Greetings Washington Families,

October is in full swing, and we have so many exciting events planned! First, a quick reminder about the volunteer renewal process. The window has been extended to October 14, so if you’ve volunteered with us before, please take a moment to complete the renewal. We rely on our amazing volunteers to help with school events, classroom support, and field trip chaperoning. Your involvement truly makes a difference for our students!

This month also brings Fall Picture Day on October 17—check your child’s Monday folder for details. As a reminder, all children will be photographed for the yearbook. Mark your calendars for the PTA’s Fall Picnic and Carnival on October 18, a fun family event with games, food, and plenty of entertainment. We can’t wait to see everyone there!

Lastly, please consider donating to our Shining Star Fundraiser—a no-fuss way to support the programs and resources that make Washington GT so special. We’ve set a goal to raise $24,000, and thanks to our generous families, we’ve already raised $1,530. When we hit our first milestone of raising $5,000, Ms. Burnette will dye her hair BLUE! Every donation, no matter the amount, helps us reach for the stars and provide enriching experiences for all of our students.

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

Magically,

Catie Burnette

Principal

Bio: As a Washington Elementary alum, I am thrilled to be an educator in the school that launched me into a life rich in unique experiences and a fulfilling career in both the arts and education. After graduating from East Carolina University with a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography, I went on to pursue my dream of being a professional dancer in New York City. Alongside this, I also taught dance to children of all ages and fell in love with being a teacher. After moving back to my hometown, Raleigh, I began my elementary education career in second grade at Washington last year. I am passionate in ensuring that students learn in a welcoming and safe atmosphere where they can explore their many gifts and talents. Outside the classroom, you'll often find me choreographing, practicing yoga, or cooking.

Alumni: East Carolina University

Favorite Quote: "Whatever you choose to do, leave tracks. That means don't do it just for yourself. You will want to leave the world a little better for your having lived." -Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Favorite Children's Book: Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

Gifts & Talents: Creativity, Kindness, Optimism

• Morning carpool ends at 9:15am. 🛑 After this time, parents are expected to park and walk up with their child to the front office. At 9:20am, all students are required to be signed in by an adult. Please do not drop off a child in the bus loop, as we will have buses entering campus during this time. 🚌

AFTERNOON DISMISSAL

• When entering carpool, please make a right turn from Fayetteville Street. Turning left into the carpool loop and crossing Fayetteville Street is not safe. ➡
• For everyone's safety, please exit with a right turn only when exiting carpool. ➡

The WCPSS volunteer renewal window for the 2024-25 school year has been extended to Oct. 14. We encourage parents and family members who have volunteered in the past to complete their volunteer renewal. First-time volunteers can view Volunteering in WCPSS to learn more about the volunteer application process.

We’re off to a great start with our Shining Star Fundraiser! Our goal is to raise $24,000 to support our students and school programs. Thanks to your generosity, we've already raised $1,530 in the first week! Let's keep up the momentum and continue to *REACH FOR THE STARS*! Every donation, big or small, helps us get closer to our goal. Thank you for your support!

Our PTA is looking for a few volunteers to help run carnival games and sell food at our upcoming Fall Carnival. This event is part of our Shining Star fundraiser, and your support will have a big impact on our school! To make this carnival a success, we need your help. Please sign up for a timeslot using the Sign Up Genius. Many, many thanks for your time and support!

Attention 5th Graders: Start thinking about designing your yearbook cover! Details coming soon!

We're excited to celebrate our diverse community at International Night on November 21st and need your help! If you’re interested in performing or sharing information about your culture, please sign up using the link below. We look forward to an amazing night of cultural exchange and fun!

Washington families are invited to join the fun and support a great cause at Enloe Charity Ball's Trunk or Treat event on Sunday, October 29th, from 4:00-6:00 PM at Enloe High School. This event is free to attend, but a suggested donation of $5 per family is encouraged to help raise funds for Enloe Charity Ball and their beneficiary, Neighbor 2 Neighbor. Parking will be off Bertie Drive, with the Trunk or Treat activities taking place in the stadium parking lot. As a feeder school for Enloe, it would be great to see our Washington Wizards come out to enjoy the festivities while supporting a great cause!

K: Christian (not pictured)

1st: Subiksha

2nd: Georgia

3rd: Victoria (not pictured)

4th: Shambavi

5th: Pranav

Staff: Ms. Barlow, 2nd Grade Teacher (not pictured)

• Week of October 7: 1st Quarter Elective interims go home (1st-5th)
• Monday, October 14: Teacher Workday, No School for Students
• Thursday, October 17: Fall Picture Day
• Friday, October 18: Washington Fall Picnic/Carnival, 5:30pm-7:00pm

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