WEST WILDCAT NEWS

Hello West Families!

It is amazing to realize that we are already halfway through our 2024-2025 school year! We have learned and accomplished so much already and still have two quarters left of Community, Achievement, Respect, and Equity. It's also a unique time in the year as we also begin to plan for the following year. Our 8th graders will visit CCHS for tours and information on January 21 and will hear from CCHS counselors about credits and course options on January 30. Our 6th and 7th graders will also register for next year at the end of February, and we'll send out more information as we get closer to the date.

In addition to all of our current students, we will soon have the opportunity to meet our incoming Wildcats (the graduating class of 2032!!) at our annual Wildcat Welcome Night on Tuesday, January 28th from 6:00pm-7:30pm. If you have students entering West next year, or know of some, please join us for information, introductions, and a chance to meet and greet.

Finally, January is School Board Appreciation Month. We are so thankful for the amazing support and leadership we receive from our CCSD School Board! Their hours and hours of service make Cherry Creek the wonderful district that we are all a part of. Thank you from all of us here at West and we appreciate all you do!

Thanks again Wildcats and have a great January!

Please visit this link for information and FAQs regarding the WMS New Cell Phone guidelines.

The WMS PTCO invites all of you to join us for our General Meeting on Tuesday, January 14th at 9:00am in the Commons Room at West. We are privileged to be joined by Cherry Creek High School Principal, Ryan Silva. Ryan will discuss updates from the high school campus and dig into what to expect as our children transition into the next step in their education.

“I attended last year’s General PTCO meeting that featured Ryan Silva. It was hands down the most informative meeting that I attended last year. It’s never too early to engage with topics regarding what to expect as my daughter gets closer to Cherry Creek High.”

- Wade Nedved, 7th grade Dad.

We continue our series of examples of how your donations to the PTCO fundraising activities help better serve our students. These are the reasons we give to the WMS PTCO, and we are so happy to be able to share the results of that generosity!

Ms. Griffin in Language Arts was granted her request for flexible seating options for her students. The awarded flexible seating options are helping to keep students engaged while learning and being used as a reward for student participation and behavior throughout the school year.

Please follow WMS PTCO on Facebook to hear the stories of how your donations are being put to use this school year.

Garry Roseman

WMS PTCO President

Hello, Wildcat Families!

Our WMS staff are grateful for you and your students during this holiday season.

In the spirit of continuing to celebrate our gratitude, we are excited to announce the kick-off of our process for nominating the 2024-2025 Cherry Creek School District Educator of the Year. If you are interested in nominating an exceptional educator who represents Cherry Creek’s Mission - “To inspire students to think, to learn, to achieve, to care” and the District’s Core Values: Growth Mindset, Equity, Whole Well-being, Engagement, and Relationships please read below for nominating instructions.

All teachers, special service providers (i.e. counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurses, therapists, etc.) and non-teaching licensed personnel (i.e. deans, instructional coaches, etc.) are eligible to be nominated. The nomination form for West Middle School can be found below and must include a written statement of 100 words or less that describes how the nominee exhibits and/or embodies our mission and core values.

We are excited to honor our outstanding educators and we hope that you will participate in the nomination process. Nominations are due TOMORROW Friday, January 10, 2025. Nominations will be reviewed by the WMS Educator of the Year Selection Committee. All nominees will be acknowledged and celebrated and the finalist will be announced by January 17, 2025.

Nomination Link

Thank you for your continued support of our students and staff!

Seven years ago, West Middle School began a partnership with Hero’s Puppy For Life.org to raise money for veterans suffering from PTSD. We use the money raised to purchase service dogs, one year of veterinary care, and service-dog training for the veterans and their animals. This year our goal is to raise $3500. Click on the "Donate Here" link below to donate today!

If your child will be absent, please call the WMS Attendance Line to report the absence:

• For students with last names A-L, call 720-554-5110
• For students with last names M-Z, call 720-554-5111

Please note, if a student is marked as tardy or unexcused absent, automated phone calls will be sent at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM daily to notify families.

• If you believe there has been an error in your child’s attendance, or if you need assistance, please contact the WMS Attendance Clerk at 720-554-5109.

Thank you for your cooperation, Wildcats!

NJHS after school in the Design Hub.

Yearbook Club after school in A212.

Math League/Math Counts after school in B104.

Soccer Club after school on the field (will be indoor if there is inclement weather)

6th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball practice after school in the gyms.

Tuesday 1/14:

Jazz Band after school in room D126.

Just Do It - Young Business Leaders after school in B102.

Minecraft Club after school in room D111.

Wildcat Orchestra Club after school in room D125.

Student Council after school in room C108.

6th Grade Girls Basketball Game @ WMS in the gyms.

8th Grade Girls Basketball Game @ Horizon.

Wednesday 1/15:

Marvel Cinematic Universe Club in Counseling.

Strategic Games after school in room A112.

Robotics Club after school in D111.

CCHS Student Achievement Services Information Night @ CCHS at 6pm.

6th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball practice after school in the gyms.

Thursday 1/16:

Brain Bowl after school in room B205.

6th Grade Girls Basketball Game @ WMS in the gyms.

8th Grade Girls Basketball Game @ Campus.

Friday 1/17:

No after school activities or late buses.

NO SCHOOL - MLK Day

Tuesday 1/21:

Jazz Band after school in room D126.

Minecraft Club after school in room D111.

Wildcat Orchestra Club after school in room D125.

Student Council after school in room C108.

CCHS 8th Grade Information Night @ CCHS Fine Arts Theater 5:30-7:30pm.

6th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball practice after school in the gyms.

Wednesday 1/22:

Marvel Cinematic Universe Club in Counseling.
SAGA after school in room A214.

Strategic Games after school in room A112.

Robotics Club after school in D111.

Taylor Swift Literary Club after school in C102.

6th Grade Girls Basketball Game @ WMS in the gyms.

8th Grade Girls Basketball Game @ Laredo.

Thursday 1/23:

Brain Bowl after school in room B205.

Girls Who Code after school in room D110.

Friday 1/24:

No after school activities or late buses.

The Yearbook Club is hard at work making sure this year's memories are captured in the most special way! From classroom moments to sporting events, performances, and everything in between, we are dedicated to documenting every milestone and memory.

Don't miss out on getting your copy of this year’s yearbook! Order your yearbook by pressing the button below so that you and your student can relive all the unforgettable moments from the year.

Thank you for supporting the Yearbook Club – we can’t wait to share the finished product with you!

Are you looking for extra help with homework, studying, and/or class projects? West Middle School offers Homework Help/Study Hall! Please review the available options below, and reach out to your teachers for specific support, as needed - we’ve listed the teachers and room numbers for your convenience. Can’t wait to help you out!

Please note:

• Teachers highlighted in RED are Language Arts teachers.
• Teachers highlighted in GREEN are Math teachers.
• PURPLE highlighting indicates the teacher specializes in both Language Arts and Math.
• Teachers highlighted in BLUE are Science teachers.
• Teachers highlighted in ORANGE are Social Studies teachers.
• Teachers highlighted in YELLOW are Elective teachers.

We offer homework help at the following times:

1. Before School: 8:00am to 8:40am, Mondays - Fridays
2. After School: 3:50pm-4:40pm, Mondays - Thursdays; no after school activities on Fridays

• Expectations for Homework Help/Study Hall

• Use the restroom and fill your water before entering.

• Stay in the Commons.

• Bring a charged device.

• Sign in. Find a seat. 1 person per table.

• Keep your phones put away and off.

• Work on school work quietly until dismissal.

At the end of Homework Help/Study Hall… Push in your chair and take all your belongings.

Please see our athletics schedule below!

The Co-ed Wrestling season is almost here, and we’re thrilled to have your students representing West! Here are a couple of important reminders:

1. Please ensure that your athletics form is filled out. You can pick one up at the Dean's office or find it online under the athletics tab. Once completed, please email it to cwheeler@cherrycreekschools.org.

2. Don’t forget to log into West Middle School Revtrak to pay the wrestling fee for your grade.

Thank you, and let's have an amazing season!

Hello Basketball Families!

We had a significant amount of past-due Basketball Participation Fees that have not yet been paid. A reminder email has been sent to those families. Thank you to those who promptly paid that fee. Please use the links to make your payment if you haven't already done so:

6th/7th Grade Basketball:

https://cherrycreek.revtrak.net/middle-schools/wms/wms-athletics/#/v/WMS-Girls-Bball---6th-7th

8th Grade Basketball:

https://cherrycreek.revtrak.net/middle-schools/wms/wms-athletics/#/v/WMS-Girls-Bball---8th-grade

Thank you for your prompt payments!

West Middle School offers a variety of opportunities for students to engage in athletics, after school activities and clubs. We encourage all students to pursue their interests and passions through extracurricular activities. The more involved a student is within their school, the better they will achieve and feel connected.

Please be sure to talk with your student about staying after school and communicating with you about which club/activity and days your student plans on staying after to participate. After school activities run from 3:45 to 4:40 Monday – Thursday. Late buses are available for students who are already assigned to a bus, and depart at 4:45 PM. Those who do not take a bus and participate in an after school activity are expected to be picked up no later than 5:00 PM.

Students are encouraged to participate in clubs and activities that interest them. Research has shown that students who complement their academics with extracurricular experiences often enjoy school more and connect with their peers and teachers through more positive interactions. In addition, clubs and activities provide opportunities for students to express their creativity in a variety of ways. Students should listen to the announcements and check the building rotators for sign-up information, start dates, and times.

If you are willing or able, please donate the following items to Ms. Migliaccio or Ms. Genzer:

• Lids (see picture)
• 1 liter bottles
• 2 liter bottles

Thank you, Wildcats!

If you have any questions, please reach out to Jennifer Brickley

jbrickley@cherrycreekschools.org

bit.ly/wmsdrama for show and class info

Tips on How to Transition Back to School After Winter Break:

As students return from winter break, it’s normal for them to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. The shift back to a school routine can be challenging, but with a little preparation, they can ease into the transition smoothly. Here are some helpful tips to support your child:

1. Establish a Routine: Help them set a regular bedtime, wake-up time, and manage time for homework.
   
   

2. Stay Positive: Encourage a positive mindset by focusing on the new opportunities and exciting activities in the coming months.
   
   

3. Talk About Feelings: Open up a conversation about their thoughts and feelings regarding school. Address any concerns they may have and reassure them that adjusting takes time.
   
   

4. Promote Organization: Help your child prepare their school materials, such as backpacks, computers, and chargers the night before so they feel prepared.
   
   

5. Stay Engaged: Keep the lines of communication open with teachers and counselors. If your child is struggling, we are here to help.

Together, we can ensure that your child has a successful and confident start to the new semester!

Dear Parents,

This is a reminder from the Dean's Office that our cell phone procedures at WMS have recently changed. These procedures are effective immediately. Please take a moment to review the updated guidelines, corrective actions, and answers to frequently asked questions by following the link below. We appreciate your support in helping to ensure a productive learning environment for all students.

Cell Phone Guidelines

Thank you,

The Dean's Office

Transportation is required by CDE Regulations to account for all students on the bus and unauthorized passengers are not permitted. However, the Transportation Department recognizes that circumstances may arise, e.g. a family emergency, parents out of town, etc., when a student needs to ride home with another student on a one-time only basis. The student must get off at the assigned stop of the student they are riding with (no exceptions).

Make sure to fill out and turn in the linked Permission Slip to the Dean's office no later than 9:00 AM on the requested ride date. Forms can be printed and handed to the Dean's Assistant. Hard copies of the form can be picked up from the Dean's office if they are needed but must be picked up prior to the day they need to ride a different bus. No emails will be accepted. If there is an emergency, please call the main office at 720-554-5180.

• Nurse Brenna is back from maternity leave; she has been working closely with Nurse Hilary to be updated on all of our student's health needs. Please contact Nurse Brenna at bsalas@cherrycreekschools.org or 720-554-5117 regarding all health needs moving forward.

• If your student visited the doctor over break and you received any updated health information forms or vaccination records, please send them to the clinic.

• Colorado is currently experiencing a higher than usual number of norovirus outbreaks. Between Sept. 1 - Dec. 17, 2024, 135 outbreaks caused by norovirus were reported, with 31 in long-term care facilities, 40 in schools, and 45 in childcare facilities. While norovirus incidence is highest between the months of November to April, the number of outbreaks so far this season is more than this same time frame in previous years. Please see the following information regarding prevention of spreading the virus.

• Frequently washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against norovirus. This is especially important after using the toilet or changing diapers, before preparing or handling food, and prior to giving yourself or others medication.

• Not handling or preparing food for others when experiencing symptoms of norovirus, especially diarrhea.

• Using a disinfectant that is effective against norovirus. A solution of one cup unscented household bleach mixed with 10 cups of water can be used. This solution must remain wet on a surface for at least one minute to be effective.

• Laundering soiled linens with detergent and hot water for the maximum available cycle length and machine drying on the highest heat setting.

Please contact your grade level administrator for any questions.

6th: Kari Kusek - kkusek@cherrycreekschools.org

7th: Rachel Langberg - rlangberg@cherrycreekschools.org

8th: Mark Wackwitz - mwackwitz@cherrycreekschools.org

Office Manager: Caroline Rose Wheeler - cwheeler@cherrycreekschools.org

You can pay your student's fees by visiting the West Middle School Revtrak page or you may send your student with cash to the bookkeeper. Regrettably, we are unable to accept checks.

• Parent/ Guardians are now able to update Additional Contact info in their https://my.cherrycreekschools.org/ accounts by clicking on the Guardian Tile.

  
  

  Some things to keep in mind:

  • If a Household 1 Parent/Guardian has not completed Parent Forms, they will not have access to the Guardian Update tile.
  • Household 2 will only be able to access this tile if they have a 2nd household setup in PowerSchool. If they need to create a 2nd household, please see the Admissions section on the District Website. On the left menu, they will need to click on the link titled “Change/Update/Verify Address or Household Info."
  • Changes made through the update tile will be visible in PowerSchool within minutes.
  • Occasionally, parents will not see their students listed when logging into the Guardian Update tile. Refreshing the screen will correct this issue.

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Please see the below message regarding the new CCSD Volunteer/Partner Process. If you are currently volunteering or plan to volunteer in the future, please complete the online volunteer form. It should only take a few minutes to complete. We want to thank you in advance and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the school.

New Colorado legislation has prompted greater need to screen and document volunteers in our schools. Therefore, beginning January 2022, we must ensure that every volunteer completes a brief application to support activities in CCSD schools. This information will be automatically linked to the Raptor System. The good news is they only need to complete this form once per school year, and it will meet the requirement to volunteer in all CCSD buildings.

To access the form, please click on the following link: https://apps.raptortech.com/Apply/NzU0OmVuLVVT

Definitions

• Volunteers are guests who are supporting students, completing tasks, and under the immediate supervision and direction of District licensed personnel.

• Visitors are guests who are solely entering the building to conduct business such as participate in a meeting, eat lunch with their student, or attend a school sponsored activity.

The safety and security of our students and staff remains our top priority. Every person entering our buildings must have a District ID or a badge printed from the Raptor System.

Thank you again for your continued support.

Get your West Spirit Gear!

Store link: WMS Sideline Store

Remember, a portion of all proceeds return back to West Middle School to support our students -- so thank you Wildcat families!

Dear Families,

This email is to serve as an important reminder for students to carry their bus card when riding the bus. Students without a bus card will experience longer wait times on the bus and/or could be denied a ride home from school if they cannot be identified. Please see below for more specific details and information on how to replace your student’s bus card if necessary.

MORNING BUS ROUTES TO SCHOOL

All students will be provided a ride to school in the morning regardless of whether they have their bus card or student ID. If a student does not have their bus card, the student will be directed to the back of the line and the following process will take place:

1. Student will be asked to provide their student ID.
2. Bus driver will check student ID and manually load student in system.
3. If the student cannot be found in the system or the information contradicts the student ID or what the student is saying, the bus driver will call Dispatch.

AFTERNOON BUS ROUTES FROM SCHOOL

*Students must ride the bus home to which they are assigned.

In the afternoon, if a student does not have their bus card, the student will be directed to the back of the line and the following process will take place:

1. Student will be asked to provide their student ID.
2. Bus driver will check student ID and manually load student in system.
3. If the student cannot be found in the system or the information contradicts the student ID or what the student is saying, the bus driver will take the following action appropriate for primary and secondary level students.

• Bus driver will call security/administrator at the school to identify the student.
• If a school staff member is unable to identify student or respond in a timely manner, the student’s ride will be denied, and the student must contact a parent for a ride home.

Dear Parent/Guardian of current 8th grade students,

Please join us for Cherry Creek High School's 8th Grade Information Night on Tuesday, January 21st from 5:30-7:30 PM in the Fine Arts Building at Cherry Creek High School. There will be an open house from 5:30-6:00 pm in the lobby of the Fine Arts building with the official program for the evening beginning promptly at 6:00pm in the theater. Families will have the opportunity to meet Cherry Creek High School administrators, counselors and current students while learning more about academic and extracurricular opportunities. The evening is specifically designed for incoming families of the Class of 2029.

Are you an 8th grader planning to attend Cherry Creek High School next year? Did you know that CCHS offers SIX world languages? Click on this link to see our informational flier with FAQs and QR codes for some pamphlets and videos.

Board of Education Meeting

January 13th, 2025

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Prairie Middle School

12600 E. Jewell Avenue

Aurora, CO 80012

No School ~ All Schools

January 20th, 2025

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Voices of Color (formerly District P.A.S.S.)

January 22nd, 2025

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Grandview High School

20500 E. Arapahoe Road

Aurora, CO 80016