Westfield Public Schools - September 2024

In this edition you will find:

A monthly e-newsletter from the
Westfield Public Schools

Message

As we enter the month of October, our schools will observe both the Week of Respect (October 7-11) and School Violence Awareness Week (October 21-25), which are critical opportunities to focus on building positive and inclusive school environments consistent with the mission of our district. These observances remind us of the importance of promoting kindness, inclusion, and respect for all members of our school community.

Our district is unwavering in its commitment to fostering a climate where every student, staff member, and family feels safe, valued, and respected. We stand firmly against all forms of hatred and bigotry, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism, anti-LGBTQIA+ bias, and any other form of discrimination. Acts of intolerance and hate, whether subtle or overt, tear at the very fabric of our school community, and we will not tolerate them. Anyone found committing such acts will be subject to consequences under our student code of conduct and may be referred to law enforcement when appropriate. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that prejudice and hate have no place in our schools. We are dedicated to creating a culture where empathy, respect, and inclusion are not just ideals, but daily practices that define who we are as a school community.

As we focus on Respect, Anti-Bullying, and Anti-Violence during these important weeks, I want to highlight some of the resources and support systems we have in place:

Anti-Bullying Programs and Policies: We adhere to the New Jersey Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights, which mandates that we actively prevent and address harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) in our schools. Our anti-bullying specialists and counselors are available to assist students in navigating conflicts and promoting positive relationships. Families can find more information about our district's anti-bullying policies, including how to report an incident, on the district website. There, you will also find contact information for our district anti-bullying coordinator and school anti-bullying specialists, as well as instructions on the reporting process.
Counseling and Support Services: Our schools offer comprehensive counseling services to support students' emotional and mental well-being. Our counselors, who also serve as Anti-Bullying Specialists, play a critical role in guiding students through conflicts, addressing incidents of bullying, and providing a safe space for students to express their concerns. They work closely with students to build resilience, manage stress, and promote positive relationships. If you believe your child could benefit from these services or if you need support regarding a bullying incident, we encourage you to reach out to our counseling team, who are dedicated to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for every student.
Inclusive Educational Programs: Throughout the school year, we will continue to offer programs that emphasize the importance of respect, tolerance, and acceptance of all individuals, regardless of their differences. These programs are designed to promote understanding and empathy among our students.
Curricular and Instructional Efforts: Our district is deeply committed to providing teachers and counselors with the resources and strategies needed to address topics such as respect, inclusion, and diversity in an open, non-biased manner. Through ongoing professional development and access to comprehensive instructional materials, we ensure that educators are equipped to foster critical discussions and promote empathy and understanding among students around complex topics whenever they arise. These efforts are designed to create classrooms where all perspectives are valued, and students learn the importance of respect for differences. By empowering educators with these tools, we strive to cultivate an environment where every student feels seen, heard, and respected.

As we move forward in the weeks, months, and year ahead, I encourage all members of our school community—students, parents, teachers, and staff—to join us in our efforts to build an environment where respect is a cornerstone of our interactions. By working together, we can ensure that our schools remain places of learning, growth, and safety for everyone. Let us continue to support one another in creating a district where everyone feels they belong.

Together, we will make a difference.

Thank you,

Dr. González

Pulse

Please enjoy the September edition of the District Pulse, a monthly video snapshot of the many activities and improvements taking place around the district.

REFERENDUM UPDATE
Our Facilities Bond Referendum Portal is live! As illustrated in the screenshot below, a button has been added to the homepages of the district and school websites for easy access to the portal. The site currently provides initial details on the scope of the referendum, along with frequently asked questions and a form to submit additional questions.

As we move closer to finalizing what will be included in the referendum, the portal will continue to grow with more comprehensive information, including specific project details, financials, and opportunities for community engagement.

WPS Strategic Plan 2023-2028.Year 2

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The Strategic Plan portal has been updated with the Year 2 activities and progress monitoring indicators approved at Tuesday’s meeting. We look forward to another exciting and productive year, as we continue to make significant progress towards the plan’s five-year goals and objectives.

We will share periodic updates on activities and progress monitoring indicators for each Year 2 Goal and Objective.

Thank you to all who participated in our Back-to-School Thought Exchange which asked "What is the most important thing on your mind for the 2024-2025 school year?" More than 400 members of the community provided their thoughts and nearly 9,000 ratings. The results of the exchanged emphasized that the mental and physical health of our students was top of mind for our community.

A full report is provided here. For a more detailed look, the searchable and filterable 2024-2025 Back-to-School Thought Exchange report is available for your review.

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2024 Back to School Thought Exchange.pdf

https://tejoin.com/scroll/191105962

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU ABOUT MASTER SCHEDULING!

As part of the district's five-year Strategic Plan, we have been exploring how to use time more effectively to help us meet our academic and wellness goals. To that end, committees of teachers and administrators from the intermediate and high schools have researched best practices in school scheduling, defined our values around the use of time during the school day, and developed models for potential new master schedules.

As we work on constructing these new schedule models, we want to hear from you. We invite students and parents to participate in this Thought Exchange to share your thoughts on our current schedule and the possibility of a new one.

To begin the Thought Exchange, use the QR Code or click HERE if you are a parent/guardian. Students in Grades 6-12 will receive a direct link in their student email to share their thoughts.

Your input is crucial. Thank you, in advance, for your time and consideration.

K-12 Counseling Update.September 17, 2024 BOE Meeting .pdf

SCHOOL COUNSELING UPDATE

At the September 17 Board of Education meeting, K-12 Director of Counseling, Falynn Balassone, provided an update on the many exciting developments in the department to steadfastly support the social-emotional well-being and academic growth of all students.

As you will see below, our K-12 School Counseling Team has a robust schedule of activities and events scheduled for students during the 2024-2025 academic year. Please also take note of the important evening parent academies, beginning with "Understanding the HIB Process" on Tuesday, October 8 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Wilson Elementary School Library. To help us plan for the event and ensure adequate space, please complete this registration form to indicate your interest in attending.

WHS Counseling Programming.2024-2025.pptx.pdf

WPS.Elementary School Counseling Programming.2024-2025 (Presentation).pptx.pdf

WPS.Intermediate School Counseling Programming.2024-2025 (Presentation).pptx.pdf

September Snapshots

Scroll through this Image Carousel for September snapshots.

Heritage, History and Religious Observances for October 2024

Hispanic Heritage Month continues through October 15, as we celebrate the rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.
The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 2 and ends at nightfall on Friday, October 4. Feasts for the high holiday traditionally include apples dipped in honey, as well as other foods, to symbolize good wishes for a sweet year.
On October 14, Indigenous Peoples' Day, we honor the history, contributions, and vibrant cultures of Native peoples throughout the United States.
Yom Kippur, one of the most solemn days in the Jewish calendar, begins at sundown on Friday, October 11. Observing Yom Kippur includes fasting, prayer, and reflections on repentance.
Columbus Day is a federal U.S. holiday commemorating the voyage and landing of Italian explorer Christopher Columbus on October 12, 1492 in what would eventually be known as the Americas. Columbus Day occurs annually on the second Monday in October.
Throughout October, we celebrate the vibrant culture of Italian Americans during Italian American Heritage Month. We honor their significant contributions to art, science, cuisine, and countless other fields that have enriched our nation's tapestry.
October also is Disability History and Awareness Month, a time to recognizes the resilience, achievements, and ongoing advocacy of individuals with disabilities. We reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive society and celebrating diverse perspectives and talents.

FROM THE DISTRICT HEALTH SERVICES OFFICE

This is the time of year when students start to display cold and allergy symptoms. As symptoms can be similar, we want to advise you that a case of pertussis (whooping cough) was identified in Westfield High School. Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that is spread through the air by a cough or sneeze. Pertussis begins with cold symptoms and a cough, which become much worse over 1-2 weeks. While most people have been vaccinated against pertussis, there is some loss of protection after several years. If your child has had a cough that is worsening, please let your healthcare provider know that a case of pertussis has occurred in our community so they can properly care for your child.

The Board of Education held a Regular Public Meeting on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 in Cafeteria B at Westfield High School. The next Regular Public Meeting of the Board will be held on Tuesday, October 15. Board Briefs

Board

Board Members

Agendas / Schedule

Meeting Live Stream / Recordings

Board FAQ

Policies

ICYMI

FROM THE WESTFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT

After receiving concerns about children riding e-bikes and e-scooters in an unsafe manner, the Westfield Police Department is sharing this letter to help the school community avoid serious and/or life-threatening injuries by understanding the laws regarding safe operation of e-bikes and scooters, along with a helpful infographic regarding New Jersey's E-Bike and E-Scooter Law.

FROM THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs is sharing information about the New Jersey Lead Remediation and Abatement Program. Key aspects of this state program include free lead inspection and remediation services. To be eligible for the program, a property must have been built before 1978 and free from structural issues, and the household gross income must not exceed 80% of the area’s median income The program is open to both tenants and landlords, provided the occupants meet the income eligibility requirements. Anyone interested in applying should visit the program’s website at leadabatement.nj.gov. Email lrap@dca.nj.gov with any questions.

We are fortunate to have valued community partners who support our students and schools in so many ways. Please click the buttons to learn more about some of these organizations, including ways you can contribute and/or become involved.

Parent Teacher Council

Westfield Coalition for the Arts

Westfield Education Fund

The Westfield Foundation

Westfield Boosters Association

Optimist Club of Westfield

Rotary Club of Westfield

Westfield United Fund

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