WEbster Nation,

It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the approaching season. I know your lives get super busy with work, school, sports practice, other child hobbies, and a million other things that tend to fill up our plates. Don't forget to carve out a little time for joy. If that feels hard to do...let us help. We would love to have you put on that costume and join us on Tuesday for a little community party out on the yard. The amazing DJ Joel will be spinning some tunes, the kids will be Trunk or Treating, and we'd love to bring the community together for a big dance party starting any time after 12:40p. It's been a tough start to this year and it would be really great to see your faces on campus. Don't let me down.

Wishing you all a safe and spooky weekend.

With gratitude,

- Tedd

twakeman@smmusd.org
(310) 456-6494

Next Saturday, November 4, I will run the 5K here in Malibu. The question is, "Will I run that 5K dressed in the Webster whale suit or not?" That's up to you. We would love to have as many of our students register for The BGCM Mile as possible. If we can get 35 Webster Whales to register for this mile run, I will wear the whale suit for the 5K!! We currently have 17 sign-ups with a whole week left to register. Let's support the BGCM and the spirit of joy and health while we enjoy a fun Saturday together. GET REGISTERED TODAY!!

Run Malibu welcomes kids ages 4-10 to celebrate, inspire, and support the next generation through the sport of running. This year, we are thrilled to announce the launch of a new kid's event: The Boys and Girls Club of Malibu Mile (The BGCM Mile). Kids' events take place Saturday afternoon on November 4th at the Malibu Beach Expo at Zuma Beach. Entry fees are $30 per race or $45 for both. All racers receive a bib, kids swag bag, entry to the new "Run Malibu x BGCM Kids' Festival", a finisher medal, and, as an added bonus, all profits from the BGCM Mile go back to BGCM. These events are perfect for all kids - from those new to running to those looking to run their best mile yet!

Register Here

Cassidy beat me last year and only one of us was pregnant.

OCTOBER 2023

10/31 Trunk or Treat (schedule and information is in your inbox)

NOVEMBER 2023

11/3 John Wells Author Visit (3rd-5th grade @ 8:40a)

11/3 Be a Dance Star - Friday night dance party Party Book

11/4 Run Malibu (sign up for The BGCM Mile)

11/4 Fall Wreath Making and Wine Tasting Party Book

11/5 Sound Bath and Vision Boarding Party Book

11/6 Pupil Free Day (parent conferences)

11/7-9 Parent Conferences (minimum days)

11/10 Veteran’s Day Holiday (no school)

11/12 Surfy Santa Photos - Holiday photos on the beach Party Book

11/13 PTA's Sustainable Book Fair Begins

11/16 School Site Council Meeting – 3:00p

11/19 Sip, Swap, and Shop Party Book

11/21 Minimum Day

11/22 Thanksgiving Holiday Begins (no school)

11/27 School Resumes

DECEMBER 2023

12/4 Scholastic Book Fair Begins (ends 12/8)

12/15 FALL DEEP LEARNING EXPO – 9:00a (Don't miss this!!)

12/15 Holiday Cookie Party Book

12/20 Holiday Show

12/22 Class Parties

12/25 Winter Holidays Begin

TK eagerly anticipated meeting our Big 5th Grade Buddies! Mrs. London's class came to visit and took us by the hands to share some fun "getting to know you items." The 5th graders were so gentle and sweet and TK was instantly hugging and loving their new friends. We even had some time to play together -- Red, Light, Green Light, climbing the play structure and sliding down the slide, exploring the teepee, garden, and water tables. We can't wait to collaborate and have fun again! Our time together was pure JOY! Much love from TK and 5th grade!!! Thank you to Mrs. London's class for such a wonderful day. xoxo

As part of our comedy unit, we are doing an author study on Robert Munsch. We have been reading his books and keeping a list of things he does to make them so funny. We started noticing patterns. I turned their ideas into a checklist and they used it with a partner or small group. Each group had a different Robert Munsch book. First, they read the book together, and then, they filled out the checklist together. They enjoyed the silliness and worked really hard! Soon they will be writing their own Robert Munsch-inspired stories!

Room 17 had some super fun times playing ping pong at PE. When you don't have a proper ping pong table, BEING ADAPTABLE allows you to find a solution. Thanks Coach!

Students in Room 19 were busy bees this week, and had a blast doing a number of fun-filled activities!

We started off the week with a special visit from Principal Tedd, who challenged our class with several rounds of the game “Thinker”. We started with two digits, moved on to three, and eventually four! The game is definitely called “Thinker” for a reason, as students worked hard in teams to develop strategies, decipher clues, make connections, and ultimately to guess Tedd’s mystery numbers. When the students walked to lunch, they were still buzzing with enthusiasm, as they talked about their thinking and ideas while playing the game.

Mid-week we launched our 5th Grade Deep Learning Expo Project. Students were treated to a school-wide scavenger hunt, where they used critical thinking to figure out clues on campus, and learned new things about states across the country. Later in the day, it was revealed that the 5th grade teachers had been exploring, and discovered a brand new, undiscovered piece of land in the middle of the ocean! This new found land was filled with spectacular land forms, an abundance of natural resources, and some of the most interesting weather patterns and climates ever seen. It was split into 14 plots, and students were given the opportunity to “stake their claim” by making a persuasive argument for what plot of land their group wanted, what they planned to do with it, and why they thought they deserved it. Rich student-led conversations ensued with groups sharing their ideas to utilize natural resources, but not deplete them; ways they planned to harness available renewable energy; how they wanted to preserve and protect plants and animals on their land, and even the beginning stages of how they might develop trade relationships with nearby land plots to share resources. After all plots of land had been successfully claimed, students were surprised with a final twist – wild cards with additional details about their newly claimed plot of land! Some were delighted to discover they had diamond mines, while others worried about how they might deal with cyclones and active volcanoes! (PS: Tedd is working on a video to share with the Board about the value and impact of project-based learning)

We ended our week by meeting our TK Buddies for the first time on Thursday. To say our class was excited is a huge understatement! Big Buddies brought “Get To Know You” Bags, where they shared with their Little Buddies about themselves. Our class had SO much fun meeting and learning about our buddies, and we also got to play together in the sunshine for a little bit at the end. Some 5th graders even commented on what wonderful bundles of energy their buddies were, and how it was hard to keep up with them! It was definitely the beginning of sweet friendships to come. ❤

They floated in on the autumn wind. Unannounced and ready for a little creepy cheer, the 5th Grade Choir, led by Susan Justin, treated the office staff to a an awesome holiday concert. Along with a pretty horrifying accompanist, the kids sang "The Ghost of John" and "This is Halloween", by composer Danny Elfman. (for those of you who remember the 80s, that's the lead singer of Oingo Boingo...just sayin') What a fun way to spice up October. Thanks for stopping by...we loved having you.

Mrs. Harris's class was treated to a guest visit from Whale-dad and stand-up comedian, Eddie Ifft, this week. The students in Room 7 are taking a deep dive into comedy for their PBL project this fall. They've been studying a variety of aspects that lead to and motivate humor. Eddie came in to give them some professional perspective on things like sarcasm and exaggeration. I was lucky enough to sit in on part of the session. Thanks, Eddie, for giving of your time and energy to helping our students learn and grow. We appreciate you!

In the bathroom, on the fence, in the classrooms, on the stapler, on the refrigerator door...these ducks are EVERYWHERE! We are still bewildered by this infestation of tiny, yellow, plastic ducks. It's delightful, but confusing. It's joyful, but peaks our curiosity. We are all turning into overnight sleuths as we try to nail down a suspect. There are many on staff who feel like they have a hunch, but there have been no official clues and no hints at a big reveal. So for now, the update is that we still don't know who, what, or why these ducks exist here at Webster. But I think I can speak for the whole staff, we're loving it!!

We are only a weekend and a day away from one of the most anticipated holidays for most kids I know. If I'm being honest, probably most adults I know as well. A chance to immerse ourselves in make believe, imagination, wonder, and of course...TREATS! Let's make this Halloween a safe and amazing day for the whole community. I look forward to welcoming you to campus next Tuesday for a chance to hang out and build a little community together with students and staff. Another huge thank you to Laura Angotti and all the room parents and volunteers coming to make this event so special for our students. We so appreciate it. A couple of really important things to think about as you plan for next week...

*PARKING, PARKING, PARKING...Please park in Webster's lot at the bottom of our side of the street. OLM's parking lot belongs to them and they have big events that day as well! Thank you in advance.

*If you have any questions about the schedule or details for our Trunk or Treat, please refer to the separate email I sent last week. If you have deleted or misplaced that email, let me know and I'm happy to send it again.

As a way to continue to build community and add a little joy each month, our staff has brought back an old Webster tradition...the monthly Pot Luck. Today, October's chef's, Mrs. Berman, Mrs. Murdock, Mrs. Cooper, and Mrs. Harris, set the bar incredibly high with a spread that looked like it came out of Bon Appetite Magazine. The creativity was off the charts. Our staff was treated to quite a lunch and we are all grateful for the efforts of these amazing educators... who continue to amaze both inside and outside the classroom. Team November, we have a lot to live up to!

Great little article that is pretty spot on about the challenges our teachers face each day. Here at Webster, we are trying to be cognizant of these challenges and allow teachers the space to design the kinds of lessons and activities that lead to deep learning and engagement for our students.

We're trying to build the Webster community and we need YOU. We're encouraging every family to purchase tickets and attend 2 party book events over the course of the year. Have you gotten your tickets yet? These events are AMAZING and we would hate for you to miss out. Don't believe me- here's what other Webster folks have to say:

"Hunter had a blast with his friends at Zuma Beach playing in the surf, body boarding, and even learning to stand up and catch waves! What a great experience!" - Richard VanOrnum

"We had such a great time at the Slice Slice Baby Party. It was such a great way to connect with other parents and give back to the school at the same time." - Samantha Carpenter

"When I signed up for Trampoline with Tedd, I didn't realize I was the Tedd. Regardless, I had a blast jumping, jousting, dodging, and playing with a bunch of our Whales. These Party Book events are truly amazing." - Principal Tedd

There's only 6 more party books this year! YOU ASKED FOR MORE ADULT PARTIES - 2 parties for 18+ coming up next weekend!

November 3- Be a Dance Star - Friday night dance party Party Book

November 4- Fall Wreath Making and Wine Tasting Party Book 21+ only

November 5- Sound Bath and Vision Boarding Party Book 18+ only

November 12- Surfy Santa Photos - Holiday photos on the beach Party Book

November 19- Sip, Swap, and Shop Party Book

December 15- Holiday Cookie Party Book

Pictures from the Slice Slice Baby Party Book

**Phil Buckman making pizzas with 90’s 90210 Phil Buckman in the background

- Lauren (Party Book coordinator and all-around awesome human)

67th MLL Baseball Season Kick off Party on November 4, 2023

Malibu Little League 2024 Spring season Kick Off Party will be held on November 4, 2023, at 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Malibu Pacific Church.

The 2024 MLL Kick Off Party is a great opportunity to bring the baseball and softball community together. This year, the event takes place at Malibu Pacific Church, 3324 Malibu Canyon Road. Everyone is welcome to join the party, meet the Board members, enjoy local Bluffs Burgers and Hot Dogs, and even play Wiffle ball. Additionally, we'll have our Malibu Little League merchandise available for purchase, including t-shirts, hats, sweatshirts, and car magnets.

In 2023, we had nearly 275 kids registered for baseball and softball, and our league is still growing! The Kick Off Party is aimed at boosting early registration. For those attending the event, Malibu Little League offers a one-day on-site registration discount of $50.

To support our league, we have fundraising initiatives in place. We aim to support facilities maintenance, upgrade our fencing, provide necessary equipment, offer scholarship financial assistance, and cover all additional fees to ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate and thrive in our league.

Registration fees for different divisions are as follows:

• Tee-ball: $285 ($235 includes Uniform and $10 in Snack Shack tickets)
• Baseball: $385 ($335 includes Uniform and $10 in Snack Shack tickets)
• Softball: $385 ($335 includes Uniform and $10 in Snack Shack tickets)
• Juniors: $775 ($725 includes Uniform and $10 in Snack Shack tickets)
• 
  

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the managers, coaches, parents, and volunteers who are helping us kick off the 67th year of Malibu Little League!

The League provides baseball and softball programs for over 300 boys and girls aged 4-14 years old, with teams in Tee-ball, AA, AAA, Majors, Juniors, and three levels of Softball teams.

Registration is available HERE

The Wait Until 8th pledge empowers parents to rally together to delay giving children a smartphone until at least 8th grade. By banding together, this will decrease the pressure felt by kids and parents alike over the kids having a smartphone. Please note that this pledge is for smartphones only! If you would like your child to have a basic phone that just calls and texts, you still can sign the pledge! The basic phone avoids many of the distractions and dangers of the smartphone.

Top 5 Reasons To Delay Getting a Smartphone

1 Smartphones are changing childhood.

2 They are distracting and addicting.

3 Smartphones expose your child to...

4 They increase risk for anxiety and depression.

5 Cyberbullying is an important concern.

To learn more, please visit www.waituntil8th.org or check out Wait Until 8th’s Instagram account.

The AERIES Parent Portal

Tedd's Welcome Letter 2023

Tedd's Welcome Back Video 2023

AERIES Parent Portal Tutorial

Student Services Registration Documents 23/24

Family Engagement & School Parent Compact

Webster Bell Schedule

PTA Membership

PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Class Change Request Form

Hour of Code

Webster Information - Week of Oct 30, 2023

The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu aims to provide a fun, safe, and creative environment for all Malibu youth to thrive, find support through positive mentorship, develop important life skills, and receive social and emotional support. We are currently offering:

• BGCM Membership Enrollment is LIVE Available for incoming grades TK-5th. Enroll at BGCMALIBU.ORG Programs include: STEM based projects, arts & crafts, cooking/gardening, social emotional wellness, and more! (Enrollment must be completed and verified via our online electronic system before your child attends BGCM Clubhouses, please allow at least 2 business days for this process). Enroll Here | Inscribirse
  
  

• Run Malibu, takes place at Zuma Beach Nov 4th & 5th. There are options for the whole family to participate in this annual community event which benefits the BGCM! Register for the Charity/VIP 5K entry and a portion of proceeds supports BGCM programs/mental health and wellness services. Link to Register Use code: BGCMRunGroms20 for 20 off% (good for 1/2k kids run only) ***We are also seeking volunteers for this event! Please consider supporting BGCM and volunteering with us! Please sign up here.
  
  

• With Love & Support...Our greatest sympathies are with the families of Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir, Deslyn Williams, and to all who knew and loved them. Our close ties with Pepperdine University, particularly Seaver College, have us mourning the loss alongside students and staff that were close to the women. No one corner of this community has not been affected by this tragedy and collectively we share this grief. If you, your children or someone you know need support or resources to help deal with grief, difficult conversations or otherwise, please reach out to the amazing team of professionals at the BGCM Wellness Center.We understand how difficult this time can be and want to extend a caring hand for anyone that could use it. Tragedy and loss are difficult moments in our lives and having caring support can make a difference in how the loss affects us. To get connected to services, please call or email: Office: (310) 457-6801 x 74-143 Mobile: (424) 209-4907 wellnessinfo@bgcmalibu.org

• Wellness Center & Social Support Offerings The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu Wellness Center operates remotely and also in-person to provide no-cost social support & mental health counseling to all in the community. Visit https://bgcmalibu.org/wellness-center/ to learn more or to request services for you/your child! There is currently NO WAITLIST for services. PSA: Parents! If you've missed any parent workshops, they are available on our website at https://bgcmalibu.org/wellness-center-resources/

*To contact the Club please call 310-457-1400 (Admin) or 310-241-3675 (Programs) Email info@bgcmalibu.org For updates on Club news & events, subscribe to BGCM E-Newsletter Here

Developing strong character and valuable mindsets is essential. This remains a major focus at Webster. As we build community here on campus, at home, and across Malibu, we will continue to model the kind of behavior that promotes unity, kindness, and thoughtful problem solving. In addition, we will value these traits in others and recognize outstanding efforts.

I was off campus today, so we should have a whole new batch of Best on the Beach winners next week! And who will challenge these 5th graders for the Webster Wear Whales?

Every Friday we sport our Webster Wear to show school spirit and celebrate the coming weekend. Classes with the highest percentage of Webster Wear win the whale for the week. Be sure to show your spirit and pick up some Webster Wear in the main office when you stop in to say hello.