December 11th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
December 12th: WAVE Movie Night (5:30 PM)
December 19th: K-8 Spirit Day- Pajama Day
December 20th-January 5th: Winter Break (No School)
January 8th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
January 9th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
January 19th: MLK Day (No School)
January 23rd: K-8 Spirit Day- Favorite Color Day
January 31st: WAVE Family Dance
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving break! This week we practiced retelling nonfiction texts and finished writing an opinion piece about our favorite animal. We continued to learn about proper nouns and worked together to identify and write proper nouns with our classmates.
Family Traditions:
We will begin our Family Traditions unit next week. During this unit, each student will have the opportunity to share one of their family traditions with the class. The schedule for presentations can be found here. Click here for a digital copy of the project information, along with examples of traditions shared in previous years.
If you have any questions, please let me know!
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Unit 4: you, your, I, they, was, one, said
Unit 5: from, have, do, does
Unit 6: were, are, who, what, when, where, there, here
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
Physical Science 4.2 and 4.3 (Sound Waves) will be assessed the week of December 1st
Social Studies 1.5 (Family Traditions) will be assessed the week of December 15th
Math Unit 3 (Adding and Subtracting Within 20) will be assessed the week of January 5 ( study guide)
Week 15, December 1-5
Math
We have been solving story problems with three numbers in math this week. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 3 of math. Click here to watch the family support video for Unit 3.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Opinion Writing. Opinion pieces include stating their opinion, writing 3 details to support their opinion, and ending with a concluding sentence. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (s, z ending sounds), identifying words with suffixes with action words, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day(pins, ducks). Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (where, there, here), writing sentences and scooping them (Where are all the shells?, She sits here on the deck.), and dictating words (zaps, dabs, kicks, tugs, quits). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 6 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on retelling informational text to help us gain a deeper understanding of what we read and what is read to us. Use this resource and video to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on names of days, months, and holidays to help us make sentences interesting and precise. Please utilize this resource to help your child at home.
2026-27 Lottery Application Window - NOW OPEN:
Our 2026-27 lottery is open now through Saturday, January 31st, including our freshman, sophomore, junior and senior classes at Westlake Charter High School! Current students do not need to fill out an application to continue their enrollment at WCS; however, siblings do need to fill out lottery applications to attend. Spread the word and encourage friends and family to visit www.JoinWestlake.com to apply today.
After School Live - Explorer Enrichment Sign-ups:
Our winter Explorer Enrichment programs are starting soon! CLICK HERE to see the catalog of Explorer Enrichment course offerings and information about how to sign up.
Attendance Challenge: HERE for the Hot Cocoa!
Our Here for the Hot Cocoa Attendance Challenge is back! From December 1st - 19th grade levels will be competing to win a hot cocoa celebration. The grade level with the highest attendance percentage from K-5, middle school, and high school will win a hot cocoa celebration! More important than the hot cocoa is knowing that students who don’t show up for school regularly miss out on fundamental reading and math skills and the chance to build a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers.
November 24th-28th: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
December 5th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
December 11th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
December 12th: WAVE Movie Night (5:30 PM)
December 19th: K-8 Spirit Day- Pajama Day
Families, it was great meeting with you to discuss your student's growth during Trimester 1. Thank you for taking the time to connect with me. This week we identified the main idea and supporting details in texts read. We began our first opinion piece about our favorite animal and learned about proper nouns.
Family Tradition Project: During the month of December, each student will have the opportunity to share a special family tradition with their classmates. This project provides an opportunity for students to explore their own family traditions and learn more about the diverse traditions, customs, and cultures of their classmates. Through this project, students will continue to build community, make connections, and learn more about their classmates. I sent home information about our Family Tradition project in your child's Blue Folder today!
***If your child would like to use a video or digital pictures during their presentation, they are more than welcome to! If your child chooses a digital method to present, please send me the pictures/ videos by the morning of their presentation date.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Unit 4: you, your, I, they, was, one, said
Unit 5: from, have, do, does
Unit 6: were, are, who, what, when, where, there, here
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
Physical Science 4.2 and 4.3 (Sound Waves) will be assessed the week of December 1st.
Week 14 November 17-21
Math
This week we solved addition and subtraction problems with teen numbers. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 3 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Opinion Writing. Opinion pieces include stating their opinion, writing 3 details/reasons to support their opinion, and ending with a concluding sentence. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester. Click here to watch the family support video for Unit 3.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (s, z ending sounds), identifying words with suffixes, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day(shells, ships). Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (who, what, when), writing sentences and scooping them (What did you get at the shops?, Pam hugs the pup when it is sad.), and dictating words (paths, sheds, necks, pups, pegs, mills). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 6 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on the main idea and details of texts to help us better understand the texts we read. Use this resource and worksheet to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on proper nouns. Please utilize this resource and game to help your child at home.
This week we began a new Social Emotional Learning unit on valuing others. Click here to read more about this unit. This week's SEL story and discussion focused on how we each have unique interests and talents.
Triannual Family Survey:
Our triannual Family Survey, not to be confused with the Strategic Plan Family Survey, is taken three times each school year. CLICK HERE to answer six questions to rate your family's experience at Westlake Charter School during the 2025-26 school year. The deadline is Sunday, November 30th.
Fall Food Drive:
Our Annual Fall Food Drive benefiting Joey’s Food Locker runs now through Wednesday, December 3rd, concluding at our Annual Chili Cook-Off. Food collection bins will be placed in the reception area of each campus. Suggested donations are:
Beans
Rice
Pasta
Broth/stock
Canned Vegetables and Chicken
Cooking Oil
Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Thank you for helping us give back to our Natomas community!
Chili Cook-Off:
We are excited for the upcoming, and always popular, Chili Cook-Off on Wednesday, December 3rd from 5:30 – 7:00 PM on our K-8 campus. We invite every family to come sample chili and vote for their favorite! The winning grade level will take the Golden Spoon to display with pride in their classrooms. All of our families can take part in making the Chili Cook-Off a success. See below for details about the event and how to participate
Each grade level, 6th - 12th, decorates one shared booth with several different chilis to sample.
The cost is $5 per person.
Families of four or more are just $20.00.
Each bowl comes with a drink (while supplies last).
Desserts can be purchased for $1.
Kindergarten – 5th Grade: CLICK HERE to sign up to donate desserts, drinks, spoons, and/or napkins.
6th – 12th Grade: CLICK HERE to sign up to supply and/or serve chili, help with booth decorations, or setup/cleanup.
Thanksgiving Break:
Both campuses will be closed for Thanksgiving Break Monday, November 24th through Friday, November 28th. We look forward to welcoming staff and students back on Monday, December 1st. Our BASE program will also be closed during Thanksgiving Break.
2026-27 Lottery Application Window - Open December 1st:
Our 2026-27 lottery opens on December 1st, including our freshman, sophomore, junior and senior classes at Westlake Charter High School! Current students do not need to fill out an application to continue their enrollment at WCS; however, siblings do need to fill out lottery applications to attend. Spread the word and encourage friends and family to visit www.JoinWestlake.com to apply today.
After School Live - Explorer Enrichment Sign-ups:
Our winter Explorer Enrichment programs are starting soon! CLICK HERE to see the catalog of Explorer Enrichment course offerings and information about how to sign up.
Attendance Challenge: HERE for the Hot Cocoa!
Our Here for the Hot Cocoa Attendance Challenge is back! From December 1st - 19th grade levels will be competing to win a hot cocoa celebration. The grade level with the highest attendance percentage from K-5, middle school, and high school will win a hot cocoa celebration! More important than the hot cocoa is knowing that students who don’t show up for school regularly miss out on fundamental reading and math skills and the chance to build a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers.
November 17th-21st: K-8 Parent Teacher Conferences (Early Dismissal all week at 1:30 PM)
November 24th-28th: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
December 5th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
December 11th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
December 12th: WAVE Movie Night (5:30 PM)
December 19th: K-8 Spirit Day- Pajama Day
This week we identified the main idea and supporting details of books read. We identified base words and suffixes in phonics and went on a singular/plural noun scavenger hunt in the classroom. We began to learn about the properties of light.
Conference Reminder:
Thank you for signing up for your child's Trimester 1 conference! I will send a reminder email the day before your scheduled conference. We will respect a time slot of 20 minutes for each conference. If you need additional time, we can schedule this for a later date. If you have any questions, please let me know.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Unit 4: you, your, I, they, was, one, said
Unit 5: from, have, do, does
Unit 6: were, are, who, what, when, where, there, here
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
Physical Science 4.2 and 4.3 (Sound Waves) will be assessed the week of December 1st.
Week 13 November 10-14
Math
We have been solving to find the difference in subtraction in math this week. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 3 of math. Click here to watch the family support video for Unit 3.
Writing
Next trimester we are focusing on Opinion Writing. Opinion pieces include stating their opinion, writing 3 details to support their opinion, and ending with a concluding sentence. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (s, z ending sounds), tapping to read words, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day(jobs) . Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (are, were), and dictating words (mack, bugs, sad). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 6 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on the main idea to help us more thoroughly understand what we read and what is read to us. Use this resource and worksheet to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on plural nouns to help us make sentences interesting and precise. Please utilize this video to help your child at home.
This week we learned more about our Core Value for the month of November, responsibility. We talked about noticing what we do (self awareness) and how to take action to fix our mistakes (responsibility).
Fall Food Drive:
Our Annual Fall Food Drive benefiting Joey’s Food Locker runs now through Wednesday, December 3rd, concluding at our Annual Chili Cook-Off. Food collection bins will be placed in the reception area of each campus. Suggested donations are:
Beans
Rice
Pasta
Broth/stock
Canned Vegetables and Chicken
Cooking Oil
Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Thank you for helping us give back to our Natomas community!
K-8 Conferences:
Conference week is NEXT WEEK, November 17th - 21st. CLICK HERE to schedule your conference. The online scheduler is available October 27th - November 17th, so reserve your conference time now. CLICK HERE for instructions on how to use the online scheduler.
Chili Cook-Off:
We are excited for the upcoming, and always popular, Chili Cook-Off on Wednesday, December 3rd from 5:30 – 7:00 PM on our K-8 campus. We invite every family to come sample chili and vote for their favorite! The winning grade level will take the Golden Spoon to display with pride in their classrooms. All of our families can take part in making the Chili Cook-Off a success. See below for details about the event and how to participate
Each grade level, 6th - 12th, decorates one shared booth with several different chilis to sample.
The cost is $5 per person.
Families of four or more are just $20.00.
Each bowl comes with a drink (while supplies last).
Desserts can be purchased for $1.
Kindergarten – 5th Grade: CLICK HERE to sign up to donate desserts, drinks, spoons, and/or napkins.
6th – 12th Grade: CLICK HERE to sign up to supply and/or serve chili, help with booth decorations, or setup/cleanup.
Call for STEM Career Fair Volunteers:
WCHS is planning our 2nd annual STEM career fair! If you are currently working in the STEM field or know anyone who does work in the STEM field and would like to volunteer their time for this event, please CLICK HERE to indicate interest. The tentative event date is Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 5:30 - 7:00PM.
Thanksgiving Break:
Both campuses will be closed for Thanksgiving Break Monday, November 24th through Friday, November 28th. We look forward to welcoming staff and students back on Monday, December 1st. Our BASE program will also be closed during Thanksgiving Break.
Lost and Found:
The Lost & Found at each campus is overflowing with jackets, lunch boxes, water bottles and more! K-8 families: Swing by to check for missing items behind the Admin Building during conference week. WCHS students: Look in the Commons during arrival, lunch, and dismissal. All unclaimed items will be donated over Thanksgiving Break.
November 8th: Scholastic Book Orders Due (code: HGDMB)
November 11th: Veteran's Day (No School)
November 13th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
November 14th: K-8 Spirit Day - Mix and Match Day
November 17th-21st: K-8 Parent Teacher Conferences (Early Dismissal all week at 1:30 PM)
November 24th-28th: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
This week we began Unit 3 in math. Unit 3 focuses on adding and subtracting within 20. We assessed our learning about sound and identified the main idea of texts read.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Unit 4: you, your, I, they, was, one, said
Unit 5: from, have, do, does
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
Physical Science 4.2 and 4.3 (Sound Waves) will be assessed the week of December 1st.
Week 12, November 3 to 7
Math
We began unit 3 (Adding and Subtracting Within 20) in math this week. Watch this video to learn more about concepts covered in this unit. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 3 of math. Click here to watch the family support video for Unit 3.
Writing
Next trimester we are focusing on Opinion Writing. Opinion pieces include stating their opinion, writing 3 details to support their opinion, and ending with a concluding sentence. Please utilize this resource to help your writer distinguish between fact and opinion at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (am, an), tapping to read words, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day(ham) . Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (from, have, do, does), and dictating words (quick, man, fan, shell, ham). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 5 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on identifying the main idea and details of texts help us more thoroughly understand what we read and what is read to us. Use this resource to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on plural nouns to help us make sentences interesting and precise. Please utilize this resource or worksheet to help your child at home.
This week's SEL story and discussion focused on how everyone has the potential to grow, change, and get better at things that might feel hard. We learned about worm thoughts (having a fixed mindset) and caterpillar thoughts (having a growth mindset).
Fall Food Drive:
Our Annual Fall Food Drive benefiting Joey’s Food Locker runs now through Wednesday, December 3rd, concluding at our Annual Chili Cook-Off. Food collection bins will be placed in the reception area of each campus. Suggested donations are:
Beans
Rice
Pasta
Broth/stock
Canned Vegetables and Chicken
Cooking Oil
Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Thank you for helping us give back to our Natomas community!
K-12 Spirit Day - Mix & Match Day:
Mix & Match day will be Friday, November 14th. Dress up in wild colors, mismatched shoes, different colored socks or different patterns (for example, stripes with polka dots, colors that clash, etc.) Don’t forget to show your WCS spirit by posting pictures on all social media platforms and using the hashtag #WCSSpiritDay!
K-8 Conferences:
Conference week is November 17th - 21st. CLICK HERE to schedule your conference. The online scheduler is available October 27th - November 17th, so reserve your conference time now. CLICK HERE for instructions on how to use the online scheduler.
Call for STEM Career Fair Volunteers:
WCHS is planning our 2nd annual STEM career fair! If you are currently working in the STEM field or know anyone who does work in the STEM field and would like to volunteer their time for this event, please CLICK HERE to indicate interest. The tentative event date is Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 5:30 - 7:00PM.
Thanksgiving Break:
Both campuses will be closed for Thanksgiving Break Monday, November 24th through Friday, November 28th. We look forward to welcoming staff and students back on Monday, December 1st. Our BASE program will also be closed during Thanksgiving Break.
November 7th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
November 8th: Scholastic Book Orders Due (code: HGDMB)
November 11th: Veteran's Day (No School)
November 13th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
November 14th: K-8 Spirit Day - Mix and Match Day
November 17th-21st: K-8 Parent Teacher Conferences (Early Dismissal all week at 1:30 PM)
November 24th-28th: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
We focused on addition and subtraction word problems in math this week, paying close attention to the keywords that tell us to add or subtract. We identified plural nouns and asked questions while reading informational texts. We began a new science unit that focuses on sound.
K-8 Conferences:
Thank you to all who have signed up for your conferences so far!! Conference week is November 17th - 21st. CLICK HERE to schedule your conference. The online scheduler is available October 27th - November 17th, so reserve your conference time now. CLICK HERE for instructions on how to use the online scheduler
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Unit 4: you, your, I, they, was, one, said
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
Physical Science 4.1 (Sound Waves) will be assessed the week of November 3rd
October 27 to 31
Math
We have been solving equations and story problems in math this week. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in Unit 2. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 2 of math. Click here to watch the family support video for Unit 3.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence, First, Next, Last, and a Closing Sentence. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (all, ll, ss, ff), tapping to read words, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day(chill, call). Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (I, they, you, your, was, one, said), and dictating words (chill, lash, puff, fall, lock). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 4 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on asking questions to help us understand what we read and what is read to us. Use this resource to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on plural nouns to help us make sentences interesting and precise. Please utilize this resource or worksheet to help your child at home.
Strategic Plan Family Focus Groups:
As Westlake Charter School continues to grow and evolve, your voice is essential in shaping our path forward! We are so grateful to the families who filled out our Strategic Plan Family Survey prior to October Break.
Our next step in this process is to hold Family Focus Groups for those who are interested in exploring key topics raised in the survey, such as Positive Student Behavior, Academic Readiness, Positive Student Relationships, Social-Emotional Readiness, and more.
We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Strategic Plan Family Focus Groups on Wednesday, November 5th, from 6:00 – 7:30 PM at our K-8 Campus. Your voice is vital to shaping the future of Westlake Charter School, and we’d be delighted to have you join us.
To help us plan meaningful conversations, please CLICK HERE to RSVP by Sunday, November 2nd. Your RSVP will also help us provide enough snacks for everyone.
To support participation, BASE will remain open free of charge for currently enrolled Westlake Charter School students whose families attend the event. Please let us know in your RSVP if you plan to utilize BASE.
Thank you for your continued partnership and helping to demonstrate what’s possible when school and community collaborate!
Fall Food Drive:
Our Annual Fall Food Drive benefiting Joey’s Food Locker begins Monday, November 3rd and will run through Wednesday, December 3rd, concluding at our Annual Chili Cook-Off. Food collection bins will be placed in the reception area of each campus. Suggested donations are:
Beans
Rice
Pasta
Broth/stock
Canned Vegetables and Chicken
Cooking Oil
Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Thank you for helping us give back to our Natomas community!
K-8 Conferences:
Conference week is November 17th - 21st. CLICK HERE to schedule your conference. The online scheduler is available October 27th - November 17th, so reserve your conference time now. CLICK HERE for instructions on how to use the online scheduler.
October 25th: Fall Festival
October 31st: Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner ( Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
November 7th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
November 11th: Veteran's Day (No School)
November 13th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
November 14th: K-8 Spirit Day - Mix and Match Day
November 17th-21st: K-8 Parent Teacher Conferences (Early Dismissal all week at 1:30 PM)
November 24th-28th: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
K-8 Conference Week:
Conference week is November 17-21. CLICK HERE to schedule your conference. We strive to have 100% of our families meet with their teacher! The online scheduler is available to families October 27th through November 17th. CLICK HERE for instructions on how to use the online scheduler. Remember, during conference week we will dismiss early to allow time for teachers to meet with each of our families. Kindergarten will dismiss at 1:00 PM and 1st–8th grade will dismiss at 1:30 PM, and High School will dismiss at 1:30 PM. Our K-8 BASE program will be open after school until 6:00 PM each day.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Unit 4: you, your, I, they, was, one, said
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
History 1.3 (American Symbols)- Week of October 20th
Math, Unit 2: Addition and Subtraction Story Problems- Week of October 27th (study guide)
Week 10 October 20-24
Math
We have been solving addition and subtraction word problems with unknowns in math this week. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in Unit 2. Play this game to practice solving how many more/fewer problems. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 2 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence, First, Next, Last, and a Closing Sentence. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics- Unit 4, Week 1
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (ff, ll, ss, zz),tapping to read words,trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day. Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (you, your, I, they, was, one, said), and dictating words (bill, cuff, quiz, fuzz). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 4 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on comparing and contrasting to help us understand what we read and what is read to us by finding similarities and differences within books. Use this poster and video to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on nouns (person, place, and thing). Please utilize this resource to help your child at home.
This week we participated in Red Ribbon Week. During Morning Meeting we discussed how to make healthy choices for our bodies.
WCS Annual Fall Festival - TOMORROW:
Join us for Westlake Charter School’s Fall Festival TOMORROW, Saturday, October 25th from 3:00 – 6:00 PM on our K–8 Campus! Enjoy games, food, a Haunted House, Dessert Walk, Silent Auction, and more — all made possible by our amazing volunteers. CLICK HERE for all the details, to sign up for a one-hour volunteer shift, and grab your presale tickets (30 for $20).
Walktober is Here:
Throughout the month of October we encourage all students to walk to school at least three blocks or join our Walking School Bus and have their JIBE trip card scanned. Be sure to walk and have your card scanned as many times as you can between now and Friday, October 31st for a chance to win. Classes with at least 60% participation will win a party-in-a-box for their entire class. Let’s get moving! CLICK HERE for the information flyer. Don’t have a card yet? No problem, CLICK HERE to register today.
K-8 Conference Week:
Conference week is November 17-21. CLICK HERE to schedule your conference. We strive to have 100% of our families meet with their teacher! The online scheduler is available to families October 27th through November 17th. CLICK HERE for instructions on how to use the online scheduler. Remember, during conference week we will dismiss early to allow time for teachers to meet with each of our families. Kindergarten will dismiss at 1:00 PM and 1st–8th grade will dismiss at 1:30 PM, and High School will dismiss at 1:30 PM. Our K-8 BASE program will be open after school until 6:00 PM each day.
October 20th-24th: Red Ribbon Week- CLICK HERE for Spirit Days
October 24th: Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner ( Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
October 25th: Fall Festival
October 31st: Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner ( Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
November 7th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
November 11th: Veteran's Day (No School)
November 13th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
November 14th: K-8 Spirit Day - Mix and Match Day
November 17th-21st: K-8 Parent Teacher Conferences (Early Dismissal all week at 1:30 PM)
November 24th-28th: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
History 1.3 (American Symbols)- Week of October 20th
Math, Unit 2: Addition and Subtraction Story Problems- DATE CHANGE: Week of October 27th (study guide)
Week 9 October 13th - 20th
Math
We have been comparing addition to subtraction and solving equations and story problems in math this week. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in Unit 2. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 2 of math.
Math
We have been comparing addition to subtraction and solving equations and story problems in math this week. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in Unit 2. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 2 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence and a sequence of First, Next, and Last. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics Unit 3, Week 2
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (sh, ch, th, wh, ck), tapping to read words, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day. Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (as, has, to, into, we, he, she, be, me, for, or), and dictating words (quick, puck, shock, rack, moth). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 3 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been identifying the plot (characters, setting, beginning, middle, and end) of stories read. Use this resource to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on nouns (person, place, and thing). Please utilize this read-aloud to help your child at home.
This week Westlake participated in “Start with Hello Week.” During Morning Meeting each day, we talked about what to do when we see someone alone who might be feeling lonely or not included. We listened to stories that focused on empathy and valuing the diversity around us. On Thursday students got to "mix it up" at lunch and meet someone new.
Walktober is Here:
Throughout the month of October we encourage all students to walk to school at least three blocks or join our Walking School Bus and have their JIBE trip card scanned. Be sure to walk and have your card scanned as many times as you can between October 20th - 31st for a chance to win. Classes with at least 60% participation will win a party-in-a-box for their entire class. Let’s get moving! CLICK HERE for the information flyer. Don’t have a card yet? No problem, CLICK HERE to register today.
Middle School After School Live Athletics - Volunteer Coaching Opportunities:
We are excited to be relaunching our Middle School ASLive Athletics program, which is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. We are looking for VOLUNTEER COACHES to make this possible. Teams will meet twice a week throughout the season for practices and games. Practices and games last from 3:15 – 4:15 PM every day except Wednesdays. CLICK HERE to complete the Volunteer Coach interest form to let us know if you are interested in finding out more about coaching flag football, basketball, or volleyball!
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
October 16th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
October 17th: International Walk to School Day (Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner, Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
October 20th-24th: Red Ribbon Week- CLICK HERE for Spirit Days
October 25th: Fall Festival
November 7th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
November 11th: Veteran's Day (No School)
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Unit 3: as, has, to, into, we, he, she, me, be, or, for
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
History 1.3 (American Symbols)- Week of October 20th
Math, Unit 2: Addition and Subtraction Story Problems- Week of October 20th (study guide)
Week 8 September 29th-October 3rd
Math
This week we have been solving story problems where we find “how many more” or “how many fewer.” Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in Unit 2. Play Shake and Spill and Shake, Spill, and Cover to develop these concepts at home further. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 2 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence and a sequence of First, Next, and Last. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics-Unit 3, Week 1
This week in phonics we focused on sounds (sh, ch, th, wh, ck), tapping to read words, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day. Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (as, has, to, into, we, he, she, be, me, for, or), and dictating words (shop, ship, chin, chat, thud, thin). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 3 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been identifying the plot (characters, setting, beginning, middle, and end) of stories read. Use this resource to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on exclamatory sentences to help us make sentences interesting and precise. Please utilize this resource or game to help your child at home.
Sometimes experiencing strong emotions can make it hard for us to think clearly. This week's SEL story and discussion focused on strategies to use when we need help calming down.
Middle School After School Live Athletics - Volunteer Coaching Opportunities:
We are excited to be relaunching our Middle School ASLive Athletics program, which is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. We are looking for VOLUNTEER COACHES to make this possible. Teams will meet twice a week throughout the season for practices and games. Practices and games last from 3:15 – 4:15 PM every day except Wednesdays. CLICK HERE to complete the Volunteer Coach interest form to let us know if you are interested in finding out more about coaching flag football, basketball, or volleyball!
Middle School Dance:
Our student leadership team is preparing for our next Middle School dance on Friday, October 17th from 4:00 - 5:00 PM in our K-8 Gym! The music, food, and photo opportunities will be so much fun! We are in need of families to volunteer to support this event. Please CLICK HERE to sign up if you are able to help set up, chaperone, clean up or donate food/drinks. Thanks for your support!
International Walk to School Day:
Please join us on Friday, October 17th for the biggest Walking School Bus of the year! We will depart Burberry Community Park near Northborough Drive and Club Center Drive at 7:50 AM on a walk to school where we will join an epic dance party with a DJ. You don’t want to miss this celebration!
October 2nd: Life Long Ago On Campus Experience
October 2nd: Picture Retake Day
October 3rd: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
October 16th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
October 17th: International Walk to School Day (Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner, Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
October 20th-24th: Red Ribbon Week- CLICK HERE for Spirit Days
October 25th: Fall Festival
Each week, our phonics instruction will include trick words. Here is a list of the words your student should be able to read by the end of the year. Visit our trick word website for games and songs to support your learner at home. This week we learned that question sentences end in a question mark and we compared and contrasted characters in stories. We wrapped up our Life Long Ago social studies unit and began our next unit on American Symbols.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
History 1.3 (American Symbols)- Week of October 20th
Math, Unit 2: Addition and Subtraction Story Problems- Week of October 21st (study guide)
Week 7 September 22-26
Math
This week we solved put-together/take-apart story problems with missing totals or addends. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in Unit 2. Play Shake and Spill and Shake, Spill, and Cover to practice these concepts at home. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 2 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence and a sequence of First, Next, and Last. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics-Unit 2, Week 2
This week in phonics we focused on tapping to read words, trick words, spelling trick words, sentence dictation, and Word of the Day. Please practice tapping out each sound in a word, saying and spelling trick words (the, a, and, is, his, of), and dictating words (lug, nap, zap, yes, beg, fix, quit, rob, hit, mud). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 2 of phonics.
Comprehension
We focused on comparing and contrasting and found similarities and differences between characters in a text. Use this poster and video to help your reader at home.
Due to unsafe bodies in the classroom and on the playground, we focused on "bubble space" this week. We learned how to respect other's personal space and how to set boundaries with others who are too close.
Strategic Plan Family Survey:
Families, help us Shape our Future! Please CLICK HERE to watch a quick video of Dr. Eick discussing the Strategic Plan Family Survey. Then, CLICK HERE to take the 7-10 minute survey. The grade level with the highest family participation will receive a donut party on October 3rd.
K-12 Picture Retake Day:
Our Picture Retake Day is Thursday, October 2nd. See below for who should have their picture taken on October 2nd:
Students who are new to our school since the original picture day
Students that were absent on the original picture day
Students who would like to retake their photo
CLICK HERE to order pictures
Middle School After School Live Athletics - Volunteer Opportunity for K-12 Guardians:
We are excited to be relaunching our Middle School ASLive Athletics program, which is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. We are looking for VOLUNTEER COACHES to make this possible. Teams will meet twice a week throughout the season for practices and games. Practices and games last from 3:15 – 4:15 PM every day except Wednesdays. CLICK HERE to complete the Volunteer Coach interest form to let us know if you are interested in finding out more about coaching flag football, basketball, or volleyball!
September 26th: K-8 Olympic Triathlon Event Day
October 2nd: Life Long Ago On Campus Experience
October 2nd: Picture Retake Day
October 3rd: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
October 16th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
October 17th: International Walk to School Day (Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner, Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
October 20th-24th: Red Ribbon Week- CLICK HERE for Spirit Days
October 25th: Fall Festival
We began solving word problems in math this week. We focused on "change unknown" problems (ie: 3 + __ = 8). This can be a challenging concept for students to learn. Be on the lookout for optional math pages to practice this skill. In grammar, we learned about statements (telling sentences) and identified telling sentences in books read. We learned more about school long ago and used slate boards and chalk like pioneer children.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Unit 2: a, the, and, is, his, of
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
Math Unit 2 will be assessed the week of October 27th.
Week 6 September 15-19
Math
We recently began Unit 2 in our math curriculum. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in this unit. We have been writing expressions and equations to solve story problems and showing our thinking with drawings and numbers. Play Check It Off- Addition and Check It Off - Subtraction to further develop these concepts at home. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 2 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence and a sequence of First, Next, and Last. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on sound review, tapping to read words, tapping to spell words, and reading sentences in the correct order. Please practice tapping out each sound in a word and then tapping to write out a word (lit, lip, lap, rap, rip, nip, sip, sit, set). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 2 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on comparing and contrasting to find similarities and differences between texts or within one text. Use this poster and video to help your reader at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on statement (telling) sentences to help us make our sentences interesting and precise. Please utilize this resource to help your child at home.
This week's SEL story and discussion focused on predicting how others feel by paying attention to their body language, the words they use, and the tone of their voice.
Strategic Plan Family Survey:
Families, help us Shape our Future! Please CLICK HERE to watch a quick video of Dr. Eick discussing the Strategic Plan Family Survey. Then, CLICK HERE to take the 7-10 minute survey. The grade level with the highest family participation will receive a donut party on October 3rd.
Olympic Triathlon:
Westlake families have raised over $18,000 already to support Westlake’s incredible programs. The Olympic Triathlon event is right around the corner on Friday, September 26th.
CLICK HERE to watch our Olympic Triathlon Kickoff video
CLICK HERE for a flyer with all the details
CLICK HERE to set up a family donation page on the Pledgestar website
CLICK HERE to volunteer on Olympic Triathlon Field Event Day!
Lunchtime Reminders:
To help our day run smoothly and ensure all students have a safe and timely lunch, we kindly ask that you do not send food items that require cooking, heating, or preparation by staff. This includes items that need to be microwaved or otherwise heated.
Please send lunches that are ready to eat and do not require staff assistance. We appreciate your support in helping us keep lunchtime efficient and safe for everyone!
K-8 Picture Retake Day:
Our Picture Retake Day is Thursday, October 2nd. See below for who should have their picture taken on October 2nd:
Students who are new to our school since the original picture day
Students that were absent on the original picture day
Students who would like to retake their photo
CLICK HERE to order pictures
Classroom Volunteering 101:
We've launched Classroom Volunteering 101 to give every family the tools and confidence to step into the classroom and make a difference! Our next training session is Online: September 24th at 9:00 AM via video conference. E-mail wavewcs@gmail.com to obtain the Zoom link. If you aren't able to make it to either, or would prefer to complete this training independently, please CLICK HERE to take our training online whenever it works for you.
Once you've completed Classroom Volunteering 101 either online or in a group, you’ll complete a short form that will let our staff recognize you as a trained classroom volunteer. You can then reach out to your teacher to schedule a time to volunteer in the classroom. When you arrive on campus to volunteer, please check in at the front desk with your photo ID.
CLICK HERE to express interest in volunteering at an upcoming event
We appreciate you and are looking forward to hosting you on campus soon!
September 19th: School Spirit Day (Sports Day)
September 19th: Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner ( Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
October 3rd: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
October 16th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
October 20th-24th: Red Ribbon Week- CLICK HERE for Spirit Days
October 25th: Fall Festival
We continued to learn about complete sentences this week. We focused on identifying the telling part of each sentence. In math, we used data to answer questions and took our first math assessment on addition and subtraction. We completed our first personal narrative draft about a time we got hurt. In social studies, we learned more about the home life of pioneers long ago.
School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations:
Great news, Explorer families! Westlake Charter School has already reached 26% of our School Supplies donation goal and 12% of our Field Lesson donation goal. Keep up the great work, Explorers! CLICK HERE to make your donation today!
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
* During the first few weeks of school, students will be assessed on their letter sounds, and trick words (sight words).
Week 5, September 8-12
Math
We have been surveying, looking at data, and answering questions about data in math this week. We have also been exploring addition and subtraction this week. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in this unit. Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 1 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence, First, Next, Last, and a Closing Sentence. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on the letters z and qu. We learned about correct letter formation, which line to write a letter, how to grip our pencil, and how to extend the vowels. Please practice writing, saying, and using these letters in things you write, read, and see. We have been practicing how to tap to read words. Please practice tapping out each sound in a word (sad, sat, sap, sip, sit, mop, map, mad, mud). Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 1 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on identifying the problem and solution in a story to help us understand what we read and what is read to us. Use these posters to help your reader identify story elements in books at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on the telling part of a sentence to help us make sentences interesting and precise. Please use these posters and this resource to help your child at home.
This week's SEL story and discussion focused on predicting how others feel by paying attention to their body language, the words they use, and the tone of their voice.
School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations:
Great news, Explorer families! Westlake Charter School has already reached 26% of our School Supplies donation goal and 12% of our Field Lesson donation goal. Keep up the great work, Explorers! CLICK HERE to make your donation today!
Olympic Triathlon:
We’re aiming for 100% student participation as we come together to support Westlake’s incredible programs. The Olympic Triathlon event is right around the corner on Friday, September 26th. CLICK HERE to watch our Olympic Triathlon Kickoff video.
CLICK HERE to set up a family donation page on the Pledgestar website. You can customize it with your student’s name, a photo, and a donation goal. It is easy to quickly request sponsors via email or text, explaining why Westlake is amazing and how they can help us meet our goal this year.
Prize Levels - Prizes starting on September 9th
🎉 25% Participation – Chips & Drinks for the class!
🍧 50% Participation – Popsicle Party time!
🍩 75% Participation – Donut Party celebration!
🍕 100% Participation – Pizza Party for the win!
$100 Goal Challenge – Prizes & Rewards!
Every student who raises $100 or more will be celebrated with:
✅ Guaranteed Prize – A special Olympic Triathlon medal
✅ Raffle Entry – For every $100 a student raises they’re entered into a raffle for AMAZING prizes:
Top Prize for K-8: eScooter
Top Prize for HS: 🎧 Apple AirPods 4
Additional prizes: Pair of Disneyland tickets, $25 Gift Cards (Amazon, In-N-Out, Jamba Juice, and more!)
💡 The more students who hit the $100 goal, the bigger the celebration for our school community!
Classroom Volunteering 101:
We've launched Classroom Volunteering 101 to give every family the tools and confidence to step into the classroom and make a difference! Our next training sessions are as follows:
In Person: Wednesday, September 17th at 5:00 PM on our K-8 Campus
Online: September 24th at 9:00 AM via video conference -E-mail wavewcs@gmail.com to obtain the Zoom link
If you aren't able to make it to either, or would prefer to complete this training independently, please CLICK HERE to take our training online whenever it works for you.
Once you've completed Classroom Volunteering 101 either online or in a group, you’ll complete a short form that will let our staff recognize you as a trained classroom volunteer. You can then reach out to your teacher to schedule a time to volunteer in the classroom. When you arrive on campus to volunteer, please check in at the front desk with your photo ID.
CLICK HERE to volunteer in classroom (TEACHERS - ADVERTISE HOW YOU WOULD LIKE FAMILIES TO SIGN UP OR DELETE THIS BULLET)
CLICK HERE to express interest in volunteering at an upcoming event
We appreciate you and are looking forward to hosting you on campus soon!
September 5th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
September 5th: WAVE Bingo Night (6:00 PM)
September 11th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
September 12th: Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner ( Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
September 19th: School Spirit Day (Sports Day)
September 19th: Walk to School with Mrs. Weiner ( Burberry Park, 7:50 am)
October 3rd: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
This week we began our Life Long Ago unit. We learned about pioneer families and transportation long ago. We continued to practice writing complete sentences and learned that every sentence needs a naming part and a telling part to make sense. We have been working on our first narrative writing piece and are learning about the steps of the writing process (brainstorm, draft, edit, revise, and publish) as we write.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
* During the first few weeks of school, students will be assessed on their letter sounds, and trick words (sight words).
NWEA Math: Wednesday, September 10th
Math Unit 1 (Adding, Subtracting, and Working with Data) will be assessed the week of September 9th (study guide)
Week 4, September 2-5
Math
We are working on Unit 1 in our math curriculum. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in this unit. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). We have been exploring addition and subtraction in math this week. Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 1 of math. study guide
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence, First, Next, Last, and a Closing Sentence. Please utilize this resource to help your writer at home. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on the letters e, r, p, j, l, h, k. We learned about correct letter formation and which line to write a letter, how to grip our pencil, and how to extend the vowels. Please practice writing, saying, and using these letters in things you write, read, and see. Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 1 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on identifying the characters and setting in a fiction story. Use these posters to help your reader identify story elements in books at home.
Grammar
We have been focusing on the naming part of a sentence to help us make sentences interesting and precise. Please use these posters and this resource to help your child at home.
This week's SEL story and discussion we learned how to recognize our own (and other’s) emotions. We described and demonstrated how emotions feel, look, and sound.
School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations:
Great news, Explorer families! Westlake Charter School has already reached 24% of our School Supplies donation goal and 11% of our Field Lesson donation goal. Keep up the great work, Explorers! CLICK HERE to make your donation today!
After School Live - Fall Explorer Enrichment:
Some of our fall Explorer Enrichment classes have begun and others start soon - most classes still have space, so CLICK HERE to see the catalog of Explorer Enrichment course offerings and information about how to sign up. E-mail amayle@westlakecharter.com with scholarship inquiries.
Classroom Volunteering 101:
We've launched Classroom Volunteering 101 to give every family the tools and confidence to step into the classroom and make a difference! Our next training sessions are as follows:
In Person: Wednesday, September 17th at 5:00 PM on our K-8 Campus
Online: September 24th at 9:00 AM via video conference - CLICK HERE for the Zoom link
If you aren't able to make it to either, or would prefer to complete this training independently, please CLICK HERE to take our training online whenever it works for you.
Once you've completed Classroom Volunteering 101 either online or in a group, you’ll complete a short form that will let our staff recognize you as a trained classroom volunteer. You can then reach out to your teacher to schedule a time to volunteer in the classroom. When you arrive on campus to volunteer, please check in at the front desk with your photo ID.
CLICK HERE to express interest in volunteering at an upcoming event
We appreciate you and are looking forward to hosting you on campus soon!
August 29th: Scholastic Book Orders Due (code: HGDMB)
September 1st: Labor Day (No School)
September 2nd: K-8 School Picture Day
September 5th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
September 11th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
September 19th: School Spirit Day (Sports Day)
October 3rd: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me during Back to School Night. You can access the Back to School Night slides HERE. I look forward to working with you and your family this year! This week we focused on joining numbers, how to write complete sentences, and reviewed letter sounds in our phonics program. Students continued to get to know their classmates and learned what it means to be a responsible citizen at home, school, and in their community.
Lunch Number Challenge: When students know their lunch number, it helps the hot lunch line go faster and gives students more time to eat. We are currently challenging our first-grade students to learn their lunch numbers. All first- grade students who memorize their lunch number will earn a prize! This challenge is available to all first graders, even those who usually bring lunch from home.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
* During the first few weeks of school, students will be assessed on their letter sounds, and trick words (sight words).
History-Social Science 1.1 (Citizenship): Week of September 2nd
NWEA Reading: Wednesday, September 3rd
NWEA Math: Wednesday, September 10th
Math Unit 1 (Adding, Subtracting, and Working with Data) will be assessed the week of September 9th (study guide)
Week 3 August 25-29
Math
We recently began Unit 1 in our math curriculum. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in this unit. We have been exploring addition and subtraction in math this week. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 1 of math. Review the study guide to prepare for the assessment.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence, First, Next, Last, and a Closing Sentence. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on the letters c, o, a, g, d, s. We learned about correct letter formation and which line to write a letter, how to grip our pencil, and how to extend the vowels. Please practice writing, saying, and using these letters in things you write, read, and see. Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 1 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on asking questions before, during, and after reading. Asking questions helps readers understand what is being read. Use this poster to help your reader at home.
Grammar
This week we practiced writing complete sentences. Use this song to review complete sentences at home.
We continued to get to know our classmates this week. We will begin our SEL curriculume (Sanford Harmony) next week.
Fall Picture Day:
K-8 picture day is NEXT Tuesday, September 2nd. This is a uniform picture day for our K-8 campus. All students will have their picture taken for the yearbook and student IDs, even if they don’t purchase a picture package. CLICK HERE to pre-purchase your pictures online. Group pictures will be taken for Kindergarten through 5th grade classes only.
School Supplies and Field Lesson Donations:
Great news, Explorer families! Westlake Charter School has already reached 20% of our School Supplies donation goal and 8% of our Field Lesson donation goal. Keep up the great work, Explorers! CLICK HERE to make your donation today!
After School Live - Fall Explorer Enrichment:
Some of our fall Explorer Enrichment classes have begun and others start soon - most classes still have space, so CLICK HERE to see the catalog of Explorer Enrichment course offerings and information about how to sign up. E-mail amayle@westlakecharter.com with scholarship inquiries.
Traffic/Parking Reminders: Please be respectful and mindful during our arrival and dismissal process, following traffic rules is an essential part of maintaining a safe environment for children. This includes parking in designated areas, adhering to the instructions of school staff, and obeying traffic laws. Traffic rules help to ensure that students are not in harm’s way when they are entering and exiting vehicles. When drivers obey traffic laws, they are less likely to be in an accident or cause a disruption in the flow of traffic. Additionally, traffic laws help to reduce congestion and provide a safe environment for pedestrians.
Jibe Bike Doctor:
Bike Doc is North Natomas Jibe's free basic bike repair and tune up service. This basic repair service is offered at no cost to our community. Students and families of Westlake Charter School are invited to register to bring in bicycles on September 5th from 3:15 – 6:15 PM. CLICK HERE to book a spot or show up day-of for service first come, first served. (Families can register up to 4 bikes for individual appointments.) Note that not all issues are fixable by Bike Doc in the repair window. These issues can be referred to a bike shop for in-depth service.
August 27th: K-8 Back to School Night (6:00 PM- 6:30 PM OR 6:40 PM- 7:10 PM)
September 1st: Labor Day (No School)
September 2nd: K-8 School Picture Day
September 5th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
September 11th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
September 19th: School Spirit Day (Sports Day)
October 3rd: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
We had a great second week of school! We continued to focus on building relationships, our classroom routines, and building our stamina as learners. This week we learned about complete sentences (begin with a capital letter, make sense, and end with punctuation), found sums in math, and began our phonics curriculum.
Lunch Number Challenge: When students know their lunch number, it helps the school lunch line go faster and gives students more time to eat. We are currently challenging our first-grade students to learn their lunch numbers. All first grade students who memorize their lunch number will earn a prize! This challenge is available to all first graders, even those who usually bring lunch from home.
Current Trick Words:
(click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home)
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
In-Class Volunteer Opportunities (coming soon!)
Please log your volunteer hours on the Westlake WAVE webpage
History-Social Science 1.1 (Citizenship)- Week of September 2nd
NWEA Reading: Wednesday, September 3rd
NWEA Math: Wednesday, September 10th
* During the first few weeks of school, students will be assessed on their letter sounds, and trick words (sight words).
Week 2, August 18-22
Math
We recently began Unit 1 in our math curriculum. Watch this video to learn more about the concepts covered in this unit.
We have been exploring expressions and sums in math this week. Students may log into Imagine Math at home to practice their math facts and skills (access Imagine Math through Clever). Click here for additional information to support your child throughout Unit 1 of math.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence, Transition Words (First, Next, Last) and a Closing Sentence. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on the letters t, b, f, m, n, i, u. We learned about correct letter formation and which line to write a letter, how to grip our pencil, and how to extend the vowels. Please practice writing, saying, and using these letters in things you write, read, and see. Click here for additional information and activities to support your child throughout Unit 1 of phonics.
Comprehension
We have been focusing on making predictions while reading. Good readers make predictions to help them better understand a text. Use this poster to help your reader at home.
Grammar
This week we focused on writing complete sentences. Use this song to review complete sentences at home.
We continued to get to know our classmates this week. We created community agreements for our classroom that will support our learning.
K-8 Back to School Night:
Our K-8 Back to School Night is NEXT Wednesday, August 27th. To the best of our ability, we would like to keep this event distraction free by encouraging families to make this a non-student event. This will allow for teachers and families to connect in a distraction-free environment. For families that need supervision, our BASE program will be available to help, however, space is potentially limited. If you know that you will need childcare to attend this event, please CLICK HERE to RSVP for BASE as soon as possible so that we can properly prepare.
Kindergarten through 5th Grade Families: We have two identical sessions, you only need to attend one. Session one is 6:00 - 6:30 PM, session two is 6:40 - 7:10 PM. A video from your child's specialty teacher(s) will be available.
6th-8th Grade Families: We have two identical sessions, you only need to attend one. Session one is 5:00 - 5:40 PM, session two is 6:00 - 6:40 PM. During these sessions, you will meet with your student’s core teachers and specialty teachers. Your students are creating your schedule for the evening.
Fall Picture Day:
K-8 picture day will be on Tuesday, September 2nd. This is a uniform picture day for our K-8 campus. All students will have their picture taken for the yearbook and student IDs, even if they don’t purchase a picture package. CLICK HERE to pre-purchase your pictures online. Group pictures will be taken for Kindergarten through 5th grade classes only.
Free and Reduced Price Meals:
Families, each year it is incredibly important to our school that we are able to account for every student during this form collection process. We are authorized by the Natomas Unified School District and as a part of our partnership, we commit to collecting these forms from every family. Physical copies of the 2025-26 application will be available at Meet the Teacher. Please complete this form for every student in your family and return it to either front office. While meals remain free for all students this school year, this is important data for our Charter authorization.
CLICK HERE to complete the Free and Reduced Price Meals (FRPM) acknowledgement form which will allow us to ensure everyone has received this information. Even if you don’t think you qualify for free or reduced priced meals, please complete the form for our tracking purposes.
CLICK HERE to complete the FRPM application online.
After School Live - Fall Explorer Enrichment:
Our fall Explorer Enrichment starts soon! CLICK HERE to see the catalog of Explorer Enrichment course offerings and information about how to sign up. E-mail amayle@westlakecharter.com with scholarship inquiries.
Learning Lab:
The Learning Lab is open to Middle School Explorers after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 3:15 - 3:45 PM. The Learning Lab is staffed by an Instructional Aide to assist Middle School students with their classwork and homework. Families should sign up their Middle School student(s) using School Dismissal Manager.
Jibe Bike Doctor:
Bike Doc is North Natomas Jibe's free basic bike repair and tune up service. This basic repair service is offered at no cost to our community. Students and families of Westlake Charter School are invited to register to bring in bicycles on September 5th from 3:15 – 6:15 PM. CLICK HERE to book a spot or show up day-of for service first come, first served. (Families can register up to 4 bikes for individual appointments.) Note that not all issues are fixable by Bike Doc in the repair window. These issues can be referred to a bike shop for in-depth service.
September 1st: Labor Day (No School)
September 2nd: K-8 School Picture Day
September 5th: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
September 11th: WCS Board Meeting (6:30 PM)
September 19th: School Spirit Day (Sports Day)
October 3rd: WAVE Coffee Talk (8:30 AM)
October 6th-10th: Fall Break (No School)
Hello families! I enjoyed meeting your students this week! We've been busy getting to know one another and learning our classroom expectations and procedures. I'm looking forward to a great year with your children!
Class Dojo:
I will be using Class Dojo to share class photos and send reminders about upcoming events. Many families are already connected from Kindergarten. For those who are not, the easiest way to connect to our class is by using this link.
Trick Words:
Click here for word lists and sight word games to support your learner at home
Nightly Reading: Be sure to have your child to read for at least 15-20 minutes nightly. Your child can read independently, to someone, or someone can read to your child. RAZKids and the local library are great resources for your child to utilize. Trick word practice counts, too! Remember, The more children practice their reading, the more proficient readers they become!
If you are interested in volunteering in class or completing projects at home, please use the links below.
Take Home Projects (if you have previously filled out this form, I have you on my list. Thanks!)
During the first few weeks of school, students will be assessed on their letter names, sounds, and trick words (sight words).
Week 1 August 13-15
Math
We have been focusing on number writing in math this week. Practice writing your numbers to 20 at home!
Phonics
This week in phonics we focused on letter and sound review.
Writing
This trimester we are focusing on Personal Narrative Writing. Personal Narratives have a Topic Sentence, a Sequence of Events (First, Next, Last), and a Closing Sentence. Click here to access the documents we will use to organize our writing this trimester.
This week we focused on getting to know our classmates and building our classroom community. We met with our school counselors, Mrs. Krivoy and Ms. Munoz, and learned how they support students at school.
K-8 Back to School Night:
Our K-8 Back to School Night is on Wednesday, August 27th. To the best of our ability, we would like to keep this event distraction free by encouraging families to make this a non-student event. This will allow for teachers and families to connect in a distraction-free environment. For families that need supervision, our BASE program will be available to help, however, space is potentially limited. If you know that you will need childcare to attend this event, please CLICK HERE to RSVP for BASE as soon as possible so that we can properly prepare.
Kindergarten through 5th Grade Families: We have two identical sessions, you only need to attend one. Session one is 6:00 - 6:30 PM, session two is 6:40 - 7:10 PM. A video from your child's specialty teacher(s) will be available.
6th-8th Grade Families: We have two identical sessions, you only need to attend one. Session one is 5:00 - 5:40 PM, session two is 6:00 - 6:40 PM. During these sessions, you will meet with your student’s core teachers and specialty teachers. Your students are creating your schedule for the evening.
Fall Picture Day:
K-8 picture day will be on Tuesday, September 2nd. This is a uniform picture day for our K-8 campus. All students will have their picture taken for the yearbook and student IDs, even if they don’t purchase a picture package. CLICK HERE to pre-purchase your pictures online. Group pictures will be taken for Kindergarten through 5th grade classes only.
Free and Reduced Price Meals:
Families, each year it is incredibly important to our school that we are able to account for every student during this form collection process. We are authorized by the Natomas Unified School District and as a part of our partnership, we commit to collecting these forms from every family. Physical copies of the 2025-26 application will be available at Meet the Teacher. Please complete this form for every student in your family and return it to either front office. While meals remain free for all students this school year, this is important data for our Charter authorization.
CLICK HERE to complete the Free and Reduced Price Meals (FRPM) acknowledgement form which will allow us to ensure everyone has received this information. Even if you don’t think you qualify for free or reduced priced meals, please complete the form for our tracking purposes.
CLICK HERE to complete the FRPM application online.
After School Live - Fall Explorer Enrichment:
Our fall Explorer Enrichment starts soon! CLICK HERE to see the catalog of Explorer Enrichment course offerings and information about how to sign up. E-mail amayle@westlakecharter.com with scholarship inquiries.
Learning Lab:
The Learning Lab will open to Middle School Explorers after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 3:15 - 3:45 PM beginning Monday, August 18th. The Learning Lab is staffed by an Instructional Aide to assist Middle School students with their classwork and homework. Families should sign up their Middle School student(s) using School Dismissal Manager.
JIBE Bike Doctor:
Bike Doc is North Natomas Jibe's free basic bike repair and tune up service. This basic repair service is offered at no cost to our community. Students and families of Westlake Charter School are invited to register to bring in bicycles on September 5th from 3:15 – 6:15 PM. CLICK HERE to book a spot or show up day-of for service first come, first served. (Families can register up to 4 bikes for individual appointments.) Note that not all issues are fixable by Bike Doc in the repair window. These issues can be referred to a bike shop for in-depth service.
School Dismissal Manager: Please CLICK HERE log into School Dismissal Manager using the credentials emailed to you. You will be prompted to change your password on your first login. After logging in, click on the Parent Welcome Letter in the top menu for instructions. Make sure to update your students’ dismissal arrangements before the first day of school. If you didn’t receive an email, check your spam folder. Please e-mail admin@westlakecharter.com with any questions.
Back to School Shopping: We know many families are starting to think about Back to School shopping. Here are a few guidelines to help:
School Supplies: Each grade level has purchased all the school supplies that your students will need for the entire year. We get a great discount as a school, so we like to purchase everything in advance. We ask each student for a $35 donation toward school supplies. CLICK HERE to donate toward school supplies and grade level field lessons.
Field Lessons: On the same page, you can take care of your field lesson donations for the year! There are options for a one-time payment, or monthly subscription.