The School Bell
Williston Schools / December 22, 2023
No School December 25 - January 1; Back to School January 2, 2024
Need to know right now...
No School 12/25/23 thru 1/1/24, back in session Tuesday, January 2, 2024 - PreK Lottery Open - Please label all Winter Gear -
Good to know...
A message from Lauren Goracy, Director of Special Services - Full calendar of Upcoming School Events - Teacher/Staff Appreciation and Wish List Letter - Library and Rec Program Info - and more...
Info Links in every issue...
- School and District Calendars
- Bus Information
- Families as Partners & Four Winds
- CVSD District and School Board Links
Our School Day
Allen Brook School - Start Time @ 7:50am;
Dismissal for PreK & K at 2:25pm - grades 1 & 2 @2:30pm
Williston Central School - Start Time @8:00am;
Dismissal grades 3 & 4 @2:35pm - grades 5-8 @2:45pm
**REMINDER: Early Release Wednesdays are 1 Hour earlier every week**
A Message from the Williston Schools Leadership Team
by Lauren Goracy, Director of Special Services
Hello Williston Community!
I wanted to take this moment and acknowledge and thank the Support Staff who make up both Williston Central School and Allen Brook Elementary School. The Support Staff in our buildings include all Paraprofessionals (both 1-on-1 Intensive supports and Intensive General Supports), House General Paraprofessionals and Teaching Assistants, our Behavior Interventionists and Para Specialists, all Custodial Staff, our Building Based Substitute, all Cafeteria Staff, all Lunch/Recess Staff, our Front Office Greeters, Software Technician Assistants, Administrative Assistants, and all of our Bus Drivers. Their contribution is essential to the operation of our schools, and honestly, our schools would not be able to function without their invaluable support. The Paraprofessionals have a range of responsibilities that include academics, communication, behavior, and/or activities of daily living. They help students with a range and variety of needs, for example, starting in Kindergarten they may guide students to put on their snow gear and ending in eighth grade they may be helping students solve for x on an algebraic problem. The Bus Drivers are often the first faces students see everyday greeting them to get on the bus with smiling faces and with sometimes snowy and rainy roads. The Cafeteria Staff greet students everyday and help make sure every student has what they need for breakfast and lunch. The Custodial Staff are the last ones to close the buildings and the first ones to open the buildings. They even come in on snow days and clean our paths to make sure we can come in safely the next day. The Lunch/Recess staff console students with every scraped knee and help mediate every disagreement on the playgrounds. These are vital jobs in our buildings and the people who work in them make our school brighter and stronger everyday.
With this being said, we have a significant shortage of Support Staff in the state of Vermont. Williston Schools has also had openings since the beginning of our 2023-2024 school year. The coverage has ebbed and flowed and we have had many community members join our team. I am reaching out again to our community to ask for your support. We have the following positions open:
1 1-on-1 Paraprofessional Specialist in grades 7-8
1 General House Parprofessional in grades 7-8
1 1-on-1 Intensive Paraprofessional in grades 3-4
1 Behavior Interventionist in grades 1-2
1 Building Based Substitute (All Grades)
1 Day Maintenance Technician (Custodial Staff)
**Also, if you are interested in just generally being a Guest Teacher at our schools, please use this link and follow the steps provided. This site also includes general information about subbing and a google form to complete. As a Guest Teacher, you can pick and choose the days you sub, the grade level you are interested in, and the teacher/content area.
If you are interested in any of these positions above or have any questions, please reach out to Cindy Morin, our Williston Schools Office Manager at cmorin@cvsdvt.org or (802) 871-6141.
Please enjoy the Early Winter Break with family and friends!
Sincerely,
Lauren Goracy
Upcoming Events
12/18 - Coffee with the Principals, 8:30am @WCS Community Room
12/19 - Horizon Crafting Company Sale
12/25 - 1/1 - No School / Early Winter Break
01/09 - Intergen Book Groups
01/10 - 4 Winds Training, 8:15am @WCS Community Room
01/11 - Walk or Roll to School Day
01/11 - Families as Partners Monthly Meeting, 8:30 - 10:30am @WCS Community Room
01/15 - No School / Martin Luther King Jr. Day
01/16 - Coffee with the Principals @3:30pm
Reminder: Please label student gear and clothing
Thank you for helping us to return items to the correct owner by putting your student's name in winter jackets, boots, gloves, etc.
SPARK Enrichment After School Session 3
We are excited to offer your child an opportunity to participate in Spark Enrichment, an after-school applied learning program for students in grades 5-8. Sessions will run for 5 weeks from 2:50 p.m - 4:20 p.m. with our 3rd session starting January 11th and ends February 8th. These small group classes will be facilitated by school faculty and staff. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that can be found on the link below. Accommodations for any food allergies will be made. Caregivers will receive an email (using the email given on the form) informing them of the assigned workshop on Monday or Tuesday of the week that workshops begin. In order to take full advantage of this learning opportunity, students will need to make a commitment to attend all five Thursdays. If your child decides to not take part in this session after having registered please contact Julie Rogers so that others may fill the spot. The after-school activity bus will provide transportation home for students in need of a ride home.
The dates of the session are: January 11, 18, 25, February 1, and 8. When registering, students will be able to rank their choices for better placement! Students will be placed on a first come first serve basis as well as ensuring that students do not repeat workshops unless there are open spots. Please use this registration form and a listing of workshop descriptions. Contact Julie Rogers (jrogers@cvsdvt.org) with any questions.
PE: Sneakers Needed
We are looking to replenish our sneaker supply that we loan to students on a daily basis. We are looking for lightly used sneakers in a size 13, 1,2,3,4,5. Half sizes are also most welcome. We are all set on smaller and larger sizes. If you have any to donate please bring them to the PE department at either school.
With thanks and appreciation,
WCS and ABS PE Department
PreKindergarten Lottery is now open for 2024-2025!
All applications must be received by February 5, 2024, and are located on the CVSD Early Education website under 2024-2025 Preschool Lottery . Paper applications are available upon request.
For additional information, questions about our program, or any concerns about your child’s development, please visit our website or contact Director of Early Education, Erin Gagne at egagne@cvsdvt.org.
2023 Williston Schools Teacher/Staff Appreciation and Wish Lists
Dear Williston School Community,
We would like to take a moment to acknowledge all of the hard work that our Williston teachers, educators, assistants and staff members have done to help our students learn and grow in 2023.
While it is in no way expected or required, we know some individuals like to show their appreciation and thanks during the holiday season by sending cards, drawing pictures, writing notes, making small tokens or giving gifts. If this idea interests you and you would like some helpful suggestions, please take a look at the information below.
With so many caring heroes who work diligently behind the scenes of our Williston Schools, it may be hard to have the time to meet and get to know all of them on a more personal level. This document is meant to help introduce the community to some of these amazing people who support our students.
The information has been grouped in alphabetical order by last name. If you are looking for someone in particular, you can use the ‘ctrl’ + ‘f’ keys on your keyboard to search for a specific name. Keep in mind not all Williston School members chose to complete this questionnaire and blank answers were left intentionally by the individual.
Thank you for helping us recognize, acknowledge and support these incredible educators, assistants, staff members and heroes during this time of year.
Happy Holidays,
The Williston Families As Partners Group
Youth Vaping: What’s CVSD Doing About It?
You’ve likely heard more about youth vaping these days. And rightly so, the most recent Youth Risk Behavior Survey reported 16% of Vermont high school students used an EVP (electron vaping device) in the past 30 days. Vaping is not a social norm or youth trend. It’s an increasingly serious health issue for our kids.
That’s why CVSD and Connecting Youth continue to proactively address vaping as a health issue. Our prevention strategies are restorative, not punitive. We aim to educate, empower and support. Not point blame. And we know prevention is most effective when it connects people across multiple social and economic settings.
From community education to readily accessible quit resources, learn more here about our prevention efforts to help youth make the healthiest choices. If you have questions, ideas or just want to learn more, reach out to your school’s SAPs. We're in this together!
-Connecting Youth
Four Winds Nature Institute
This Year's Theme: The Earth
Sunlight & Shadow (Sept.)
Erosion (Oct.)
Rocks & Minerals (Nov.)
Blanket of Air (Jan.)
Nature of Sound (Feb.)
Water Cycle (March)
Wind & Clouds (April)
Get Your Bearings (May)
Nature's News
Contact Four Winds
Families as Partners
Williston Schools Food Service
Williston Schools Safety Team
IMPORTANT: Winter Bus Update - Hill Roads
When this happens you will receive a notifications from the school as early as possible in the morning. Information on where families will need to meet the bus is located HERE.
Note: In certain icy conditions, Bus M will not be able to travel on Lincoln or Chaloux and parents/caretakers and students will need to meet the bus on Breezy Valley Ln. You will be notified directly when this change occurs.
Williston & CVSD Services and Resources
DEI Town Halls - New Format!
Join the CVSD Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Team as we celebrate diversity and connect with the diverse cultures of our community. At these in-person events we will learn the history of the various communities in Vermont. There will be shared cultural experiences, including art, food, and conversations about educational experiences. At each gathering various groups, community members and stakeholders will present about their lives, work, and contributions to our state.
January 19th, 6-8pm - Shelburne Community School
Nepali Community in Vermont
March 15th, 6-8pm - Williston Central School
Somali Community in Vermont
Community Connections
Hello from the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library Youth Department! Find out more about programs at http://www.damlvt.org or by calling 878-4918.
*YOUTH PROGRAMMING*
Children in 5th grade and up may use the library unattended, while those in grade 4 or under must be supervised by a person over 16 years of age. For information on the Unattended Children Policy, see above or visit www.damlvt.org. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stop by or call 878-4918 to chat with a youth librarian about expectations and the library's after-school experience.
Please note the library will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, December 25-26.
The library will also be closed on Monday, January 1.
Teen Movie Night
Wednesday, December 27, 5-7:20 p.m. PG. Ages 12+. Do you solemnly swear you’re up to no good? Face your fears, study the full moon, and more on this movie night! Further movie nights will be hosted through January to enjoy the full series.
LEGO Time
Thursday, December 28, 3-4 p.m. Create something exciting with the library’s LEGO collection!
Vermont Reads
Between now and January 31, share a favorite family recipe and a 3-5 sentence story that includes the preparation and sharing of that food, or the importance of that food to your family and/or culture. The best story wins a set of cookie cutters and cookie decorations. Submit stories to bonnie@damlvt.org. Submissions will be included in a community cookbook to be shared in the library.
The challenge is inspired by this year's Vermont Read, Last Night at the Telegraph Club, by Malinda Lo. Beginning December 1, you can pick up or check out a copy of this book in the library. Events related to this book will noted on our website and calendar!
Holiday Decorating Contest Judging
It is now time to Judge the homes and businesses that registered for the Holiday Decorating Contest. We ask that community members go out, view the decorated homes/businesses, and then judge using the easy to use form found at- https://forms.gle/53ZmA54BZfjsv3Lq5. Here is a link to the map of registered homes/businesses- https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ojjYJbsryn1bobbd1CWyTgcg9TS0ywg&ll=44.437728247535034%2C-73.09587305&z=14. Judging takes place from Dec 22-9. Winners announced January 4.
Table Tennis
Ages 12-Adult. Come out and play, stay fit and meet new people. The program is open to all experience levels. Players should bring their own paddles (limited number of loaner paddles available). NOTE: Players under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The Table Tennis program is by registration and payment Only- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30311.
Learn to Ski/Ride
There is still time to register for the Learn to Ski/Ride program. Deadline to register is Wednesday, January 3. Fitting Nights are complete for this season. Follow the link to register- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30204
KinderRec Basketball
Ages 5-6- Coed. This is a parent/child program designed to teach the fundamentals of the game. Each week youngsters will be introduced to a new skill and fun activities that will enhance their learning. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February. Instructors: Rec. Staff. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29932
1st-2nd Basketball
There are separate boys’ and girls’ programs offered if numbers allow. The program provides the opportunity for youngsters to learn the game, improve their skills, and enjoy playing. The program meets on Saturdays in January and February. The hour session will consist of a practice and scrimmage. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child. https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30201
Ninja Kids Intro- Age 4-8 or 7-11. The play-based curriculum increases strength and self-confidence, while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Programs start in January. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff.
Age 4-8- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30097
Age 7-11- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30206
Basketball Referees Wanted!
The department is looking for basketball referees in January and February for the Youth Rec. Basketball programs. Referees are needed for grades 1st-8th programs. If interested please contact the Recreation Dept at recreation@willistonvt.org.
Instructors Wanted!
The Spring/Summer Program Guide will be out in Mid-February. The Dept. is looking for Instructors and need your information now. Deadline to make it in the Program Guide is February 1.
Do you have a camp for this Summer that you want to offer. We are looking for Enrichment Camps in Sports, Specialty and Technology (STEM) Camps. Deadline to make it in the Camp Guide is January 21.
Fill out a Program Proposal Form and submit it to the Recreation Dept- https://willistonvt.myrec.com/forms/5964_form.programproposal.pdf
Information - Click to Get!
Family Resources
Resources to keep accessible:
- First Call - 488-7777: phone support, crisis intervention, assessment and referrals
- In Crisis: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) (National Hopeline Network: USA)
- National Suicide Prevention Life line- 1-800-273-TALK (8255), call or chat online
- Crisis Text Line - text HOME to 741741 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)
- Outright Vermont - support for LGBTQ+ community
- UVM Breathe In Breath Out - How to deal with stress due to COVID-19
- Vermont 211 -Vermont database of resources and services
- Vermont Support Line (833) 888-2557) - peer support warmline open 247 - 365 for call or text
- COVID Counselors @ VT-211
- Teen Crisis Text Line - Crisis Text Line provides free emotional support and information to teens in any type of crisis, including feeling suicidal. You can text with a trained specialist 24 hours a day. Text “HOME” to 741741.
- Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide - Website where you can find information to help yourself or a friend who may be having thoughts of suicide.
- Trevor Lifeline - 1-866- 488-7386 - provides suicide prevention and crisis intervention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people. It offers free, 24/7, confidential counseling. TrevorText—text START to 678-678; TrevorChat—instant messaging at TheTrevorProject.org/help. It also runs TrevorSpace, an affirming social networking site for LGBTQ youth at TrevorSpace.
Allen Brook School and Williston Central School