Dear WDS Families, it was an energy-filled week as there was lots of excitement in the air for the holidays. WDS students have been spreading kindness this week in many ways, such as delivering Winter Wishes cards to the neighbors and the Grade ½ students completing random acts of kindness in the school and community. 

We ended the week with staff and students wearing their festive wear and reading the book The Little Hummingbird by Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas in our Circle Friday that shared the message that one small act by one person can make a significant difference. The staff at WDS would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, and Kwanzaa and a healthy and happy New Year. Classes resume for students on January 6, 2025. 

Staffing News 

We are excited to announce that Mr. Medina-Gutierrez will return to WDS on a modified work schedule starting January 6, 2025. Ms. Stephenson will remain at WDS from January 6 – February 7 to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition for students. 

Mr. Asefa (Mr. Sam), our facility operator, has been offered a new job at James Fowler High School. He will be missed at WDS, and we wish him all the best at his new school. 

Kindergarten Registration 

Kindergarten Registration for the 2025-26 school year begins January 11, 2025. For children to be eligible to register and attend kindergarten next school year, they must turn five years old on or before Dec. 31, 2025. When registering your child for school, there are several things you should consider. Our CBE Kindergarten Registration Guide can help answer many of your questions. 

iRobot Naming Contest 

The Name Our WDS Robots” winning names are: Bebot, Rizzbot: Zobo, Robby, Ziggy, Rose, Sparks, Spongebot, Iggy, Steve, Rover, and Sonic. In January, the students who chose the winning names will spend a lunch hour with these robots. They will be the first group of students that will be given a chance to use the iRobots. 

Winter Solstice 

Winter Solstice is a time for celebration and reflection; a time for bringing people together, for thinking about the challenges that we’ve faced and overcame, and how we will bring forward what we’ve learned into the new year with intention for good things (Elder Saa’kokoto, Winter Solstice 2023). 

Important Dates  

Have a great winter break and a Happy New Year, 

Rhonda and Keri