Greetings Washington Families,

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Washington Weekly! 🌟 There’s so much to share, and we’re excited to keep you connected and informed.

This week, don’t miss details about our Raise a Reader: Literacy Workshops for Families event on February 13 📚, a chance to celebrate World Read Aloud Day on February 5 📖, and a warm welcome to our new co-counselor, Mr. McDade 💙.

Plus, find updates on upcoming events, report cards, and more. Thank you for being an essential part of our community—together, we’re reaching for the stars! 🌠

Magically,

Catie Burnette

Principal

Bio: I was born and raised right here in Raleigh. I graduated from Elon University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. For the 2017-18 school year, I got to combine my love of teaching with a love of travel by teaching English in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. After returning to the United States, I taught first grade in Durham for three years before coming to Washington in 2021. As an educator, I strive to prioritize student growth by creating hands-on learning opportunities. Outside of the classroom, I am often found enjoying a good book, hiking in the woods, volunteering at the Duke Lemur Center, or playing with my cats.

Alumni: Elon University

Favorite Quote: People improve when they get external love and support. How can we hold it against them when they don't?

Favorite Children's Book: Alpert by LaNesha Tabb

Gifts & Talents: Curiosity and a willingness to try new things

We are thrilled to welcome Mr. McDade to Washington GT! He will serve as a school co-counselor with Ms. McDonough. With a passion for supporting students' academic, social, and emotional growth, Mr. McDade brings a wealth of knowledge and care to our school community. He is excited to collaborate with Ms. McDonough to connect with students and families and continue fostering a positive and inclusive environment where all learners can thrive! Please join us in giving Mr. McDade a warm Washington welcome!

Our Lessons in Leadership elective took their skills to the next level by collaborating with students from Enloe GT Magnet High School to plan and host an exciting Gym Jam for our students! Last Friday, the entire school joined in the fun with activities like mini-golf, indoor bowling, obstacle courses, and more. This event was a wonderful opportunity for our student leaders to practice teamwork, organization, and creativity while creating a fun experience for our students! Shout out to Mr. Barilich, our incredible Assistant Principal Intern, for organizing this collaboration!

We are looking for guest readers to celebrate World Read Aloud Day at Washington on February 5, 2025. To make this day special for our students, we would love to arrange several guest readers during the day. Please sign up if you are interested in reading to a class. If you have any questions please reach out to Carolyn Schmidt - cschmidt2@wcpss.net.

If you are able to come, please arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time to allow time for checking in at the office and getting to the classroom.

We were excited to participate in the Hour of Code, a global movement introducing students to the world of computer science through fun, engaging activities on Code.org on January 22 from 9:40-10:40am. Due to school closures, this event is in the process of being rescheduled. More information coming soon!

Each year, the Wake County Public School System shares an annual notification about its Asbestos Management Plan in compliance with the EPA’s Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA). The district conducts regular inspections and maintains detailed records to ensure the safe management of asbestos-containing materials in school buildings. For more information, please review the notifications below:

• 2024-25 Annual Asbestos Notification
• 2024-25 Annual Asbestos Notification (Spanish)

• NEW DATE: Monday, January 27: Club Picture Day
• NEW DATE: Thursday, January 30: School Final Spelling Bee, 6pm
• Tuesday, January 28: Classroom & Elective Report Cards Go Home
• Wednesday, January 29: 3rd Quarter Electives begins
• Wednesday, February 5: World Read Aloud Day
• Thursday, February 13: RAISE A READER: LITERACY WORKSHOPS FOR FAMILIES
• What time? 5:00-7:30pm
• Where? Washington Elementary
• What is this event? Food, Childcare and Informative Sessions for Parents
• MORE INFO COMING SOON!

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