Now in its second year, Whittier Elementary celebrates “Prides of March”–a month-long focus on community service for a community partner and in-school spirit events. This year’s “Prides of March” partner organizations are Luther Memorial Church Food Pantry (located directly across from Broadview-Thomson K8 School) and Ballard High School Teen Health Center.
Donations can be dropped with Principal Watters or a student leader in the mornings at the gate or in classrooms (every classroom will have a box) from March 6 – 31. Grocery Gift Cards can also be given to me and will be used to purchase more resources (we’ll keep track of everything and be transparent in our reporting)
Other event details:
4th & 5th graders will help sort and organize our resources as we receive them
Our student leadership team also established four dress-up days during the month:
3/10 – Class color or theme day
3/17 – Wacky hat and sock day
3/24 – Character day (movie, person or book)
3/31 – Neon day
Please see below for the items our community partners are requesting, along with more information about their programs and donation needs.
Luther Memorial Church Food Pantry
This food pantry is located directly across from Broadview-Thomson K8 on Greenwood Avenue. The church collaborates with a Boy Scout troop to serve individuals in the immediate area with food and other resources. Many of the resources to stock the pantry come directly from the congregation members (a small but committed group) and the church budget.
Because the pantry is available 24/7, it is impossible to know exactly how many people are served, but we know for sure that we have several people who use the pantry regularly. The pantry is stocked every day and it is almost always empty when it is time to be restocked the next day.
Unlike other food pantries, our main focus is on providing nutritious and ready to eat items, focusing especially on those in our community who do not always have ways to cook food. And, we also know that people enjoy treats like Oreos and Rice Krispie bars too!
In addition to food, our pantry provides some basic toiletry items, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and individually wrapped toilet paper. The following items are the most needed at this current time:
Food:
Mandarin oranges* (either cans or individual cups)
Applesauce (either cups or the pouches)
Peaches* (either cans or individual cups)
Canned chicken
Canned tuna
Chili
Beef jerky sticks
Soup*
Sardines
Trail mix (individual packets)
Nuts (individual packets)
Granola bars
Protein bars
Shelf-stable milk cartons
Individual bags of chips
Pudding cups
Raisins
Rice Krispie treats
Individual packets of Oreos
Peanut butter crackers
Cheese filled crackers
Bottled water
Granola bars
Cup-o-Noodle
*If you provide canned items, please look for the ones with the pop-tops; many of the people who use our pantry do not always have access to can openers.
Ballard High School Teen Health Center
We are fortunate that all SPS high schools have a Teen Health Center where students can receive free health care and mental health therapy. Through the health center students can receive sports physicals, reproductive health care, treatment for illness (including chronic illness), immunizations and more.
In addition to providing care, the health center also provides food resources from the Ballard Food Bank and hygiene resources for students who may be experiencing house insecurity or other challenges.
We would like to gather hygiene resources for students at Ballard High School. These include:
We are seeking volunteers to help with our upcoming Family Dance & Game Night on Friday, March 3! To help make the event run successfully, we need adult caregivers like you to help:
Day-of
Can you partner with another adult caregiver to supervise activities during the event? We are seeking two volunteers for each of the following shifts:
6-7:15pm: Board Games with Mr. Buck in the cafeteria
6-7:15pm: Gaga Ball in the cafeteria
6-7:15pm: Twister in the cafeteria
6-7:15pm: Dance in the gym
7-8pm: Hand-out Cookies
7:15-8:30pm: Board Games with Mr. Buck in the cafeteria
We are offering homemade cookies from 7-8PM on the blacktop, right outside the gym door. We would love donations of homemade cookies (or store-bought cookies that look homemade). We’re asking cookie donations are placed on disposable plates, labeled with the cookie type and if there are any common allergens (nuts, wheat, dairy), and dropped off at the beginning of the event (around 6pm).
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!
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!
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
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
Between 12/12-12/16, check the Lost & Found (on racks in the main hallway) and find those hats, gloves, scarves, and lunchboxes (!) that have gotten away!
3rd grade’s Staff Appreciation is on 12/15; please drop-off donations before 8am!
12/15 is Ms. Jo Day! Please bring notes of appreciation to say farewell to Ms. Jo!
12/16 is early dismissal (at 1:25pm)
After School Programs survey closes on 12/17
During the break, join Konstella (if you haven’t already), join your Wildcat’s classroom, and add the PTA events calendar (through Konstella or Google Calendar) so you’re in the know when school resumes
Next Steps: Addressing and Combatting Gun Violence in Schools
Our community was deeply saddened and scared by the recent gun violence happening within our local schools. The Whittier PTA wanted to reach out to our Whittier community to help then understand what they can do to support safety around firearms and support Moms Demand Action/ Everytown for Gun Safety. At next month’s Town Hall, guest speakers from the Be SMART campaign will lead a conversation about kids, guns, and safety and is designed to help parents and other adults prevent child gun deaths and injuries – whether they own guns or not.
Thank You, Ms. Jo!
Our AMAZING Ms. Jo is retiring from her position in our cafeteria and her last day is next Friday, December 16. She has served the Whittier community for several years and touched the lives of so many of our scholars, families and staff.To honor her incredible work and commitment to children, food justice and creating a warm and welcoming space for everyone, we will celebrate Ms. Jo Day this Thursday, December 15! We would like to invite scholars and families to write notes of thanks and appreciation to Ms. Jo.
Additionally, we have set up a custom donation page in partnership with the Ballard Food Bank to honor Ms. Jo’s strong belief that all people deserve access to safe and healthy food. Ms. Jo is a model to all of us for what it means to fight for food justice. If you would like to contribute to our celebration of Ms. Jo, donations can be made directly to the Ballard Food Bank using this link. https://bit.ly/3Hov3ly
Thank you for being such a special part of the Whittier community, Ms. Jo!
After School Programs Survey
Hello Wildcat Families! We have great news! After School Enrichment Programs will be returning to Whittier! Your PTA is busily getting everything in order, but before vendors are secured, we wanted to give you the opportunity to let us know what programs would best fit your needs. Please take a moment to take this survey and choose two clubs that you would be most interested in: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSej9MKQKo9Ql_mF5TE0Q1Y-QizngK-ezxO-86avqfv1tKnhzw/viewform
The survey will close on Saturday December 17th.
Although we cannot guarantee that all vendors will be available, we will do our best to offer clubs that most closely fit everyone’s preferences. Price and frequency have yet to be determined.
Calling All 3rd Grade Families!
Cookies, Cookies and MORE Cookies! Each month a different grade provides goodies for Staff Appreciation. 3rd Grade families are up for December – and we are setting up a festive cookie buffet. SIGN UP HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E44A8A729A0FAC61-december
Please drop off items to the office by 8am on Thursday, Dec. 15th. Please clearly label all items “Staff Appreciation 12/15.” It would be helpful to label the cookie variety, especially if GF/V/DF. Email hospitality@whittierptaseattle.org if you have any questions.
Thank you, HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Have a gift card to submit for the Helping Hands Drive? Drop it off at the Front Office tomorrow morning and we’ll work to get it included in our holiday distribution.
What the EDI Committee is thinking about this week!
Advocacy and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Whittier
Advocacy: Our goal is to bring you timely opportunities to support policies that improve the quality of our children’s health, welfare, safety, and education. We want to make it super easy for you to advocate for EVERY child and make our voices heard collectively. Want to get started?
Why get involved? If not YOU, then WHO? Our students deserve to learn in the most inclusive environment possible and be a part of a community working for equity.
Who can join? Any caregiver of a Whittier student-no experience necessary!
EDI Committee GOALS for this year:
Whittier is Committed to being an anti-racist community.
Whittier is a community where ALL children and families are supported to be their authentic selves
All families know the system well enough to navigate and advocate for their children’s needs.
Want to make an impact in the community? Consider supporting these businesses and organizations this holiday season!
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. Help us get these started by completing this 1 minute survey.
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! Keep an eye out in January for a link to an online gallery of all student submissions. Student artwork will be on display at Whittier this spring. Congratulations, Vivienne! And huge round of applause for all of our young artists for sharing your courageous creativity! Read more about this year’s entries from Whittier students here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TOKA4eEPcAi5zdhyxtfndRjBOG7oJ_Bq/view?usp=sharing
Spring Lacrosse Registration is open!
Props Lacrosse is open to all grades 3-8 in the Ballard/ Ingraham/ Nathan Hale catchment zones for recreational lacrosse for the Spring 2023 Season. We welcome all players but adhere to the boys’ rules & equipment. We are a volunteer run rec-program that is committed to being a supportive environment for all our boys. Our emphasis is on good sportsmanship, effort and fun. All new and returning players are welcome. No prior experience necessary, regardless of age. We offer financial aid for the program which can include dues/ uniform and loaner equipment for first time players. We are committed to making sure any boys who want to play with us have the opportunity.
Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in America, and Seattle. It is a great sport from a young age, physical contact is limited to age-appropriate levels throughout the program. The sport involves running, agility and hand-eye coordination. It’s very exciting to watch and play! Practices start in February and are twice a week at Whitman Middle School or Loyal Heights Playfield. Games begin in March on Saturdays. Registration is open until practices begin. For more information, please visit the club page: http://www.propslacrosse.org/
If you have any questions about our lacrosse program, please feel free to reach out to the club directly via email (propslacrosse@outlook.com) or inquire in the ‘contact’ page on our website.
Holiday Happenings
For Wildcats wanting to get into the festive spirit:
Ms. Julia and her band Warren Dunes are throwing a holiday party that is free and all ages at the West Seattle Easy Street Record store (4559 California Ave SW) on December 23rd at 5pm!! The Night Before Christmas will be read aloud, Christmas music, and other fun things! Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/p/ClogtSPOypE/
December’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
