West Hempstead Weekly Update

In the face of a community that's beautifully diverse yet has been marred by acts of discrimination and hate recently, it's paramount that we stand together, united in our shared commitment to embracing all people as fellow human beings. I am writing to reiterate the importance of acknowledging and respecting the differences that make us unique while collectively denouncing all forms of hate. I am also keeping you up-to-date that WHe will continue to do the real work of learning to ensure that our students develop the dispositions they need to live in a community as beautiful as ours. I appreciate those who have taken the time to speak with me recently.

Whether it's anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, racial discrimination, prejudice based on sexual orientation, or any other form of intolerance, these actions have no place in our community, in our society, or the world at large. Every individual, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other identity marker, deserves the fundamental right to exist without fear of discrimination or persecution.

The recent anti-Semitic incident is a stark reminder that hatred and discrimination have no place in our society. It is unacceptable and should never be tolerated under any circumstances. Targeting individuals or communities based on their faith or ethnicity is a heinous act that goes against the values of respect, inclusivity, and understanding that we should uphold. WHe must stand as one in condemning such actions and work tirelessly to create an environment where every person, regardless of their background, feels safe, respected, and valued. WHe have and will continue to actively educate, promote empathy, and foster a culture of acceptance to ensure that incidents like these become a thing of the past. WHe stand in solidarity against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate, reaffirming our commitment to a world where diversity is celebrated and all individuals are treated with dignity and equality.

In speaking with members of our community, I learned that there are those in the cesspool of social media who feel this recent act was one of "patriots." The notion that an anti-Semitic act is somehow emblematic of patriotism is not just misguided; it is fundamentally flawed. True patriotism embodies a deep respect for the principles of justice, equality, and inclusivity that form the bedrock of a democratic society. Anti-Semitism, or any form of discrimination, stands in direct opposition to these values. It is not an expression of patriotism but ignorance, fear, and the failure to acknowledge the diversity that enriches our nation. Patriots uphold the rights and freedoms of all individuals, irrespective of their background or beliefs. Any act of hate or bigotry cannot and should not be equated with patriotism; instead, it's a manifestation of intolerance that must be unequivocally denounced. We must strive to educate and enlighten, fostering a society where mutual respect and understanding flourish, thereby strengthening the true essence of patriotism – a commitment to a nation where all are treated with dignity and inclusivity reigns.

Our strength lies in our unity, in our ability to celebrate diversity, and in our resolve to protect and uphold the rights of all members of our community. By fostering an environment of inclusion and understanding, we can create a society where everyone is valued and respected for who they are.

Let us actively stand against hate in all its forms. This requires not just passive acceptance but active support for one another, speaking out against discrimination, and advocating for justice and equality. It's incumbent upon each of us to be allies, advocates, and champions for those who face discrimination or prejudice.

Let's continue to engage in open conversations, educate ourselves and others, and promote empathy and compassion. It's only through collective effort and a shared commitment to inclusivity that we can build a community where every individual feels safe, supported, and valued.

Together, we can create a community where love, acceptance, and understanding prevail over hate and division. Let's join hands and stand together, unwavering in our support for a world where all individuals are celebrated for the richness of their differences.

By Art Costa, Bena Kallick, and Allison Zmuda

There is a growing recognition that mastering subject-area knowledge alone will not be sufficient to prepare your children for their futures. They will need deliberate practice and focused attention to grow their capacity as efficacious thinkers to navigate and thrive in the face of unprecedented change. Habits of Mind are a universal framework for thinking and are as essential now as when we first introduced them 30 years ago. Habits of Mind are dispositions people use when confronted with problems and situations to which answers are not immediately apparent. When we draw upon these intellectual resources, the results that are produced are more powerful, of higher quality and of greater significance than if we fail to employ those intellectual behaviors.

"World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”

Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good." - https://department.va.gov/veterans-day/history-of-veterans-day/

Learn more:

https://www.defense.gov/News/Feature-Stories/story/article/1675470/5-facts-to-know-about-veterans-day/

https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/history-of-veterans-day

https://www.archives.gov/news/topics/veterans-day

What #WHe heard across the district over the past two days:

• Thank you for all that you do for our daughter. She is now reading books all by herself, and we love how proud she is of herself!
  
• My son/daughter LOVES coming to school.
• I appreciate the open lines of communication.
• Art is an outlet for her. She loves coming to your class.
  
• Thank you so much. The staff does an amazing job. We moved here from Queens. I feel like the luckiest man on Earth. Thank you for taking such good care of my daughter.
  
• He/she would rather be here than home.
• We are so grateful for the job Ms. [X] does with our son.
  
• We were watching Star Wars the other night, and my son showed us three sight words on the screen.
• My son filled every page in a notebook and says he knows how to write now because we write every day at school.
• It’s been such an easy transition because my daughter went to UPK.
  
• He was excited to come home and tell us about the Mona Lisa after learning about it in art class.
  
• "The last two days have been filled with an overwhelming amount of appreciation and gratitude for the work that families are doing at home and what teachers are doing at school. Many families opened up to us about their homes are filled with books, frequent visits to the library and trips to Barnes and Noble. Teachers shared academic lessons and social emotional supports tailored to their child specifically. Not only are families currently doing amazing learning at home with their children already, but they came to the meetings asking "what more can I do to help?" When educators and families come together in meetings with a common goal, that is when our students succeed. " ~Cornwell Avenue Teacher
  
• Everyone in this country walks through the doors of a teacher, even the President. You all have the most important job in the world. Thank you for your patience and all you do every day.
  

With "WHe" as our theme this year, #WHe are inspired to explore, discover, and achieve future wonders. Allow me to share some of the ways one could envision completing the idea of "WHe" throughout this remarkable journey:

• Wonder and Curiosity: Let us ignite a spark of wonder and curiosity in every aspect of our learning. Encouraging students and staff alike to question, explore, and seek knowledge beyond the ordinary.
• “WH”olistic Education: Emphasizing the growth of the whole individual – social, emotional, and academic. We aim to provide opportunities for personal development and well-being in addition to academic excellence.
• Empathy and Humanity: "WHe" stands for "We" as well, reminding us of our collective responsibility to foster empathy, compassion, and kindness. We will create a supportive and inclusive community where everyone feels valued.
• Waves of Change: As a theme, "WHe" also signifies the ever-changing tides of life. We will adapt to new challenges, embrace innovation, and be resilient in the face of uncertainty.
• Expressions of Art and Culture: "WHe" encompasses the essence of artistic and cultural expressions. We will celebrate creativity, appreciate diversity, and nurture talents in various forms.
• Wellness and Health: Prioritizing physical and mental health, creating a safe and nurturing environment where everyone can thrive and grow.
• Leadership and Collaboration: "WHe" represents collective wisdom and the power of collaboration. We will empower our students to be leaders in their own right while fostering teamwork and cooperation.

Email: drehman@whufsd.com
Website: www.whufsd.com
Location: 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, NY,
Phone: 516-390-3000