- 4th Math, 5th Math
• Friday, June 6: EOG Testing- Read to Achieve Testing
• Tuesday, June 10: Field Day!
• Friday, June 13: 5th Grade Promotion, 9:45am
• Friday, June 13: Last Day of School
• Monday, June 16: Teacher Workday (Remediation & Readministration for eligible students)
• Tuesday, June 17: Teacher Workday (Remediation & Readministration for eligible students)

• 2024-25 Student/Parent Handbook (English)
• 2024-25 Student/Parent Handbook (Spanish)