W.E.stchester Weekly
News from the Principal
Greetings WE Families,
We are quickly coming to the end of the semester. First grade brought our Fall Celebrations of Learning to a close this week. Each grade level did a fantastic job sharing what they learned through their Expedition study. This is always a very special event. Thank you to all who took time out of your busy day to spend time learning with your child. It means so much to them to be able to share their work. They truly persevered through this process of creating a product of high-quality work.
You may have heard at the PTA Fall Fest that we will have a Principal for the Day. I am such a lucky principal that I get to have two! Our first Principal for the Day will be Crawford Weger in Ms. Rogerβs 2nd grade class! He will lead this Crew next Thursday. Look for some upcoming information from our PFAD (Princpal for a Day). Thank you, PTA for including this in the Silent Auction.
I am excited that Westchester will host a Chess Club next semester. If you are interested in your 1st or 2nd-grade student participating in the afterschool Chess Club, please see the flyer that will come home in your childβs folder and is also included in the newsletter. This club begins in January and will take place on Thursdays from 2:50-3:50 p.m.
As we wrap up our first semester, please mark your calendars for some special events
December 19: First semester ends.
December 19: Community Circle - All invited
December 19:12:50 Early Release
December 20: Winter Holiday Begins/Teacher Workday
From your very grateful principal,
Christine Knox
Reminders
School Lunch Policy: Please be sure to maintain a positive lunch balance for your child. This will help us avoid any unexpected lunch changes for students. Check your Parent Portal frequently to make sure your child has adequate funds for the cafeteria. You may also find the Parent Portal app (for Apple or Android) to be more convenient.
Westchester Crew Holiday Gifts
Itβs December and as we all know one of the busiest times of the year! I wanted to take the opportunity to inform you that all of the Westchester Crew members will be receiving a holiday gift from the class funds (these are not associated with PTA as those are separate) that were collected earlier this year. If your family wishes to gift any support staff members a gift this holiday season, the staff list is attached for your reference. Please note that this is always optional. Additionally, this list does not include the bus drivers and crossing guards.
Please reach out to Anne at annehaist11@gmail.com should you have any questions or concerns.
Wishing you all the happiest of holidays and the very best in 2025!
Anne Haist
Room Parent Volunteer Coordinator
CSD Seeking Student Applications for 2025 MLK/CSK Awards
City Schools of Decatur has a long history of honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King by celebrating many of our students who embody the values of freedom, justice, democracy and service. Through an annual program, we highlight their dedication to using these values to impact our community positively. This year, the award will be presented to two students from each upper elementary school, four from middle school, and four from high school.
Click here to learn more about the application guidelines. Application deadline: December 18.
Annual School Climate Survey Now Open
Please take a moment to participate in CSD's climate survey relevant to your school and ensure your voice is heard! Remember, these surveys will be available until March 31, 2025. Your participation is vital, as the data collected will help determine the School Climate Star Ratings for the 2025-26 school year. City Schools of Decatur values the input from parents, students, and staff!
Take the Westchester Family Climate Survey through March 31, 2025.
Decatur Holiday Marketplace & Cafe
Established in 1972, this market is the perfect place to load up on handcrafted paintings, pottery, jewelry, bath products, gourmet food and so much more! Try the treats from the Mad Greek, Operation Mini Donuts and Super Taco! food trucks. This community endeavor supports Clairemont Elementary students through learning initiatives, teacher grants and more.
Location: Clairemont Elementary School; Website: decaturholidaymarketplace.com; Date: Dec. 13-14; Time: Friday - 5:30-9 p.m., Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Admission: Free
