WESTWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR - DECEMBER EDITION
A Time To Celebrate
As we are approaching the end of another calendar year, we wanted to take a minute to celebrate. We have a few upcoming holidays that we might celebrate like Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. We would also like to celebrate a very successful Chili cook-off where we were able to raise enough money to help send many students on their 8th grade Washington DC trip. Another reason to celebrate is the students of the month. We celebrated respectful students for October and Responsible students for September. See their pictures below. We also wanted to celebrate our PBIS team. This year was the first year we have applied for recognition and we earned the highest rating possible- BRONZE!
With the cooler weather being here, winter coats, hat and gloves are going to be needed. Please let the school know if your child is in need. We have some and would love to be able to make sure your student is warm.
What has your student bought from our school store? We have had lots of students who have been able to "buy" from it. We have so many students getting caught following our rules. They can earn Petey bucks for following our three main school rules:
Be Respectful
Be Responsible
Be Ready to Learn.
As always, we appreciate your support and working together as a team in your child's education.
Bus Reminders
A few reminders when riding a bus:
- Please stay seated the whole time on the bus
- Please talk quietly with your neighbors
- Please do not bring blankets on the bus. This is a safety issue.
- Please let someone know if you are having any issues or problems.
- Please save your food and drinks for when you are not on the bus.
We need to make sure the bus driver has a safe situation to focus and pay attention to the road. We can not do anything to create an unsafe situation!
News From The Nurse
As winter season approaches, it is important to recognize how this time of year can impact our mental wellbeing. The days are short and with less sunlight and the approaching holiday season coming, it can bring up feelings of sadness, anxiety, and loneliness. Taking care of your own mental health is just as important, in order to be there for others. Here are some tips to take extra care of yourself and those around you.
Set boundaries: It’s OK to say, “no” or ask for help when feeling overwhelmed. It’s important to know your limits.
Seek support: Colleagues, friends, or professionals can be a great support to talk to when going through difficult situations.
Engage in activities that recharge you: Reading, meditating, physical activity, spending time outdoors, find activities that you enjoy.
When supporting other: Be aware of how reduced daylight may affect mood or energy levels. Encourage regular breaks and exposure to natural light when possible.
Create a safe space to talk: With holidays approaching, some people may feel more stressed or want to isolate themselves. Offer a listening ear without judgment.
Promote self-care: It can be helpful to remind those that you are supporting of the importance of small, daily activities that can have a positive impact on their mental wellbeing. Exercise, mindfulness, and proper rest are especially important during this time.
***Important clinic dates: Vision to Learn will be completing exams December 18th and 19th.
Food service
PBIS Matrix
Our PBIS matrix for expected behavior here at Westwood Middle School. PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.
Reminder: Hoods Down, Cell Phones Stowed
Just a quick reminder that hoods may not be worn up during the school day.
The Student Code of Conduct offers guidance on attire. Clothing must be school appropriate and may not present a health or safety hazard or disrupt the educational environment. Pants and tops must fit properly and be in good repair. Crop tops are not permitted.
Additionally, footwear must be school appropriate--slippers and slipper socks are not permitted. Blankets also may not be worn in school.
Students may bring their cell phones to school but they must be turned off and put away during the day.
Parents may contact Westwood Office to reach their student during the school day.
UPCOMING EVENTS
11/27: No School Conference make up day
11/28-29: No School Thanksgiving Break
12/4/24: Music Concert
12/19: End of the grading period
12/20: No school- Records Day
12/23-1/3 No school Winter break
1/6: School resumes
1/20: No School- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
1/23: Music Concert
1/31: No School- PD day
2/17: No School- President's Day
2/20: Conferences
2/18: Choir Concert
2/24: Band Concert
3/13: World Culture Fest
3/13: End of the Grading period
3/14: No School- Records Day
4/28: Band & Orchestra Concert
5/19: Choir Concert