Put on your dancing shoes for the Whittier Family Dance & Game Night, Friday March 3rd. The party begins at 6:00PM and will wrap up at 8:30PM, so grab an early dinner and come ready to play, twist, shake, and party with your Whittier family and friends. There will be a sweet treat snack offered but bring your water bottle to stay hydrated. Please note adult caregivers must supervise Wildcat students and siblings during this event.
Join us in-person at the Whittier Library from 7-9pm for our monthly board meeting!
Seeking Community Donations for our Spring Fling auction!
As part of our Spring Fling Auction & Block Party (Saturday, May 20, from 5-9pm), we organize a silent auction. The main driver for our $40,000 fundraising goal, we rely on donations from our community to help raise these needed funds! We’re reaching out to our community to build our auction catalog and would love help or donations in the following categories:
Vacation home/second home experience donations. The Spring Fling committee is looking to wow the donations (and fundraising) this year by amping up the vacation get aways! Have a second home or vacation property that you would donate a weekend stay to a Whittier family? You can set dates, limits or any restrictions. Drop us a line and let’s connect!
Calling all artists! The Spring Fling committee is asking artists to donate a piece of their beautiful work. This could be art already made, a custom piece that you curate with the winner for their home or maybe it is a lesson to share your knowledge. Whatever form it comes in, artists, we need you in our community!
The PTA Hospitality Team works year-round to bring community and fun to Whittier, with a focus on gratitude and celebration. This year, Hospitality has taken the form of monthly First Friday Fun (FFF) and Staff Appreciation (SA) events. We want to take a moment to share what we have accomplished so far! This wouldn’t be possible without ALL of our Whittier families – Your donations of time and resources help to realize our projects and your joyous participation makes it worthwhile.
More fun events to continue this Spring! Special thanks to the office and staff for offering space to implement our creative ideas.
Sincerely, this year’s PTA Hospitality Team: Emily Grosse, Kathleen Donahoe and Courtney Sievers
Sept ’22: FFF – First day of school Cheers and Tears welcome / SA – Staff Lounge remodel reveal
Oct ’22: FFF – Move-a-Thon event / SA – Fall Breakfast (provided by 5th Grade)
Nov ’22: FFF – Cover Whittier with Gratitude, a chalk activity on the blacktop / SA – Hearty Power Bowl Lunch (provided by 4th Grade)
Dec ’22: FFF – Cookies & Candy Canes giveaway / SA – Festive Cookie Bar (provided by 3rd Grade)
Jan ’23: FFF – Whittier Wishes 2023 Banner, a group craft activity / SA -Stock the Lounge (provided by 2nd Grade)
Feb ’23: FFF – Valentine’s take-home treats / SA – Banh Town catered lunch (provided by the PTA)
Calling All 1st Grade Families: March Staff Appreciation!
Whittier Staff is CEREAL-OUSLY the best! Each month a different grade provides goodies for Staff Appreciation. 1st Grade families are up for March – Let’s show the staff how LUCKY we are by treating them to a CEREAL AND MILK BREAKFAST BAR! Sign up HERE!
Please label all items “Staff Appreciation 3/16” and drop off at the office by 1pm on Wednesday, March 15th. The hospitality team will pick up items there, to be set up early morning on Thursday the 16th. Email hospitality@whittierptaseattle.org if you have any questions. Thank you!
What EDI is Thinking About This Week
Let’s Talk Consent!
Talking about consent starts early and never stops. Talking to your kids about consent can be uncomfortable or overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Kids who understand the importance of consent:
Feel empowered to confidently make decisions about their bodies
Feel comfortable talking to trusted adults about these topics
Know the importance of setting and respecting boundaries
Check out these videos made by 10-13 year olds to talk about consent and more!
If you haven’t had the chance to participate yet, we’re still requesting donations to help Whittier build our collection of diverse books! Part of our partnership with Bound to Stay Bound Books in the “Support Our Library” program, please consider donating a book to our library collection. You even have the option to add a donor plate and donate a book in honor of a child’s birthday, special occasion, or a staff member! All books will be shipped to our school processed and ready to be added to the shelves! The program will go through the end of May. Email Ms. Newcomb if you have any questions. This link will take you directly to the Whittier book wishlist. Thank you in advance for supporting our library!
7:00pm via ZOOM Meeting ID: 864 5941 6022 Passcode: wildcats
BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE
Leah Lansberry Austin- President
Tina Lilley – Adviser/Support/Spirit Gear/Website
Jess Templeton – Co Secretary
Jared Cortese – Co Secretary
Courtney Kirk Sievers – Hospitality and Events
Mendy Minjarez – Volunteer Coordinator
Kate Scher – Communications Chair
Cindy Waters – Principal
Megan Wildenrandt – Advocacy
Emily Grosse – Hospitality and Events
Kellie Pecoraro – Member at large
Tricia Schalekamp – Membership Chair
Natalie Gromoff
Kathleen Donahoe
Lauren Carey
Tania
COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE
NA
Meeting Called to Order / Land Acknowledgment at7:03 PM
BOARD UPDATE
No vote this week. Meeting minutes from the December Board meeting will be voted on next month.
PRESIDENT’S UPDATE
Yearbook
Tina Lilley is in charge, she hasn’t decided if she is going to include student volunteers. Just getting things started.
Family directory – Do we need volunteers? Add volunteers for this to the nom com roster, possible get set up for Fall 2023
March Food Drive – Not PTA driven anymore. Prides of March has taken place, Cindy with Leadership Kids. They are going to work with the food pantry in Broadview, and another organization. Leadership kids are going to be in charge of it.
PRINCIPAL UPDATE – (Questions for Cindy)
Yearbook
Tina will let Cindy know what help she needs. Currently can’t upload photos, Tina will help with that. Cindy says kids can be involved in the yearbook. Target something with the kids, not all of it. “Day in the life of a Wildcat.” Give kids cameras and have them take pictures every 30 minutes. Every kid represented, parents can upload photos, and Tina will decide if they are appropriate.
Leadership kids
Meeting once a week with Ms. Paul. Letting the kids lead. Planning a dress up day for the end of the month. Announcements for Martin Luther King Day. Theater group led by Ms. Rebecca, do a skit every month about our virtue of the month. Performed at lunch. Build out opportunities for kids to say “I want to” and then build the runway. Cindy is going to try and get more engagement and build out some more structures.
The School
Budget is looking challenging this year. Cindy is getting the budget ready for the Community Meeting next Tuesday. Cindy is trying to get our reading specialist funded so she can ask the PTA for more. Cindy is working on advocacy to try and petition the district to figure out the floor of what every school needs. Nurse, Reading Specialist, Librarian, Social Worker, Recess Monitors. The PTA can help by elevating this conversation through advocacy with the city and state. What is the minimum that a school needs to run? Cindy doesn’t think we have the minimum to run a school.
Covid
Break out in 2nd grade. Send kids to school with masks, not mandatory. Quarantine is still 5 days. Kids were given cleaning supplies to clean their desks today.
Enrollment
We need to have people come to our school. Cindy needs help to do a promotional video for Whittier for the website. The sooner students enroll in Whittier, it helps Cindy’s budget. Better to enroll now than in June. Students who apply for school of choice, there’s a good shot!
Is there anything you (Cindy) need from the PTA?
Advocacy, talking to the school board about carving out a minimum. We are one of the lowest funded schools. Ask the district to think creatively. One position Cindy doesn’t want to lose next year is Ms. Katie, utility role. That position gives the school a little more nimbleness. Rather have Ms. Katie then a Vice Principal. She would prefer to not have a volunteer for recess. Gives kids permission to take more risks, rather than having parent volunteers.
Good people to reach out to locally:
Lisa Rivera Smith – The School Board Member from our district
Legislative reps depending on where you live
Good people to reach out to on the federal level
Pramila Jayapal
Patty Murray
Maria Cantwell
New Food Specialist
Ms. Joe found her replacement, Ms. Laura.
Budget
Wait to hear for Renee next week at the Community meeting. She will be conducting a budget survey.
NOMCOM UPDATE
Thank you to everyone who has filled out the survey
Mendy is facilitating a meeting next week to figure out new recruitment methods. Cindy’s email would be an effective way to reach beyond current members’ friend groups.
Mendy needs to know who wants to continue in their roles or switching roles so we know who we are recruiting for.
Mendy needs the descriptions of each role. Where is the document describing everyone’s role.
Went through all positions currently filled.
Nom com should fill major roles, then within the committee they can recruit for other roles.
Once Mendy gets the room reps family lists, she can come up with a strategy. Do we need a coordinator for Room Reps? Mendy says no, it’s not a hard job traditionally and the Volunteer Coordinator can do the role.
EDI UPDATE
Black Lives Matter Week
Emily Barbee is working on it, and there will be more info next week.
Susan and Melissa stepped down from EDI chairs. Melissa is still going to be on the committee.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Notes from Emily – Black Lives Matter Week. Buddy Bench section in Wildchat to keep everyone engaged on what’s going on with EDI. Affinity groups, Megan will be sending out a link to a survey. No shortage of things to advocate for especially at the State Level. Why is funding done this way, and what can we do as a PTA?
FUNDRAISING UPDATE
Spring Fling
1st meeting next Wednesday, meetings scheduled out until Spring Fling, May 20th
Deciding whether or not they are going to do the block party. Only concern is the weather so might book a venue.
Top Gun Theme
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
Up to 129 members, right in line where we were last year. Lower than precovid times when we used the paper form, or signed people up at a library.
Add a form to sign up as a part of the packet the school sends out in the beginning of the year
EVENTS UPDATE
Fun Friday went really well
3rd Thursday is staff appreciation. Stock the lounge. This is the 2nd grade month to stock the staff lounge, but might need help because of COVID outbreak
Valentines Day events
PROGRAMS UPDATE
Still working on it. Might need volunteers. Still hoping for a February 1st starting date.
TREASURER UPDATE
Budget survey next week at the community meeting
FINAL WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT
If you are going to be leaving your role, please find a replacement.
Spring Fling Class Art Coordinator (1 per class; Classrooms needing volunteers – O’Leary, Parekh, Paul, Peterson, Richmond, Childers, Provence, Keener, SPED)
Spring Fling Wine Wall Coordinator: Help collect donations and coordinate a Wine Pull event at this year’s Spring Fling! Contact Spring Fling Co-Chairs, Courtney Sievers and Renee Hartnett, with any questions.
Spring Fling Emcee: We’re seeking an outgoing personality to help make announcements during the event! Contact Spring Fling Co-Chairs, Courtney Sievers and Renee Hartnett, with any questions.
PTA Budget Committee: We’re still seeking volunteers to join our budget committee! This volunteer role is a time commitment of roughly 3-6 hours and is a great way to get involved for the first time!
Food Bank Coordinator: Pick-up bags of food at Ballard Food Bank and drop them off at the front office between 8-10am on Thursday for distribution to our families. Contact tina.lilley@gmail.com for more information.
2023-2024 PTA Positions: Whittier’s PTA plays an important role in providing essential staff and services–and we can’t do it without caregivers like you! We have TEN vital board positions and SEVEN non-board positions we need to fill for next school year. There are positions at lots of time commitments levels, skill sets, and remote/in-person style work. To learn more, contact volunteers@whittierptaseattle.org.
Save the Date Spring Fling Fundraiser – Highway to the Wildcat Zone!
First and foremost, SAVE THE DATE MAY 20th for this year’s SPRING FLING FUNDRAISER – Highway to the Wildcat Zone! (Yes, that means this year’s theme is Top Gun!) For those new to Whittier, this is the PTA’s final fundraising effort of the school year, with a goal of raising $40,000 for essential staff and services (and, bonus, a great way to build community)!
Look for tickets to go on-sale in early March, but until then, help ensure this event is a success by:
Become a Classroom Art Coordinator for your Classroom: Volunteer to organize your kiddos class Art Project to be auctioned off. You do not need to be artistic! You just need to be excited about working with the kids in your classroom and organizing the logistics with their teacher to do so. More details and signup link
Become a Classroom Bucket Coordinator for your Classroom: Volunteer to help organize and curate a themed bucket with the parents in your kiddos classroom to be auctioned off. More details and signup link
Donate an item or experience for silent auction: Do you have a vacation spot you would be willing to donate a weekend to, or connections to sporting events, rounds of golf, or new fun ideas to add to the mix? Email Brie Gardner to get your item added.
Host a Party – Parents, teachers, and community members host parties and set the number of tickets available for would-be attendees to purchase! These are hot items at the event, anywhere from 4 to 20 people pending experience. Mom’s & Margaritas, Wine Tasting & Pairings, sky’s the limit, we’d love some new ideas! Email Sara Lukas if you are interested in hosting a party.
Thanks in advance for your participation! We are excited to make this event happen! Contact Spring Fling Co-Chairs, Courtney Sievers and Renee Hartnett, with any questions.
Virtual Budget Presentation with Principal Watters
We asked and you voted! Our community requested a virtual presentation led by Principal Watters focused on Whittier’s current and forecasted budget. Please join Principal Watters for a presentation and Q&A on Wednesday, March 8 from 7-8pm over Zoom.
Upcoming Budget Vote: March 21
On March 21, the PTA will vote on next school year’s budget. All members of our community will have the opportunity to share their voice during this meeting, but only PTA members are able to vote to approve next year’s proposed budget. If you’d like to share your voice, be sure to attend next month’s community meeting. If you’d like to vote, please become a PTA member today.
What can YOU do to celebrate, learn, and support during Black History Month?
Follow Black authored accounts on social media, like Ibram X. Kendi, Austin Channing Brown, Doyin Richards, and Layla F. Saad.
Read, watch, listen and learn from black centered media:
Code Switch: Hosted by journalists of color, our podcast tackles the subject of race with empathy and humor. We explore how race affects every part of society — from politics and pop culture to history, food and everything in between. This podcast makes all of us part of the conversation — because we’re all part of the story.
1619: A New York Times audio series on how slavery has transformed America, connecting past and present through the oldest form of storytelling.
Remember that many people have multiple marginalized identities. For example, when thinking of ways to support the Black community, don’t just think of Black men. Black women face the stressors of both racism and sexism. And Black people who identify as LGBTQ often experience marginalization at the intersection of racism, homophobia, anti-trans sentiment. Here are a list of Organizations supporting LGTBQ+ people of color that YOU can support too!
Watch this video to learn about the history of Redlining and Segregation in Seattle
Attention: Norovirus Spread in Seattle Community
Nationwide, norovirus case positivity rates are the highest they’ve been in at least a year (CDC). This highly contagious virus spreads easily. Here are some tips to help keep your family (and our community) safe:
Preventing the spread of norovirus:
Norovirus is the most common cause of what people often call “stomach flu,” “24-hour flu,” “stomach bug”, and “food poisoning”. It causes violent vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping for typically around 24 hours, followed by another 1-3 days of feeling gross and lethargic with poor appetite.
Despite the “flu” moniker, norovirus is completely unrelated to influenza. A flu shot DOES NOT protect you from norovirus, and getting norovirus DOES NOT mean you no longer need a flu shot. Taking antibiotics will not help, as it is a virus and not a bacterium.
Norovirus is present in the feces, vomit, and saliva of an infected person, and infection occurs when the virus enters the mouth and gets into the stomach–most commonly from food contamination or putting hands in/near mouth. Symptoms usually start 1-3 days after exposure.
Norovirus is is very tough to kill. Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes DO NOT kill norovirus, and it can survive for weeks on surfaces or in clothing.
The most effective way to control the spread of norovirus is regular, vigorous hand washing with soap and water, and drying thoroughly with paper towels–especially before eating AND after pooping.
To disinfect surfaces, spray with a bleach solution (5-8% concentration), and leave surfaces wet for 10 minutes. For unbleachable surfaces, saturate with Lysol spray (NOT disposable wipes). Be aware that not all Lysol products are formulated to kill norovirus. Check the label when in doubt.
Contaminated clothing / bedding should be washed on hot using the longest wash cycle, and dried on hot. If this is not possible, they should be stored in a garbage bag for at least a week after being washed.
Try to quarantine someone who is actively vomiting to a bathroom or other room that can be easily disinfected floor-to-ceiling. Keep them away from sofas, beds, and other hard-to-disinfect surfaces.
Children or adults who have been ill with suspected norovirus should stay home for 48 hours after the last bout of vomiting. The virus can be present in feces for weeks after symptoms have resolved, so it’s critical for someone who has recently been ill to be especially diligent about hand washing.
More information on outbreak prevention here and here (CDC).
Caring for someone with norovirus:
Usually, a norovirus infection does not require medical attention. However, there is a risk of dehydration from extended vomiting and diarrhea, especially with younger children.
Wait an hour after the last bout of vomiting to give any liquids, and then start with small sips every 15 minutes. Drinking while the stomach is actively inflamed can exacerbate vomiting.
If able to keep down liquids, Pedialyte (drinks or popsicles) is better than water for electrolyte replacement.
If someone is constantly vomiting and unable to keep down any liquids for more than 4 hours, the risk of dehydration is a lot higher, and they should go to the ER and get IV fluids. Also look out for a dry mouth, or crying with no tears, as these are also indicators of dehydration.
Once vomiting has begun to resolve, smalls cups of warm, clear broth are a great way to start getting nutrients into the body.
More information on norovirus treatment here (Mayo Clinic).
We’re excited to announce that December’s Drive for Ballard Food Bank, to honor Ms. Jo’s strong belief that all people deserve access to safe and healthy food, raised over $5000. We are so grateful to our community for supporting the Ballard Food Bank and celebrating Ms. Jo’s longstanding fight for food justice.
Fall Fundraising Update
With employer matching still coming in, PTA is excited to announce we’ve reached our Fall Fundraising goal! This fundraising will help support the essential staff, services, and programs for next school year. We’re so excited to round out this year’s fundraising needs with our upcoming Spring Fling event on May 20!
Helping Hands Drive
Thanks to our family’s incredible contributions, we were able to give over $3000 in gift cards to Whittier families in need after December’s Helping Hands Drive. Thank you, Wildcats!
First and foremost, SAVE THE DATE MAY 20th for this year’s SPRING FLING FUNDRAISER – Highway to the Wildcat Zone! Yes, that means this year’s theme is Top Gun! The goal is for tickets to go on sale March 1st, more details to follow in the upcoming weeks! This is another one of our big fundraising efforts to raise money for essential staff and services and bonus, a great way to build community!
How can you help ensure this event is a success besides attending and bidding on some fun items?! Help by doing one of the following:
Classroom Art – Volunteer to organize your kiddos class Art Project to be auctioned off. You do not need to be artistic! You just need to be excited about working with the kids in your classroom and organizing the logistics with their teacher to do so. More details and signup link here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0e44a8a729a0fac61-spring#/
Donate an item or experience for silent auction – Do you have a vacation spot you would be willing to donate a weekend to, or connections to sporting events, rounds of golf, or new fun ideas to add to the mix? Email Brie Gardner at brie2g@gmail.com to get your item added.
Host a Party – These are hot items at the event, anywhere from 4 to 20 people pending experience. Mom’s & Margaritas, Wine Tasting & Pairings, sky’s the limit, we’d love some new ideas! Email Sara Lukas at Sara.M.Lukas@gmail.com if you are interested in hosting a party.
Thanks in advance for your participation! We are excited to make this event happen!
May’s breakfast offerings are $2.25 and lunch offerings are $3.25. An a la carte menu is also available throughout the year. For more nutrition information and breakfast menus, please view menus at: https://family.titank12.com/menu/LPX5UV
March’s breakfast offerings are $2.25 and lunch offerings are $3.25. An a la carte menu is also available throughout the year. For more nutrition information and breakfast menus, please view menus at: https://family.titank12.com/menu/LPX5UV
DATE
LUNCH ENTREÉ 1
LUNCH ENTREÉ 2
ENTREÉ 3/VEGETABLE
SEASONAL FRUIT
WED, MAR 1
Chicken Tenders & Tater Tots
Bagel Lunchbox
Beans & Sliced Cucumbers
Apple
THURS, MAR 2
Cheese Tamale
Cheeseburger & Fries
Corn & Seasonal Vegetable
Pear
FRI, MAR 3
Chef’s Choice
Pizza
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Fruit
MON, MAR 6
Nachos with Beef
Hummus Lunchbox
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Fruit
TUES, MAR 7
Edamame Potstickers with Veggie Fried Rice
Turkey Sub Supreme
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Fruit
WED, MAR 8
Chicken Wings with Fries & Whole Wheat Roll
Yogurt Lunchbox
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Fruit
THURS, MAR 9
Broccoli & Cheese Soup with Whole Wheat Roll
Chicken Enchiladas
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Fruit
FRI, MAR 10
Chef’s Choice
Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Fruit
MON, MAR 13
Crispy Chicken Leg with Mashed Potatoes & Whole Wheat Roll
Bagel Lunchbox
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal
TUES, MAR 14
Teriyaki Meatballs with Rice
Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal
WED, MAR 15
BBQ Brisket Sandwich with Fries
Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal
THURS, MAR 16
Creamy Pesto Pasta with Whole Wheat Roll
Roast Beef & Cheddar Sandwich
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal
FRI, MAR 17
Chef’s Choice
Hummus Lunchbox
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Vegetable
MON, MAR 20
Mesquite Glazed Chicken thigh with Corn & Whole Wheat Roll
Pizza
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Vegetable
TUES, MAR 21
Chicken Parmesan with Garlic Oil Pasta
Bagel Lunchbox
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Vegetable
WED, MAR 22
Hot Dog with Fries
Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich
Seasonal Vegetable
Seasonal Vegetable
THURS, MAR 23
Creamy Chicken & Pesto Soup with Ciabatta Cheese Melt
February’s breakfast offerings are $2.25 and lunch offerings are $3.25. An a la carte menu is also available throughout the year. For more nutrition information and breakfast menus, please view menus at: https://family.titank12.com/menu/LPX5UV
DATE
LUNCH ENTREÉ 1
LUNCH ENTREÉ 2
ENTREÉ 3/VEGETABLE
SEASONAL FRUIT
WED, FEB 1
Hummus Lunch Box
Sunflower Butter and Jelly sandwich
Carrot, Tomato, Cucumber, Celery
Banana, Apple
THURS, FEB 2
Mozzarella Breadstick
Cheeseburger
French Fries, Tomato, Broccoli, Corn, Cucumber
Banana, Apple
FRI, FEB 3
Yogurt Lunch Box
Chef’s choice
TBD
Pear
MON, FEB 6
Cheese Pizza
Turkey Sub Supreme
Carrot, Broccoli
Orange
TUES, FEB 7
Breaded Chicken Drumstick
Hummus Lunch Box
Celery, Tomato
Strawberry
WED, FEB 8
Yogurt Lunch Box
Lemongrass Chicken Potsticker
Cucumber, Black Beans
Banana
THURS, FEB 9
Bean and Cheese Burrito
Crispy Chicken Burger
Corn, Snap Peas, French Fries
Pear
FRI, FEB 10
Chicken Wings
Chef’s Choice
French Fries, TBD
TBD
MON, FEB 13
Breaded Chicken Drumstick
Breakfast for Lunch: Dutch Waffle, Omelette, Hash Browns
After School Programming is returning to Whittier Elementary this February! Register February 3rd!
Registration for all clubs will go live Friday, February 3rd at 3pm; registration information will be available here when registration opens: https://whittierptaseattle.org/after-school-programs-at-whittier/. Spots will be given on a first-come, first-served basis, so please be sure to mark your calendars! If you are interested in financial assistance, have questions, or would like to be a volunteer hero, please contact Jared at programs@whittierptaseattle.org.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Prices range from $50 – $230 depending on the club
Spots are limited, so be sure to ask to be on the waitlist if classes are full.
The Whittier PTA only coordinates building reservations and hosts registration links for these independent enrichment providers. Please note: Whittier Elementary and Seattle Public Schools are not affiliated with or connected to the Whittier PTA Programs offerings or these individual program vendors. The enrichment providers will be managing registrations and schedules independently for each program.
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES BEING OFFERED FOR WINTER QUARTER
MON
TUES
WED
THURS
Wildcat Players Musical (4-5) with Miss Steph – Cast A (2:25-4pm from 2/13-6/9)*
Gamer Group (K-2) with Mr. Buck (2:25-4pm from 2/28-4/25)
Ultimate Frisbee with the WUF Gang (Disc NW) (2:15pm-4:15pm for 1-1.5 hours, exact timing TBD from 3/1 – 5/20) at Loyal Heights Playfield**
Gamer Group (3-5) with Mr. Buck (2:25-4pm from 3/1-4/27)
Spanish Immersion with Jump on Languages (2:25-4pm from 2/27-4/24)
Wildcat Players Musical (4-5) with Miss Steph – Cast B (2:25-4pm from 2/13-6/9)*
*Whittier Wildcat Players Musical audition sign-ups will be on a sheet outside Ms. Steph’s classroom starting January 30th. Auditions will be held on February 6th and 7th.
**Transportation assistance not available. Offsite activities are independent and are not subject to Whittier PTA, or Whittier Elementary guidelines and standards. Please contact Disc NW directly for any information regarding their program.
The 2023 Spring Fling committee is seeking additional volunteers to help with the planning of the event on Saturday, May 20th! Open roles include an event MC, someone to help with food and beverage, as well as just general committee members to help out with other tasks. No prior experience necessary, we can help walk you through the details of what needs to happen. We have a fun and dedicated committee and would love to have you join us! Current committee meeting schedule is as follows:
Thurs Feb 9th – Zoom meeting
Thurs March 9th – In person meeting
Thurs April 6th – Zoom meeting
Tues May 2nd – In person meeting
Additional committee work to happen in between these meetings. Please reach out to Co-Chairs Courtney Sievers (courtney.k.sievers@gmail.com) or Renee Hartnett (rbishman@gmail.com) if you are interested or have any questions.
AFFINITY GROUPS:
LGBTQI+
Neurodivergent
Multiracial/ Multicultural
Create a group for a community not yet listed!
Affinity Groups play a vital role in ensuring an inclusive school environment where all are valued, included, and empowered to succeed.
Piloted last year, we are expanding the affinity groups offered based on community feedback.
Part of the Equity Diversity and Inclusion Committee’s goal of making Whittier a community where all children and families are supported to be their authentic selves.
Understanding SPS: Budgets, School Enrollment, and Fiscal Policy
If you haven’t heard, Seattle Public Schools is facing an impending budget crisis. SPS is predicting a $127.3 million dollar budget deficit for the 2023-2024 school year (compared to this year’s $10 million dollar projected deficit). While there’s discussion of using rainy day funds to improve the shortfall and some potential legislative wins (that could infuse $37.8MM into budgets next year), short-term solutions and small legislative gains don’t address the continued deficit projections for the years ahead.
During their third budget work session of the school year, the SPS School Board reviewed their initial budget balancing concepts. While budget plans for next school year won’t be confirmed until July 6, current plans primarily include reducing Central Office spending next year by $20-$36MM and reducing school-level spending by between $9-$11MM. What’s school-level spending? This budget work session first identifies cuts to “Cert Core” staffing (or 0.5 FTE allocated to schools with significant enrollment for an additional counselor, librarian, nurse, or teacher), increasing sizes of K-3 classrooms, reducing school discretionary funds and Assistant Principal support, and another $1.9MM in “school programmatic changes.”
Remember–Whittier’s current budget from SPS doesn’t fully fund the staff and services needed for our Wildcat scholars, including literacy support, a full Specialist schedule, adequate nursing and social worker staffing, sustainable teacher discretionary funds, and more (in fact, we weren’t assigned the allocated part-time Assistant Principal this year due to “budget”). Whittier PTA, through generous community fundraising, fills this gap–and it’s likely that SPS’ “school-level” reductions slated for next year will mean an even bigger gap to fill.
Washington State funding, representing roughly 60% of SPS’ total funding, uses enrollment for its allocations. The downsides to enrollment-based funding is that it neither considers the minimum cost of running a school of any size or in higher costs areas (the facility’s costs, essential staff required for the facility and by law, etc) nor does it help schools or districts find funds to “bounce back” from declining enrollment.
When examining SPS’ own school line-up in our broader North-end area, the challenges of this model become obvious. (With a few exceptions) schools featured in the chart below are all Tier 4 schools per SPS’ own weighted funding model and should have similar per student spending. However, the minimum cost of running a school drives up the per student funding dramatically, meaning schools with more enrollment (like Whittier) have to help more students with fewer dollars to spend on each one compared to their under-enrolled counterparts.
While not considered for next year’s budget, the School Board’s budget work session did address the idea of school consolidation for the ’24-25 school year. They discussed a “system of well-resourced schools” and identified its process to begin work on school consolidation would begin “next fall” (although no specifics were provided during the work session).
Should SPS consider proposals to combine schools? If they’re considering combining under-enrolled schools, like Licton Springs K-8, with surrounding neighborhood schools (like Adams, Whittier, and Whitman), they wouldn’t be alone. While these conversations aren’t popular, proposals to examine opportunities for low-enrolled schools are happening nearby–Bellevue School District recently heard proposals to combine neighborhood schools with higher enrollment than some SPS schools. However, SPS appears to be going in the opposite direction: Northgate Elementary construction continues to provide space for 650 students, but the school’s current enrollment is only 189. Similarly, Montlake Elementary’s planned $64.8 million dollar construction project (still in its permitting phase) is planned to provide space for 500 students despite the school’s current enrollment of 181 and Stevens Elementary that sits 0.4 miles away with an enrollment of 169.
Whittier faces an enrollment challenge for next year–SPS’ current budget model requires Whittier enrollment to increase by 25 net students or we’ll face increased staffing challenges next year. Our School Board and District leaders face big decisions ahead; as a community, it’s vital we share our voice if we have an opinion on how SPS faces this budget reality. Share your voice by contacting our School Board Director, Lisa Rivera Smith (lisa.rivera.smith@seattleschools.org or 206-475-1817), provide feedback to SPS directly using the Let’s Talk tool, and attend and provide testimony at School Board meetings and budget work sessions. Key meeting dates to make an impact:
2/1-28: Community Information Sessions (details TBA)
Want to learn more? For an amazing overview from Principal Watters of how Whittier’s budgets and funding are structured, both year over year and in comparison to other SPS schools, we encourage you to watch this recording of last week’s Community Meeting (skip to 12:08 – 35:53). You can also contact Principal Watters with questions or join the conversation at our next PTA meeting.
Want to Join the PTA?
We’re recruiting the PTA’s board for the 2023-2024 school year! There are roles available across skills sets and time commitments. Help support Whittier in a real way! To learn more, contact volunteers@whittierptaseattle.org.
Can’t volunteer but still want to support the PTA? Become a member!
Advocacy In Action
The 2023 Legislative Session is in its 4th week where more than 1,000 bills have already been introduced. These bills cover critical issues including reducing gun violence and increasing access to special education. To follow the latest news, check out the WSPTA Blog for timely updates and bill tracking. Other ways to stay informed and get involved include:
Stay tuned for Focus on Advocacy Week 2/6-2/10 – look out for ways to take action on Konstella and Whittier PTA social media.
Connect with The Alliance for Gun Responsibility – their Legislative Session HQ has information on each bill and how you can use your voice to make a difference.
What the EDI Committee is thinking about this week!
Introducing….a new school-wide resource aimed at embedding EDI principles into the classroom year round! Rebellious Read Alouds by Vera Ahiyya.
Whittier staff are thrilled to be using the book Rebellious Read Alouds this year! It’s a compilation of picture book read alouds that are organized by different themes:
Our Names Are Important
Our Features Are Important
Our Disabilities Are Important
Our Families Are Important
Our Foods Are Important
Our Traditions Are Important
Our Identities Are Important
Our Histories Are Important
Our Actions Are Important
Within each theme, there are 5-6 picture books included that help teachers and students explore deeper conversations in age-appropriate and meaningful ways. These picture books feature characters that are diverse in many ways, and the texts are written and illustrated by people from traditionally marginalized groups. The books are a jumping off point for classrooms to learn, connect, and embrace the world we live in through rich conversations centered around these themes.
Reminder:
Friday, February 2 is a REGULAR school day (revision from earlier school calendars)
Help Whittier Build a Diverse Library Collection!
In order to continue building our collection of diverse books as well as those titles and series that our students love, we are partnering with Bound to Stay Bound Books in the “Support Our Library” program. Please consider donating a book to our library collection. You even have the option to add a donor plate and donate a book in honor of a child’s birthday, special occasion, or a staff member! All books will be shipped to our school processed and ready to be added to the shelves! The program will go through the end of May. Email Ms. Newcomb if you have any questions. This link will take you directly to the Whittier book wishlist. Thank you in advance for supporting our library!
Volunteer to be a Classroom Bucket Coordinator!
As part of our Spring Fling fundraising, each class puts together a themed gift bucket to be auctioned off in the silent auction. Themes can be anything…think cooking supplies, picnic fun, wine tasting and accessories, pet related themes, family game night, self care or spa day, sports themes, backyard BBQ and more!
Your job as the class volunteer is to pick a theme and solicit donations from your class to fill the bucket with fun items. You can collect items and/or money that you use to purchase items. The end result should be a fun bucket full of cool goods that someone will be dying to bid on to raise money for our Wildcats!
We need one volunteer per class to collect and deliver items and deliver by May 1, 2023. If you don’t feel like you are the person to make it all look put together, attractive and auction-ready don’t worry! We’ll help put it together for you! Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0e44a8a729a0fac61-spring1#/
Covid Update: Please help us minimize the spread of Covid at Whitter by monitoring scholars for symptoms and testing at home, keeping scholars home if they are exhibiting symptoms or not feeling well, and practicing good hand hygiene and wear a mask if you’ve been exposed. Please contact Nurse Marissa if you or your scholar tests positive.
2023-2024 Enrollment Planning: SPS budget and enrollment planning starts in January. As part of Whittier’s planning, it would be helpful to learn about family’s plans for next year. Please take a moment to complete one survey for each scholar in your household. Also, if you know anyone planning to enroll at SPS or Whittier next year, recommend they register today.
Whitman Incoming Student Open House for 5th Grade Families: Tuesday, January 31 from 5:45-7:00pm at Whitman Middle School.
The Whittier PTA is excited to announce that After School Enrichment Programs are returning to Whittier! Please keep watch in the next couple of weeks for registration dates, and if you are able, please sign up for one of our volunteer positions below. Your help would be much appreciated.
Volunteer Positions Yet To Be Filled
Programs Assistant (1-2 hr/week): Assist Programs Chair with administrative work, correspond with vendors and families, alternate for club representatives in an emergency
Class Representative (Once weekly between 2:25-3:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday): Meet students on the black top immediately after school, take attendance and hand out snacks, take them to their classroom at 2:55 PM (These positions need to be filled before we can set a Programs start date)
Scholarships If you are interested in registering your child and would like to inquire about financial assistance, please email our Programs Chair, Jared, at programs@whittierptaseattle.org to learn about our scholarship opportunities.
Seeking Budget Committee Volunteers!
Have you ever wondered how the Whittier PTA budget is put together? Now is your chance! Starting in the February/March timeframe, a committee will convene to develop the 2023-24 PTA budget. No finance experience required, just a willingness to help. Time commitment is between 4-6 hours. Please email treasurer@whittierptaseattle.org for more information or if you are interested in signing up.
January’s Staff Appreciation: Hosted by 2nd Grade!
LET’S STOCK THE LOUNGE! Each month a different grade provides goodies for Staff Appreciation. 2nd Grade families are up for January – and we are stocking the lounge with snacks, treats and beverages to keep our staff FUELED for the New Year. Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E44A8A729A0FAC61-january
Please drop off items to the office by 8am on Thursday, JAN. 19th and clearly label all items “Staff Appreciation 1/19.” Email hospitality@whittierptaseattle.org if you have any questions. Thank you!
Volunteer Needed: Ballard Food Bank Runner
We are seeking a volunteer to pick up food bags from the Ballard Food Bank and take them to the Front Office each Thursday between 8-10am. This role involves driving to the Food Bank, picking up the needed bags (as directed by the Front Office) and deliver to them to the Front Office for distribution. Please contact Tina (tina.lilley@gmail.com) if you’d like to know more or to sign-up!
PNW Parent Ed Presents The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, & Compassionate Teens: a talk w/ Dr. Lisa Damour
Join PNW Parent Education (www.pnwparented.org) for a FREE online presentation titled “The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable and Compassionate Adolescents” with Dr. Lisa Damour, New York Times bestselling author of Untangled and Under Pressure. Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 12:00 pm. Register via eventbrite: https://tinyurl.com/emotionallivesofteens
Seattle Special Education PTSA presents “Getting Results: A Guide to Special Education in Seattle Public Schools”
Written by PTSA volunteers and available in 10 languages, the Guide is an effort to demystify the special education system for families. To learn more about the guide and the Seattle Special Education PTSA, please visit: https://seattlespecialeducationptsa.org/
Reflections Art Contest Update
Congratulations to all of the students who participated in this year’s Reflections Arts program! This year’s theme was “Show Your Voice” and Whittier had 11 entries in three categories. We are thrilled to announce that fourth-grader Vivienne Robertson’s film, “The Bob Movie” will advance to the Washington State PTSA Reflections competition this spring! Student artwork will be on display at Whittier this spring and student finalists will be honored during a Seattle council PTSA virtual meeting on Thursday, 1/19 at 7:30 p.m! Students will be recognized at 7:30 p.m., but are welcome to join the meeting earlier if they’d like. Zoom info here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/95320282464?pwd=dVFDbVhqNEFRdzdtRzlvTHdrckFLdz09
Congrats to Whittier filmmaker, Vivienne Robertson for advancing to the state round, and to all Wildcat artists for sharing your voice! You can view an online gallery of all student submissions here: https://scptsa.org/202223-reflections-gallery
