Officially welcome to fall and welcome to October this week. We are quickly approaching many important events of the year: Homecoming and our first progress report. Also in this week's Howl we launch our free tutoring that is staffed by Wolf teachers and available to ALL students starting TOMORROW 9/30. There is A LOT in this week's Howl. Make sure to read to the end to learn about awesome things happening in our Wolf classrooms, this week's focus on Social Studies and Physical Education with a 9th grade network highlight. Cozy up with a beverage or sit out enjoying the beautiful weather and read it through carefully.

Check out all that's in this week's Howl:

• Greetings Wolf Pack!
• Upcoming Events
• Happy Hispanic Heritage Month
• Extended SP30 Tomorrow
• Parent/Caregiver Opportunity: JEDI Alliance
• Referendum
• Homecoming Info
• Adapted Sports!
• Start College Now and Early College Credit- DEADLINE
• Wisconsin Education Fair (WEF)
• Seniors- Don't Miss
• Yearbook Information
• Senior Future Focus Day Resources
• Wolf Study Lounge (formerly known as 5th hour tutoring)
• Launch YOur Own Business
• Burrachos for AVID
• Classroom Corner and Student Celebrations

September 30th- SP60- Extended SP30 for Community Circles

October 1st- Applications due for 2nd Semester Start College Now and Early College Credit opportunities. Reach out to Ms. Griffin to learn more.

October 4th- Progress report grades are due for teachers

October 7th- Progress grades are posted in Infinite Campus

October 7th-11th- Homecoming Week

October 9th- Homecoming Parade down Main St at 6:00pm

October 10th- 5:00-7:00pm- Hispanic and Latino Family Night- Westside Elementary

October 11th- Homecoming Football Game, 7:00pm at Bank of Sun Prairie Stadium

October 12th- Homecoming Dance at SP West

October 23rd- PSAT Testing- Morning- Reach out to Ms. Thao for more information

October 24th-25th- Parent-Teacher Conferences

Checkout Daily Announcements here.

As we continue celebrating Latinx Heritage month this week we dive into learning more about incredible inventors, astronauts, engineers and scientists within the Latinx community that have changed how we live and see the world. Check it out!

We have had an incredible start to the year with improved student attendance. Students are in class building learning communities. We have a lot to celebrate and some work to be done.

There are two ways that attendance is reported out. SIS attendance which is the way that our attendance is reported to the state. This is more nuanced and takes in to consideration each block of the day. SIS attendance is always the higher of the two numbers. Full day attendance is just as it sounds. It indicates how often a student is in EACH class during the day without an absence. The gap from SIS to Full Day Attendance is one indicator of students who are in the building but not getting to class or not getting to class on time. That's not a perfect measure as sometimes it is students with appointments, sports, etc. but it is an indicator- we look for that gap to be less than 10%.

A HUGE shout out to our 9th grade students and 9th grade network teachers for an incredible start to their High School career. KEEP IT UP. Juniors and seniors... these years are pivotal for your next steps and we need you as leaders for our underclassman. Let's focus on making sure we are in each and every class from bell to bell.

First block is where we need to focus on improving our on time attendance. If you/your student drives or gets dropped off please have a conversation today about how you can move your routine up 10 minutes to ensure they are IN CLASS ready to learn by 8:35am. Our goal would be all students are at school by 8:20am to give them time to settle and get to class. This week we will be starting a Dunkin Gift Card raffle for students that are NOT TARDY to first block.

Please also talk to your student about not "double lunching". Block 3 is in second place to Block 1 from students going to or stopping by the lunch they are not assigned to. Everyone gets one lunch. Otherwise we are in class learning and contributing to our community.

We have made INCREDIBLE progress starting in 4th quarter of last year on bathroom behavior. WELL DONE STUDENTS and a shout out to our floor team! We have experienced exponentially less vandalism and have had less vaping in the bathrooms. A reminders of our expectations and processes to keep bathrooms safe and open.

• We don't hang out in bathrooms. Bathrooms are not a gathering space and students should not be gathering in groups in bathrooms. If an adult enters the bathroom and there are students standing around they are immediately ushered out. Repeated behavior of hanging out in bathrooms will result in a behavior referral and may result in a search if accompanied by a vape detector going off or report of vaping.

• One to a stall. There is never a reason for more than one person to be in a bathroom stall. This behavior will result in a behavior referral (this is still true if the door is open... please see previous.. we don't hang out in bathrooms).

• Vaping. We don't vape at school, on school grounds or during school activities. Period. Our bathrooms are equipped with vape sensors. Students in the bathroom when the vape sensor goes off will be searched.

• A note on searches. Students are searched if there is a reasonable suspicion they may have been vaping. This includes: they are in the bathroom when a vape sensor goes off, we receive a report of vaping or the same group of students has been seen in multiple bathrooms during a short period of time. A search includes searching their belongings (backpack, jacket, etc), having the student empty their pockets and removing their shoes and shaking them off. Have no fear... students are not touched during searches. This is a time that the admin team member (Dean, AP, Principal JP) will also check in with the student about grades, attendance, etc.

• Vandalism. We are committed to being good stewards of tax payer resources! Bathrooms are being checked 4 times a day for vandalism and status is recorded. If vandalism is found then cameras are reviewed and any student that was in the bathroom during that time is interviewed. Students found responsible for vandalism will receive school consequences, be responsible for the cost of repairs and receive a vandalism ticket.

Great work on the progress made! Keep up the great work.

October is bullying (and harassment) prevention month. We are going to take time throughout the month to reground ourselves in a common understanding of the expectations of how we live day in and day out as a PACK and preventing bullying in our West Community. This week we are starting with definitions and reporting.

• Bullying - Deliberate or intentional behavior using words or actions, intended to cause fear, intimidation, or harm. Bullying may be repeated behavior and involves an imbalance of power. It includes, but is not necessarily limited to such behaviors as stalking, cyberbullying, intimidating, menacing, coercing, name-calling, taunting,making threats, and hazing. Bullying behavior can be
• Physical (e.g. assault, hitting or punching, kicking, theft, threatening behavior)
• Verbal (e.g. threatening or intimidating language, teasing or name-calling, racist remarks
• Indirect/Psychological (e.g. spreading cruel rumors, manipulating social relationships, intimidation, social exclusion, and cyberbullying)

• Cyberbullying - The use of information and communication technologies such as e-mail, text messages, instant messaging, personal websites, social media, or hacking into or otherwise gaining access to another’s electronic accounts (e-mails, social media, etc.) and posing as that individual to support deliberate, repeated, and hostile behavior by an individual or group, that is intended to harm others and involves an imbalance of power.

• A REMINDER: It is against school policy to take a picture or video of any other person (student, staff, etc) at school or during a school event without their consent. It is also against school policy and violates our PACK agreement (kindness) to SHARE a picture on any platform without the person's consent.

• Hazing - Any intentional or reckless act which endangers the physical health or safety of a student, or is meant to induce pain or humiliation, or that results in property damage or theft and is directed against another student or students, for the purpose of being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization, class, club or team sponsored or supported by a school or the school district regardless of students’ willingness to participate.
  

Have you witnessed or experienced bullying or harassment? Please report it to any adult at school or report it HERE:

Restorative Practices are a set of techniques and approaches that focus on being, reflecting, forgiving and growing. Instead of relying solely on punishment, they emphasize understanding the root causes of conflict and working together to create positive change. The key principles of restorative practices include relationship building, harm reduction, accountability and healing. Fostering strong connections between individuals and communities is the foundation for ensuring that everyone feels comfortable. Think about it, when people feel connected and supported, they are more likely to engage openly and honestly. Moreover, when there is a conflict with someone you care about, you are going to take the time to address the conflict, listen attentively, take responsibility/reflect and move forward with a resolution. Now that we know the key principles, they can be implemented in the form of circles in the classroom and restorative conferences. In classroom circles, it gives classroom communities equal opportunity to share thoughts and feelings. On the other hand, in restorative conferences, the individuals who have been harmed and those who have caused harm come together to discuss the impact of their actions and develop a plan for repair. Restorative Practices can help create a more positive and inclusive environment by focusing on rebuilding relationships and addressing the underlying causes of conflict. Next week, we will be discussing why at Sun Prairie West, we are delving deep into this work.

Seniors! Now that you have had time to view and review the Senior Planning Presentation. Schedule a time TODAY to meet with your counselor for your 1:1 Senior meeting. Our goal is to meet with 100% of our seniors to hear your dreams, goals plans for after high school so we can assist you in the next steps. Please use the following Booking Links to meet with your counselor:

Ms. Saldana (Last names A-G): cmsalda.youcanbook.me

Mr. Medema (Last names H-M): https://keithmedema.youcanbook.me/

Ms. Wagner (Last names N-T): https://wagner-counseling.youcanbook.me/

Ms. Thao (Last names U-Z): https://pthao-west.youcanbook.me/

We cordially invite you to join us in celebrating the positive behavior and engagement of our students within the classroom and broader community. Your support is crucial in helping us realize our vision.

We are currently seeking donations:

• Blank Holiday Cards for students to share joy with people in local nursing homes

• Crafting Supplies to do crafts with elementary students

• Non-perishable Snacks for rewarding positive behavior

• Monetary Contributions in the form of cash or check payable to Sun Prairie Area School District

All contributions can be brought to the front office at Sun Prairie West High School.

Our goal is to provide our students 'A Day of Giving' with acts of service within our school and the surrounding community. By engaging in acts of service, our students will gain valuable experiences and volunteer hours that can contribute towards their post-secondary goals.

Your generosity and partnership are deeply appreciated as we strive to foster a culture of positivity, community engagement, and personal growth among our students.

Thank you in advance for your consideration and support.

Sincerely,
SP West PBIS Student Celebrations

Link to Donation Form

Our before and after school tutoring is up and running!!! Schedule out time this week to stop by the Wolf Study lounge to get help, catch up, or study for your classes.

• Morning Tutoring: 8:05 AM – 8:35 AM

• After-School Tutoring: 3:50 PM – 4:40 PM- Activity bus available at 4:45pm
  

Questions? Reach out to Nehemirah Barrett @ntbarre@sunprairieschools.org

• Student results have improved across all screening data with significant improvement among marginalized groups.
• Staff retention is high. 90% in 2023–2024.
• Staff satisfaction is high. Over 86% of staff reported in a survey that all things considered, the district is a good place to work.
• Students report feeling safe in their schools on average at more than 4.0 on a 5-point scale.
• Students have access to cutting-edge technology.
• Over 5,500 meals are served daily to address food insecurity.
• Robust communication channels have been established with the overall community to share information.
• Schools with higher needs are provided more resources through equitable funding & staffing models.
• Curricular materials are kept updated & collaborative curricular decisions are made using current research.
• Buildings are well maintained and provide exceptional learning environments.
• The district maintains a high bond rating of AA as rated by Standard and Poor's, and it remains financially stable.

We are committed to partnering with you in supporting your child as a strong learner. This school year, Sun Prairie West high school is offering a program to students who have experienced stressful events or who are experiencing other stressors in their lives. People who have experienced trauma or those experiencing significant stress may develop symptoms. This can show up as not wanting to go to school or as difficulties with class work and concentration.

In partnership with Journey Mental Health Center and the United Way, we are offering a program for all 9th graders called REST (Resilient response to the Effects of Stress and Trauma).

The staff at Sun Prairie West High School will be screening all 9th graders on Monday October 14, 2024.

Students whose questionnaire score indicates symptoms of depression or traumatic stress will have a face-to-face conversation with a school staff or REST Team member. These conversations are meant to provide support and to determine what resources would be useful for the student.

This form only covers the screening and follow-up conversation. If you DO NOT want your child to participate in the REST screening, please complete the form below and return to Susi Sirianni, Sun Prairie West school social worker by Friday October 11, 2024 or just reach out to Susi Sirianni and express that you would like your student to NOT participate. If you have questions or would like more information about the REST screening, please call Susi Sirianni at 608-478-1700 ext 5335 or email sesiria@sunprairieschools.org.

More information y en espanol: HERE

On Thursday, we hosted the Wisconsin Education Fair and all of our Juniors and Seniors had an opportunity to meet with over 80 Colleges/Universities, specialty schools and military branches. Students explored the many opportunities and gained valuable information.

Our staff College Chronicles display is complete! Check it out the next time you are in the building. A huge shout out to Abby Bembenek and the AVID site team.

Our boys soccer team has had a solid season so far with an 8-3-2 record. Come out to cheer them on this Tuesday night.

Our team is having a strong season in their 2nd year of existence. Come out this week to cheer on SP United Boys Volleyball!

We need YOUR input too! Do you have an idea of something that should be included in the Howl? Your ideas are always welcome. Email our Admin Associate to the Principal, Jordain Blank at jnblank@sunprairieschools.org.

If you don't already, please follow SP West on Facebook!

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION

No student may be unlawfully discriminated against in any school programs, activities or in facilities usage because of the student’s sex (gender identity, gender expressions, and non-conformity to gender role stereotypes), color, religion, profession, or demonstration of belief or non-belief, race, national origin (including limited English proficiency), ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, homelessness status, sexual orientation, age, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability. Harassment is a form of discrimination and shall not be tolerated in the District. It is the responsibility of administrators, staff members and all students to ensure that student discrimination or harassment does not occur.

(SPASD District Policy JB)

If a student or parent/guardian would prefer to have this information translated into Spanish, please contact us at 608-834-6620. Si un estudiante, padre ó guardian prefiere tener esta información traducida en Español, por favor contactenos en el 608-834-6620.

If a student or parent/guardian would prefer to have this information translated into Hmong, please contact us at 608-834-6630. Yog tus me nyuam lub xiv los yog niam thiab txiv/tus neeg muaj cai saib xyuas tus me nyuam xav tau qhov ntawv ntawm no ua lus Hmoob, thov hais rau peb paub rau ntawm 608-834-6630.

We strive to keep The Howl as streamlined as possible with all of the important information for our community. To the end once something has appeared in The Howl, it will move here to the "In Case you Missed It!" section. Take a moment to peruse and make sure you have not missed important info!

Are you interested in going into business after High School? Why wait? Start NOW! Join the business incubator opportunity to launch your own business with mentorship and support while receiving your profits. Learn business planning, marketing, and finance in a real-world way while improving creativity, confidence, critical thinking, and communication! Earn a chance to win up to $1,000 in cash and college scholarships!

We have created the JEDI Alliance as a space where people of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities feel welcome and supported. We celebrate the unique perspectives that diversity brings and understand that inclusion is key to innovation and growth. We understand that advancing equity is an ongoing journey that requires listening, learning, and adapting. We acknowledge that deep-rooted inequalities exist within our society, and we are committed to identifying and dismantling the policies, practices, and cultural norms that perpetuate these disparities. This includes examining our own organization’s processes and making necessary changes.

We are excited to welcome diverse voices and new perspectives that represent parents and caregivers who have often felt unseen and undervalued to be engaged in learning and questioning topics and matters related to diversity, equity, and inclusion across the District. JEDI Alliance members are invited to share their experiences, triumphs, and concerns and are encouraged to ask questions and provide feedback. With a commitment to continuous improvement and transparency, our promise is to be collaborative, informative, and deliberative in lifting our District's Equity Framework.

The JEDI Alliance application is still open. Meetings will occur every first Tuesday of the month starting Oct 1, 2024 through June 3, 2025. Application link JEDI Alliance Application.

Senior Photo Upload: All portraits will need to be uploaded directly to Jostens at the following link: https://images.jostens.com/ImageShare/upload All portraits must be submitted by Friday, November 1st 2024.

Senior Recognition Ads: All senior grad ads will need to be completed directly through Jostens by Friday, November 1st 2024 at the following link: https://www.jostens.com/apps/jcom/router.mvc?affiliateId=3151854 An account will need to be created to submit your student’s ad.

Are you ready to get your driver license? Wonder what to do and next steps? Concerned that money may get in the way of this important next step in your life? Wisconsin residents who are 14–19 years of age, are eligible for or are receiving free & reduced lunch, and have not previously held a driver license are eligible to have their classroom and behind-the-wheel driver training paid for through the Driver Education Grant Program. To learn more and apply, visit the Wisconsin DOT website. QUESTIONS? Contact spbtw@sunprairieschools.org

Here at Sun Prairie West, restorative practices can occur throughout the school day in both academic and nonacademic settings. We all utilize restorative practices to build relationships with students and create a safe and accepting school climate. When a restorative school climate is established, students trust staff and each other and feel safe going to an adult for help if something is happening on campus that needs attention. We all, caregivers included, must model how to be able to communicate during conflict, acknowledge when we hurt someone, and ask for forgiveness and have the ability to repair the damage. Below is the form for our community to seek for support regarding conflict resolution and creation of circles for classrooms and schoolwide groups.

Come cheer on and support our adapted soccer athletes this season. Below are the schedules. In addition, here is the clothing store that is open until September 30th, all orders will be picked up at Elite Embroidery in Sun Prairie: https://spadaptive2024.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Exciting times as we take on other districts!!

Mondays are our Future Focus Mondays. Wear your favorite college/career gear on Mondays & join the movement promoting the great opportunities available to all SP West students after graduating high school. Students- this is a great opportunity to ask staff about their career path.

Are you looking for leadership opportunities and want to be a leader within the West community? Do you want to help shape our story? Sign up to be a Leader of the Pack TODAY! We are looking for more Leaders to volunteer for beginning of year events including Keys to Success, Registration and Wolf Welcome Night.

Leaders of the Pack is open to any West Wolf that strives to embody PACK each and every day and is ready to step up as a leader for our community. Activities for leaders of the pack include: serving on Student Senate, volunteering at school wide events, giving school tours, being a buddy for new students and being a guide for our incoming 9th graders. Sign up today!