WCA Newsletter
October 11, 2024
Oct 14-18 | Fall Break
Oct 21 | Apparel Orders Open until Nov 21, First Day of Cheerleading and Boys Basketball Practice
Oct 23 | 8th Grade Parents/Students High School Information Sessions 1:15pm
Oct 29 | Community PTO Meeting 6-7pm
Oct 31 | Halloween Costume Day | K-5 Parade 2:15pm (look for information from your teacher on parties) | 6-8 MS Halloween Party 2:45-3:25pm
Nov 1 | No School
Nov 8 | Early Release 12pm, School Service Day
Nov 11 | Veterans Day No School
No BLUE PICK UP today 10/11
We want to inform you that on Friday, October 11, a firefighter funeral will take place at Plum Creek Church during our dismissal time. As a result, families will not be able to park at Plum Creek Church, and the Blue Walk-Up zone will be closed. We kindly ask all families to utilize the carline for pickup. Preschool Families please look for an email explaining your pick-up process for today.
Please be aware that, although the sixth-grade outdoor education trip will reduce some congestion, we do anticipate longer wait times in the carline. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this situation and respectfully honor the life and service of a dedicated public servant.
Thank you for your cooperation.
From the Desk of the Principal
Dear World Compass Academy Families,
As we approach fall break, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for your continued dedication and hard work throughout the first part of this school year. The progress our students have made, both academically and personally, is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our entire school community.
Fall break offers a well-deserved opportunity for our students, staff, and families to recharge and enjoy quality time together. Whether you plan to travel or simply relax at home, I hope this time off provides you with moments of joy and connection with loved ones.
Upon returning from fall break, we will dive back into our daily routines with renewed energy and enthusiasm for learning. Our dedicated educators have planned engaging lessons and activities to continue challenging and inspiring our students to grow and excel in their academic pursuits.
Enjoy your Fall Break, and we'll see you soon!
Warmly,
Bethany Merkling
Principal
CogAT
DCSD is committed to implementing equitable practices to increase access to advanced/gifted learning opportunities. Based on state and national recommendations and requirements, we implement Universal Screening for students in 2nd grade (February) and 5th or 6th grade--a student's final year of elementary school (November).
5th/6th Grade Universal Screen
As part of this process, ALL students in 6th grade not identified for gifted programming will take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) the week of November 4th. This assessment indicates the level and pattern of cognitive development of a student in comparison to grade and age mates. These general reasoning abilities, which start developing at birth and continue through early adulthood, are influenced by experiences gained both in and out of school.
If your child is already identified for gifted programming, they will not participate in this universal screen testing. Your Gifted Education Facilitator will contact you directly with information about this process.
Gifted Identification Referral Testing
If your child is in grades 3, 4, 5 and you believe they need evaluation for Gifted Identification and Services, you may refer your child for testing by initiating the Gifted Identification Process.
NOTE: Requesting this assessment automatically initiates the process to evaluate for Gifted Identification.
Please request CogAT testing for your child by reaching out to our gifted facilitator, Kate Parker, for more information on the referral process by October 23rd.
Halloween Costumes PK-8
Students may wear costumes to school on October 31 (no school uniforms are required). Costumes should be appropriate for school. Masks, weapon facsimiles, blood, gore, or costumes that are sexually explicit, reflective of graphic violence, or include references to drugs or alcohol are not allowed.
Parents Watching Parade K-5: Time: 2:15pm
Parents are welcome watch the parade in one of the following locations:
- South side of the school building
- On the field
- We are asking that they NOT line the hallways inside the building
Parents who plan to remain outside the building do not need to check in at the office. However, if you intend to enter the building, please make sure to stop by the office and complete the check-in process. We appreciate your cooperation in following these guidelines to ensure a safe and organized environment for everyone.
Class Parties K-5: Please see your students' teacher newsletter for Halloween Party details.
6th-8th Grade Dance /Party: 2:45-3:25pm Parents are welcome to attend
Submit Your Apple Awards Nominations!
The Foundation for Douglas County Schools continues it's tradition of honoring exceptional educators and staff who are inspiring a love of learning in students and are trailblazing extraordinary innovation in our schools. Nominate a staff member today! Nominations are open October 1- November 11
Around Campus
Watch Dogs
Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to this incredible Watch D.O.G.S. dad, whose dedication and commitment to the World Compass Academy community is truly commendable. Your involvement in creating a positive and nurturing environment for our students is invaluable, and we are grateful for your continued support. Thank you for all that you do to make WCA a better place!
4th Grade
Fourth graders were treated to a fun guest, Mrs. Schmitz’s friend Gina showed the students her accordion, describing the different parts, displaying how it produces music, and even let students play some notes. In 4th grade ELA, students have been reading a personal narrative about a young girl who learned to play the accordion in order to strengthen her arm and hand muscles, after suffering the effects of polio. Students also listened to a beautiful book titled Accordionly, where two cultures are brought together by the common thread of music, through the accordion.
Many students had never seen or heard an accordion before. This was a great time to introduce students to a musical instrument that can be a tool in helping people through physical challenges and help people connect through music.
Alumni
Community Events
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Tuesday, October 22nd 6:00-7:30PM
LOCATION: DCSD LEGACY CAMPUS, 10035 S. Peoria Street, Lone Tree, CO 80134
RSVP REQUIRED
Plenty of Sunshine Photography
Join WCA Cougar Committee and Cross Country Runners Turkey Trot
Get ready to join the WCA Cougar Committee and Cross Country runners at the exciting 20th Annual Turkey ROCK Trot 5K Family Fun Run/Walk/Stroll in Castle Rock, CO! This beloved Thanksgiving tradition welcomes participants of all levels, from serious runners to leisurely walkers. Bring your entire family and create lasting memories while supporting a great cause.
To register select join the team and scroll to World Compass Academy to join the team. Thanksgiving Morning @ 7:30AM, November 28, 2024, Douglas County Event Center, 500 Fairgrounds Drive
Additional Information
Calendars & Communication
2024/25 School Calendars K-8 & PreK
Follow WCA on Social Media:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/WorldCompassAcademy/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/wcacougars/
PTO
Meet other WCA parents by joining the PTO Facebook Page and please email the PTO with PTO related questions. Visit the PTO Website and read the PTO Newsletter.
Student Support
Tutoring is Available at WCA. Here is the list of who is available, rates and subjects. WCA Tutors
Encourage youth in your life to take a mental health survey and sign up for free and confidential therapy sessions at IMatterColorado.org. #IMatterColorado