Westview Students Enjoy Recent Unit on Dance During P.E. Class--updated 3/24/20
Submitted by: Mr. Dave Bidlingmeyer, Physical Education Teacher
Since the start of the school year, students have been participating in many different sports, fitness, and health related activities. We have also been using our Chromebooks to track and monitor our heart rates during physical activity. Some of the activities we have participated in are dance, juggling, floor hockey, rock climbing, team building, and many more!
All students at Westview have been participating in our dance unit the past few weeks. We have been working on tempo, time, coordination, and balance. Third grade has been learning the Electric Slide, Fourth grade has been learning the Cupid Shuffle, and the Fifth grade has been learning the Cha Cha Slide. Ask your student to demonstrate their dance, and if you know it, you can join in!
We also have the great opportunity to play, learn, and gain experience with the After-school sports program. Students just finished with intramural Basketball and had a lot fun playing against other teams. We also have Soccer coming soon and Running as well!
Lastly, each year students participate in our health and fitness tests using Fitnessgram. Students from all grade levels are encouraged to try their best on each of the tests we use. These include the Pacer, push-up, curl-up, and sit and reach tests. Over the course of the year, we work on different ways to strengthen ourselves to achieve the best level of health and wellness possible. The students all do a great job of working on building a healthy lifestyle all year long!
Please feel free to contact Mr. Bidlingmeyer via phone at 630-766-8040 or email ([email protected]) with any questions about what is happening in Physical Education.
All students at Westview have been participating in our dance unit the past few weeks. We have been working on tempo, time, coordination, and balance. Third grade has been learning the Electric Slide, Fourth grade has been learning the Cupid Shuffle, and the Fifth grade has been learning the Cha Cha Slide. Ask your student to demonstrate their dance, and if you know it, you can join in!
We also have the great opportunity to play, learn, and gain experience with the After-school sports program. Students just finished with intramural Basketball and had a lot fun playing against other teams. We also have Soccer coming soon and Running as well!
Lastly, each year students participate in our health and fitness tests using Fitnessgram. Students from all grade levels are encouraged to try their best on each of the tests we use. These include the Pacer, push-up, curl-up, and sit and reach tests. Over the course of the year, we work on different ways to strengthen ourselves to achieve the best level of health and wellness possible. The students all do a great job of working on building a healthy lifestyle all year long!
Please feel free to contact Mr. Bidlingmeyer via phone at 630-766-8040 or email ([email protected]) with any questions about what is happening in Physical Education.
"What Can I do to Help My Child Read?" --Updated 1/22/2020
Submitted by: Mrs. Cira Olivella, Bilingual Special Education & Intervention Teacher
Recently, I have heard many parents ask, “What can I do to help my child read” ? So, I started reading and searching for easy ways parents can help their students with reading. I read an article by Dr. Timothy Shanahan who who is an internationally recognized professor of urban education and reading researcher who has extensive experience with children in inner-city schools and children with special needs. I hope parents find this information helpful! https://www.readingrockets.org/blogs/shanahan-literacy/11-ways-parents-can-help-their-children-read
All posts are reprinted with permission from Shanahan on Literacy.
11 Ways Parents Can Help Their Children Read
September 9, 2015
Here are 11 practical recommendations for helping preschoolers and school-age students learn to read.
1. Teaching reading will only help. Sometimes, parents are told early teaching is harmful, but it isn’t true. You simply can’t introduce literacy too early. I started reading to my own children on the days they were each born! The “dangers of early teaching” has been a topic of study for more than 100 years, and no one has ever found any convincing evidence of harm. Moreover, there are hundreds of studies showing the benefits of reading to your children when they are young.
2. Teaching literacy isn’t different than teaching other skills.You don’t need a Ph.D. to raise a happy, healthy, smart child. Parents have been doing it for thousands of years. Mothers and fathers successfully teach their kids to eat with a spoon, use a potty, keep their fingers out of their noses, and say “please.” These things can be taught pleasantly, or they can be made into a painful chore. Being unpleasant (e.g. yelling, punishing, pressuring) doesn’t work, and it can be frustrating for everyone. This notion applies to teaching literacy, too. If you show your 18-month-old a book and she shows no interest, then put it away and come back to it later. If your child tries to write her name and ends up with a backwards “D,” no problem. No pressure. No hassle. You should enjoy the journey, and so should your child.
3. Talk to your kids (a lot). Last year, I spent lots of time with our brand new granddaughter, Emily. I drowned her in language. Although “just a baby,” I talked — and sang — to her about everything. I talked about her eyes, nose, ears, mouth, and fingers. I told her all about her family — her mom, dad, and older brother. I talked to her about whatever she did (yawning, sleeping, eating, burping). I talked to her so much that her parents thought I was nuts; she couldn’t possibly understand me yet. But reading is a language activity, and if you want to learn a language, you’d better hear it, and eventually, speak it. Too many moms and dads feel a bit dopey talking to a baby or young child, but studies have shown that exposing your child to a variety of words helps in her development of literacy skills.
4. Read to your kids. I know everyone says this, but it really is a good idea — at least with preschoolers. One of my colleagues refers to this advice as the “chicken soup” of reading education. We prescribe it for everything. (Does it help? It couldn’t hurt.) If a parent or caregiver can’t read or can’t read English, there are alternatives, such as using audiobooks; but for those who can, reading a book or story to a child is a great, easy way to advance literacy skills. Research shows benefits for kids as young as 9-months-old, and it could be effective even earlier than that. Reading to kids exposes them to richer vocabulary than they usually hear from the adults who speak to them, and can have positive impacts on their language, intelligence, and later literacy achievement. What should you read to them? There are so many wonderful children’s books. Visit your local library, and you can get an armful of adventure. You can find recommendations from kids at the Children’s Book Council website or at the International Literacy Association Children's Choices site. [Reading Rockets also provides guidance and lots of themed booklists in our Children's Books & Authors section.]
5. Have them tell you a “story.”One great way to introduce kids to literacy is to take their dictation. Have them recount an experience or make up a story. We’re not talking “Moby Dick” here. A typical first story may be something like, “I like fish. I like my sister. I like grandpa.” Write it as it is being told, and then read it aloud. Point at the words when you read them, or point at them when your child is trying to read the story. Over time, with lots of rereading, don’t be surprised if your child starts to recognize words such as “I” or “like.” (As children learn some of the words, you can write them on cards and keep them in a “word bank” for your child, using them to review later.)
6. Teach phonemic awareness.Young children don’t hear the sounds within words. Thus, they hear “dog,” but not the “duh”-“aw”- “guh.” To become readers, they have to learn to hear these sounds (or phonemes). Play language games with your child. For instance, say a word, perhaps her name, and then change it by one phoneme: Jen-Pen, Jen-Hen, Jen-Men. Or, just break a word apart: chair… ch-ch-ch-air. Follow this link to learn more about language development milestones in children.
7. Teach phonics (letter names and their sounds).You can’t sound out words or write them without knowing the letter sounds. Most kindergartens teach the letters, and parents can teach them, too. I just checked a toy store website and found 282 products based on letter names and another 88 on letter sounds, including ABC books, charts, cards, blocks, magnet letters, floor mats, puzzles, lampshades, bed sheets, and programs for tablets and computers. You don’t need all of that (a pencil and paper are sufficient), but there is lots of support out there for parents to help kids learn these skills. Keep the lessons brief and fun, no more than 5–10 minutes for young’uns. Understanding the different developmental stages of reading and writing skills will help to guide your lessons and expectations.
8. Listen to your child read.When your child starts bringing books home from school, have her read to you. If it doesn’t sound good (mistakes, choppy reading), have her read it again. Or read it to her, and then have her try to read it herself. Studies show that this kind of repeated oral reading makes students better readers, even when it is done at home.
9. Promote writing.Literacy involves reading and writing. Having books and magazines available for your child is a good idea, but it’s also helpful to have pencils, crayons, markers, and paper. Encourage your child to write. One way to do this is to write notes or short letters to her. It won’t be long before she is trying to write back to you.
10. Ask questions.When your child reads, get her to retell the story or information. If it’s a story, ask who it was about and what happened. If it’s an informational text, have your child explain what it was about and how it worked, or what its parts were. Reading involves not just sounding out words, but thinking about and remembering ideas and events. Improving reading comprehension skills early will prepare her for subsequent success in more difficult texts.
11. Make reading a regular activity in your home.Make reading a part of your daily life, and kids will learn to love it. When I was nine years old, my mom made me stay in for a half-hour after lunch to read. She took me to the library to get books to kick off this new part of my life. It made me a lifelong reader. Set aside some time when everyone turns off the TV and the web and does nothing but read. Make it fun, too. When my children finished reading a book that had been made into a film, we’d make popcorn and watch the movie together. The point is to make reading a regular enjoyable part of your family routine.
All posts are reprinted with permission from Shanahan on Literacy.
11 Ways Parents Can Help Their Children Read
September 9, 2015
Here are 11 practical recommendations for helping preschoolers and school-age students learn to read.
1. Teaching reading will only help. Sometimes, parents are told early teaching is harmful, but it isn’t true. You simply can’t introduce literacy too early. I started reading to my own children on the days they were each born! The “dangers of early teaching” has been a topic of study for more than 100 years, and no one has ever found any convincing evidence of harm. Moreover, there are hundreds of studies showing the benefits of reading to your children when they are young.
2. Teaching literacy isn’t different than teaching other skills.You don’t need a Ph.D. to raise a happy, healthy, smart child. Parents have been doing it for thousands of years. Mothers and fathers successfully teach their kids to eat with a spoon, use a potty, keep their fingers out of their noses, and say “please.” These things can be taught pleasantly, or they can be made into a painful chore. Being unpleasant (e.g. yelling, punishing, pressuring) doesn’t work, and it can be frustrating for everyone. This notion applies to teaching literacy, too. If you show your 18-month-old a book and she shows no interest, then put it away and come back to it later. If your child tries to write her name and ends up with a backwards “D,” no problem. No pressure. No hassle. You should enjoy the journey, and so should your child.
3. Talk to your kids (a lot). Last year, I spent lots of time with our brand new granddaughter, Emily. I drowned her in language. Although “just a baby,” I talked — and sang — to her about everything. I talked about her eyes, nose, ears, mouth, and fingers. I told her all about her family — her mom, dad, and older brother. I talked to her about whatever she did (yawning, sleeping, eating, burping). I talked to her so much that her parents thought I was nuts; she couldn’t possibly understand me yet. But reading is a language activity, and if you want to learn a language, you’d better hear it, and eventually, speak it. Too many moms and dads feel a bit dopey talking to a baby or young child, but studies have shown that exposing your child to a variety of words helps in her development of literacy skills.
4. Read to your kids. I know everyone says this, but it really is a good idea — at least with preschoolers. One of my colleagues refers to this advice as the “chicken soup” of reading education. We prescribe it for everything. (Does it help? It couldn’t hurt.) If a parent or caregiver can’t read or can’t read English, there are alternatives, such as using audiobooks; but for those who can, reading a book or story to a child is a great, easy way to advance literacy skills. Research shows benefits for kids as young as 9-months-old, and it could be effective even earlier than that. Reading to kids exposes them to richer vocabulary than they usually hear from the adults who speak to them, and can have positive impacts on their language, intelligence, and later literacy achievement. What should you read to them? There are so many wonderful children’s books. Visit your local library, and you can get an armful of adventure. You can find recommendations from kids at the Children’s Book Council website or at the International Literacy Association Children's Choices site. [Reading Rockets also provides guidance and lots of themed booklists in our Children's Books & Authors section.]
5. Have them tell you a “story.”One great way to introduce kids to literacy is to take their dictation. Have them recount an experience or make up a story. We’re not talking “Moby Dick” here. A typical first story may be something like, “I like fish. I like my sister. I like grandpa.” Write it as it is being told, and then read it aloud. Point at the words when you read them, or point at them when your child is trying to read the story. Over time, with lots of rereading, don’t be surprised if your child starts to recognize words such as “I” or “like.” (As children learn some of the words, you can write them on cards and keep them in a “word bank” for your child, using them to review later.)
6. Teach phonemic awareness.Young children don’t hear the sounds within words. Thus, they hear “dog,” but not the “duh”-“aw”- “guh.” To become readers, they have to learn to hear these sounds (or phonemes). Play language games with your child. For instance, say a word, perhaps her name, and then change it by one phoneme: Jen-Pen, Jen-Hen, Jen-Men. Or, just break a word apart: chair… ch-ch-ch-air. Follow this link to learn more about language development milestones in children.
7. Teach phonics (letter names and their sounds).You can’t sound out words or write them without knowing the letter sounds. Most kindergartens teach the letters, and parents can teach them, too. I just checked a toy store website and found 282 products based on letter names and another 88 on letter sounds, including ABC books, charts, cards, blocks, magnet letters, floor mats, puzzles, lampshades, bed sheets, and programs for tablets and computers. You don’t need all of that (a pencil and paper are sufficient), but there is lots of support out there for parents to help kids learn these skills. Keep the lessons brief and fun, no more than 5–10 minutes for young’uns. Understanding the different developmental stages of reading and writing skills will help to guide your lessons and expectations.
8. Listen to your child read.When your child starts bringing books home from school, have her read to you. If it doesn’t sound good (mistakes, choppy reading), have her read it again. Or read it to her, and then have her try to read it herself. Studies show that this kind of repeated oral reading makes students better readers, even when it is done at home.
9. Promote writing.Literacy involves reading and writing. Having books and magazines available for your child is a good idea, but it’s also helpful to have pencils, crayons, markers, and paper. Encourage your child to write. One way to do this is to write notes or short letters to her. It won’t be long before she is trying to write back to you.
10. Ask questions.When your child reads, get her to retell the story or information. If it’s a story, ask who it was about and what happened. If it’s an informational text, have your child explain what it was about and how it worked, or what its parts were. Reading involves not just sounding out words, but thinking about and remembering ideas and events. Improving reading comprehension skills early will prepare her for subsequent success in more difficult texts.
11. Make reading a regular activity in your home.Make reading a part of your daily life, and kids will learn to love it. When I was nine years old, my mom made me stay in for a half-hour after lunch to read. She took me to the library to get books to kick off this new part of my life. It made me a lifelong reader. Set aside some time when everyone turns off the TV and the web and does nothing but read. Make it fun, too. When my children finished reading a book that had been made into a film, we’d make popcorn and watch the movie together. The point is to make reading a regular enjoyable part of your family routine.
A Few Notes about Westview's Music Program--Updated 12/23/2019
Submitted by: Mr. Bill Thoms, Westview Music Teacher
Over the past few months, we have played numerous instruments, we have sung many different songs, and have discovered different types of musical notes. We have played instruments such as: the recorder, hand drums, tubanos, xylophones, metallophones, wood blocks, tambourines, thunder tube, and ratchet, to name a few. Wood Dale School District 7 was very fortunate to receive a grant last year from the Young People’s Music Initiative Grant. With this grant we were able to purchase new instruments and musical opportunities for our students!
Third grade has learned the following songs this year: The Westview School Song, Down to the Baker Shop, A Famous Man, and Shake Dem Halloween Bones, to name a few. We have also been working on learning about eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, quarter rests, half rests, and whole rests. Please ask your student to draw you a picture of these notes and rests and explain what they mean! We just finished performing in our Winter Program. We sang the songs, “Jolly Old St. Nicholas”, “Oh Hanukkah”, and “Mele Kalikimaka”. The students did a fantastic job playing instruments, dancing, and singing!
Fourth grade has learned the following songs this year: Song of the Instruments, Listen, the Staff Song, Shake the Papaya Down, Hot Cross Buns, Get Down!, and Old Tom White, to name a few. We have been working on how to read notes on the staff while singing and playing instruments. We have also learned to create our own unique sentences to remember the note names on the staff! Ask your student to share their very own sentence that helps them remember the names on the staff! Students have also been working very hard passing their recorder playing tests and earning their badges! The fourth grade students did a wonderful job singing their songs for the Winter Program: “Let It Snow”, “Lulajze Jezuniu”, and “Jump!”. “Jump!” was particularly fun because we got to move around and use our bodies to make percussive sounds to the music.
Fifth grade has learned the following songs this year: our traditional Outdoor Education Songs, Good Morning, Out Goes the Rat, the Pink Panther, Pomme de Reinette, and Skin and Bones to name a few. We have been working on reading music while singing and playing instruments. All students have been working hard on their recorders! Fifth grade will be working on playing the ukulele after winter break! All students are very excited to have a chance to play a new instrument! We also finished performing at our Winter Program and did a marvelous job singing and playing instruments to the songs: “Jingle Bells”, “Entren, Santos Peregrinos”, and “Winter Wonderland.”
All students did a fantastic job at our Winter Program! I was so proud of all the hard work that the students did to make sure they were prepared for the performance. We spent several weeks in school singing songs, playing instruments, and creating movements. The performance would not have been possible without their dedication!
Be sure to check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for all musical happenings in school!
Third grade has learned the following songs this year: The Westview School Song, Down to the Baker Shop, A Famous Man, and Shake Dem Halloween Bones, to name a few. We have also been working on learning about eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, quarter rests, half rests, and whole rests. Please ask your student to draw you a picture of these notes and rests and explain what they mean! We just finished performing in our Winter Program. We sang the songs, “Jolly Old St. Nicholas”, “Oh Hanukkah”, and “Mele Kalikimaka”. The students did a fantastic job playing instruments, dancing, and singing!
Fourth grade has learned the following songs this year: Song of the Instruments, Listen, the Staff Song, Shake the Papaya Down, Hot Cross Buns, Get Down!, and Old Tom White, to name a few. We have been working on how to read notes on the staff while singing and playing instruments. We have also learned to create our own unique sentences to remember the note names on the staff! Ask your student to share their very own sentence that helps them remember the names on the staff! Students have also been working very hard passing their recorder playing tests and earning their badges! The fourth grade students did a wonderful job singing their songs for the Winter Program: “Let It Snow”, “Lulajze Jezuniu”, and “Jump!”. “Jump!” was particularly fun because we got to move around and use our bodies to make percussive sounds to the music.
Fifth grade has learned the following songs this year: our traditional Outdoor Education Songs, Good Morning, Out Goes the Rat, the Pink Panther, Pomme de Reinette, and Skin and Bones to name a few. We have been working on reading music while singing and playing instruments. All students have been working hard on their recorders! Fifth grade will be working on playing the ukulele after winter break! All students are very excited to have a chance to play a new instrument! We also finished performing at our Winter Program and did a marvelous job singing and playing instruments to the songs: “Jingle Bells”, “Entren, Santos Peregrinos”, and “Winter Wonderland.”
All students did a fantastic job at our Winter Program! I was so proud of all the hard work that the students did to make sure they were prepared for the performance. We spent several weeks in school singing songs, playing instruments, and creating movements. The performance would not have been possible without their dedication!
Be sure to check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for all musical happenings in school!
Intervention Program Boosts Student Success with Reading--Updated 11/25/19
Submitted by: Mrs. Erin King, Westview Title I Intermediate Intervention Teacher
Welcome to a new school year! I am excited to be a part of Westview Elementary School as the Title I Intermediate Reading Intervention teacher. I spend my days working with small groups of students to help boost their reading skills as well as co-teach with two third grade teachers. I am excited to share information with students and their families in order to help support student reading achievement! It was wonderful to meet so many of you at Parent Teacher Conferences!
The Title I Reading students and I are off to a great start this year. We have been focusing on our routines, setting daily reading goals and using our reading strategies. It is so exciting to see the students working independently as well as in a small group to lead each other to success! We already had several opportunities to explore the Wood Dale Public Library bookmobile and get a book to read and share. A special treat for my 5th graders was having lunch with an author (see story below). I was so proud of their discussion, questions and manners at a wonderful event!
It is very important to read at home. Even though your child can read on his/her own, it is important to continue to read/discuss with your child for 15 minutes a day. Short, regular sessions encourage the reading habit.
Use these 15 minutes in a variety of ways:
Fifteen Minutes a day goes a long way!
The Title I Reading students and I are off to a great start this year. We have been focusing on our routines, setting daily reading goals and using our reading strategies. It is so exciting to see the students working independently as well as in a small group to lead each other to success! We already had several opportunities to explore the Wood Dale Public Library bookmobile and get a book to read and share. A special treat for my 5th graders was having lunch with an author (see story below). I was so proud of their discussion, questions and manners at a wonderful event!
It is very important to read at home. Even though your child can read on his/her own, it is important to continue to read/discuss with your child for 15 minutes a day. Short, regular sessions encourage the reading habit.
Use these 15 minutes in a variety of ways:
- Have your child read aloud to you.
- Read aloud to your child.
- Read the same page silently and then discuss it.
- Share the reading time by sitting together, each reading anything that is of interest, jokes, recipes, sports, poetry, biographies, etc.
- At the end of 15 minutes, if your child wants to continue reading, by all means encourage your child to do so.
- Either parent, or both, can be a reading partner- even grandparents, friends, and other relatives.
- Build the right climate. Make it pleasant.
- Create excitement.
- Offer positive comments.
Fifteen Minutes a day goes a long way!
Westview Hosts Author Janet Tashjian with Foundation Grant--Updated 10/28/2019
Submitted by: Mrs. Lisa Acord; Westview LMC Director & SEM Consultant
Westview was privileged to host author Janet Tashjian on Thursday October 24th. Assemblies were held in the LMC for each grade level. Ms. Tashjian talked about the writing process and gave our students pointers for their writing. During her very engaging presentations she encouraged students to use their “imagination muscle” daily and to wonder “what if”.
She stressed that it takes continued practice to be an author. She discussed how important editing is in the process and how long it takes her to revise her books before they are published. Each student was excited to receive a personally autographed copy of her book My Life as a Book!
This wonderful experience was made possible through the Wood Dale Foundation for Excellence. We are grateful for their support. Please make some time to discuss the visit with your child. We also encourage parents to read the book with their child at home!
She stressed that it takes continued practice to be an author. She discussed how important editing is in the process and how long it takes her to revise her books before they are published. Each student was excited to receive a personally autographed copy of her book My Life as a Book!
This wonderful experience was made possible through the Wood Dale Foundation for Excellence. We are grateful for their support. Please make some time to discuss the visit with your child. We also encourage parents to read the book with their child at home!
Second Step--Westview’s Social Emotional Curriculum--Updated 9/27/2019
Submitted by: Mrs. Kelly Marks, School Social Worker & Peer Mediation Club Sponsor
Did you know that all students at Westview are taught Second Step which is a Social Emotional Learning Curriculum?
All classroom teachers are teaching your children important social skills, calming skills, and problem solving skills which will help them in all aspects of their lives. Each week students learn a different life skill by watching a short video clip and practice the skill in class.
Other skills that are taught include understanding empathy, how to show compassion, how to be assertive, how to start a conversation, respecting similarities and differences, managing anger and anxiety, avoid jumping to conclusions, and solving playground problems.
All classroom teachers are teaching your children important social skills, calming skills, and problem solving skills which will help them in all aspects of their lives. Each week students learn a different life skill by watching a short video clip and practice the skill in class.
Other skills that are taught include understanding empathy, how to show compassion, how to be assertive, how to start a conversation, respecting similarities and differences, managing anger and anxiety, avoid jumping to conclusions, and solving playground problems.
Westview Peer Mediators Make a Difference in Student Relationships--Updated 4/5
Submitted by: Mrs. Kelly Marks, School Social Worker & Peer Mediation Club Sponsor
Westview School has seven 5th grade students that serve as our peer mediators. These students have completed several months of training allowing them to help the students of Westview to help solve their conflicts. Mediation is a communication process in which a third party (our trained 5th graders) help students to work together to resolve conflicts peaceably. Peer mediation is designed to teach students to find alternative ways to resolve conflicts and to encourage them to solve their own problems in a constructive fashion.
A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation. The mediation takes place in the school library during lunch and recess to help 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students work out the problem and reach an agreement. Students who have used peer mediation have found it helpful because their peers are helping them to resolve their problems instead of having an adult!
Current Peer Mediators
Priscilla Arroyo
Julia Belcik
Casey Brock
Layla Hoskins
Emma Larsen
Jaylene Martinez Vivanco
Vivien Mey
A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation. The mediation takes place in the school library during lunch and recess to help 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students work out the problem and reach an agreement. Students who have used peer mediation have found it helpful because their peers are helping them to resolve their problems instead of having an adult!
Current Peer Mediators
Priscilla Arroyo
Julia Belcik
Casey Brock
Layla Hoskins
Emma Larsen
Jaylene Martinez Vivanco
Vivien Mey
Language: It’s all around us, but how can we embrace it?--Updated 4/5/2019
Submitted by: By: Karen Gershman, M.A. CCC-SLP
Language is an integral developmental area for all children. Children are constantly absorbing the language that they are exposed to, and their language skills are always growing and improving.
Did you know that between the ages of 6 and 12 years old, a child’s receptive vocabulary (words that they understand) will increase from about 20,000 words to 50,000 words? That’s more than double! There are many ways that we can help enhance the speech and language skills of children, and it does not have to be complicated! There are several easy ways we can enhance the language skills of children using their natural environment and daily routines. For example, when a child comes home from school, ask them how their day was. If the child does not independently engage in conversation about their day, ask them some pinpointed questions:
Another easy way to help enhance language skills is to read with your child - as often as possible! Books are FILLED with good language models to expose your children to! Have discussions out loud with your child about the content of a book or story. Help them make connections between what they read and their own lives. Help your child recognize letter and word patterns, including grammar, prefixes, and suffixes. The most important thing you can do is just get your child thinking and TALKING - about anything! The benefits it will bring for your child will be well worth it!
Did you know that between the ages of 6 and 12 years old, a child’s receptive vocabulary (words that they understand) will increase from about 20,000 words to 50,000 words? That’s more than double! There are many ways that we can help enhance the speech and language skills of children, and it does not have to be complicated! There are several easy ways we can enhance the language skills of children using their natural environment and daily routines. For example, when a child comes home from school, ask them how their day was. If the child does not independently engage in conversation about their day, ask them some pinpointed questions:
- “What did you talk about at your morning meeting today?”
- “Did you have gym today? What did you do?”
- “What book are you reading in class? What is it about?”
- Engage in conversation with your child, modeling good language skills (such as complete and complex sentences, higher level vocabulary words, inferential thinking, questioning, etc.).
Another easy way to help enhance language skills is to read with your child - as often as possible! Books are FILLED with good language models to expose your children to! Have discussions out loud with your child about the content of a book or story. Help them make connections between what they read and their own lives. Help your child recognize letter and word patterns, including grammar, prefixes, and suffixes. The most important thing you can do is just get your child thinking and TALKING - about anything! The benefits it will bring for your child will be well worth it!
Exxon Mobil Awards STEM Grant to Westview School--Updated 3/04/2019
Thanks to Exxon Mobil Corporation for their recent Education Grant to Westview School for $500. The grant program is intended to promote learning in the areas of Math and Science.
Once again, the managers of "Bucky's Express" Mobil station at 1000 N. Wood Dale Road chose Westview School to be the recipient of this grant for the sixth consecutive year.
Our staff continue to implement what are known as the Next Generation Science Standards. These standards are rigorous, reflect the need for critical thinking and problem solving skills, and require schools to provide students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, also known as STEM subjects.
New curricular units to teach students according to these standards are in the process of being developed and implemented. The funds from the grant will also support the purchase of materials for our Maker Space which allows for children to explore tinkering, designing, and building a variety of things to solve problems and foster creativity!
Once again, the managers of "Bucky's Express" Mobil station at 1000 N. Wood Dale Road chose Westview School to be the recipient of this grant for the sixth consecutive year.
Our staff continue to implement what are known as the Next Generation Science Standards. These standards are rigorous, reflect the need for critical thinking and problem solving skills, and require schools to provide students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, also known as STEM subjects.
New curricular units to teach students according to these standards are in the process of being developed and implemented. The funds from the grant will also support the purchase of materials for our Maker Space which allows for children to explore tinkering, designing, and building a variety of things to solve problems and foster creativity!
What's Happening in Physical Education at Westview? --Updated 02/18/2019
Submitted by Mr. Alex Serluco, Physical Education Teacher
Another month has gone by and it is still freezing outside! I know it is a challenge to stay active in these months, but there are still ways to get that daily physical activity in. Check out this article to learn more!
I’m excited to announce that the first after school sports session is full! Starting later this month I will be leading 4th & 5th grade boys and girls on the basics of basketball. During the months of April and May there will be two more free after school sport sessions, that will include running and soccer. I strongly encourage you to consider signing up your son or daughter for this. It is a great opportunity to introduce students to a more in-depth look at different sports and physical activities. The sign-ups for running will begin March 11th and soccer will be at a later date.
Another event that I am excited to announce is Westview’s participation in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge! This is a fundraiser to help fund research on heart disease. This is an optional opportunity for any student at Westview. Information will be sent home on February 21st and the fundraising will go for 3 weeks. To culminate the event, we will be hosting a 3 on 3 basketball tournament at Westview for boys and girls in grades 4 & 5. This will take place on the afternoon/evening of Friday, March 15th.
Important Reminders for Physical Education Class at School:
Healthy Snack Idea! (Recipe for 3 minute Hummus)
Ingredients
I’m excited to announce that the first after school sports session is full! Starting later this month I will be leading 4th & 5th grade boys and girls on the basics of basketball. During the months of April and May there will be two more free after school sport sessions, that will include running and soccer. I strongly encourage you to consider signing up your son or daughter for this. It is a great opportunity to introduce students to a more in-depth look at different sports and physical activities. The sign-ups for running will begin March 11th and soccer will be at a later date.
Another event that I am excited to announce is Westview’s participation in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge! This is a fundraiser to help fund research on heart disease. This is an optional opportunity for any student at Westview. Information will be sent home on February 21st and the fundraising will go for 3 weeks. To culminate the event, we will be hosting a 3 on 3 basketball tournament at Westview for boys and girls in grades 4 & 5. This will take place on the afternoon/evening of Friday, March 15th.
Important Reminders for Physical Education Class at School:
- Please, please, please have students bring proper gym shoes on the days they have PE! Boots make it very difficult to participate in the different activities we do, and track snow onto the gym floor.
- If you would like to find out more information on what Kids Heart Challenge is, the link to the American Heart Association’s home page is HERE.
- I posted this last month, but HERE is the link again for the article on nutrition quackery and how to avoid the dangers of it.
Healthy Snack Idea! (Recipe for 3 minute Hummus)
Ingredients
- 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained with liquid reserved
- ⅓ cup chickpea liquid (or more, as needed)
- ½ cup tahini
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Fresh parsley
- Add all the ingredients to your Vitamix or high powered blender and secure the lid. Remove the lid cap and insert the tamper
- Turn the blender on high for 30 seconds (or more for creamier) and use the tamper to push the hummus into the blades. Add more chickpea liquid if desired for a softer hummus
- Add the hummus to a serving plate and garnish with olive oil, paprika, and fresh parsley.
Indoor Activity Suggestions for Families During Winter--Updated 01/14/2019
Submitted by Mrs. Katie Berger, Special Education Teacher
The long winter months can make us feel like we're trapped in our homes without many options for activities, but it doesn't have to be that way! There are many fun and educational options out there for families.
- Wood Dale Public Library offers many programs for children throughout the season, such as Battle of the Books, knitting classes, tutoring and internet safety classes.
- Create a town in a cardboard box: If you have a giant cardboard box, why not draw a town on the bottom of the box, with roads, tracks, bridges, parks, car-parks, etc.? Add some wooden building blocks, cars, trains and some wooden/plastic animals. Let your kid’s imagination run wild. Older kids could help with decorating/creating the scene.
- Make some music--get all your instruments out or make some cheap versions, using kitchen utensils (most popular in our house are pots, wooden spoons, tins, spatula) and make some “music”
- Invite a friend over and have a board game tournament
- Share a family recipe
- Write a letter and mail it to a friend or relative
- Have a Lego-Building Contest
- Create an indoor obstacle course
Surviving the Winter with a Student with ADHD--Updated 12/18/2018
Submitted by Stephen P. Hovey, Special Education Teacher
Recently, I took my family to our church with the rest of the families in our Parish. All of the students were dressed in their everyday school uniforms and parents in their Sunday best. There was an energy in the air that was electric and the kids were so excited to see each other after a cold weekend of being cooped up in the house.
As everyone settled in and mass began it became obvious that the young boy sitting directly behind me was going to have a difficult time attending to the service. After arranging all of his supplies and asking roughly ten to twelve clarifying questions about what was going on around him he began his routine of switching from one activity to the next and talking all the while. I listened closely to him and his mother speak and as a teacher I soon recognized that he most likely had ADHD.
Thirty minutes had passed and the boy had completed a 100’s Chart, read two books (out loud) and assembled some type of Lego set. As this continued it was obvious that the movement and loud talking was taking a toll on the people sitting around them, including my family. Just then I heard the mother of the boy take a deep breath and exhale into what turned into somewhat of a muffled cry. At this point I realized that the toll taken on her was far greater than anything anyone around them could possibly imagine.
It was a humbling moment as I explained this to my children on the way home and it prompted me to find ways to help parents find ways to help keep their children stay active and healthy throughout the winter months.
The following suggestions have been made by Behavior Specialist, Jacqueline Seinfeld.
As everyone settled in and mass began it became obvious that the young boy sitting directly behind me was going to have a difficult time attending to the service. After arranging all of his supplies and asking roughly ten to twelve clarifying questions about what was going on around him he began his routine of switching from one activity to the next and talking all the while. I listened closely to him and his mother speak and as a teacher I soon recognized that he most likely had ADHD.
Thirty minutes had passed and the boy had completed a 100’s Chart, read two books (out loud) and assembled some type of Lego set. As this continued it was obvious that the movement and loud talking was taking a toll on the people sitting around them, including my family. Just then I heard the mother of the boy take a deep breath and exhale into what turned into somewhat of a muffled cry. At this point I realized that the toll taken on her was far greater than anything anyone around them could possibly imagine.
It was a humbling moment as I explained this to my children on the way home and it prompted me to find ways to help parents find ways to help keep their children stay active and healthy throughout the winter months.
The following suggestions have been made by Behavior Specialist, Jacqueline Seinfeld.
- Exercise: Exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety associated with ADHD. Even if you don’t feel like moving, you will feel so much better after you do.
- Go outdoors: Even though it is cold, still go outside for 10-15 minutes. The daylight helps regulate your circadian rhythm and increase your serotonin and dopamine levels. You could even combine your exercise with your outdoor time.
- Eat a clean diet: Eating more starches and sugar than usual can cause depression. It is a way to self-medicate. When you eat carbs, you get an increase in dopamine and you feel better. However, the feeling good is short lived and can often lead to weight gain and fatigue; which makes you feel worse. Instead, eat a clean, healthy ADHD-friendly diet with a lot of fresh fruit, vegetables and lean protein.
- Sleep: Depression plays havoc on your sleep cycle. You can find yourself barely sleeping or sleeping way too much. However the suggestions will help.
- Use a Light Box: Using a light box every day for 30 minutes is very helpful as the light curbs the release of Melatonin. Do a quick google search to find a supplier in your area. Don’t wait until you start to feel depressed to use it. Start as soon as the evenings start to lengthen in the early fall.
- Take a Vitamin D Supplement: There is a connection between low vitamin D levels and ADHD as well as low levels of vitamin D. You can get your Vitamin D levels checked with your doctor.
- Take prescribed medications: Visit your doctor and discuss your symptoms with them. Antidepressants might be part of your treatment plan. Also, it is important to continue to take any other prescribed medications.
The Warm-Hearted Westview Gazette Members--Updated 12/6/2018
Submitted by Mrs. Papanicolaou, Westview Gazette Sponsor
Westview Gazette is up and running, and we have thirteen members working hard to make our school newspaper a success!
They do the following to make it successful: Giving up their time at least once a week, during recess, to write their articles. One expectation is that the students in the club work from home to gather information on their articles to be prepared for the next meeting time. They also write their articles using their Chromebooks, in which they have to research information to complete their articles. Together, they go through a revising and editing process to ensure the edition is ready for viewing.
They are excited to be writing articles about various subjects. Some of the subjects include articles on the endangered or extinct animals, sports such as soccer and basketball, gaming, famous singers, and some “How to” articles. It takes everyone working together to make these articles great and they put in a lot of time and effort to do this. These editions are driven by student choice and I enjoy facilitating their learning on a weekly basis.
Our first edition will be published soon and posted to the Westview School web site!
They do the following to make it successful: Giving up their time at least once a week, during recess, to write their articles. One expectation is that the students in the club work from home to gather information on their articles to be prepared for the next meeting time. They also write their articles using their Chromebooks, in which they have to research information to complete their articles. Together, they go through a revising and editing process to ensure the edition is ready for viewing.
They are excited to be writing articles about various subjects. Some of the subjects include articles on the endangered or extinct animals, sports such as soccer and basketball, gaming, famous singers, and some “How to” articles. It takes everyone working together to make these articles great and they put in a lot of time and effort to do this. These editions are driven by student choice and I enjoy facilitating their learning on a weekly basis.
Our first edition will be published soon and posted to the Westview School web site!
Art Club Students Design Ceramic Fish to Create Unique Mural--Updated 11/26/18
Submitted by Ms. Lauren Cipkin, Art Teacher
This year in Art Club students are working together to create a ceramic mural!
Students read the picture book Only One You by Linda Kranz and discussed the book’s message that everyone is special in their own way and to be proud of our differences.
After our discussion we took inspiration from Kranz’s “rockfish” illustrated from the book and started to make our own. Student will be creating their “rockfish” out of clay and painting them. These fish will eventually come together in a mural that will be proudly displayed at Westview!
Students read the picture book Only One You by Linda Kranz and discussed the book’s message that everyone is special in their own way and to be proud of our differences.
After our discussion we took inspiration from Kranz’s “rockfish” illustrated from the book and started to make our own. Student will be creating their “rockfish” out of clay and painting them. These fish will eventually come together in a mural that will be proudly displayed at Westview!
Title I Reading Intervention Program Boosts Comprehension Skills--Updated 10/29/18
Submitted by Mrs. Erin King, Title I Intermediate Intervention Teacher
I am excited to be a part of Westview Elementary School as the Title I Intermediate Reading Intervention Teacher. I spend my days working with small groups of students to help boost their reading skills. I am excited to share information with students and their families in order to help support student reading achievement!
The Title I Reading students and I are off to a great start this year. We have been focusing on our routines, setting daily reading goals and using our reading strategies. It is so exciting to see the students working independently as well as in a small group to lead each other to success! We already had the opportunity to explore the Wood Dale Public Library bookmobile and get a book to read and share.
It is very important to read at home. Even though your child can read on his/her own, it is important to continue to read/discuss reading with your child for 15 minutes a day. Short,regular sessions encourage the reading habit.
Use these 15 minutes in a variety of ways:
The Title I Reading students and I are off to a great start this year. We have been focusing on our routines, setting daily reading goals and using our reading strategies. It is so exciting to see the students working independently as well as in a small group to lead each other to success! We already had the opportunity to explore the Wood Dale Public Library bookmobile and get a book to read and share.
It is very important to read at home. Even though your child can read on his/her own, it is important to continue to read/discuss reading with your child for 15 minutes a day. Short,regular sessions encourage the reading habit.
Use these 15 minutes in a variety of ways:
- Have your child read aloud to you.
- Read aloud to your child.
- Read the same page silently and then discuss it.
- Share the reading time by sitting together, each reading anything that is of interest, jokes, recipes, sports, poetry, biographies, etc.
- At the end of 15 minutes, if your child wants to continue reading, by all means encourage your child to do so.
- Either parent, or both, can be a reading partner- even grandparents, friends, and other relatives.
- Build the right climate. Make it pleasant.
- Create excitement.
- Offer positive comments.
- Read and discuss often.
Fifteen Minutes a day goes a long way!
Exploration, Experimentation & Collaboration in Remodeled LMC-updated 9/18/2018
Submitted by: Mrs. Lisa Acord, LMC Director & Schoolwide Enrichment Model Consultant
If you have visited Westview’s LMC since the start of school you may have noticed the many wonderful changes occurring. Beginning back in 2014 we recognized that our school library had the capability of supporting our 21st century learners by creating space that moves beyond research to become collaborative for students and teachers to engage through exploration, experimentation and collaboration.
In our early stages I traveled with Westview students to Johnson Elementary and Blackhawk Junior High to visit their spaces and talk with students and staff about their transformations. The students talked to their classmates and created lists of the type of changes they thought we needed at Westview. Along with District 7 administration I visited Fenton High School, and Hadley Junior High in Glen Ellyn. A visit was also paid to Elsie Johnson Elementary in Carol Stream with the other WD7 LMC Directors.
We involved students, staff, and parents in our planning process. The overall consensus was to create a space that would be the center of inquiry, project based learning, creating and sharing. Shareholders wanted spaces that were flexible and could easily be reconfigured to engage students and teachers for different learning experiences.
We created different zones within the LMC each with an intended purpose.
In our early stages I traveled with Westview students to Johnson Elementary and Blackhawk Junior High to visit their spaces and talk with students and staff about their transformations. The students talked to their classmates and created lists of the type of changes they thought we needed at Westview. Along with District 7 administration I visited Fenton High School, and Hadley Junior High in Glen Ellyn. A visit was also paid to Elsie Johnson Elementary in Carol Stream with the other WD7 LMC Directors.
We involved students, staff, and parents in our planning process. The overall consensus was to create a space that would be the center of inquiry, project based learning, creating and sharing. Shareholders wanted spaces that were flexible and could easily be reconfigured to engage students and teachers for different learning experiences.
We created different zones within the LMC each with an intended purpose.
- Circulation/Information zone
- Library materials zone
- Collaborative flexible soft seating community zone
- Collaborative meeting area with flexible tables
- Media zone (media table, flat screen, whiteboard with projector)
- MakerSpace zone
- Defined teacher work zone
- Defined Band zone
- Bi-level small group collaboration zone
Westview Community Helpers Develop Leadership Skills--Updated 9/4/2018
The Westview Community Helpers are a group of 5th grade students who work hard to make sure that our school community is a safe place to be.
Safety Patrollers are trained to assist with supervision of classmates during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal. These students apply etiquette standards while raising, lowering and storing the American Flag every morning and afternoon. Students participate before or after school according to an alternating schedule. The Community Helpers have the responsibility of training new patrollers and making sure their classmates understand the new role.
While students are not on patrol duty, you can find them helping staff with various tasks during their lunch or recess. Some examples of the things they do are: watering plants, cleaning and organizing, filing office mail, reading to younger students or listening to them read. The list goes on! These 5th graders are extremely helpful during the school day.
The Westview Community Helpers are expected to demonstrate the pillars of character at all times. They serve as role models to our school community and work hard to make sure all students are respectful, responsible, and safe!
This program is available to all 5th grade students so if your son or daughter is interested, please tell them to speak to Mrs. Diaz-Dermont or Miss Kelly for more information!
Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview Elementary School!
Safety Patrollers are trained to assist with supervision of classmates during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal. These students apply etiquette standards while raising, lowering and storing the American Flag every morning and afternoon. Students participate before or after school according to an alternating schedule. The Community Helpers have the responsibility of training new patrollers and making sure their classmates understand the new role.
While students are not on patrol duty, you can find them helping staff with various tasks during their lunch or recess. Some examples of the things they do are: watering plants, cleaning and organizing, filing office mail, reading to younger students or listening to them read. The list goes on! These 5th graders are extremely helpful during the school day.
The Westview Community Helpers are expected to demonstrate the pillars of character at all times. They serve as role models to our school community and work hard to make sure all students are respectful, responsible, and safe!
This program is available to all 5th grade students so if your son or daughter is interested, please tell them to speak to Mrs. Diaz-Dermont or Miss Kelly for more information!
Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview Elementary School!
Welcome to the 2018-2019 School Year!--(Updated 8/28/2018)
To better prepare parents to be partners with teachers in their child’s education, we are continuing with the tradition of holding "Bring Your Parents to School Night" after the school year begins.
Each grade level will provide an hour-long interactive presentation for parents, involving students and their Chromebooks, within the first couple weeks of school. Each individual grade level Curriculum Night is noted below:
We continue to be excited about the opportunity that this format presents for parents to be equipped to assist their child for success throughout the upcoming school year! Please mark your calendar now, and make every effort to attend. Your child should attend this event with you.
Handbooks, calendars, and all other paper materials typically distributed were sent home with students on the first day of school, Monday, August 20th. If necessary, additional copies of these items may be picked up from the Westview School Office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., or call and we'll get it in your child's home folder. If there is anything else with which we may assist your family to have a smooth start to the school year, please contact the office at 630-766-8040.
At the end of each month, we will send home paper copies of pages from this online newsletter, along with the breakfast and lunch menus. This can also be found online at http://westviewschoolnews.weebly.com/.
The faculty and I sincerely look forward to working with you and your family as partners in education!
Each grade level will provide an hour-long interactive presentation for parents, involving students and their Chromebooks, within the first couple weeks of school. Each individual grade level Curriculum Night is noted below:
- 3rd Grade: Tuesday, September 4th @ 7:00 p.m.
- 4th Grade: Thursday, August 30th @ 7:00 p.m.
- 5th Grade: Tuesday, August 28th @ 7:00 p.m.
We continue to be excited about the opportunity that this format presents for parents to be equipped to assist their child for success throughout the upcoming school year! Please mark your calendar now, and make every effort to attend. Your child should attend this event with you.
Handbooks, calendars, and all other paper materials typically distributed were sent home with students on the first day of school, Monday, August 20th. If necessary, additional copies of these items may be picked up from the Westview School Office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., or call and we'll get it in your child's home folder. If there is anything else with which we may assist your family to have a smooth start to the school year, please contact the office at 630-766-8040.
At the end of each month, we will send home paper copies of pages from this online newsletter, along with the breakfast and lunch menus. This can also be found online at http://westviewschoolnews.weebly.com/.
The faculty and I sincerely look forward to working with you and your family as partners in education!
Managing Screen Time with Children--Setting up Positive Habits--Updated 8/28/2018
Submitted by: Mrs. Kelly Marks, School Social Worker Information adapted from Common Sense Media & IMom web sites
We have all been there trying to manage our children’s screen time. It can be the toughest and most tiring thing for a parent to say-- “no, no, no!” No, as in no you may not use your PS4, Ipad, Playstation, etc. Even when you say no a million times, your kids can still come back to you again and again and again with the same kind of question, “Can I watch a movie? Can I use my iPad? Can I play Xbox? Can I play Fortnite?”
Have you ever struggled with how to limit screen time? The best way to say no to screen time is to say yes… with conditions. First, come up with your limits. These can be as simple as a set amount of time a day or as complex as different limits on different devices. Perhaps use an “If…..then” strategy. If you read for 30 minutes then you can have your screen time; if you clean your room then you can have your screen time, If you are active and playing outside then you can have your screen time. Don’t forget to be clear on those time limits as well.
The challenge is that there are different types of screen time activities. Try to remember that it is still important for healthy development that kids balance their lives with enriching experiences off of their screens.
Have you ever struggled with how to limit screen time? The best way to say no to screen time is to say yes… with conditions. First, come up with your limits. These can be as simple as a set amount of time a day or as complex as different limits on different devices. Perhaps use an “If…..then” strategy. If you read for 30 minutes then you can have your screen time; if you clean your room then you can have your screen time, If you are active and playing outside then you can have your screen time. Don’t forget to be clear on those time limits as well.
The challenge is that there are different types of screen time activities. Try to remember that it is still important for healthy development that kids balance their lives with enriching experiences off of their screens.
Details for Last Days of School --Thanks for a Wonderful 2017-18!
While we’re still focused on learning at school, these last several days are full of excitement, celebration, and anticipation!
Chromebooks, cases and chargers should be returned by May 29th. Also, all library materials should be returned as soon as possible.
The afternoon of May 30th will include a Recognition Ceremony for all 5th grade students, and parents are invited to join us at 1:30 p.m. in the gymnasium.
Please know that your child will be cleaning out his or her desk and/or locker and bringing home all belongings on Wednesday, May 30th.
Thursday, May 31st will be our annual Field Day--Rain or Shine! Many thanks to our numerous volunteers as well as families who have committed to donating food and beverages for our staff and volunteers--we couldn't do it without you!
On Friday, June 1st, students should report to school empty-handed (unless they bring lunch from home). They will be given their report card and participate in an all-school music event in the morning followed by a few final activities with their class and teacher before dismissal at 3:30 p.m. Students who purchased yearbooks in advance will receive them on June 1st. A limited number of yearbooks will be available for purchase in the school office for $20 after advance purchase copies have been distributed. All teachers will assist with outside supervision, to ensure that all children begin their summer safely, and parent cooperation is appreciated!
Thanks for a great school year!
FYI--The Westview School Office remains open for much of June and August. Please call ahead at 630-766-8040 if there is anything that we can do to assist you or your family during the summer. If you have any difficulty reaching someone at Westview, please contact the Wood Dale School District 7 Board of Education Offices at 630-595-9510.
Chromebooks, cases and chargers should be returned by May 29th. Also, all library materials should be returned as soon as possible.
The afternoon of May 30th will include a Recognition Ceremony for all 5th grade students, and parents are invited to join us at 1:30 p.m. in the gymnasium.
Please know that your child will be cleaning out his or her desk and/or locker and bringing home all belongings on Wednesday, May 30th.
Thursday, May 31st will be our annual Field Day--Rain or Shine! Many thanks to our numerous volunteers as well as families who have committed to donating food and beverages for our staff and volunteers--we couldn't do it without you!
On Friday, June 1st, students should report to school empty-handed (unless they bring lunch from home). They will be given their report card and participate in an all-school music event in the morning followed by a few final activities with their class and teacher before dismissal at 3:30 p.m. Students who purchased yearbooks in advance will receive them on June 1st. A limited number of yearbooks will be available for purchase in the school office for $20 after advance purchase copies have been distributed. All teachers will assist with outside supervision, to ensure that all children begin their summer safely, and parent cooperation is appreciated!
Thanks for a great school year!
FYI--The Westview School Office remains open for much of June and August. Please call ahead at 630-766-8040 if there is anything that we can do to assist you or your family during the summer. If you have any difficulty reaching someone at Westview, please contact the Wood Dale School District 7 Board of Education Offices at 630-595-9510.
"Find a Book" for Summer Reading Suggestions
Promote summer reading through the "Find a Book" search tool. The Find a Book utility HERE, uses a student's reading score, reported as a Lexile measure, to provide a Lexile range and corresponding list of texts within that range. Users of the Find a Book search tool can also find appropriate books without a Lexile measure through a search using the child's grade level and comfort with the typical reading materials at that grade level.
The search utility will produce a starting Lexile range that can be further refined.
Find a Book also offers a Spanish option that allows users to search all of the titles with Spanish Lexile measures. More information on Spanish Lexile measures is available HERE.
All students should have a lexile score on their MAP results that will be included in envelopes containing Reports of Student Progress distributed on the last day of school, June 1st.
The search utility will produce a starting Lexile range that can be further refined.
Find a Book also offers a Spanish option that allows users to search all of the titles with Spanish Lexile measures. More information on Spanish Lexile measures is available HERE.
All students should have a lexile score on their MAP results that will be included in envelopes containing Reports of Student Progress distributed on the last day of school, June 1st.
Keeping Your Child's Brain from "Taking a Vacation"
Adapted from "Stop the Summer Brain Drain!" by Ann Svenson (www.FamilyEducation.com)
Kids Lose 1 to 3 Months of Learning
Did your child's brain shrink last summer? Probably not, but it may have shifted into reverse, according to a study by Dr. Harris Cooper, professor of psychology at the University of Missouri-Columbia. The study found that when students return to school after a long summer vacation, they've lost one to three months worth of learning.
Kids Lose Most in Math
The decline is more detrimental for math than it is for reading. "All students lose math skills," says Cooper. It may be because community and home environments give kids more opportunities to practice reading than math. The study also found that income has an impact on how much a student loses or gains in reading. Middle-class children actually gained in reading over the summer, while lower-income students experienced losses. Cooper attributes this to the enrichment activities that many middle-class kids participate in over the summer, such as camp and trips.(See Summer Math Challenge Information HERE)
What You Can Do
Your kids don't have to spend the summer stuck in reverse. "Parents can help their kids retain educational skills," says Cooper. He suggests the following five tips to kick off a learning-filled summer:
1. Keep lots of books around and make regular trips to the library. Most libraries schedule special summer events for kids. Sign up your family! (http://www.wooddalelibrary.org/)
2. Think about what your kids may be learning next year when you plan the family vacation. Talk with teachers to find out what they'll be covering in class. If it's a unit on the civil war for example, you may want to schedule a visit to Gettysburg. If it's geology, visit a national park.
3. Keep math in mind. Since kids lose more math skills than anything else over the summer, try to do some special planning to find math-related activities. For example, if you can't decide whether to sign your child up for "Shakespeare's Theater" or "Math Magic" at the local community center, go with the math.
4. Consider summer school or tutoring. Struggling kids can get a lot of different kinds of help from these programs. Summer school can also enrich and accelerate learning in areas where kids show a special interest.
5. Remember to keep it fun! You don't want to sour your kids on learning during the summer break.
Did your child's brain shrink last summer? Probably not, but it may have shifted into reverse, according to a study by Dr. Harris Cooper, professor of psychology at the University of Missouri-Columbia. The study found that when students return to school after a long summer vacation, they've lost one to three months worth of learning.
Kids Lose Most in Math
The decline is more detrimental for math than it is for reading. "All students lose math skills," says Cooper. It may be because community and home environments give kids more opportunities to practice reading than math. The study also found that income has an impact on how much a student loses or gains in reading. Middle-class children actually gained in reading over the summer, while lower-income students experienced losses. Cooper attributes this to the enrichment activities that many middle-class kids participate in over the summer, such as camp and trips.(See Summer Math Challenge Information HERE)
What You Can Do
Your kids don't have to spend the summer stuck in reverse. "Parents can help their kids retain educational skills," says Cooper. He suggests the following five tips to kick off a learning-filled summer:
1. Keep lots of books around and make regular trips to the library. Most libraries schedule special summer events for kids. Sign up your family! (http://www.wooddalelibrary.org/)
2. Think about what your kids may be learning next year when you plan the family vacation. Talk with teachers to find out what they'll be covering in class. If it's a unit on the civil war for example, you may want to schedule a visit to Gettysburg. If it's geology, visit a national park.
3. Keep math in mind. Since kids lose more math skills than anything else over the summer, try to do some special planning to find math-related activities. For example, if you can't decide whether to sign your child up for "Shakespeare's Theater" or "Math Magic" at the local community center, go with the math.
4. Consider summer school or tutoring. Struggling kids can get a lot of different kinds of help from these programs. Summer school can also enrich and accelerate learning in areas where kids show a special interest.
5. Remember to keep it fun! You don't want to sour your kids on learning during the summer break.
Westview Enjoys New Tree in Honor of City of Wood Dale Arbor Day Celebration
Many thanks to the City of Wood Dale for donating a tree which was planted at Westview on April 27th to mark the annual celebration of Arbor Day! Students from our 3rd and 4th Grade Green Teams chose from a variety of species offered by the city. After reviewing information about the types of trees many weeks ago, the students voted and selected a Peking Lilac tree which will eventually grow to be about 20 feet tall and have light purple blooms. The tree was planted by the City of Wood Dale Public Works Department just outside of the "recess doors" used daily by all students.
In honor of the planting, children worked collaboratively to prepare a piece of original artwork and a poem which will be on display in the school cafeteria for the remainder of the year for classmates to enjoy!
In honor of the planting, children worked collaboratively to prepare a piece of original artwork and a poem which will be on display in the school cafeteria for the remainder of the year for classmates to enjoy!
Why it is a Good Idea to Have “Face Time” With Your Child--updated 4/27/18
With summer around the corner, families have a wonderful chance to spend quality time together and strengthen bonds. The bond between child and parent is so important and we would like to suggest some fun activities that can be planned to strengthen that bond.
It is crucial for a child to feel loved and valued by their parent. This bond creates strong self esteem in the child. Children with stronger self esteem usually have stronger academic and social skills than their counterparts. Spending time with your child is the perfect opportunity to model good behavior and manners. When you spend quality time with your children, identify their strengths as well as begin to identify areas for improvement. Through this, you can help them grow as a person by building on their strengths and helping them reach their full potential. Here are some cool ideas you can try:
It is crucial for a child to feel loved and valued by their parent. This bond creates strong self esteem in the child. Children with stronger self esteem usually have stronger academic and social skills than their counterparts. Spending time with your child is the perfect opportunity to model good behavior and manners. When you spend quality time with your children, identify their strengths as well as begin to identify areas for improvement. Through this, you can help them grow as a person by building on their strengths and helping them reach their full potential. Here are some cool ideas you can try:
- Cook or bake together
- Bond with a family pet
- Play sports
- Try your child's hobbies
- Attend a concert, show or movie together
- Shop together
- Have a family game night
- Go on a bike ride or walk together
- Read a book together – this is especially great for younger children
- Make a craft or start a project together
Peer Mediators Promote Peace One Conflict at a Time--Updated April 3, 2018
Submitted by: Mrs. Kelly Marks, School Social Worker & Peer Mediation Sponsor
Westview School has six 5th grade students that serve as our Peer Mediators. These students have completed several months of training allowing them to help the students of Westview to help solve their conflicts. Mediation is a communication process in which a third party (our trained 5th graders) help students to work together to resolve conflicts peaceably. Peer mediation is designed to teach students to find alternative ways to resolve conflicts and to encourage them to solve their own problems in a constructive fashion.
A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation. The mediation will take place in the school library during lunch and recess to help 3rd, 4th, and 5th students work out the problem and reach an agreement. Students who have used peer mediation have found it helpful because their peers are helping them to resolve their problems instead of having an adult. We're very proud of the following students who contribute to Westview by serving as Peer Mediators this year:
Veronica Cortes Imann Kamran Diamonique Meza Oliwia Michalski Mariflor Rosas Makayla Sao
A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation. The mediation will take place in the school library during lunch and recess to help 3rd, 4th, and 5th students work out the problem and reach an agreement. Students who have used peer mediation have found it helpful because their peers are helping them to resolve their problems instead of having an adult. We're very proud of the following students who contribute to Westview by serving as Peer Mediators this year:
Veronica Cortes Imann Kamran Diamonique Meza Oliwia Michalski Mariflor Rosas Makayla Sao
A Few Notes about Fourth and Fifth Grade Chorus--Updated 3/5/2018
Submitted by: Mr. Bill Thoms, General Music Teacher & Chorus Director
Fourth and Fifth grade chorus meets once a week for 25 minutes each. Fourth grade meets on Fridays during their recess time, while 5th grade meets on Wednesdays during their recess time. Each grade will sing the same music and different music depending on the performance for which we are preparing.
Some of the performances that we have sung at are: the Halloween assembly, the Veteran’s Day assembly, and the Winter Choral Concert. At the Winter Choral Concert, not only did we get the opportunity to perform for our families, friends, and teachers, but we also were able to combine with the Wood Dale Junior High School choirs to form one big choir. It was a wonderful opportunity for our 4th and 5th graders to see where they will end up in a few years, should they decide to remain committed to singing!
In chorus rehearsal, we focus on stretching exercises, breathing exercises, and vocal warm-ups. Some of these vocal warm-ups consist of: Mommy Made Me Mash My M & M’s, ziggy ziggy ziggy ziggy zoom, buzzy buzzy bee, the ABC’s, etc. Ask your choir student to demonstrate some of these warm-ups for you! After our warm-ups, we begin singing our music. Each week, we learn a new song to build up our repertoire. As we approach a performance, we will select a few numbers to sing. 4th graders sing songs where everyone sings the same music, where as 5th graders sing songs that have different musical parts. This difference in musical parts helps to prepare them for 6th grade chorus.
We have a few more upcoming performances! Please save the date for Westview’s Open House & Ice Cream Social Thursday, May 10th at 6:30 p.m., and at the Westview Volunteer Breakfast Tuesday, May 15th at 8:00 a.m.
Check out mrthomswdsd7.weebly.com to find out all musical happenings in both music class and chorus! Click on the “4th & 5th Grade Chorus” tab to find out all information about chorus performances and practice recordings for students.
Also, check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for recordings of our young choir members!
Some of the performances that we have sung at are: the Halloween assembly, the Veteran’s Day assembly, and the Winter Choral Concert. At the Winter Choral Concert, not only did we get the opportunity to perform for our families, friends, and teachers, but we also were able to combine with the Wood Dale Junior High School choirs to form one big choir. It was a wonderful opportunity for our 4th and 5th graders to see where they will end up in a few years, should they decide to remain committed to singing!
In chorus rehearsal, we focus on stretching exercises, breathing exercises, and vocal warm-ups. Some of these vocal warm-ups consist of: Mommy Made Me Mash My M & M’s, ziggy ziggy ziggy ziggy zoom, buzzy buzzy bee, the ABC’s, etc. Ask your choir student to demonstrate some of these warm-ups for you! After our warm-ups, we begin singing our music. Each week, we learn a new song to build up our repertoire. As we approach a performance, we will select a few numbers to sing. 4th graders sing songs where everyone sings the same music, where as 5th graders sing songs that have different musical parts. This difference in musical parts helps to prepare them for 6th grade chorus.
We have a few more upcoming performances! Please save the date for Westview’s Open House & Ice Cream Social Thursday, May 10th at 6:30 p.m., and at the Westview Volunteer Breakfast Tuesday, May 15th at 8:00 a.m.
Check out mrthomswdsd7.weebly.com to find out all musical happenings in both music class and chorus! Click on the “4th & 5th Grade Chorus” tab to find out all information about chorus performances and practice recordings for students.
Also, check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for recordings of our young choir members!
Westview Elementary School Music Class : What are we up to? --Updated 2/26/18
Submitted by: Mr. Bill Thoms, General Music Teacher
Over these past few months, we have played numerous instruments, we have sung many different songs, and have discovered different types of musical notes. We have played instruments such as: the recorder, hand drums, tubanos, xylophones, metallophones, wood blocks, tambourines, thunder tube, and ratchet to name a few!
Third grade has learned the following songs this year: The Westview School Song, Down to the Baker Shop, A Famous Man, and Shake Dem Halloween Bones to mention just some. We have also been working on learning about eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, quarter rests, half rests, and whole rests. Please ask your student to draw you a picture of these notes and rests and explain what they mean! We will begin learning how to play the recorder in the coming month and students will be bringing home order forms shortly.
Fourth grade has learned the following songs this year: Song of the Instruments, Listen, the Staff Song, Shake the Papaya Down, Hot Cross Buns, Get Down!, and Old Tom White to name a few. We have been working on how to read notes on the staff while singing and playing instruments. We have also learned to create our own unique sentence to remember the note names on the staff! Ask your student to share their very own sentence that helps them remember the names on the staff! Students have also been working very hard passing their recorder playing tests and earning their badges!
Fifth grade has learned the following songs this year: their Outdoor Ed. Songs, Good Morning, Out Goes the Rat, the Pink Panther, Pomme de Reinette, and Skin and Bones to name a few. We have been working on reading music while singing and playing instruments. We also learned about the instrument families and had some help from our classmates in band while learning about their instruments. All students have also been working hard playing on their recorders! We are working towards composing our own songs and performing them in class over the next two months. Students will get a chance to write their own music for many different instruments found in class.
Finally, all students did a fantastic job at our Winter Music Program! I was so proud of all the hard work that the students did to make sure they were prepared for the performance. We spent several weeks in school singing the songs, playing the instruments, and creating movements. The performance would not have been possible without their dedication!
Be sure to check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for all musical happenings in school!
Third grade has learned the following songs this year: The Westview School Song, Down to the Baker Shop, A Famous Man, and Shake Dem Halloween Bones to mention just some. We have also been working on learning about eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, quarter rests, half rests, and whole rests. Please ask your student to draw you a picture of these notes and rests and explain what they mean! We will begin learning how to play the recorder in the coming month and students will be bringing home order forms shortly.
Fourth grade has learned the following songs this year: Song of the Instruments, Listen, the Staff Song, Shake the Papaya Down, Hot Cross Buns, Get Down!, and Old Tom White to name a few. We have been working on how to read notes on the staff while singing and playing instruments. We have also learned to create our own unique sentence to remember the note names on the staff! Ask your student to share their very own sentence that helps them remember the names on the staff! Students have also been working very hard passing their recorder playing tests and earning their badges!
Fifth grade has learned the following songs this year: their Outdoor Ed. Songs, Good Morning, Out Goes the Rat, the Pink Panther, Pomme de Reinette, and Skin and Bones to name a few. We have been working on reading music while singing and playing instruments. We also learned about the instrument families and had some help from our classmates in band while learning about their instruments. All students have also been working hard playing on their recorders! We are working towards composing our own songs and performing them in class over the next two months. Students will get a chance to write their own music for many different instruments found in class.
Finally, all students did a fantastic job at our Winter Music Program! I was so proud of all the hard work that the students did to make sure they were prepared for the performance. We spent several weeks in school singing the songs, playing the instruments, and creating movements. The performance would not have been possible without their dedication!
Be sure to check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for all musical happenings in school!
Kids Connect with Coding at 4th Grade Computer Science Club--Updated 2/20/2018
Submitted by: Diana Z. and Alissa W., 4th Grade Computer Science Club Members
Computer Science is a club at Westview school. We use Tynker as the website for kids that helps us learn how to code and make games. Kids learn and explore the world of coding.
Here are some of the most popular coding challenges: Barbie Pet Vet, Candy Quest, and Puppy Adventure. When we work hard and stay focused we earn badges and level up as we learn.
There are beginner activities. If those are too easy you can go to intermediate activities and if those are not challenging, you can try the advanced activities. The more you stay on task the more lessons you complete.
One of our friends that goes to Computer Science Club is Crystal W. and she says, “I really like computer science!” She told us some things that she does are making characters to make her own games. She said she likes to play Candy Quest which is one of our most popular games.
Another one of our friends that goes to Computer Science is Michelle R. She says she likes playing Candy Quest and Barbie Pet Vet which are two of our most popular coding activities. She also likes making characters. Another one of our fellow friends that goes to Computer Science Club is Amy K. She says she likes to design characters and work on coding games. Our computer science coach is Mr. DiPalermo. If you join, I hope you have fun learning how to code!
Here are some of the most popular coding challenges: Barbie Pet Vet, Candy Quest, and Puppy Adventure. When we work hard and stay focused we earn badges and level up as we learn.
There are beginner activities. If those are too easy you can go to intermediate activities and if those are not challenging, you can try the advanced activities. The more you stay on task the more lessons you complete.
One of our friends that goes to Computer Science Club is Crystal W. and she says, “I really like computer science!” She told us some things that she does are making characters to make her own games. She said she likes to play Candy Quest which is one of our most popular games.
Another one of our friends that goes to Computer Science is Michelle R. She says she likes playing Candy Quest and Barbie Pet Vet which are two of our most popular coding activities. She also likes making characters. Another one of our fellow friends that goes to Computer Science Club is Amy K. She says she likes to design characters and work on coding games. Our computer science coach is Mr. DiPalermo. If you join, I hope you have fun learning how to code!
Westview Student Artists Showcase Winter Masterpieces! --Updated 1/30/2018
Submitted by Ms. Lauren Cipkin, Art Teacher
3rd graders just finished up their snowmen mixed media projects. We talked about how artists create a good composition and different ways we draw the snowman to give it more interest. Students then read the book Snowmen at Night and took inspiration from the book to create a colorful glow around their snowman using value. Students worked really hard on these projects and they look awesome!
4th grade students learned all about the Aurora Borealis (or northern lights) and the beautiful colors they create in the sky. Using chalk pastels, they created their own landscape making sure to add details and reflections.
5th graders are create a project inspired by Op art, where artist play and optical illusion on the eye. They are combining that with one point perspective which is a tool artists use to create depth in their artwork.
Physical Education Plays Key Role in Positive Start to New Year--Updated 11/27/17
Submitted by Mr. Vito Monteleone, Physical Education Teacher
Physical Education at Westview has had a great start to the new school year!
We have finished our first round of FitnessGram testing. Students have been tested on a variety of components, such as cardio respiratory endurance (heart/lung) via pacer test, muscular endurance and muscular strength (sit-ups and push-up test), as well as flexibility testing via the sit and reach test. Students have also participated in soccer related skills, football skills, and cooperation games.
Some fifth grade students have taken on the role of student coaches/as well as being good role models for our third grade students. When your daughter/son comes home, be sure to ask them what they are doing in physical education class, just as you would for reading/math/social studies.
One of my main priorities is to have all of our students remain physically active throughout their lives and to see the importance it has on their health as well as their mental well being. Here is an excerpt from an article you might find interesting, along with the link below:
“As the amount of physical activity children get in and out of school has declined in recent years, youngsters have become more overweight and less fit. To help reverse that trend, some fitness experts say, physical education classes should be revamped so there is less emphasis on team sports and more on lifelong fitness activities. Included: Descriptions of physical education programs that stress fitness, health awareness, and lifelong exercise habits.” (From: http://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/curr346.shtml)
If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Email: [email protected]
We have finished our first round of FitnessGram testing. Students have been tested on a variety of components, such as cardio respiratory endurance (heart/lung) via pacer test, muscular endurance and muscular strength (sit-ups and push-up test), as well as flexibility testing via the sit and reach test. Students have also participated in soccer related skills, football skills, and cooperation games.
Some fifth grade students have taken on the role of student coaches/as well as being good role models for our third grade students. When your daughter/son comes home, be sure to ask them what they are doing in physical education class, just as you would for reading/math/social studies.
One of my main priorities is to have all of our students remain physically active throughout their lives and to see the importance it has on their health as well as their mental well being. Here is an excerpt from an article you might find interesting, along with the link below:
“As the amount of physical activity children get in and out of school has declined in recent years, youngsters have become more overweight and less fit. To help reverse that trend, some fitness experts say, physical education classes should be revamped so there is less emphasis on team sports and more on lifelong fitness activities. Included: Descriptions of physical education programs that stress fitness, health awareness, and lifelong exercise habits.” (From: http://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/curr346.shtml)
If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Email: [email protected]
MakerSpace Re-Defines Westview Library into Active Learning Space--Updated 10/26
Submitted by Mrs. Lisa Acord, LMC Director & Schoolwide Enrichment Model Consultant
Our library at Westview School is an active hub!
We opened our MakerSpace last year as a student learning area to promote inquiry, giving students experiences to encourage creativity, opportunities to solve problems, and find answers to questions.
Our MakerSpace encourages curiosity and working collaboratively. The resources that we have been able to purchase through grants and district resources have helped guide our students’ inquiry and exploration.
Since our third graders are new to MakerSpace they have been actively learning the stations and expectations. They have participated in team engineering challenges such as; “Can your team build a spider web bridge that is strong enough to hold 12 spiders with the materials on your table?” Teams had 20 minutes to create a blueprint and carry out their plan.
Learning to code is another skill students learn and practice in our MakerSpace. So far the 3rd graders have coded to create apps on their Chromebook and coded to help our robot Dash get through a student designed maze.
Our fourth and fifth graders are old pros in the MakerSpace area!
They are enjoying many new stations that have recently been added and working hard in Tinkercad (a computer assisted drawing program) designing objects to be printed in our 3D printer! Our fifth graders have created a Kindness Rock Garden outside our main entrance to the building. Students have painted rocks with inspirational messages for others to read and enjoy.
Please stop by our MakerSpace when you visit for your child’s conference in November!
We opened our MakerSpace last year as a student learning area to promote inquiry, giving students experiences to encourage creativity, opportunities to solve problems, and find answers to questions.
Our MakerSpace encourages curiosity and working collaboratively. The resources that we have been able to purchase through grants and district resources have helped guide our students’ inquiry and exploration.
Since our third graders are new to MakerSpace they have been actively learning the stations and expectations. They have participated in team engineering challenges such as; “Can your team build a spider web bridge that is strong enough to hold 12 spiders with the materials on your table?” Teams had 20 minutes to create a blueprint and carry out their plan.
Learning to code is another skill students learn and practice in our MakerSpace. So far the 3rd graders have coded to create apps on their Chromebook and coded to help our robot Dash get through a student designed maze.
Our fourth and fifth graders are old pros in the MakerSpace area!
They are enjoying many new stations that have recently been added and working hard in Tinkercad (a computer assisted drawing program) designing objects to be printed in our 3D printer! Our fifth graders have created a Kindness Rock Garden outside our main entrance to the building. Students have painted rocks with inspirational messages for others to read and enjoy.
Please stop by our MakerSpace when you visit for your child’s conference in November!
Student Club Update: 3rd Grade Green Team Underway! --Updated 10/3/2017
Submitted by Mrs. Thomka, 3rd Grade Green Team Sponsor
What is Green Team?
It is an environmental club at Westview School.
All third graders are invited to join and eighty students signed up to become members this year!
What do we do?
We have fun while we learn about different ways that we can help the earth. We also encourage family and friends to recycle by collecting the following items: eyeglasses (Lions Club) pop tabs (Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities) Boxtops for Education (BTFE) as well as dried markers and old cell phones. Our collection counter is located in the Library MakerSpace Center.
What kinds of things happen at meetings?
We have many different activities. We might play a game or build something with recycled materials. We might have a guest speaker. We might even try an experiment. Topics may include landfills, water conservation, recycling, and repurposing. We approach these themes from a third grader’s perspective.
When does 3rd Grade Green Team meet?
We meet once a month during recess so students will only miss about seven recesses this school year. Due to the large number of members, our Green Team is divided into three groups that meet on different days during the same week. We will hold our final meetings in March.
It is an environmental club at Westview School.
All third graders are invited to join and eighty students signed up to become members this year!
What do we do?
We have fun while we learn about different ways that we can help the earth. We also encourage family and friends to recycle by collecting the following items: eyeglasses (Lions Club) pop tabs (Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities) Boxtops for Education (BTFE) as well as dried markers and old cell phones. Our collection counter is located in the Library MakerSpace Center.
What kinds of things happen at meetings?
We have many different activities. We might play a game or build something with recycled materials. We might have a guest speaker. We might even try an experiment. Topics may include landfills, water conservation, recycling, and repurposing. We approach these themes from a third grader’s perspective.
When does 3rd Grade Green Team meet?
We meet once a month during recess so students will only miss about seven recesses this school year. Due to the large number of members, our Green Team is divided into three groups that meet on different days during the same week. We will hold our final meetings in March.
Reading Intervention Groups Developing Routines & Setting Goals--Updated 9/26/17
Submitted by Mrs. Erin King, Intermediate Intervention Teacher
Welcome to a new school year! I am excited to be a part of Westview Elementary School as the Title 1 Intermediate Reading Intervention teacher. I spend my days working with small groups of students to help boost their reading skills. I am excited to share information with students and their families in order to help support student reading achievement!
The Title I Reading students and I are off to a great start this year. We have been focusing on our routines, setting daily reading goals and using our reading strategies. I am so excited to see the students working independently as well as in a small group to lead each other to success! We even had an opportunity to explore the Wood Dale Public Library bookmobile and get a book to read and share.
It is very important to read at home. Even though your child can read on his/her own, it is important to continue to read/discuss with your child for 15 minutes a day. Short,regular sessions encourage the reading habit.
Use these 15 minutes in a variety of ways:
Fifteen Minutes a day goes a long way!
The Title I Reading students and I are off to a great start this year. We have been focusing on our routines, setting daily reading goals and using our reading strategies. I am so excited to see the students working independently as well as in a small group to lead each other to success! We even had an opportunity to explore the Wood Dale Public Library bookmobile and get a book to read and share.
It is very important to read at home. Even though your child can read on his/her own, it is important to continue to read/discuss with your child for 15 minutes a day. Short,regular sessions encourage the reading habit.
Use these 15 minutes in a variety of ways:
- Have your child read aloud to you.
- Read aloud to your child.
- Read the same page silently and then discuss it.
- Share the reading time by sitting together, each reading anything that is of interest, jokes, recipes, sports, poetry, biographies, etc.
- At the end of 15 minutes, if your child wants to continue reading, by all means encourage your child to do so.
- Either parent, or both, can be a reading partner- even grandparents, friends, and other relatives.
- Build the right climate. Make it pleasant.
- Create excitement.
- Offer positive comments.
- Read and discuss often.
Fifteen Minutes a day goes a long way!
5th Grade Role Models Serve as Community Helpers--Updated 9/1/2017
Submitted by Ms. Diaz & Ms. Kelly, Co-Sponsors of Community Helpers/Safety Patrol
The Westview Community Helpers are a group of 5th grade students who work hard to make sure that our school community is a safe place to be. Safety Patrollers are trained to assist with supervision of classmates during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal. These students apply etiquette standards while raising, lowering and storing the American Flag every morning and afternoon. Students participate before or after school according to an alternating schedule. The Community Helpers have the responsibility of training new patrollers and making sure their classmates understand the new role.
While students are not on patrol duty, you can find them helping staff with various tasks during their lunch or recess. Some examples of the things they do are: watering plants, cleaning and organizing, filing office mail, counting and cutting PAWS tickets, reading to younger students or listening to them read. The list goes on! These 5th graders are extremely helpful during the school day.
The Westview Community Helpers are expected to demonstrate the pillars of character at all times. They serve as role models to our school community and work hard to make sure all students are respectful, responsible, and safe!
This program is available to all 5th grade students so if your son or daughter is interested, please tell them to speak to Ms. Diaz or Miss Kelly for more information! Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview Elementary School!
While students are not on patrol duty, you can find them helping staff with various tasks during their lunch or recess. Some examples of the things they do are: watering plants, cleaning and organizing, filing office mail, counting and cutting PAWS tickets, reading to younger students or listening to them read. The list goes on! These 5th graders are extremely helpful during the school day.
The Westview Community Helpers are expected to demonstrate the pillars of character at all times. They serve as role models to our school community and work hard to make sure all students are respectful, responsible, and safe!
This program is available to all 5th grade students so if your son or daughter is interested, please tell them to speak to Ms. Diaz or Miss Kelly for more information! Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview Elementary School!
Establishing Summertime Reading & Writing Routines--Updated 5/29/2017
Submitted by Stephen P. Hovey, Special Education Teacher
Through hard work comes satisfying gains! In order to maintain a successful rate of progress students must continue to practice and perfect their skills on a regular basis.
Students at Westview School have worked very hard this year practicing their reading and writing skills and have been very proud of the success that they have had!
With summertime just around the corner please keep in mind that it is very important for students to take a break and focus on other activities throughout the summer months. However, learning should not be lost!
Summer is a great time for students to practice reading and writing by indulging in their own interests. It is important to set goals at the beginning of the summer and decide on what type of reading/writing goals that everyone would like to accomplish. Create a schedule that can be built into their day and provide incentives or rewards for them to achieve as they work towards their goals. You can also incorporate math and science into these activities. See chart above as an example.
Whatever you decide make sure that it is fun and student-centered in order to create enthusiasm for reading and writing! And remember, Maintain Those Gains!
Students at Westview School have worked very hard this year practicing their reading and writing skills and have been very proud of the success that they have had!
With summertime just around the corner please keep in mind that it is very important for students to take a break and focus on other activities throughout the summer months. However, learning should not be lost!
Summer is a great time for students to practice reading and writing by indulging in their own interests. It is important to set goals at the beginning of the summer and decide on what type of reading/writing goals that everyone would like to accomplish. Create a schedule that can be built into their day and provide incentives or rewards for them to achieve as they work towards their goals. You can also incorporate math and science into these activities. See chart above as an example.
Whatever you decide make sure that it is fun and student-centered in order to create enthusiasm for reading and writing! And remember, Maintain Those Gains!
Reading and Writing Ideas for Summertime Fun!--Updated 5/29/2017
Student Sleep Patterns Impact School Performance--Updated 4/24/2017
Submitted by Mrs. Kelly Marks, School Social Worker
What is it like for us, adults, to not get a good night’s rest? Is it a little harder to stay alert? Do you feel more stressed or anxious about the day? Does your patience run a little low? Do you find yourself daydreaming more often? You may be thinking “yes” to some or all of those questions. Think about what happens to your school aged child when they do not get the recommended amount of sleep or they don’t get a good night’s rest?
When children do not get enough sleep they can become cranky, tired and moody and run the risk of developing physical and behavioral problems. They may lose focus more often when their teacher is teaching or you are trying to get them ready for school. Children are still learning self control and may not have learned how to control themselves when they are feeling tired or cranky. When children do not get enough sleep each night it can impact their behavior, make school work harder for them, and impact their social skills and friendships.
Kids between the ages of 5 and 12 years old need to sleep 10-11 hours in order to feel refreshed and ready to learn the next day. One of the biggest causes for children not getting a good night’s rest is due to electronics and screen time. Too much screen time can decrease the amount of sleep kids get and the quality of sleep. Since children’s impulse control is not as developed, they are more tempted by their phone, video game, or other device. Even if you tell them to turn it off, and you watch them turn it off or even turn it off yourself, an hour later if you’re asleep they might be tempted to check it and send one more text about something that happened at school that day. Taking it out of the room and charging it in another room can help remove the temptation. It might be a battle, but if will get easier if it becomes the rule.
Some suggestions to help your child get a good night’s rest include:
When children do not get enough sleep they can become cranky, tired and moody and run the risk of developing physical and behavioral problems. They may lose focus more often when their teacher is teaching or you are trying to get them ready for school. Children are still learning self control and may not have learned how to control themselves when they are feeling tired or cranky. When children do not get enough sleep each night it can impact their behavior, make school work harder for them, and impact their social skills and friendships.
Kids between the ages of 5 and 12 years old need to sleep 10-11 hours in order to feel refreshed and ready to learn the next day. One of the biggest causes for children not getting a good night’s rest is due to electronics and screen time. Too much screen time can decrease the amount of sleep kids get and the quality of sleep. Since children’s impulse control is not as developed, they are more tempted by their phone, video game, or other device. Even if you tell them to turn it off, and you watch them turn it off or even turn it off yourself, an hour later if you’re asleep they might be tempted to check it and send one more text about something that happened at school that day. Taking it out of the room and charging it in another room can help remove the temptation. It might be a battle, but if will get easier if it becomes the rule.
Some suggestions to help your child get a good night’s rest include:
- Set a “bedtime” for devices. Put devices away 1-2 hours before the kids go to bed.
- Let kids wind down before bed with gentle activities such as reading or talking.
- No media devices in the bedroom
- Limit food and drink right before bed.
- Replace screen time with exercise during the day.
Girls On the Run Build Confidence with Running & More--Updated 4/24/2017
Submitted by Mrs. Kelly Marks, Girls on the Run Co-Sponsor
Westview’s School’s "Girls on the Run" club is comprised of 15 fifth-grade girls. These girls have made a commitment missing their recess and staying after school twice a week to train for their first 5K (3.1 miles). Their race will include Girls on the Run groups from the Southern Suburbs on May 13 at the Joliet Speedway.
Girls on the Run is an organization that inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. The participants are taught lessons that encourage positive emotional, social, mental and physical development. Physical activity is woven into the program to inspire an appreciation of fitness and to build habits that lead to a lifetime of health. The girls have been working very hard and making strides with their fitness levels. Many of these girls have already ran over 2 miles at one time! They are getting ready to run the 5K (3.1 miles) race in a few more weeks! This celebratory, non-competitive event is the culminating experience of the curriculum.
The girls will also be coordinating a community impact project. Check for Updates here in the Westview School News to find out what project they will choose in order to make a difference in Wood Dale!
Girls on the Run Participants include:
Lauren Braswell Jessica Morales Michelle Hernandez Jayda Mabry Amelia Poorman Samantha Lang Maggie Radzinski Aberdeen Rios
Elena Macias Alexa Rodriguez
Faith Martin Ella Schultz
Mia Martinez Makayla Selvig
Anna Milewski
Girls on the Run is an organization that inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. The participants are taught lessons that encourage positive emotional, social, mental and physical development. Physical activity is woven into the program to inspire an appreciation of fitness and to build habits that lead to a lifetime of health. The girls have been working very hard and making strides with their fitness levels. Many of these girls have already ran over 2 miles at one time! They are getting ready to run the 5K (3.1 miles) race in a few more weeks! This celebratory, non-competitive event is the culminating experience of the curriculum.
The girls will also be coordinating a community impact project. Check for Updates here in the Westview School News to find out what project they will choose in order to make a difference in Wood Dale!
Girls on the Run Participants include:
Lauren Braswell Jessica Morales Michelle Hernandez Jayda Mabry Amelia Poorman Samantha Lang Maggie Radzinski Aberdeen Rios
Elena Macias Alexa Rodriguez
Faith Martin Ella Schultz
Mia Martinez Makayla Selvig
Anna Milewski
Wonder with the Westview Gazette--Updated 3/14/2017
Submitted by Mrs. Eleni Papanicolaou, 5th Grade Teacher and Westview Gazette Sponsor
The Westview Gazette is up and running, and we have seven members working hard to make our school newspaper a success! They do the following to make it successful: Giving up their time at least once a week during recess, to write their articles. One expectation is that the students in the club work from home to gather information on their articles to be prepared for the next meeting time.
They also write their articles using their Chromebooks, in which they have to research information to complete their articles. Together, they go through a revising and editing process to ensure the edition is ready for viewing.
Students are excited to be writing articles about various subjects. Some of the subjects include articles on the Presidential election, fishing, solar systems, interviews of new teachers at Westview, and book reviews.
These students also want to make what we call, “Fun Pages,” which are activity pages for children and adults to figure out. They might include poetry, jokes and riddles.
Our first edition was published earlier this month. Enjoy!
They also write their articles using their Chromebooks, in which they have to research information to complete their articles. Together, they go through a revising and editing process to ensure the edition is ready for viewing.
Students are excited to be writing articles about various subjects. Some of the subjects include articles on the Presidential election, fishing, solar systems, interviews of new teachers at Westview, and book reviews.
These students also want to make what we call, “Fun Pages,” which are activity pages for children and adults to figure out. They might include poetry, jokes and riddles.
Our first edition was published earlier this month. Enjoy!
4th and 5th Grade Students Enjoy Performances with Chorus--Updated 3/8/2017
Submitted by Mr. Bill Thoms, Music Teacher and Choral Director
4th and 5th grade chorus meets once a week for 25 minutes each. 4th grade meets on Fridays during their recess time, while 5th grade meets on Wednesdays during their recess time. Each grade will sing the same music and different music depending on which performance we are preparing for.
Some of the performances that we have sung at are: the Halloween assembly, the Veteran’s Day assembly, and the Winter Choral Concert. At the Winter Choral Concert, not only did we get the opportunity to perform for our families, friends, and teachers, but we also were able to combine with the Junior High School choirs to form one big choir. It was a wonderful opportunity for our 4th and 5th graders to see where they will end up in a few years!
In chorus rehearsal, we focus on stretching exercises, breathing exercises, and vocal warm-ups. Some of these vocal warm-ups consist of: Mommy Made Me Mash My M & M’s, ziggy ziggy ziggy ziggy zoom, buzzy buzzy bee, etc. Ask your choir student to demonstrate some of these warm-ups for you!
After our warm-ups, we begin singing our music. Each week, we learn a new song to build up our repertoire. As we approach a performance, we will select a few numbers to sing. 4th graders sing songs where everyone sings the same music, where as 5th graders sing songs that have different musical parts. This difference in musical parts helps to prepare them for 6th grade chorus.
Check out mrthomswdsd7.weebly.com to find out all musical happenings in both music class and chorus! Click on the “4th & 5th Grade Chorus” tab to find out all information about chorus performances and practice recordings for students. Also, check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for recordings of our young choir members!
Some of the performances that we have sung at are: the Halloween assembly, the Veteran’s Day assembly, and the Winter Choral Concert. At the Winter Choral Concert, not only did we get the opportunity to perform for our families, friends, and teachers, but we also were able to combine with the Junior High School choirs to form one big choir. It was a wonderful opportunity for our 4th and 5th graders to see where they will end up in a few years!
In chorus rehearsal, we focus on stretching exercises, breathing exercises, and vocal warm-ups. Some of these vocal warm-ups consist of: Mommy Made Me Mash My M & M’s, ziggy ziggy ziggy ziggy zoom, buzzy buzzy bee, etc. Ask your choir student to demonstrate some of these warm-ups for you!
After our warm-ups, we begin singing our music. Each week, we learn a new song to build up our repertoire. As we approach a performance, we will select a few numbers to sing. 4th graders sing songs where everyone sings the same music, where as 5th graders sing songs that have different musical parts. This difference in musical parts helps to prepare them for 6th grade chorus.
Check out mrthomswdsd7.weebly.com to find out all musical happenings in both music class and chorus! Click on the “4th & 5th Grade Chorus” tab to find out all information about chorus performances and practice recordings for students. Also, check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for recordings of our young choir members!
Students Celebrate Growth with Reading Intervention Strategies--Updated 1/23/17
Submitted by Mrs. Erin King, Title I Reading Intervention Teacher
We have all been very busy using our reading strategies to make some wonderful growth with all of our assessments. The Title I Reading students and I have been focusing on setting daily reading goals and using self and peer assessment to attain or surpass our reading fluency and comprehension goals! I am so excited to see the students working independently as well as in a small group to lead each other to success! It is very important to read at home. Below are some suggestions you can use at home!
Reading Aloud with Your Child
Reading aloud is a great interactive process for parents and their children. Taking time to read and talk about stories, articles, letters, or poems can increase comprehension, vocabulary development and promote a lifelong interest in reading! By reading aloud to children and talking about the story, they learn that understanding a story is a process that occurs before, during, and after reading.
Fiction or Non-Fiction Texts
Before reading
During reading
After reading
Talk with your child about the following:
Reading Aloud with Your Child
Reading aloud is a great interactive process for parents and their children. Taking time to read and talk about stories, articles, letters, or poems can increase comprehension, vocabulary development and promote a lifelong interest in reading! By reading aloud to children and talking about the story, they learn that understanding a story is a process that occurs before, during, and after reading.
Fiction or Non-Fiction Texts
Before reading
- Introduce the title and author
- Take a picture walk.
- Brainstorm on the topic--talk about what you may already know, what might happen, or what you might learn in this book.
During reading
- Take time to talk about the characters' actions and feelings in the story.
- Non-fiction text- Talk about what you have learned so far.
- Hold the book so the pictures and words can easily be seen
After reading
Talk with your child about the following:
- Share connections made to the story.
- Discuss most important thing that happened in the story and tell why.
- Rate the story- Would you recommend this story to a friend? Tell why or why not.
- Explain your favorite part and tell why.
- Non-fiction text- Discuss information you have learned from the book? What would you still like to learn?
WV7 News--3rd Grade Video Club Up and Running! --Updated 1/5/17
WV7 News is up and running; the students have been busy the past few months! WV7 News is a video club for third graders that meets at least twice a month during recess. Students are able to plan and develop scripts, video record their acting and edit the videos that they create.
Students recently finished filming and editing their first two videos. We have four other videos that are currently in production. The topics of the first two videos are about appropriate hallway behavior and how to exercise at home. Students will continue to develop topics and scripts with their group members.
We hope to have our next videos ready for viewing by the beginning of February. If you have any questions about WV7 News, or if your child would like to get involved in this club, please contact Mrs. Willson by email at [email protected]. You can view previously produced WV7 News videos at www.msknopsteaches.us under the ‘News’ tab at the top of the page.
Students recently finished filming and editing their first two videos. We have four other videos that are currently in production. The topics of the first two videos are about appropriate hallway behavior and how to exercise at home. Students will continue to develop topics and scripts with their group members.
We hope to have our next videos ready for viewing by the beginning of February. If you have any questions about WV7 News, or if your child would like to get involved in this club, please contact Mrs. Willson by email at [email protected]. You can view previously produced WV7 News videos at www.msknopsteaches.us under the ‘News’ tab at the top of the page.
5 Essentials Parent Survey--Please take a moment to participate!
The 5 Essentials survey is now open: Please click HERE to access the starting page.
The 5 Essentials survey is now open: Please click HERE to access the starting page.
- Available in English & Spanish
- Provides important feedback to Westview School
- Just 5-10 minutes to complete
- Available through January 16th, but don’t delay!
Students & Families Anticipate Winter Music Program on December 6th
We look forward to seeing families at the Winter Music Program! Event details including parking and the times that each class is performing can be found in the picture below. We also encourage you to visit Mr. Thom's special web page HERE for more information!
The detailed flyer in English, Spanish, and Polish is HERE.
The detailed flyer in English, Spanish, and Polish is HERE.
MakerSpace Promotes Tinkering and Creativity in Westview LMC--Updated 11/21/16
Submitted by Mrs. Lisa Acord, LMC Director & Schoolwide Enrichment Consultant
Last year Westview was fortunate to receive several grants to support our vision of creating a Makerspace within our Library Media Center. We wanted our Makerspace in the Library Media Center to inspire students to become participatory learners, to uncover their talents, needs, and interests by making, producing, solving, creating, collaborating and thinking. After receiving the funding we researched and purchased a wide variety of hands-on activities to support academic learning and the development of a mindset that values playfulness and experimentation, growth and perseverance, and collaboration and community.
This year our Makerspace opened in September and it has been a huge success with our students at Westview! Each class visits the Makerspace for an hour every other week. During Makerspace time, students have access to to physical resources in the areas of engineering, design, crafting, robotics, media, and construction. Some popular activities students have explored are coding with Ozobots and Sphero, stop motion animation with Stikbots, circuitry with Little Bits, maze building with Q-Ba-Maze, bridge building with K’nex, tesselation formations with Legos, Tinkercad with 3D printing and various handicrafts. We look forward to introducing even more resources after the new year!
Students don't have to be in our school Makerspace to make, create, or innovate! Please encourage “making” at home. Many students have asked where they can purchase items found in our Makerspace. I bought many of our items on Amazon but there are two stores nearby that carry many of our Makerspace items; Barnes and Noble Bookstore in Schaumburg on Golf Road and Marbles in the Woodfield Mall. Have fun tinkering and creating!
This year our Makerspace opened in September and it has been a huge success with our students at Westview! Each class visits the Makerspace for an hour every other week. During Makerspace time, students have access to to physical resources in the areas of engineering, design, crafting, robotics, media, and construction. Some popular activities students have explored are coding with Ozobots and Sphero, stop motion animation with Stikbots, circuitry with Little Bits, maze building with Q-Ba-Maze, bridge building with K’nex, tesselation formations with Legos, Tinkercad with 3D printing and various handicrafts. We look forward to introducing even more resources after the new year!
Students don't have to be in our school Makerspace to make, create, or innovate! Please encourage “making” at home. Many students have asked where they can purchase items found in our Makerspace. I bought many of our items on Amazon but there are two stores nearby that carry many of our Makerspace items; Barnes and Noble Bookstore in Schaumburg on Golf Road and Marbles in the Woodfield Mall. Have fun tinkering and creating!
Westview Art Club Students Complete Monthly Projects--Updated 11/01/2016
Submitted by Ms. Lauren Cipkin, Elementary Art Teacher
Art Club has just wrapped up for the month of October and students have made some wonderful projects! 5th graders worked on zebra paintings, 3rd grade made wind chimes, and 4th grade made some stained glass! Each class gets a certain month out of the year to participate so everyone who wants to join can have a chance. Check out some samples of their work below, or visit Westview in person to see various projects throughout our halls!
Festive Fall Fun Underway in Westview Music Classes--Updated 10/25/2016
Submitted by Mr. Bill Thoms, Elementary Music Teacher
Over these past few months, we have played numerous instruments, we have sung many different songs, and have discovered different types of musical notes. We have played instruments such as: the recorder, hand drums, tubanos, xylophones, metallophones, wood blocks, tambourines, thunder tube, and ratchet to name a few.
Third grade has learned the following songs this year: "The Westview School Song," "Down to the Baker Shop," "A Famous Man," and "Shake Dem Halloween Bones" to name a few. We have also been working on learning about eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, quarter rests, half rests, and whole rests. Please ask your student to draw you a picture of these notes and rests and explain what they mean!
Fourth grade has learned the following songs this year: "Song of the Instruments," "Listen," "The Staff Song," "Shake the Papaya Down," "Hot Cross Buns," "Get Down!," and "Old Tom White" to name a few. We have been working on how to read notes on the staff while singing and playing instruments. We have also learned to create our own unique sentence to remember the note names on the staff! Ask your student to share their very own sentence that helps them remember the names on the staff!
Fifth grade has learned the following songs this year: Traditional Outdoor Education Songs, "Good Morning," "Out Goes the Rat," "The Pink Panther," "Pomme de Reinette," and "Skin and Bones" to name a few. We have been working on reading music while singing and playing instruments, we did a skit/concert for the fifth grade teachers, and we have been working on playing different instruments together to create one sound.
As we enter the month of November, we will begin to work on the music for our Winter Holiday Program. All grades will be singing, dancing, and playing instruments in three different holiday songs. Our performance is Tuesday, December 6th. Please save the date! Be sure to check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for all musical happenings in school!
Third grade has learned the following songs this year: "The Westview School Song," "Down to the Baker Shop," "A Famous Man," and "Shake Dem Halloween Bones" to name a few. We have also been working on learning about eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes, quarter rests, half rests, and whole rests. Please ask your student to draw you a picture of these notes and rests and explain what they mean!
Fourth grade has learned the following songs this year: "Song of the Instruments," "Listen," "The Staff Song," "Shake the Papaya Down," "Hot Cross Buns," "Get Down!," and "Old Tom White" to name a few. We have been working on how to read notes on the staff while singing and playing instruments. We have also learned to create our own unique sentence to remember the note names on the staff! Ask your student to share their very own sentence that helps them remember the names on the staff!
Fifth grade has learned the following songs this year: Traditional Outdoor Education Songs, "Good Morning," "Out Goes the Rat," "The Pink Panther," "Pomme de Reinette," and "Skin and Bones" to name a few. We have been working on reading music while singing and playing instruments, we did a skit/concert for the fifth grade teachers, and we have been working on playing different instruments together to create one sound.
As we enter the month of November, we will begin to work on the music for our Winter Holiday Program. All grades will be singing, dancing, and playing instruments in three different holiday songs. Our performance is Tuesday, December 6th. Please save the date! Be sure to check out @thoms_bill on Twitter for all musical happenings in school!
Service Learning by Students with Community Helpers & Patrol--Updated 10/18/16
Submitted by Mrs. Melissa Serrano, Community Helper/Patrol Sponsor
The Westview Community Helpers are a group of 5th grade students who work hard to make sure that our school community is a safe place to be. Safety Patrollers are trained to assist with supervision of classmates during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal. These students also apply etiquette standards while raising, lowering, and storing the American Flag each day. Students participate immediately before or after school according to an alternating schedule, including the training of new patrollers.
While students are not on patrol duty, you can find them helping staff with various tasks during their lunch recess. Some examples of the things they do are: watering plants, cleaning and organizing, filing office mail, counting and cutting PAWS, reading to younger students or listening to them read, etc.
The Westview Community Helpers are expected to demonstrate the Pillars of Character at all times. They serve as role models to our school community and work hard to make sure all students are Respectful, Responsible, and Safe!
While students are not on patrol duty, you can find them helping staff with various tasks during their lunch recess. Some examples of the things they do are: watering plants, cleaning and organizing, filing office mail, counting and cutting PAWS, reading to younger students or listening to them read, etc.
The Westview Community Helpers are expected to demonstrate the Pillars of Character at all times. They serve as role models to our school community and work hard to make sure all students are Respectful, Responsible, and Safe!
Completed Art Projects on Display Soon!--updated 09/29/2016
Submitted by Ms. Lauren Cipkin, Elementary Art Teacher
Westview artists are currently wrapping up their first projects of the year!
Third Graders have been learning about the artistic style of Folk Art, which combines multiple patterns and colors. We looked at famous Folk artists artwork, and from there started to create our own folk art landscapes. The results are stunning and colorful! (Left)
Fourth Graders are doing a new project this year, creating their own mandalas! (below) We learned about radial balance and the history of Mandalas and the rest was up to the students, Making each project is unique in their own way!
Fifth graders learned all about how artists use their own personal experiences to create artwork, so they were assigned a project that was focused on their likes and hobbies! They worked on creating a “personal patchwork” drawing, consisting of each square of the drawing being related to something about themselves. I love how each project really tells you a story about each student! (See above article)
Third Graders have been learning about the artistic style of Folk Art, which combines multiple patterns and colors. We looked at famous Folk artists artwork, and from there started to create our own folk art landscapes. The results are stunning and colorful! (Left)
Fourth Graders are doing a new project this year, creating their own mandalas! (below) We learned about radial balance and the history of Mandalas and the rest was up to the students, Making each project is unique in their own way!
Fifth graders learned all about how artists use their own personal experiences to create artwork, so they were assigned a project that was focused on their likes and hobbies! They worked on creating a “personal patchwork” drawing, consisting of each square of the drawing being related to something about themselves. I love how each project really tells you a story about each student! (See above article)
Physical Education is for Every-Body at Westview--updated 09/05/2016
Submitted by Mr. Vito Monteleone, Physical Education Teacher
At Westview Elementary School the PHYSICAL FITNESS of your child is of the utmost
importance. Every effort to promote your child’s physical fitness is made with the implementation of the Illinois State Enhanced P.E. Standards. The vision of Westview Elementary School’s Physical Education (PE) program focuses on your child’s striving to:
Westview Elementary is fortunate to provide quality physical education for every child. In order for your child to participate to their fullest capability, please make sure he/she is wearing appropriate clothing for the weather, and tennis shoes or flat-soled shoes that enclose the whole foot.
Healthy kids make better students. Better students make healthy communities.
FITNESS IS FOR EVERY-BODY!
Sincerely,
Vito Monteleone
Think Fit, Get Fit, Stay Fit!
“Physical Education is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body; it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.” -John F. Kennedy
importance. Every effort to promote your child’s physical fitness is made with the implementation of the Illinois State Enhanced P.E. Standards. The vision of Westview Elementary School’s Physical Education (PE) program focuses on your child’s striving to:
- Practice and master appropriate motor skills and movement.
- Develop and maintain lifelong, family – oriented, health related fitness.
- Be able to cooperate with others.
- Be nice.
- Be careful.
- Be respectful.
- Exhibit good sportsmanship qualities.
Westview Elementary is fortunate to provide quality physical education for every child. In order for your child to participate to their fullest capability, please make sure he/she is wearing appropriate clothing for the weather, and tennis shoes or flat-soled shoes that enclose the whole foot.
Healthy kids make better students. Better students make healthy communities.
FITNESS IS FOR EVERY-BODY!
Sincerely,
Vito Monteleone
Think Fit, Get Fit, Stay Fit!
“Physical Education is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body; it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.” -John F. Kennedy
Inside the Music Room:
Singing, Playing, Moving, Creating, & Travelling the World!--Updated 5/23/2016
3rd Grade:
Third grade students have been exploring many, many musical activities in the last few weeks: singing, playing, moving, reading rhythms, creating and acting, all to help bring to life the stories of Aiken Drum & The Calabash Cat. Each class has just finished & performed for their peers. Watch our students in action!
Ms. Donahoe's YouTube Channel
4th Grade:
Our fourth graders have had an exciting spring as they have been working hard mastering a brand new instrument, the recorder! The key to recorder success is breath control, which we worked on even before we began to play. Pictured here we have one of the events in our Breathing Olympics to bring awareness to something we do not usually think much about. Since then, we have become quite successful mastering notes A, C, & D and playing the song Lucy Locket, among a few others.
5th Grade:
Join us! This Friday, May 27, in the Westview School Gym, 5th grade students will take you on a musical journey all over the world! We have spent the last few months “travelling” to different countries, exploring them on the world map, learning about their culture, and, of course, learning a great deal of their music. We have also learned how many commonalities and connections there are, no matter where you go! All are welcome to this informal, informative performance!
For more WV Music Updates follow @msdonahoe on Twitter!
Third grade students have been exploring many, many musical activities in the last few weeks: singing, playing, moving, reading rhythms, creating and acting, all to help bring to life the stories of Aiken Drum & The Calabash Cat. Each class has just finished & performed for their peers. Watch our students in action!
Ms. Donahoe's YouTube Channel
4th Grade:
Our fourth graders have had an exciting spring as they have been working hard mastering a brand new instrument, the recorder! The key to recorder success is breath control, which we worked on even before we began to play. Pictured here we have one of the events in our Breathing Olympics to bring awareness to something we do not usually think much about. Since then, we have become quite successful mastering notes A, C, & D and playing the song Lucy Locket, among a few others.
5th Grade:
Join us! This Friday, May 27, in the Westview School Gym, 5th grade students will take you on a musical journey all over the world! We have spent the last few months “travelling” to different countries, exploring them on the world map, learning about their culture, and, of course, learning a great deal of their music. We have also learned how many commonalities and connections there are, no matter where you go! All are welcome to this informal, informative performance!
For more WV Music Updates follow @msdonahoe on Twitter!
Reading All Around the House--Updated 05/05/2016
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Westview's Own "Makerspace" Begins to Take Shape--Updated 04/25/2016
This year our Library Media Center began creating a Makerspace for the students at Westview. This space will be housed within the existing LMC.
A Makerspace provides a wide variety of hands-on activities (such as building, computer programming, and sewing) to support academic learning and the development of a mindset that values playfulness and experimentation, growth and perseverance, and collaboration and community.
Typically, "Making" involves attempting to solve a particular problem, creating a physical or digital artifact, and sharing that product with a larger audience. Often, such work is guided by the notion that process is more important than results.
As the Library Media Director/SEM Consultant, I wrote several grants with the hopes of attaining funds to begin to purchase items for this space. Lowe’s Home Improvement “Toolbox for Education” program generously awarded Westview $4,445 and the Wood Dale Education Foundation gave us an additional $1,655.
Students gave their input on the selection of many of the items that were purchased. Some of the items purchased include; a sewing machine, Legos, various robotics kits, stop motion animation kit, circuitry kits, origami and craft materials, and books on many topics pertaining to “making”. We continue to investigate other materials to be included with the remaining funds.
Recently, a wall was taken down to open up the area that once housed our computer lab which is no longer needed. A Lego wall will soon be installed onto one of the outer walls. We are very excited about this area and the students are too!
A Makerspace provides a wide variety of hands-on activities (such as building, computer programming, and sewing) to support academic learning and the development of a mindset that values playfulness and experimentation, growth and perseverance, and collaboration and community.
Typically, "Making" involves attempting to solve a particular problem, creating a physical or digital artifact, and sharing that product with a larger audience. Often, such work is guided by the notion that process is more important than results.
As the Library Media Director/SEM Consultant, I wrote several grants with the hopes of attaining funds to begin to purchase items for this space. Lowe’s Home Improvement “Toolbox for Education” program generously awarded Westview $4,445 and the Wood Dale Education Foundation gave us an additional $1,655.
Students gave their input on the selection of many of the items that were purchased. Some of the items purchased include; a sewing machine, Legos, various robotics kits, stop motion animation kit, circuitry kits, origami and craft materials, and books on many topics pertaining to “making”. We continue to investigate other materials to be included with the remaining funds.
Recently, a wall was taken down to open up the area that once housed our computer lab which is no longer needed. A Lego wall will soon be installed onto one of the outer walls. We are very excited about this area and the students are too!
Update! Installed May 4, 2016!
School Supply Kit Order Forms Due April 25 (Online Orders by June 10)
As a convenient service to parents, the Westview PTO has once again coordinated with SchoolKidz to make school supply kits available for purchase for the 2016-2017 school year.
Please remember that order forms for school supply kits are due by Monday, April 25th. Extra forms are available in the school office--just give us a call at 630-766-8040 if you would like for us to send another one home with your child. Online orders can be placed up to June 10, 2016 at:
http://www.shopttkits.com/
Use the following school code: 22501
As a reminder, all Westview school supply kits will be delivered to your child's classroom by the first day of school of the 2016-17 school year (August 22). If you have any questions, please contact our PTO Chairperson for this service, Jennifer Logue at 630-766-8058. Supply lists for each grade level can also be found in the Westview Virtual Backpack.
Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview School!
Please remember that order forms for school supply kits are due by Monday, April 25th. Extra forms are available in the school office--just give us a call at 630-766-8040 if you would like for us to send another one home with your child. Online orders can be placed up to June 10, 2016 at:
http://www.shopttkits.com/
Use the following school code: 22501
As a reminder, all Westview school supply kits will be delivered to your child's classroom by the first day of school of the 2016-17 school year (August 22). If you have any questions, please contact our PTO Chairperson for this service, Jennifer Logue at 630-766-8058. Supply lists for each grade level can also be found in the Westview Virtual Backpack.
Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview School!
Peer Mediators Provide Win/Win Solutions to Minor Conflicts--Updated 4/4/2016
Westview has eight 5th grade students that serve as our peer mediators. These students have completed 3 months of training with the school social worker allowing them to help Westview students solve their conflicts.
Mediation is a communication process in which a third party helps people work together to resolve conflicts peaceably. Peer mediation is designed to teach students to find alternative ways to resolve conflicts and to encourage them to solve their own problems in a constructive fashion.
Peer mediators are available during lunch and recess to help 3rd, 4th, and 5th students work out an agreement. A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation. Students who have used peer mediation have found it helpful because students are helping them to resolve their problems instead of having an adult do so.
Current Peer Mediators:
Faith Adkins Jazmine Aragon Aqsa Bawani Alex Carillo
Chloe Cline Marley Hausen Lillian Lopez Jessica Reyes
Mediation is a communication process in which a third party helps people work together to resolve conflicts peaceably. Peer mediation is designed to teach students to find alternative ways to resolve conflicts and to encourage them to solve their own problems in a constructive fashion.
Peer mediators are available during lunch and recess to help 3rd, 4th, and 5th students work out an agreement. A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation. Students who have used peer mediation have found it helpful because students are helping them to resolve their problems instead of having an adult do so.
Current Peer Mediators:
Faith Adkins Jazmine Aragon Aqsa Bawani Alex Carillo
Chloe Cline Marley Hausen Lillian Lopez Jessica Reyes
Westview Takes Second Step with Social/Emotional Learning--Updated 03/22/2016
As many families know, Westview School continues to use the research based, social emotional program known as Second Step, in all classrooms. Second Step promotes school success, school connectedness, and a safe and respectful school climate.
Each week, classroom teachers hold class meetings, and use a portion of this time to directly teach the students skills that strengthen their ability to learn, have empathy, manage emotions, and solve problems. Typically, the main lesson using posters, video clips, role playing, songs, and class discussions take place on Mondays, or early in the week. Shorter follow up activities take place during the rest of the week. The program lasts throughout the school year and is embedded in your child’s day.
You should have noticed the “home links” that have been sent home for you and your child to complete together. These are simple, fun activities, and a great way for you to understand what your child is learning and for your child to show you what he or she knows. Use of materials from Second Step are one way that we address the social emotional learning needs of our students, rather than focusing only on academic growth.
To learn more about the Second Step program and get information about what your child is learning we encourage families to join for free at www.secondstep.org
3rd grade use activation code: SSP3 FAMI LY73
4th grade use activation code: SSP4 FAMI LY74
5th grade use activation code: SSP5 FAMI LY75
Each week, classroom teachers hold class meetings, and use a portion of this time to directly teach the students skills that strengthen their ability to learn, have empathy, manage emotions, and solve problems. Typically, the main lesson using posters, video clips, role playing, songs, and class discussions take place on Mondays, or early in the week. Shorter follow up activities take place during the rest of the week. The program lasts throughout the school year and is embedded in your child’s day.
You should have noticed the “home links” that have been sent home for you and your child to complete together. These are simple, fun activities, and a great way for you to understand what your child is learning and for your child to show you what he or she knows. Use of materials from Second Step are one way that we address the social emotional learning needs of our students, rather than focusing only on academic growth.
To learn more about the Second Step program and get information about what your child is learning we encourage families to join for free at www.secondstep.org
3rd grade use activation code: SSP3 FAMI LY73
4th grade use activation code: SSP4 FAMI LY74
5th grade use activation code: SSP5 FAMI LY75
Parents Overcome Language Barriers--Updated March 22, 2016
Attention:Translating Assistance Available
If you speak a language other than English and have a child at Westview School, please don't let that get in the way! We need parents to be involved with their children's education. If you need assistance translating your child's papers or a note that goes home, please find a friend or relative to help you.
Or, call the school office at 630-766-8040 and we will find a staff member who speaks English, Spanish, or Polish to assist you. Please share this article with others that may need this assistance.
Attencion: Ayuda Traducción Disponsible
Si usted tiene un hijo/a en la escuela Westview, pero no habla el idioma inglés, por favor, no deje que esto sea un obstáculo. Necesitamos que se involucre en la educación de sus hijos. Si necesita ayuda traduciendo documentos o notas de su hijo/a que van a casa, por favor, encuentre un amigo, vecino o familiar que le ayude.
O, llame a la oficina de la escuela al 630-766-8040 y nosotros encontraremos un miembro del personal que habla inglés, español o polaco para ayudarle. Por favor comparta este artículo con otras personas que necesitan esta ayuda.
Uwaga: Oferujemy pomoc w tłumaczeniu
Jeśli Wasze dziecko uczęszcza do szkoły Westview, a Państwo porozumiewacie się w języku innym niż język angielski – proszę się nie zniechęcać. Musicie nadal być aktywnie zaangażowani w edukację Waszego dziecka. Jeśli potrzebujecie pomocy w tłumaczeniu pracy domowej, informacji ze szkoły lub do szkoły, proszę pamiętać, że zawsze można skorzystać z pomocy znajomego, sąsiada, rodziny lub zadzwonić do szkoły (630 766 8040).
W szkole Westview pracują nauczyciele mówiący po polsku i hiszpańsku, krórzy z chęcią Państwu pomogą w tłumaczeniu.
If you speak a language other than English and have a child at Westview School, please don't let that get in the way! We need parents to be involved with their children's education. If you need assistance translating your child's papers or a note that goes home, please find a friend or relative to help you.
Or, call the school office at 630-766-8040 and we will find a staff member who speaks English, Spanish, or Polish to assist you. Please share this article with others that may need this assistance.
Attencion: Ayuda Traducción Disponsible
Si usted tiene un hijo/a en la escuela Westview, pero no habla el idioma inglés, por favor, no deje que esto sea un obstáculo. Necesitamos que se involucre en la educación de sus hijos. Si necesita ayuda traduciendo documentos o notas de su hijo/a que van a casa, por favor, encuentre un amigo, vecino o familiar que le ayude.
O, llame a la oficina de la escuela al 630-766-8040 y nosotros encontraremos un miembro del personal que habla inglés, español o polaco para ayudarle. Por favor comparta este artículo con otras personas que necesitan esta ayuda.
Uwaga: Oferujemy pomoc w tłumaczeniu
Jeśli Wasze dziecko uczęszcza do szkoły Westview, a Państwo porozumiewacie się w języku innym niż język angielski – proszę się nie zniechęcać. Musicie nadal być aktywnie zaangażowani w edukację Waszego dziecka. Jeśli potrzebujecie pomocy w tłumaczeniu pracy domowej, informacji ze szkoły lub do szkoły, proszę pamiętać, że zawsze można skorzystać z pomocy znajomego, sąsiada, rodziny lub zadzwonić do szkoły (630 766 8040).
W szkole Westview pracują nauczyciele mówiący po polsku i hiszpańsku, krórzy z chęcią Państwu pomogą w tłumaczeniu.
"Make Your Mark"--Westview PTO Variety Show 2016
Congratulations to Damian, a 3rd grader in Ms. Geary's class for winning the Westview PTO's naming contest for this year's Variety Show!
Damian's suggested theme for the show was "Make Your Mark" and students and staff will do just that during our 10th Annual performance featuring singing, dancing, instruments, and fun for all ages.
While the show is free for everyone, Damian wins 4 reserved front row seats for his winning idea!
Please join us for this family-friendly event on Friday, February 12th at 7:00 p.m. at the Center for the Arts at Wood Dale Junior High.
We're also in need of volunteers to help ensure that this event runs smoothly this year, and for years to come. Interested parents are encouraged to please contact Jacki Carillo at (847)812-4578 or [email protected]
Damian's suggested theme for the show was "Make Your Mark" and students and staff will do just that during our 10th Annual performance featuring singing, dancing, instruments, and fun for all ages.
While the show is free for everyone, Damian wins 4 reserved front row seats for his winning idea!
Please join us for this family-friendly event on Friday, February 12th at 7:00 p.m. at the Center for the Arts at Wood Dale Junior High.
We're also in need of volunteers to help ensure that this event runs smoothly this year, and for years to come. Interested parents are encouraged to please contact Jacki Carillo at (847)812-4578 or [email protected]
Plan a Family Game Night--Updated 1/26/2016
Adapted from www.pbs.org by Mrs. Marks, School Social Worker
The winter months can seem to last forever. If your family is looking for a new activity, perhaps it is time to plan a game night. When we were kids we did not have tablets, video games, or cell phones and instead we had more opportunities to play games with friends and family. Research has found that the light-hearted play with others has some wonderful benefits in child development. Five benefits include.
1. Games are good for motor skills.
Every time your child rolls the dice or shuffle the cards, they’re developing their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills--which can lead to later success in sports, playing instruments, writing and more.
Games that build motor skills:
Operation, Jenga, any type of card game (war, go-fish, crazy-8’s)
2. Games can lead to better grades.
Many games build specific skills that are useful in your kids’ academic careers--like math, spelling, vocabulary, and general knowledge. Even a small amount of practice playing academic games can lead to positive results in the classroom.
Games that can boost grades:
Chutes and Ladders, Uno, Scrabble, Apples to Apples, and Qwirkle
3. Game help your kids solve problems
Playing strategy games with your kids is one way to give them valuable practice at solving problems. More importantly, it also gives you the chance to demonstrate effective problem-solving techniques that your kids can learn from and imitate. When you play games together, be sure to share information about how you approach each problem to be solved -- explain how you break problems down into steps, how spending time planning before acting can benefit success and how your thought processes work as you solve a problem. These conversations will give your kids useful insight into their own thinking that can bring them greater success in real-life problem-solving situations later on.
Games that provide problem-solving practice:
Blokus, Connect Four, Trouble, Yahtzee, Monopoly, Settlers of Catan, Checkers, and Chess
4. Game night is family bonding night.
No matter what games you play, family game night forces you to spend quality time interacting with your kids. Numerous studies have shown that children from families who maintain strong lines of communication through frequent get-togethers like game nights and family dinners enjoy benefits to nearly every aspect of their lives, including: more motivation in school, better relationships with peers, larger vocabularies, higher reading scores, and better emotional well-being and life satisfaction.
5. Games are just plain fun!
The Wood Dale Library is hosting two family games nights that you might want to join.
March 24 from 7 – 8 pm featuring the game Farkle
April 28 from 7 -- 8 pm featuring the game Left, Right, Center.
1. Games are good for motor skills.
Every time your child rolls the dice or shuffle the cards, they’re developing their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills--which can lead to later success in sports, playing instruments, writing and more.
Games that build motor skills:
Operation, Jenga, any type of card game (war, go-fish, crazy-8’s)
2. Games can lead to better grades.
Many games build specific skills that are useful in your kids’ academic careers--like math, spelling, vocabulary, and general knowledge. Even a small amount of practice playing academic games can lead to positive results in the classroom.
Games that can boost grades:
Chutes and Ladders, Uno, Scrabble, Apples to Apples, and Qwirkle
3. Game help your kids solve problems
Playing strategy games with your kids is one way to give them valuable practice at solving problems. More importantly, it also gives you the chance to demonstrate effective problem-solving techniques that your kids can learn from and imitate. When you play games together, be sure to share information about how you approach each problem to be solved -- explain how you break problems down into steps, how spending time planning before acting can benefit success and how your thought processes work as you solve a problem. These conversations will give your kids useful insight into their own thinking that can bring them greater success in real-life problem-solving situations later on.
Games that provide problem-solving practice:
Blokus, Connect Four, Trouble, Yahtzee, Monopoly, Settlers of Catan, Checkers, and Chess
4. Game night is family bonding night.
No matter what games you play, family game night forces you to spend quality time interacting with your kids. Numerous studies have shown that children from families who maintain strong lines of communication through frequent get-togethers like game nights and family dinners enjoy benefits to nearly every aspect of their lives, including: more motivation in school, better relationships with peers, larger vocabularies, higher reading scores, and better emotional well-being and life satisfaction.
5. Games are just plain fun!
The Wood Dale Library is hosting two family games nights that you might want to join.
March 24 from 7 – 8 pm featuring the game Farkle
April 28 from 7 -- 8 pm featuring the game Left, Right, Center.
Early Entry Procedures in Place for Winter Months--updated 1/6/2016
As we've done for the past several years, students now enter the school immediately upon arrival. During the winter months, typically from January through March, students will enter the building when they get to school whether they take the bus, walk, or get dropped of by car.
After coming inside, 3rd graders go to the lunch room, while 4th and 5th graders join classmates outside of their classroom. Staff members supervise these areas beginning at 8:40 a.m. These are the same procedures we use throughout the school year in case of rain/mud or extremely cold temperatures, so students and staff are quite familiar with them. Families should make no changes to morning routines, but parents can be assured that students will not assemble outside regardless of the weather conditions for the next few months.
After coming inside, 3rd graders go to the lunch room, while 4th and 5th graders join classmates outside of their classroom. Staff members supervise these areas beginning at 8:40 a.m. These are the same procedures we use throughout the school year in case of rain/mud or extremely cold temperatures, so students and staff are quite familiar with them. Families should make no changes to morning routines, but parents can be assured that students will not assemble outside regardless of the weather conditions for the next few months.
3rd Graders Produce & Share Videos Through WV7 News Club-updated 1/5/2016
Submitted by Mrs. Willson, 3rd Grade Teacher & WV7 News Club Sponsor
WV7 News is up and running--the students have been busy the past few months!
WV7 News is a video club for third graders that meets at least twice a month during recess. By participating in WV7 News, students are able to interview staff members, develop scripts, video record their acting and edit the videos that they create.
Students recently finished filming their first two videos. The topics of these videos were about the appropriate noise levels within the classroom and a food allergy video that discussed the importance of not sharing food at lunch. Students will continue to develop topics and scripts with their group members. We hope to have our next scripts completed, practiced, and the videos produced by the end of February.
If you have any questions about WV7 News, or if your child would like to get involved in this club, please contact Mrs. Willson by email at [email protected].
You can view previously produced WV7 News videos at www.msknopsteaches.us under the News tab at the top of the page.
WV7 News is a video club for third graders that meets at least twice a month during recess. By participating in WV7 News, students are able to interview staff members, develop scripts, video record their acting and edit the videos that they create.
Students recently finished filming their first two videos. The topics of these videos were about the appropriate noise levels within the classroom and a food allergy video that discussed the importance of not sharing food at lunch. Students will continue to develop topics and scripts with their group members. We hope to have our next scripts completed, practiced, and the videos produced by the end of February.
If you have any questions about WV7 News, or if your child would like to get involved in this club, please contact Mrs. Willson by email at [email protected].
You can view previously produced WV7 News videos at www.msknopsteaches.us under the News tab at the top of the page.
Students Enjoy Creating Snowball Sentences in Speech Class--Updated 12/16/2015
Submitted by Ms. Jennings, Speech and Language Pathologist
This month in Speech, students have been improving their expressive language skills through our “Snowballing Sentences” board. Expressive language reflects how much a student is able to communicate, and includes skills such as vocabulary and grammar. We have been practicing taking short, simple sentences and adding more language and detail in order to create stronger, more complex sentences.
First, the students are given a small snowball with a simple sentence written on it. They are then given a slightly bigger snowball and have to add one detail to the original sentence. As the snowballs get larger, the students have to add more and more details. By the end of the activity, we have a huge snowball with a complex sentence containing beautiful detail!
Throughout these activities, we have discussed the importance of using strong, detailed sentences in our writing. The students have enjoyed brainstorming and coming up with creative ideas to improve their writing! We have also discussed the different questions we can ask ourselves to help include more detail.
To work on vocabulary, students can ask themselves:
First, the students are given a small snowball with a simple sentence written on it. They are then given a slightly bigger snowball and have to add one detail to the original sentence. As the snowballs get larger, the students have to add more and more details. By the end of the activity, we have a huge snowball with a complex sentence containing beautiful detail!
Throughout these activities, we have discussed the importance of using strong, detailed sentences in our writing. The students have enjoyed brainstorming and coming up with creative ideas to improve their writing! We have also discussed the different questions we can ask ourselves to help include more detail.
To work on vocabulary, students can ask themselves:
- “Is there a better word I can use?”
- “What is the best way to describe this?”
- When adding more general detail, students can ask themselves the “wh” questions: who, what, where, when, why.
Westview Gazette Strikes Again!--Updated 12/11/2015
Submitted by: The Boys and Girls of the Westview Gazette (Student Newspaper, sponsored by Mrs. Papanicolaou)
Westview Gazette is up and running! We have seven members this year that have joined which include: Bilal, Emily, Joanna, Kevin, Natalie, Nayla, and Ryan. These students are giving up their time at least once a week, during recess, to write their articles. One expectation is that the students in the club work from home to gather information on their articles to be prepared for the next meeting time. They also write their articles using their chromebooks in which they have to research information to complete their articles.
They are excited to be writing articles about various subjects. Some of the subjects include articles on athletes, animals, interviews of new teachers at Westview, and book reviews. These students also want to make what we call “Fun Pages,” which are activity pages for children and adults to play. They might include word searches, riddles, unscramble, and maybe even some mazes.
We are hoping for our first edition to be published in January. Keep a lookout for it HERE!
They are excited to be writing articles about various subjects. Some of the subjects include articles on athletes, animals, interviews of new teachers at Westview, and book reviews. These students also want to make what we call “Fun Pages,” which are activity pages for children and adults to play. They might include word searches, riddles, unscramble, and maybe even some mazes.
We are hoping for our first edition to be published in January. Keep a lookout for it HERE!
Printing, Value, and Impressionism Explored through Art--Updated 11/30/2015
Submitted by Ms. Cipkin, Art Teacher
3rd graders just learned about the traditional Japanese method of printing fish, called Gyotaku (literally translated into “fish rubbing”) a practice which dates back to the mid-1800s. Students used different textures to decorate the undersea backgrounds for their fish prints to create their own fun Gyotaku prints!
4th graders have been spending a lot of time learning about the art element of Value, the lightness or darkness of a color. We first spent time in making fall pumpkins showing different values of orange to give the pumpkins a “3D” effect and learned how to blend the colors together so they looked like they blended into one another, and not have the pumpkins look like they had “stripes.” We then have moved on to using value with paint! Students are in the process of mixing colors to create their own value scale that will be applied to a future painting project.
Last but not least, 5th grade is learning all about the art movement of Impressionism and Claude Monet, where art took a turn to start depicting everyday life and the colors had a life of their own! Students studied Claude Monet’s painting, “Magpie” and used it as inspiration to create their own winter landscapes. They are still working on the project, but I’m very excited to show you the results when they’re finished!
Safety Patrol & Community Helpers Contribute to Westview Community--Updated 11/23/15
By: Ryan M (5th grade community helper)
Westview has a group of 5th graders that are keeping everyone in the school safe.
We are responsible for keeping classmates safe during morning and afternoon dismissal. We also have a job to raise, lower, and properly store our American flag. The patrollers wear yellow sashes and they tell you to walk so you don’t trip.
The Community Helpers are students who are not assigned a patrol post. They help other teachers or staff members.
We meet on Mondays in Mrs. Serrano’s room.
This job is Only for 5th graders and it is important for us to always demonstrate top notch Wildcat behavior, even when we are not wearing our patrol belt!
Westview has a group of 5th graders that are keeping everyone in the school safe.
We are responsible for keeping classmates safe during morning and afternoon dismissal. We also have a job to raise, lower, and properly store our American flag. The patrollers wear yellow sashes and they tell you to walk so you don’t trip.
The Community Helpers are students who are not assigned a patrol post. They help other teachers or staff members.
We meet on Mondays in Mrs. Serrano’s room.
This job is Only for 5th graders and it is important for us to always demonstrate top notch Wildcat behavior, even when we are not wearing our patrol belt!
Physical Education Reminders from Mr. Monteleone--Updated 10/26/2015
Hello to all Westview Families! I am Mr. Vito Monteleone, the Westview Physical Education Teacher. I would like to thank all students for a great beginning to the 2015-16 school year. We are wrapping up all of our Fitnessgram testing and compiling all of the data. Fitnessgram information will be coming home within the next few weeks. Please review all fitness information sent home with your student(s).
Each day, when your student gets home from school, please ask them what they did in physical education class as you would ask what they did for math, reading, and social studies, etc. Help them to engage in a physical activity, and even join them! Encourage them to "stay off the couch" or off anything that requires a screen (TV, computer, IPad, phone, etc.)
Remember, all children as well as adults, need to obtain 60 minutes of vigorous activity per day.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child's experience in Physical Education Class, please contact me, at [email protected]. Thank you and have a very physically active day!
Each day, when your student gets home from school, please ask them what they did in physical education class as you would ask what they did for math, reading, and social studies, etc. Help them to engage in a physical activity, and even join them! Encourage them to "stay off the couch" or off anything that requires a screen (TV, computer, IPad, phone, etc.)
Remember, all children as well as adults, need to obtain 60 minutes of vigorous activity per day.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child's experience in Physical Education Class, please contact me, at [email protected]. Thank you and have a very physically active day!
Reading Tips for Parents in the Digital Age--Updated 10/7/15
Submitted by Mrs. King, Title I Reading Intervention Teacher
3rd Grade Green Team Now Accepting Members--Updated 9/22/15
Mrs. Thomka is inviting all third graders to join Green Team! Students meet once a month during recess in the LMC to explore “going green” through a variety of games, crafts, and projects. Student sign-ups have already started, but it’s not too late to join.
Each month we look at a different environmental concern and consider ways that a third grader might help contribute to the efforts to keep our planet healthy. Earth BINGO, recycled bookmarks, trash in a landfill, and the various types of light bulbs are among the topics we cover in an entertaining but informative way.
Meetings dates will be determined and published in early October.
Each month we look at a different environmental concern and consider ways that a third grader might help contribute to the efforts to keep our planet healthy. Earth BINGO, recycled bookmarks, trash in a landfill, and the various types of light bulbs are among the topics we cover in an entertaining but informative way.
Meetings dates will be determined and published in early October.
5th Grade Green Team to Begin After Outdoor Education--Updated 9/22/15
Mrs. Cericola will be sponsoring the 5th grade green team yet again this year. She is looking forward to another exciting and educational year with students who are interested in learning more about helping make their school and their homes more green.
The major projects covered in 5th grade include reusing old materials and making something new from what might otherwise have been thrown away, and maintaining the compost bin. The compost bin is housed in Mrs. Cericola’s room and students are encouraged to get down and dirty to learn just how a compost bin works and the benefits it has for the environment. An informational meeting will be held on October 6th during recess time.
The major projects covered in 5th grade include reusing old materials and making something new from what might otherwise have been thrown away, and maintaining the compost bin. The compost bin is housed in Mrs. Cericola’s room and students are encouraged to get down and dirty to learn just how a compost bin works and the benefits it has for the environment. An informational meeting will be held on October 6th during recess time.
New Staff Members Announced--Updated August 17, 2015
There will be five sections of 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade at Westview Elementary School during the 2015-16 school year.
I'm pleased to announce, that the Speech & Language Pathologist will be Ms. Marlee Jennings. Ms. Jennings grew up in the Chicago area, earned her bachelors degree from Marquette University, then went on to earn a Masters from Northern Illinois University. She has completed clinical work in a variety of settings but always knew that she wanted to work with children. She values a collaborative approach to each case and looks forward to starting her work with students, parents, and teachers.
I’m also very pleased to announce several other new faces to Westview, but familiar to the Wood Dale Community! Mrs. Julie Wagner is moving from teaching 2nd Grade at Oakbrook School to teaching 3rd Grade at Westview. Mrs. Amy Falcone joins us as a 5th grade teacher after many years teaching 7th Grade Science at Wood Dale Junior High. Finally, Mrs. Wendy Isaacson is moving from teaching 8th Grade Language Arts at Wood Dale Junior High to teaching 4th grade at Westview.
If you have any further questions, or need clarification regarding your child's class placement, please contact the school office at 630-766-8040. Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview School and we look forward to welcoming all students back to school on Monday, August 24th for a full school day!
I'm pleased to announce, that the Speech & Language Pathologist will be Ms. Marlee Jennings. Ms. Jennings grew up in the Chicago area, earned her bachelors degree from Marquette University, then went on to earn a Masters from Northern Illinois University. She has completed clinical work in a variety of settings but always knew that she wanted to work with children. She values a collaborative approach to each case and looks forward to starting her work with students, parents, and teachers.
I’m also very pleased to announce several other new faces to Westview, but familiar to the Wood Dale Community! Mrs. Julie Wagner is moving from teaching 2nd Grade at Oakbrook School to teaching 3rd Grade at Westview. Mrs. Amy Falcone joins us as a 5th grade teacher after many years teaching 7th Grade Science at Wood Dale Junior High. Finally, Mrs. Wendy Isaacson is moving from teaching 8th Grade Language Arts at Wood Dale Junior High to teaching 4th grade at Westview.
If you have any further questions, or need clarification regarding your child's class placement, please contact the school office at 630-766-8040. Thank you for your ongoing support of Westview School and we look forward to welcoming all students back to school on Monday, August 24th for a full school day!
Handbook & Policy Information--Updated August 17, 2015
A reminder to all Parents/Guardians that the entire Westview School Student/Parent Handbook is online. While your child will receive a paper copy on the first day of school, you can always access it on the main Westview web site at http://wd7.org/pdfs/wv/WV_Handbook.pdf.
Your cooperation and support are always appreciated! Should you have any questions about these policies, please contact your child's teacher or the school office.
Your cooperation and support are always appreciated! Should you have any questions about these policies, please contact your child's teacher or the school office.
Westview to Have Recess First, Followed by Lunch for 2015-16 School Year
Westview School, along with about 95% of other elementary schools, have students eat lunch prior to going out to recess each day. But, a growing number of schools are switching the order of that tradition.
And in doing so they are getting some amazing results. Kids eat more, waste less food, return to class calmer, behave better and as a result, instruction time is increased.
This school year, Westview will also make the change, with students participating in recess first, followed by eating lunch. The schedule will remain exactly the same, with the two activities simply switched. The new daily schedule for 2015-2016 will be:
3rd Grade: Recess 11:05-11:25, Lunch 11:30-11:50
4th Grade: Recess 11:30-11:50, Lunch 11:55-12:15
5th Grade: Recess 11:55-12:15, Lunch 12:20-12:40
The following resources were reviewed prior to arriving at this decision:
And in doing so they are getting some amazing results. Kids eat more, waste less food, return to class calmer, behave better and as a result, instruction time is increased.
This school year, Westview will also make the change, with students participating in recess first, followed by eating lunch. The schedule will remain exactly the same, with the two activities simply switched. The new daily schedule for 2015-2016 will be:
3rd Grade: Recess 11:05-11:25, Lunch 11:30-11:50
4th Grade: Recess 11:30-11:50, Lunch 11:55-12:15
5th Grade: Recess 11:55-12:15, Lunch 12:20-12:40
The following resources were reviewed prior to arriving at this decision:
- http://www.peacefulplaygrounds.com/recess-before-lunch/
- http://www.nea.org/home/43158.htm
- http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/01/20/378664121/would-kids-eat-more-veggies-if-they-had-recess-before-lunch
- http://www.opi.mt.gov/pdf/SchoolFood/rbl/RBLGeneral.pdf
- http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/01/a-more-nutritious-school-day-through-recess/384526/
- http://foodpsychology.cornell.edu/OP/Recess
- http://wholechildaction.org/how-logical-is-recess-before-lunch/
Mission Church Donates Backpacks with School Supplies!--Updated 7/23/2015
Many thanks to the generous donation of 30 backpacks for students at Oakbrook and Westview Elementary Schools from Mission Church in Roselle.
As part of "Project Just Start" members of the Mission Church Community work with a variety of individuals and businesses who donate back packs and school supplies which are then packed up and delivered to ten DuPage County communities with students from low-income families.
School staff then distribute the backpacks to students when school begins so that they can start a new school year prepared for success!
As part of "Project Just Start" members of the Mission Church Community work with a variety of individuals and businesses who donate back packs and school supplies which are then packed up and delivered to ten DuPage County communities with students from low-income families.
School staff then distribute the backpacks to students when school begins so that they can start a new school year prepared for success!
Westview Open House--Thursday, May 7th 6:30-8:00 p.m.
The entire Westview School Community, including families of current 2nd grade students, are invited to attend Westview School's annual Open House. As usual, we'll have lots of things going on in addition to showcasing the incredible teaching/learning that takes place in our classrooms:
- Ice Cream Social in the Multipurpose Room
- Scholastic Book Fair in our Gym
- Short Chorus Performance by our 4th and 5th grade chorus students at 7:15 p.m. in the LMC
- Click HERE for a flyer with more information.
- Click HERE for a building map of events.
Students Prepare to See Growth with Fitnessgram Results--Updated April 28, 2015
The principal mission of the FITNESSGRAM program is to promote lifelong physical activity among youth. The program aims to provide students with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills to be active for a lifetime.
Students are currently taking FITNESSGRAM tests both at the start of the school year and the end. Students are assessed in areas such as cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and muscular endurance. Students practice each test and learn the rules of each test in order for them to have the knowledge of how they are being assessed.
Students are assessed at the beginning and end of each year and a report is sent home detailing the results of the year as a whole. Each student's results can be tracked over time to see how they are doing in trying to keep a healthy lifestyle. Overall, the FITNESSGRAM program aims to help students become lifelong learners of health and to lead an active lifestyle as students all the way to adulthood. For more information, please contact Mr. Vito Monteleone, the Physical Education Teacher at [email protected] or by calling the school office at 630-766-8040.
Students are currently taking FITNESSGRAM tests both at the start of the school year and the end. Students are assessed in areas such as cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and muscular endurance. Students practice each test and learn the rules of each test in order for them to have the knowledge of how they are being assessed.
Students are assessed at the beginning and end of each year and a report is sent home detailing the results of the year as a whole. Each student's results can be tracked over time to see how they are doing in trying to keep a healthy lifestyle. Overall, the FITNESSGRAM program aims to help students become lifelong learners of health and to lead an active lifestyle as students all the way to adulthood. For more information, please contact Mr. Vito Monteleone, the Physical Education Teacher at [email protected] or by calling the school office at 630-766-8040.
Westview Students Enjoy Unique Experiences in Art Class--Updated 03/23/2015
The art room is full of excitement this month!
3rd Graders travel all the way to Australia when entering the Art room, learning about Aboriginal Dot paintings! We are exploring the different ways to combine dot symbols to tell stories all while learning about Australian animals and the Aboriginal culture!
4th graders are working with materials they have never used before like wire, hot glue, plaster strips and paint to create Keith Haring inspired figures! The students are loving working on something that is 3D and we are very excited to share the results later on this year!
5th graders are far into their painting unit making Picasso portraits. Now, these projects aren’t just regular paintings! When you put on 3D glasses, the painting seems to vibrate and it seems like certain objects are moving! The high contrast of the colors (dark vs. light) causes this effect and the students have really loved to paint their projects through a whole new lens!
3rd Graders travel all the way to Australia when entering the Art room, learning about Aboriginal Dot paintings! We are exploring the different ways to combine dot symbols to tell stories all while learning about Australian animals and the Aboriginal culture!
4th graders are working with materials they have never used before like wire, hot glue, plaster strips and paint to create Keith Haring inspired figures! The students are loving working on something that is 3D and we are very excited to share the results later on this year!
5th graders are far into their painting unit making Picasso portraits. Now, these projects aren’t just regular paintings! When you put on 3D glasses, the painting seems to vibrate and it seems like certain objects are moving! The high contrast of the colors (dark vs. light) causes this effect and the students have really loved to paint their projects through a whole new lens!
April 17th Calendar Error--It is a Regular School Day--Updated 03/16/2015
On the District 7 Calendar that all families received at the start of the school year, April 17th mistakenly included a full black square to indicate no school that day. This was an error, and in fact April 17th is a regular full school day. Please note this on your calendars, and don't let your student's try to convince you otherwise!
We regret the mistake! |
Westview School Newspaper--The Westview Gazette--Updated 03/12/2015
Did you know that we had a school newspaper? We have a school club in which 5th graders learn about journalism skills such as developing story ideas, conducting interviews, writing, editing, and taking photos. A few years ago we moved from a traditional print version to an online format. Check out the Westview Gazette HERE.
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Target Store Program results in Westview PTO Funds--Updated 03/10/2015
Many thanks to Target Stores, as well as the families that shop there and designate Westview School to receive a portion of purchases! As part of Target's Take Charge of Education Program, customers may designate a local school to receive 5% of their total purchase amount, paid for with the Target credit card.
Recently, the Westview PTO received a check for $170.58 from Target, and a total of nearly $600 for the entire school year. Funds received or raised by the Westview PTO are used to provide experiences for students that enhance the existing curriculum, such as workshops and assemblies provided by outside consultants, performing artists, and others with unique expertise.
Thank you for your ongoing support!
Recently, the Westview PTO received a check for $170.58 from Target, and a total of nearly $600 for the entire school year. Funds received or raised by the Westview PTO are used to provide experiences for students that enhance the existing curriculum, such as workshops and assemblies provided by outside consultants, performing artists, and others with unique expertise.
Thank you for your ongoing support!
Champions Crowned in Battle of the Books (B-O-B) Competition--Updated 02/24/15
Another successful year of Battle of the Books (B-O-B) has come to an end! This year we had 114 students from Westview participate which making up 20 teams! Battle of the Books is sponsored and run by the Wood Dale Library with support from Westview’s LMC.
B-O-B is a game show-type of competition that involves a grade-level "battle" involving two or three teams competing against each other. Each team divides up and reads 30 books from a specified list. During the battle, questions are asked of each team. The answers to the questions are the titles of the books from the specified list. By answering correctly the team receives 2 points. A bonus point is given for also knowing the author!
Each team competes for 3 weeks and accumulates points. The top two scoring teams after the 3 weeks compete in the finals for that grade level.
This season we had some very competitive teams! We are so proud of all students who made the commitment to be a part of this wonderful program! Also, thank you to the parents for supporting your children by driving them to the library and for encouraging them to read at home! Congratulations to our BOB champions:
B-O-B is a game show-type of competition that involves a grade-level "battle" involving two or three teams competing against each other. Each team divides up and reads 30 books from a specified list. During the battle, questions are asked of each team. The answers to the questions are the titles of the books from the specified list. By answering correctly the team receives 2 points. A bonus point is given for also knowing the author!
Each team competes for 3 weeks and accumulates points. The top two scoring teams after the 3 weeks compete in the finals for that grade level.
This season we had some very competitive teams! We are so proud of all students who made the commitment to be a part of this wonderful program! Also, thank you to the parents for supporting your children by driving them to the library and for encouraging them to read at home! Congratulations to our BOB champions:
- 3rd grade: The Dangerous Dragons
- 4th grade: Team Plasma
- 5th grade: The Golden Bookmarks!
Poking Fun at Figurative Language--updated 1/26/2015
This year in the speech room we have started something called the “Idiom of the week”. I find a picture of an idiom, but it has the literal interpretation drawn in the picture. On the surface they are usually pretty funny, and a nice topic to start off a session with. It has even gotten to the point of students racing to my room to see what is up there on a Monday morning!
But if you dig a little deeper they are more than a fun little conversation starter. A lot of students struggle with figurative language. These little pictures help to expose students to expressions that we use in our everyday language, that kids may not fully understand yet. They also provided a nice reference for the students to reflect back on if they hear it throughout their day.
Submitted by Mr. Andrew Webb, Speech and Language Pathologist
But if you dig a little deeper they are more than a fun little conversation starter. A lot of students struggle with figurative language. These little pictures help to expose students to expressions that we use in our everyday language, that kids may not fully understand yet. They also provided a nice reference for the students to reflect back on if they hear it throughout their day.
Submitted by Mr. Andrew Webb, Speech and Language Pathologist
Westview Artists Collaborate on School Mural--updated 1/13/2015
In Art news, January Art Club has 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders learning all about murals and actually collaborating to make a mural of their own to be hung up in the school! Students just started this week but as you can see, they are making great progress! The mural is planned to be done at the end of the month!
Westview students in grades 3, 4, and 5 who show particular enthusiasm and potential in art class are invited to participate in a rotating art club during the school year.
Participants explore media and techniques not typically used within the grade level curriculum. Due to high demand, students are invited to participate in this club as part of a group that meets for several weeks while completing a project. In order to provide an opportunity for other students to participate, another group of children are then invited to participate for the next several weeks.
Students participate during their lunch and/or recess period under the direction of the elementary art teacher, Ms. Lauren Cipkin.
UPDATE: Check out the finished product!
Westview students in grades 3, 4, and 5 who show particular enthusiasm and potential in art class are invited to participate in a rotating art club during the school year.
Participants explore media and techniques not typically used within the grade level curriculum. Due to high demand, students are invited to participate in this club as part of a group that meets for several weeks while completing a project. In order to provide an opportunity for other students to participate, another group of children are then invited to participate for the next several weeks.
Students participate during their lunch and/or recess period under the direction of the elementary art teacher, Ms. Lauren Cipkin.
UPDATE: Check out the finished product!
Early Entry Procedures in Place for Winter Months--updated 12/17/2014
As we've done for the past several years, students will enter the school immediately upon arrival after the holidays when classes resume January 6, 2015. During the winter months, typically from January through March, students will enter the building when they get to school whether they take the bus, walk, or get dropped of by car.
After coming inside, 3rd graders go to the lunch room, while 4th and 5th graders join classmates outside of their classroom. Staff members supervise these areas beginning at 8:40 a.m. These are the same procedures we use throughout the school year in case of rain/mud or extremely cold temperatures, so students and staff are quite familiar with them. Families should make no changes to morning routines, but parents can be assured that students will not assemble outside regardless of the weather conditions for the next few months.
After coming inside, 3rd graders go to the lunch room, while 4th and 5th graders join classmates outside of their classroom. Staff members supervise these areas beginning at 8:40 a.m. These are the same procedures we use throughout the school year in case of rain/mud or extremely cold temperatures, so students and staff are quite familiar with them. Families should make no changes to morning routines, but parents can be assured that students will not assemble outside regardless of the weather conditions for the next few months.
Have you Received a Weekly Update in your Inbox this Year?
Did you know that you can receive a weekly update from Westview School via e-mail every Friday at noon?
If you’re not already receiving these weekly updates, please call the school office to provide your e-mail address and request to be added to the list! Thanks!
If you’re not already receiving these weekly updates, please call the school office to provide your e-mail address and request to be added to the list! Thanks!
Third Grade Video Club to Produce WV7 News Broadcasts--Updated 12/01/2014
WV7 News is officially up and running! WV7 News is a club for third graders that meets every other Wednesday during lunch and recess. During WV7 News, students are able to interview staff members, develop scripts, act, film and edit videos that they make. Students are currently busy developing scripts with their group members. We hope to have scripts completed, rehearsals practiced and our first set of videos produced by the beginning of January. If you have any questions about WV7 News, or if your child would like to get involved in this club, please contact Mrs. Megan Knops by email at [email protected]. You can view previously produced WV7 News videos at www.msknopsteaches.us.
Winter Holiday Music Concert December 9th at WDJH--Updated 11/24/2014
It may be hard to believe but the 2014 holiday season is already in full swing! Students have been busy preparing their holiday music since the first days of November and are almost ready to celebrate and share the spirit at our annual holiday program.
Westview’s holiday program will be held on Tuesday, December 9th, at the Wood Dale Jr. High Center for the Arts. Half of our 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders will be featured at 6:30pm and the other half at our second performance beginning at 7:40pm. A detailed bulletin of information for families has been distributed and additional reminders will come home with your student soon.
As usual, we will hold a small reception before the event where all audience members will enter. You are invited to please read about this and other details at Ms. Donahoe’s website http://msdonahoe.weebly.com/wv-holiday-program-information.html.
Students are getting excited to show off their skills, as so much time and hard work goes into the show. Each year efforts are made to choose a wide range of music that is used to teach curricular concepts, highlight students in various roles (recorder, xylophones, movement, etc.), and introduce them to new vocabulary, as well as music and traditions from other cultures. This program is no exception and includes songs sung in Polish, Spanish and German, some familiar favorites, and much more! If you have any questions feel free to contact our music teacher, Ms. Donahoe, at [email protected]. We can’t wait to see you there!!!
Westview’s holiday program will be held on Tuesday, December 9th, at the Wood Dale Jr. High Center for the Arts. Half of our 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders will be featured at 6:30pm and the other half at our second performance beginning at 7:40pm. A detailed bulletin of information for families has been distributed and additional reminders will come home with your student soon.
As usual, we will hold a small reception before the event where all audience members will enter. You are invited to please read about this and other details at Ms. Donahoe’s website http://msdonahoe.weebly.com/wv-holiday-program-information.html.
Students are getting excited to show off their skills, as so much time and hard work goes into the show. Each year efforts are made to choose a wide range of music that is used to teach curricular concepts, highlight students in various roles (recorder, xylophones, movement, etc.), and introduce them to new vocabulary, as well as music and traditions from other cultures. This program is no exception and includes songs sung in Polish, Spanish and German, some familiar favorites, and much more! If you have any questions feel free to contact our music teacher, Ms. Donahoe, at [email protected]. We can’t wait to see you there!!!
Making the Most of Parent/Teacher Conferences--Updated 11/18/2014
With Parent/Teacher Conferences scheduled to take place on Monday, November 24th and Tuesday, November 25th, we wanted to offer a few resources to parents to make the most of the available time.
Adapted from: http://www.pta.org/programs/content.cfm?ItemNumber=1710
A parent–teacher conference is a time when important people in a student's life can talk about how that student is doing in school. It's a chance for you to ask questions about the class or your child's progress. It is also a time for you and the teacher to work together as a team to discuss ways you both can help your son or daughter. Together, you can help your child have a great school year.
Before the Conference
After the Conference
When discussing the conference with the child afterward, stress the good things that were covered and be direct about problems that were identified. If an action plan is in place, explain to the child what was arranged. When an action plan is in place, consider the following:
Reprinted by PTA.org with permission from Education.com.
For more information, please also take 3 minutes to view a short video with additional tips:
http://www.clickorlando.com/news/tips-for-a-successful-parentteacher-conference/29016074
Adapted from: http://www.pta.org/programs/content.cfm?ItemNumber=1710
A parent–teacher conference is a time when important people in a student's life can talk about how that student is doing in school. It's a chance for you to ask questions about the class or your child's progress. It is also a time for you and the teacher to work together as a team to discuss ways you both can help your son or daughter. Together, you can help your child have a great school year.
Before the Conference
- Schedule an appointment—A parent-teacher conference is not the only time when parents and teachers should make contact. Parents may want to schedule a special meeting with their child's teacher for a variety of reasons. If you need to set up an appointment with the teacher, make a phone call or write a quick note to the teacher, and let him or her know if you have particular issues you would like to discuss.
- Talk to your child—Find out which subjects your child likes the best and the least. Ask why. Also, ask if there is anything your child would like you to talk about with the teacher. Help the child understand that you and the teacher are meeting to help him or her. If your child is in middle or high school, you may want to include him or her in the conference.
- Gather input from others—If your spouse, another care-giving adult, or someone with pertinent information or insight (doctor, counselor, other guardian) can't attend the conference, ask for that person's concerns and questions before the conference.
- Make a list—Before you go to the meeting, make a list of topics to discuss with the teacher. Along with questions about academics and behavior, you may want to talk to the teacher about the child's home life, personality, concerns, habits and hobbies, and other topics that may help the teacher in working with the child (e.g., religious holidays, music lessons, part-time jobs, a sick relative).
- Establish rapport—As an icebreaker, take notice of something that reflects well upon the teacher. For example, thank the teacher for having made thoughtful notes on your child's homework or for the special attention in helping your child learn to multiply.
- Ask questions—Questions you ask during the conference can help you express your hopes for the student's success in class and for the teacher. It's a good idea to ask the important questions first, in case time runs out. The teacher's answers should help you both work together to help your child. If your child receives special services (e.g., gifted and talented programs, speech or occupational therapy), be sure to ask about the frequency of services and your child's progress.
- Addressing problems—Parent-teacher conferences are a good time to discuss any difficulties (either academic or behavioral) a child might be having at school.
- Avoid angry or apologetic reactions. Instead, ask for examples.
- Ask what is being done about the problem and what strategies seem to help at school.
- Develop an action plan that may include steps that parents can take at home and steps the teacher will take when the problem comes up at school.
- Schedule a follow-up conference and decide on the best way to stay in touch (phone, e-mail, or letters sent to the home).
- Develop an action plan—If the student needs help with a behavioral or an academic issue, you and the teacher should agree on specific plans—that you both will work on—to help your child do better. Be sure you understand what the teacher suggests. If it's not clear, ask him or her to explain. Set up a way to check on your child's progress. You and the teacher can decide how best to stay in touch, such as through phone calls, notes, or additional meetings.
- Ending the conference—End the conference by reviewing what you discussed and restating your action plan. This is also a good time to set up your next meeting.
After the Conference
When discussing the conference with the child afterward, stress the good things that were covered and be direct about problems that were identified. If an action plan is in place, explain to the child what was arranged. When an action plan is in place, consider the following:
- Watch your child's behavior and check on classwork and homework.
- Ask how the student feels about schoolwork.
- Stay in touch with the teacher to discuss your child's progress.
- Express appreciation as progress is made. A good way to promote a continuing relationship with the teacher is to say "thank-you" with a note or a telephone call.
- Continuing to keep in touch with the teacher, even if things are going well, can play an important role in helping the child do better in school.
Reprinted by PTA.org with permission from Education.com.
For more information, please also take 3 minutes to view a short video with additional tips:
http://www.clickorlando.com/news/tips-for-a-successful-parentteacher-conference/29016074
Managing January Weather in November!--Updated 11/13/14
As you know, the faculty and staff here at Westview School take our mission statement very seriously. In particular, we are always considering ways in which we aim to provide “…a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment.”
With that in mind, a few years ago we surveyed area schools in Itasca, Addison, Medinah, Roselle, and Bensenville, in order to review our own policy for determining when students will have recess outside on the playground and field, or indoors. For many years we have made that decision based on overall weather conditions and whether the wind-chill is over or under 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Based on the guidelines that other area schools are following, I decided to change that threshold to a wind-chill of 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This guideline is what we have consistently used for the past 3 years. As always, your assistance with ensuring that your child is dressed appropriately for the winter weather is appreciated. And, while we believe students should take responsibility for their own safety and comfort by seeking out weather forecasts on a regular basis, it is ultimately the role of parents to approve of what a child is wearing before they come to school.
While this arctic air is taking everybody by surprise in early November, we are using the same temperature policy this year. If your child has unique circumstances or health concerns that require them to remain indoors, please contact the school office at 630-766-8040. Otherwise, please expect that if the wind chill is above 10 degrees and the play area is safe, that our students will be outside during recess to benefit from the fresh air, and space to move their bodies!
Thank you in advance for your cooperation!
With that in mind, a few years ago we surveyed area schools in Itasca, Addison, Medinah, Roselle, and Bensenville, in order to review our own policy for determining when students will have recess outside on the playground and field, or indoors. For many years we have made that decision based on overall weather conditions and whether the wind-chill is over or under 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Based on the guidelines that other area schools are following, I decided to change that threshold to a wind-chill of 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This guideline is what we have consistently used for the past 3 years. As always, your assistance with ensuring that your child is dressed appropriately for the winter weather is appreciated. And, while we believe students should take responsibility for their own safety and comfort by seeking out weather forecasts on a regular basis, it is ultimately the role of parents to approve of what a child is wearing before they come to school.
While this arctic air is taking everybody by surprise in early November, we are using the same temperature policy this year. If your child has unique circumstances or health concerns that require them to remain indoors, please contact the school office at 630-766-8040. Otherwise, please expect that if the wind chill is above 10 degrees and the play area is safe, that our students will be outside during recess to benefit from the fresh air, and space to move their bodies!
Thank you in advance for your cooperation!
Flu season is upon us--Let’s keep our school healthy--Updated 11/13/14
The flu is a serious illness. On average, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized each year because of complications from the flu. Influenza causes more hospitalizations among young children than any other vaccine-preventable disease.
What YOU can do:
Get vaccinated! The single best way to protect against seasonal flu and its potential severe complications is for children (and adults) to get a seasonal influenza vaccine each year. Flu vaccination is recommended for children aged 6 months and older.
Make healthy choices at school and at home that can help prevent the flu and spreading the flu to others.
Children, parents, and staff should take the following everyday preventive actions:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use and wash your hands. If a tissue is not available, cover your mouth and nose with your sleeve, not your hand.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
*The Health Department only offers flu shots to eligible children who qualify under the state’s Vaccine for Children (VFC) guidelines. Flu shots are available to children who have no insurance, have insurance that does not cover immunizations or are recipients of Medicaid and All Kids Health Insurance.
Flu vaccine is readily available for other children and adults at physician offices and local pharmacies.
To find a flu vaccine location near you, go to www.flu.gov.
What YOU can do:
Get vaccinated! The single best way to protect against seasonal flu and its potential severe complications is for children (and adults) to get a seasonal influenza vaccine each year. Flu vaccination is recommended for children aged 6 months and older.
Make healthy choices at school and at home that can help prevent the flu and spreading the flu to others.
Children, parents, and staff should take the following everyday preventive actions:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use and wash your hands. If a tissue is not available, cover your mouth and nose with your sleeve, not your hand.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
*The Health Department only offers flu shots to eligible children who qualify under the state’s Vaccine for Children (VFC) guidelines. Flu shots are available to children who have no insurance, have insurance that does not cover immunizations or are recipients of Medicaid and All Kids Health Insurance.
Flu vaccine is readily available for other children and adults at physician offices and local pharmacies.
To find a flu vaccine location near you, go to www.flu.gov.
A friendly reminder—we recommend that you periodically check your child’s head for lice. If you see lice or nits, please treat your child prior to sending them to school. We also appreciate notification of any head lice.
We do not send out notifications to parents, unless there are an unusually large number of students with head lice.
Based on recommendations from the DuPage County Health Department and other health agencies, students are not excluded from school for lice as long as they have been treated. For additional information on head lice from the DuPage County Health Department, click HERE.
We do not send out notifications to parents, unless there are an unusually large number of students with head lice.
Based on recommendations from the DuPage County Health Department and other health agencies, students are not excluded from school for lice as long as they have been treated. For additional information on head lice from the DuPage County Health Department, click HERE.
P.E. Teacher Addresses Obesity for Westview Parents--Updated October 28, 2014
Parents, did you know that among children in the United States, 35% of children (6-11) are overweight and 15% are obese? That is an extremely high percentage for children. It has been proven that children who are overweight have a greater chance of becoming obese adults; obesity increases the risk for Type 2 diabetes in adolescence.
Among growing youth, bone and cartilage in the process of development are not strong enough to bear excess weight. As a result, a variety of orthopedic complications occur in children and adolescents with obesity. In young children, excess weight can lead to bowing and overgrowth of leg bones. Sleep apnea, the absence of breathing during sleep, occurs in about 7 percent of children with obesity. Deficits in logical thinking are common in children with obesity and sleep apnea.
Between 1988-1994 and 2007-2008, the prevalence of obesity increased among children and adolescence:
· From 11.6% to 16.7% among non-Hispanic white boys.
· From 10.7% to 19.8% among non-Hispanic black boys.
· From 14.1% to 26.8% among Mexican-American boys.
· From 8.9% to 14.5% among non-Hispanic white girls.
· From 16.3% to 29.2% among non-Hispanic black girls.
· From 13.4% to 17.4% among Mexican-American girls.
It also increases a person’s risk for stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers later in life!
There are many ways that you as parents can help your children fight this horrible trend. Start with participation in activities that get your children up and active (bike ride, family game of tag, walk the dog, hike in the local forest preserve). Limit screen time (TV, computers, video games) to 60 minutes maximum per day. Help your children to understand energy balance (balancing what and how much they eat with what and how much they exercise.
Finally, if you are concerned about your child’s weight consult a physician or registered dietitian for advice on how to change eating habits.
We have finished all of our Fitnessgram testing at Westview and all reports are printed. Within the next few weeks, your student(s) will be bringing their reports home. Please read and review all the information provided. Thank you!
-Vito Monteleone
Westview PE Department
Among growing youth, bone and cartilage in the process of development are not strong enough to bear excess weight. As a result, a variety of orthopedic complications occur in children and adolescents with obesity. In young children, excess weight can lead to bowing and overgrowth of leg bones. Sleep apnea, the absence of breathing during sleep, occurs in about 7 percent of children with obesity. Deficits in logical thinking are common in children with obesity and sleep apnea.
Between 1988-1994 and 2007-2008, the prevalence of obesity increased among children and adolescence:
· From 11.6% to 16.7% among non-Hispanic white boys.
· From 10.7% to 19.8% among non-Hispanic black boys.
· From 14.1% to 26.8% among Mexican-American boys.
· From 8.9% to 14.5% among non-Hispanic white girls.
· From 16.3% to 29.2% among non-Hispanic black girls.
· From 13.4% to 17.4% among Mexican-American girls.
It also increases a person’s risk for stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers later in life!
There are many ways that you as parents can help your children fight this horrible trend. Start with participation in activities that get your children up and active (bike ride, family game of tag, walk the dog, hike in the local forest preserve). Limit screen time (TV, computers, video games) to 60 minutes maximum per day. Help your children to understand energy balance (balancing what and how much they eat with what and how much they exercise.
Finally, if you are concerned about your child’s weight consult a physician or registered dietitian for advice on how to change eating habits.
We have finished all of our Fitnessgram testing at Westview and all reports are printed. Within the next few weeks, your student(s) will be bringing their reports home. Please read and review all the information provided. Thank you!
-Vito Monteleone
Westview PE Department
Westview School News--Updated 8/27/2014
Welcome to a new school year!
As more and more parents communicate digitally, we have moved the majority of our school news and announcements online. Therefore, rather than publishing a traditional paper newsletter each month, we’ll be posting new content more frequently to this Westview School News web site that you can access from the official Westview site! Grade levels will continue to update their content monthly, but this will be completed on a rotating basis rather than all at once. To ensure that we are not excluding any families who may not have internet access, a compiled packet of content from our web site will be printed and sent home each month. Please let your child’s teacher know if you’d prefer not to receive this paper copy, and would rather access school information exclusively online. Also, you can now follow Westview School on Twitter! Our “handle” is @WestviewSchool1. All "Tweets" will also appear on the Westview News home page!
Also, if you are not already receiving our weekly updates via e-mail each Friday, please contact the school office and request that your e-mail address get added to the distribution list.
We value the input of parents as part of the Westview School Community. And, as you may be aware, parent involvement at school can have a significant impact on a child’s academic progress. With that in mind, I also want to invite you to become more involved with our very active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Our first meeting will be Tuesday, September 9th at 6:30 p.m. in the LMC. All parents are invited, and this isn’t limited to moms—dads are invited as well! If you have any trouble finding a way to get involved at school that fits your time and interest, please contact me directly and we’ll match you with a role that makes a positive contribution to our school!
We take our mission statement seriously and always strive to provide “a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment.”
I look forward to working with you as educational partners throughout 2014-15!
Sincerely,
Alan Buttimer
Principal
As more and more parents communicate digitally, we have moved the majority of our school news and announcements online. Therefore, rather than publishing a traditional paper newsletter each month, we’ll be posting new content more frequently to this Westview School News web site that you can access from the official Westview site! Grade levels will continue to update their content monthly, but this will be completed on a rotating basis rather than all at once. To ensure that we are not excluding any families who may not have internet access, a compiled packet of content from our web site will be printed and sent home each month. Please let your child’s teacher know if you’d prefer not to receive this paper copy, and would rather access school information exclusively online. Also, you can now follow Westview School on Twitter! Our “handle” is @WestviewSchool1. All "Tweets" will also appear on the Westview News home page!
Also, if you are not already receiving our weekly updates via e-mail each Friday, please contact the school office and request that your e-mail address get added to the distribution list.
We value the input of parents as part of the Westview School Community. And, as you may be aware, parent involvement at school can have a significant impact on a child’s academic progress. With that in mind, I also want to invite you to become more involved with our very active Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Our first meeting will be Tuesday, September 9th at 6:30 p.m. in the LMC. All parents are invited, and this isn’t limited to moms—dads are invited as well! If you have any trouble finding a way to get involved at school that fits your time and interest, please contact me directly and we’ll match you with a role that makes a positive contribution to our school!
We take our mission statement seriously and always strive to provide “a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment.”
I look forward to working with you as educational partners throughout 2014-15!
Sincerely,
Alan Buttimer
Principal
Curriculum Night Changes Clarified--Updated August 27, 2014
To better prepare parents to be partners with teachers in their child’s education, we are making some significant changes to Curriculum Night for the 2014-2015 school year:
- Curriculum Night did not take place before school began
- Each grade level will provide an hour-long interactive presentation for parents, involving students and their Chromebooks within the first several weeks of school beginning:
- 3rd Grade: Tuesday, September 16th @ 7:00 p.m.
- (Bilingual Parent Presentation 9/16/14 @ 6:30 p.m.)
- 4th Grade: Thursday, September 4th @ 7:00 p.m.
- 5th Grade: Wednesday, September 3rd @ 7:00 p.m.
- School Supply Kits ordered in advance through the PTO will still be waiting for students on the first day of school in their classrooms; supply kit boxes can be taken home by students or stored until the parent comes to the Curriculum Night event.
- Handbooks, calendars, and all other paper materials typically distributed on Curriculum Night were sent home with students on the first day of school, Wednesday, August 20th.
- PTO forms will be available at Curriculum Night, along with a schedule to sign up for Parent/Teacher Conferences in November.
Westview School Celebrates 50 Years of Learning 1964-2014!
In 1964 Beatlemania swept through the United States, a postage stamp was 5 cents, Martin Luther King Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize, and Westview Elementary School opened its doors to the children of Wood Dale!
And in 2014, Westview School is celebrating 50 years of learning together! Since 1964, thousands of current and former Wood Dale residents have attended Westview School.
The entire community is invited to attend a 50th Anniversary celebration on Saturday, September 20th from 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Refreshments will be provided and tours of the school will be available every half hour beginning at the main entrance on Addison Road.
Yearbooks from many of the school years will also be on display. Current and former staff members will be invited to attend, and former students are encouraged to utilize social media to arrange meeting classmates at the event.
If you are interested in volunteering to assist with coordinating the event, including outreach to former staff and students, please contact the school office at 630-766-8040.
And in 2014, Westview School is celebrating 50 years of learning together! Since 1964, thousands of current and former Wood Dale residents have attended Westview School.
The entire community is invited to attend a 50th Anniversary celebration on Saturday, September 20th from 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Refreshments will be provided and tours of the school will be available every half hour beginning at the main entrance on Addison Road.
Yearbooks from many of the school years will also be on display. Current and former staff members will be invited to attend, and former students are encouraged to utilize social media to arrange meeting classmates at the event.
If you are interested in volunteering to assist with coordinating the event, including outreach to former staff and students, please contact the school office at 630-766-8040.
District 7 PTO's to Host Back to School Pool Party August 17th
The 2014-2015 School Year will once again begin with a family event to celebrate the start of school!
Thanks to the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) at each school, families will have an opportunity to socialize and enjoy a night of fun just before classes resume! Sunday, August 17th From 6pm-8pm At the Beach in Wood Dale Located at 161 W. Commercial Street
View a flyer about the event from the Virtual Backpack HERE. |
Westview Technology Surveys Now Available--Updated May 7, 2014
Wood Dale School District 7 would like feedback on our 1:1 technology device program as part of our District 7 Board of Education goals. We will be using this information to assess our student's engagement in their learning using a device as a tool. Please click on a link below to take the survey online.
We appreciate your time in answering the following questions and helping us to improve our 1:1 technology device program. This survey is due May 16, 2014.
English: http://goo.gl/nLZVLZ
Polish: http://goo.gl/BYbFN0
Spanish: http://goo.gl/9qMSiB
We appreciate your time in answering the following questions and helping us to improve our 1:1 technology device program. This survey is due May 16, 2014.
English: http://goo.gl/nLZVLZ
Polish: http://goo.gl/BYbFN0
Spanish: http://goo.gl/9qMSiB
DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP - Rights, Roles and Responsibilities in a Digital Society
We invite our parents and families to join us for a discussion about using technology appropriately.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. - Center for the Arts, Wood Dale Junior High
This event has already taken place. You can view all of the resources online at the District 7 Web Site: www.wd7.org>>>>Learning>>>>Technology>>>>Digital Leadership
Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. - Center for the Arts, Wood Dale Junior High
This event has already taken place. You can view all of the resources online at the District 7 Web Site: www.wd7.org>>>>Learning>>>>Technology>>>>Digital Leadership
5 Essentials Parent Survey Launches--Participate by April 25 Deadline!
Please provide us with your feedback so we can improve.
If you have not yet done so, please complete a brief survey about our school.
5 Essentials Parent Survey:
https://illinois.5-essentials.org
Or, you can link to it from the District 7 Home Page at www.wd7.org
If you have not yet done so, please complete a brief survey about our school.
5 Essentials Parent Survey:
https://illinois.5-essentials.org
Or, you can link to it from the District 7 Home Page at www.wd7.org
- Based on 20 years of research conducted by the University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School Research in more than 400 schools, the 5Essentials have been shown to be strongly predictive of school improvement.
- Schools strong in 3 to 5 of the Essentials are 10 times more likely to improve student learning than schools weak in 3 to 5 of the Essentials.
- Please participate in this 10 minute parent survey about our school.
Follett Destiny-Reading ebooks from the Westview LMC on your Device
Follett Destiny is WDSD7’s Library Management System. Besides browsing our library collection there is a feature (Follett Shelf) that will enable your student to access online books to read on their device. You can start by clicking on Westview’s Destiny link HERE:
This will bring you directly to our personal Destiny site. Have your child login (top of the page) using their library/login# and their district assigned password (5 digits case sensitive).
Once your child’s name appears at the top right corner, you can access our “private” features.
Click the FolletShelf tab at the top. This will bring you to our online ebook collection. All 134 of the books listed can be checked out by Westview students to read on their device. Browse through the collection and enjoy!
Please note; we have over 14,000 physical books at Westview School in our library but only these 134 can be accessed online at this time!
This will bring you directly to our personal Destiny site. Have your child login (top of the page) using their library/login# and their district assigned password (5 digits case sensitive).
Once your child’s name appears at the top right corner, you can access our “private” features.
Click the FolletShelf tab at the top. This will bring you to our online ebook collection. All 134 of the books listed can be checked out by Westview students to read on their device. Browse through the collection and enjoy!
Please note; we have over 14,000 physical books at Westview School in our library but only these 134 can be accessed online at this time!
Curriculum Focus--Art Class with Mrs. Alper--Updated February 24, 2014
This year in art each student is building upon art skills from the previous year, including small motor skill control like drawing, coloring, cutting, gluing, as well as creative thinking and problem solving. Student learning can always be followed through our class website www.artwithalper.weebly.com, while student artwork is on display through www.artsonia.com >search “Westview”.
Third grade is currently finishing some chalk pastel creations featuring an animal they researched along with one clue about its habitat. The colors are phenomenal. Look for these to come home soon and on Artsonia.
Fourth grade is pushing the bounds of creativity in their most recent unit. Starting with one spark of inspiration, students are expanding their ideas with originality being the primary goal. Drawing skills are displayed in full force through this “sky-is-the-limit” project!
Fifth graders are working seriously and diligently to create their first ever realistic self-portrait. After multiple drawing tutorials, each student is drawing a large rendition of themselves! Prepare to be amazed.
Third grade is currently finishing some chalk pastel creations featuring an animal they researched along with one clue about its habitat. The colors are phenomenal. Look for these to come home soon and on Artsonia.
Fourth grade is pushing the bounds of creativity in their most recent unit. Starting with one spark of inspiration, students are expanding their ideas with originality being the primary goal. Drawing skills are displayed in full force through this “sky-is-the-limit” project!
Fifth graders are working seriously and diligently to create their first ever realistic self-portrait. After multiple drawing tutorials, each student is drawing a large rendition of themselves! Prepare to be amazed.
"Encore!" 8th Annual Westview School Variety Show--Friday, Feb. 21st @ 7:00 p.m.
The PTO is preparing to present the 8th Annual Variety Show, Friday, February 21st at 7:00 p.m. at Wood Dale Junior High Center for the Arts. The event is FREE and there are no tickets to purchase. Come out and join us for an evening of FREE entertainment and FUN, provided by Westview students and staff!
And, congratulations to Yamilet H. for winning our special contest to name this year's show! Her suggestion of "Encore!" will be on the cover of every program and won her and her family 4 front row seats!
And, congratulations to Yamilet H. for winning our special contest to name this year's show! Her suggestion of "Encore!" will be on the cover of every program and won her and her family 4 front row seats!
PTO Prepares to Support Classroom Valentines Day Parties--Updated 2/10/14
As you know, our classroom Valentine's parties are held at the very end of the day and managed by the teachers. This year, we will celebrate on Valentine's Day, this Friday, February 14th.
Parents are encouraged to work with the PTO Room Coordinator for that room, to provide donations of food and beverages for students to enjoy. If you have not yet been contacted by the Room Coordinator for your child's classroom, please feel free to send items in this week, labeled with your child's name as well as the teacher's name. We will make sure that those items get to the classrooms for the party. Parent volunteers are not needed to coordinate the parties themselves.
Thank you in advance for your support of this classroom celebration, and your ongoing support of Westview School!
Parents are encouraged to work with the PTO Room Coordinator for that room, to provide donations of food and beverages for students to enjoy. If you have not yet been contacted by the Room Coordinator for your child's classroom, please feel free to send items in this week, labeled with your child's name as well as the teacher's name. We will make sure that those items get to the classrooms for the party. Parent volunteers are not needed to coordinate the parties themselves.
Thank you in advance for your support of this classroom celebration, and your ongoing support of Westview School!
Westview PTO Meeting Cancelled--New Date To Be Announced--updated 1/28/14
Due to school being closed today, January 28th,
we also need to cancel the Westview PTO meeting that was scheduled for this evening.
The PTO Executive Board is currently working on re-scheduling the meeting and those details will be posted here as soon as they are available. (Likely Tuesday, February 4th at 6:30 p.m.)
Thanks for your ongoing support and stay warm!
The PTO Executive Board is currently working on re-scheduling the meeting and those details will be posted here as soon as they are available. (Likely Tuesday, February 4th at 6:30 p.m.)
Thanks for your ongoing support and stay warm!
Help Your Child Understand What He or She Reads--Updated 1/27/2014
From http://www.colorincolorado.org/families/letsread/readingtips/comprehend/
When children get to fourth grade, they no longer spend time in class learning how to read. Instead, they learn about science, social studies, and many other subjects. They read in order to understand.
Explain things
Explain to your child how things work and what things are. Talk about music, politics, sports, history, or whatever interests you both. Conversations with adults help children build understanding.
Ask questions
Ask questions that make your child think about what he or she just read. Say something like, "Why do you think he did that?" or "What's happening now?"
Show your child new people, places, and things
As much as you can, give your child new experiences. Take him or her along with you to meet new people, go to different places, and see new things. Talk about what you see and do. Open up your child's experiences so he or she can draw on that knowledge when reading.
Talk about different word meanings
Play games with words. You can talk about how jam means something you put on toast as well as cars stuck in traffic. How many other words can your child think of that sound the same but have different meanings and spelling? When kids know what a word means, they have less difficulty when reading it.
Use a children's dictionary
Buy or borrow a children's dictionary. Show your child how to use it to look up the meaning of words. If you have access to the Internet, your child can also go to a talking dictionary to hear how a word is pronounced (in English).
Teach your child comprehension tricks
Show your child some tricks to better understand what he or she has seen or read. Four of these tricks are: summarize, predict, context, and monitor. Try these with your child with a TV show or sports game first. Then try it with a book. For example:
Read together every day
Read with your child for at least 15 minutes each day. Experts say this is one of the most important things you can do! Make reading together a warm and loving time.
Explain things
Explain to your child how things work and what things are. Talk about music, politics, sports, history, or whatever interests you both. Conversations with adults help children build understanding.
Ask questions
Ask questions that make your child think about what he or she just read. Say something like, "Why do you think he did that?" or "What's happening now?"
Show your child new people, places, and things
As much as you can, give your child new experiences. Take him or her along with you to meet new people, go to different places, and see new things. Talk about what you see and do. Open up your child's experiences so he or she can draw on that knowledge when reading.
Talk about different word meanings
Play games with words. You can talk about how jam means something you put on toast as well as cars stuck in traffic. How many other words can your child think of that sound the same but have different meanings and spelling? When kids know what a word means, they have less difficulty when reading it.
Use a children's dictionary
Buy or borrow a children's dictionary. Show your child how to use it to look up the meaning of words. If you have access to the Internet, your child can also go to a talking dictionary to hear how a word is pronounced (in English).
Teach your child comprehension tricks
Show your child some tricks to better understand what he or she has seen or read. Four of these tricks are: summarize, predict, context, and monitor. Try these with your child with a TV show or sports game first. Then try it with a book. For example:
- Ask your child to retell a story in just a few sentences (summarize).
- Ask him or her to guess what might happen next (predict).
- Show your child how to figure out the meaning of an unfamiliar word based on other words and pictures around it (context).
- Explain how to pause while reading in order to ask himself or herself whether he or she knows what is happening, and if not, to re-read the sentence again (monitor).
Read together every day
Read with your child for at least 15 minutes each day. Experts say this is one of the most important things you can do! Make reading together a warm and loving time.
Exxon Mobil Awards Two STEM Grants to Westview School--Updated 1/15/2014
Thanks to Exxon Mobil Corporation for their recent Education Grants to Westview School for the total amount of $1000. The grant program is intended to promote learning in the areas of Math and Science.
The owner of the Mobil station at 337 W. Irving Park Road in Wood Dale, Mr. Sam Funteas, nominated Westview to receive a $500 grant for the 5th year in a row!
In addition, many thanks Jim Wendt, the manager of "Bucky's Express" Mobil station at 1000 N. Wood Dale Road who also chose for Westview School to be the recipient of this grant for the second consecutive year.
Our staff are in the process of becoming familiar with what is known as the Next Generation Science Standards. These new standards are rigorous, reflect the need for critical thinking and problem solving skills, and require schools to provide students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, also known as STEM subjects. New curricular units to teach students according to these standards will soon be developed, and the funds from the grant will likely allow for the purchase of resources that support those experiences for students.
The owner of the Mobil station at 337 W. Irving Park Road in Wood Dale, Mr. Sam Funteas, nominated Westview to receive a $500 grant for the 5th year in a row!
In addition, many thanks Jim Wendt, the manager of "Bucky's Express" Mobil station at 1000 N. Wood Dale Road who also chose for Westview School to be the recipient of this grant for the second consecutive year.
Our staff are in the process of becoming familiar with what is known as the Next Generation Science Standards. These new standards are rigorous, reflect the need for critical thinking and problem solving skills, and require schools to provide students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, also known as STEM subjects. New curricular units to teach students according to these standards will soon be developed, and the funds from the grant will likely allow for the purchase of resources that support those experiences for students.
Entrance Procedures Change for Winter Months--Updated December 17, 2013
Currently, we ask that students arrive between 8:45 a.m. and 8:55 a.m., and proceed to the blacktop at the rear (Southwest) of the school building. Staff members are outside to supervise this area after 8:45 a.m. Students are allowed to have recess until the bell rings at 8:55 a.m., at which time they are to line up and enter the building with their classmates.
We already have procedures in place for students to come directly into the building when it is raining, snowing or extremely cold outside. And, as we've done in the past, we will return to using those "Early Entrance" procedures on a daily basis when students return to school on January 7, 2014.
Students will be directed to enter the school upon arrival in either of the doors on the north side of the school (Door 20 or 21) or by coming into the main entrance (Door 1) if they arrive by school bus. Third grade students should report to the lunchroom. Fourth and fifth grade students will sit in the hallway outside their classrooms. Students will remain in those areas until the 8:55 a.m. bell rings and an adult directs them to enter their classroom.
Parents do not need to do anything different, as students are still expected to arrive at school between 8:45 and 8:55 a.m.
Thank you for your ongoing support to ensure that everyone begins their school day on a positive note!
We already have procedures in place for students to come directly into the building when it is raining, snowing or extremely cold outside. And, as we've done in the past, we will return to using those "Early Entrance" procedures on a daily basis when students return to school on January 7, 2014.
Students will be directed to enter the school upon arrival in either of the doors on the north side of the school (Door 20 or 21) or by coming into the main entrance (Door 1) if they arrive by school bus. Third grade students should report to the lunchroom. Fourth and fifth grade students will sit in the hallway outside their classrooms. Students will remain in those areas until the 8:55 a.m. bell rings and an adult directs them to enter their classroom.
Parents do not need to do anything different, as students are still expected to arrive at school between 8:45 and 8:55 a.m.
Thank you for your ongoing support to ensure that everyone begins their school day on a positive note!
Yearbook Orders Ongoing--Early Pricing Ends Soon! --Updated December 16, 2013
Mrs. Carillo is managing the yearbook on behalf of the PTO this year. She has created an e-mail account for all Westview parents and staff to send pictures to throughout the year so that they can be considered for use in the yearbook. Please add this to your e-mail address book and forward pictures to her at this address as events take place: [email protected]
She is currently seeking pictures from the Winter Music Program. If you have any on your camera or smart phone, please forward them to the e-mail address above ASAP.
The order form for a 2013-14 Westview Yearbook is now posted to our Virtual Backpack HERE.
Cost is $16 if ordered by 1/17/2014 or $18 if ordered after 1/17/2014
Absolutely all orders Due by March 14, 2014
Orders can also be placed online at www.ybpay.lifetouch.com with yearbook code: 1392714
She is currently seeking pictures from the Winter Music Program. If you have any on your camera or smart phone, please forward them to the e-mail address above ASAP.
The order form for a 2013-14 Westview Yearbook is now posted to our Virtual Backpack HERE.
Cost is $16 if ordered by 1/17/2014 or $18 if ordered after 1/17/2014
Absolutely all orders Due by March 14, 2014
Orders can also be placed online at www.ybpay.lifetouch.com with yearbook code: 1392714
Family Storytelling--an Important Cultural Tradition--Updated 12/12/2013
Telling family stories helps your child get to know special people in his life. Storytelling is also an important tradition in many cultures, and can help build a sense of family and community while giving children a foundation for early reading skills at the same time.
This article provides a number of ways that you can make storytelling a part of the time your family spends together.
What to Do: The first activities in the list below work well with younger children. As your child grows older, the later activities let him do more. But keep doing the first ones as long as he enjoys them.
Share family stories: Tell your child stories about your parents and grandparents or about others who are special to you and your family. You might put these stories in a book and add old photographs.
The storyteller's voice helps your child to hear the sounds of words and how they are put together to make meaning.
Think out loud about when you were little: Make a story out of something that happened, such as a family trip, a birthday party, or when you lost your first tooth.
Ask your child to share stories: Have your child tell you stories about what he did on special days, such as holidays, birthdays, and family vacations.
Keep family journals from trips and special events: If you go on a trip, write a trip journal with your child to make a new family story. Take photographs of special events. Writing down special events and pasting photographs of the events in the journal will tie the family story to a written history. You can also include everyday trips, such as going to the grocery store or the park.
ReferencesU.S. Department of Education
Office of Communications and Outreach
Helping Your Child Become a Reader
Washington, D.C., 2005
Printed from: http://www.colorincolorado.org/article/29990/?theme=print
© Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. Colorín Colorado receives major funding from the American Federation of Teachers. Additional funding is provided by the National Institute for Literacy and the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs. ¡Colorín Colorado! ® is a registered trademark of WETA.
Stay informed! Subscribe to our e-mail newsletters: http://www.colorincolorado.org/newsletters/.
This article provides a number of ways that you can make storytelling a part of the time your family spends together.
What to Do: The first activities in the list below work well with younger children. As your child grows older, the later activities let him do more. But keep doing the first ones as long as he enjoys them.
Share family stories: Tell your child stories about your parents and grandparents or about others who are special to you and your family. You might put these stories in a book and add old photographs.
The storyteller's voice helps your child to hear the sounds of words and how they are put together to make meaning.
Think out loud about when you were little: Make a story out of something that happened, such as a family trip, a birthday party, or when you lost your first tooth.
Ask your child to share stories: Have your child tell you stories about what he did on special days, such as holidays, birthdays, and family vacations.
Keep family journals from trips and special events: If you go on a trip, write a trip journal with your child to make a new family story. Take photographs of special events. Writing down special events and pasting photographs of the events in the journal will tie the family story to a written history. You can also include everyday trips, such as going to the grocery store or the park.
ReferencesU.S. Department of Education
Office of Communications and Outreach
Helping Your Child Become a Reader
Washington, D.C., 2005
Printed from: http://www.colorincolorado.org/article/29990/?theme=print
© Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. Colorín Colorado receives major funding from the American Federation of Teachers. Additional funding is provided by the National Institute for Literacy and the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs. ¡Colorín Colorado! ® is a registered trademark of WETA.
Stay informed! Subscribe to our e-mail newsletters: http://www.colorincolorado.org/newsletters/.
Positive Behavior Earns Westview Students Special Day--Updated 12/04/13
Congratulations are in order for all Westview students!
As part of our Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports (PBIS) program, each grade level has achieved a goal for earning PAWS tickets.
These paper coupons are awarded to students when staff members observe them showing Positive Action Within School. Students write their name on the coupon, and indicate on the back, what behavior they displayed to earn the small recognition. We then conduct monthly drawings during the lunch periods and three students who have their PAWS coupon selected win an extra recess for their class!
In addition this year, each grade level's team of teachers decided upon a goal for students across the grade level, based on the number of PAWS earned during each trimester in previous years. Staff members focus on recognizing when students demonstrate behaviors that are Respectful, Responsible, and Safe. As a result of reaching their goals, we will celebrate with each grade level participating in a special "Dress Up" day on Thursday, December 5th:
As part of our Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports (PBIS) program, each grade level has achieved a goal for earning PAWS tickets.
These paper coupons are awarded to students when staff members observe them showing Positive Action Within School. Students write their name on the coupon, and indicate on the back, what behavior they displayed to earn the small recognition. We then conduct monthly drawings during the lunch periods and three students who have their PAWS coupon selected win an extra recess for their class!
In addition this year, each grade level's team of teachers decided upon a goal for students across the grade level, based on the number of PAWS earned during each trimester in previous years. Staff members focus on recognizing when students demonstrate behaviors that are Respectful, Responsible, and Safe. As a result of reaching their goals, we will celebrate with each grade level participating in a special "Dress Up" day on Thursday, December 5th:
- 3rd Grade--Sports Day
- 4th Grade--Dress Like a Teacher Day
- 5th Grade--Twin Day
Message from the Curriculum Department--Updated 11/20/2013
Would you like to know more about what your child is learning at school?
This information can be found at www.wd7.org by clicking on LEARNING/Curriculum.
In addition, read Dr. Kudrna's curriculum blog or follow the curriculum department on Twitter or Facebook to find out what is happening in our classrooms.
Dr. Kudrna has posted many resources for teachers and families about: the Common Core State Standards, the new upcoming PARCC assessment, the newly developed Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Chromebooks, Google Apps for Education, Twitter, inquiry learning, and Web 2.0 tools.
This information can be found at www.wd7.org by clicking on LEARNING/Curriculum.
In addition, read Dr. Kudrna's curriculum blog or follow the curriculum department on Twitter or Facebook to find out what is happening in our classrooms.
Dr. Kudrna has posted many resources for teachers and families about: the Common Core State Standards, the new upcoming PARCC assessment, the newly developed Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Chromebooks, Google Apps for Education, Twitter, inquiry learning, and Web 2.0 tools.
We Appreciate our Volunteers and Community Support--Updated 11/15/2013
A special thanks to the following groups for supporting the Family STEM Night:
Wood Dale Education Foundation, District 7 PTOs, Wood Dale Police Department, Wood Dale Chamber of Commerce, City of Wood Dale, Wood Dale Park District, Wood Dale Library, Wood Dale Fire Department, Wood Dale Senior Citizens' Group,
DuPage ROE, and Target.
Wood Dale Education Foundation, District 7 PTOs, Wood Dale Police Department, Wood Dale Chamber of Commerce, City of Wood Dale, Wood Dale Park District, Wood Dale Library, Wood Dale Fire Department, Wood Dale Senior Citizens' Group,
DuPage ROE, and Target.
Join us for "Bagels with Buttimer"--Monthly Coffee Chats with the Principal
Meet with the principal.
No agenda created in advance.
No need to RSVP or register in advance.
Should you be interested in talking about a concern or idea, but are unable to attend one of these meetings, please feel free to contact me by phone at 630-766-8040 or by scheduling an appointment at a time that is more convenient for you.
Wed., November 20th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., December 18th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., January 15th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., February 12th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., March 19th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., April 23rd 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., May 14th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
All meetings at Westview School…
Location TBA—come to the main office.
No agenda created in advance.
No need to RSVP or register in advance.
Should you be interested in talking about a concern or idea, but are unable to attend one of these meetings, please feel free to contact me by phone at 630-766-8040 or by scheduling an appointment at a time that is more convenient for you.
Wed., November 20th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., December 18th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., January 15th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., February 12th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., March 19th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., April 23rd 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Wed., May 14th 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
All meetings at Westview School…
Location TBA—come to the main office.
Let's Have a Family Game Night--Update November 1, 2013
Why Family Game Night Is Important
Start them young if you can. Anything you do early and often becomes part of children’s expectations of the way life should be. There are plenty of preschool friendly games that are still fun for the adults.
Too late to start young? Start anyway! Involve your kids in choosing and purchasing a few games and a deck of cards. When kids are involved in choices, they are more invested in trying things out.
Submitted by: Mrs. Kelly Marks--Westview School Social Worker
- Game nights connect family members to each other. We are living in a time of increasingly individual activity, electronics are more affordable, children have their own TV’s computers, or iPads. An hour or so a week of family time playing together helps reconnect everyone.
- Games teach important life skills. To win a game, one has to follow the directions, take turns, be patient, and stay friendly with the others around the table. Many games require us to strategize, to read others’ nonverbal cues, and to learn from our own errors. Regular game nights give kids practice in these essential skills and provide immediate feedback about what works and what doesn’t.
- Games teach good sportsmanship. Kids aren’t born good sports. They tend to gloat when they win and whine when they lose. Most kids try out cheating at least once. Games provide opportunities for kids to learn that honest winning feels better and makes better relationships than cheating.
- Playing together fosters family communication. As kids get older, the in-between times become the times when the most important conversations occur. Kids are more likely to share their thoughts and feelings when they are doing something else.
- Family game nights are the stuff of positive memories. Families that can have fun together on a regular basis create an emotional “bank” of good memories and positive feelings that can be drawn on when times are hard or when family members are apart.
Start them young if you can. Anything you do early and often becomes part of children’s expectations of the way life should be. There are plenty of preschool friendly games that are still fun for the adults.
Too late to start young? Start anyway! Involve your kids in choosing and purchasing a few games and a deck of cards. When kids are involved in choices, they are more invested in trying things out.
- Set a regular day and time. If you can’t do it every week, try every other. Mark it on your family calendar. Don’t let other activities interfere. Even if everyone can’t participate, play with those who can. Making family time a priority communicates that the family is important.
- Eliminate distractions. Put a circle of specialness around the hour or so of game night. Turn off the TV. Let your answering machine answer the phone. Ban cell phones from the room.
- Make sure everyone can play. Choose games that are suitable for everyone in the group. If you have a multi-age family, pair up younger kids with older ones; give little kids a role; alternate an easy game with a harder one.
- Keep it fun! If you’re not naturally a person who loves games, focus on the fact that you love your family and get into the spirit of the thing.
- Get the adults to curb their own competitiveness if it gets in the way of fun. There is more going on in family game night than winning and losing. Family Game Night should be a time that everyone enjoys now and will remember in the future.
Submitted by: Mrs. Kelly Marks--Westview School Social Worker
Better Late than Never... Library Book Returned 33 years later--Updated 10/25/2013
(Ms. Pamela Webber (left) shows off her 33+ year old copy of a book borrowed from the Westview library in 1980. Mrs. Lisa Acord (right) gladly receives a new copy of the book as a replacement.)
In 1980, Ms. Pamela Webber was helping her 5 children navigate through their elementary school years at Westview School. One of her children who was in 1st Grade at the time, borrowed a book, Cranberry for Christmas, from the school library.
The book went missing, and was not returned to the school before the family moved to another community.
Eventually the book turned up, so Webber and her children enjoyed reading it many times over the years.
She now reads it regularly with her grandchildren, and cherishes the tattered book which reminds her of many fond memories of sharing a story. But, it always bothered her that the book had never been returned to the Westview School library.
That ended today when Webber showed up to present the school with a brand new copy of the book. She also had an opportunity to review a yearbook from 1980, and decided to make a donation to the school ... which will be used to purchase additional books for the school library! Thank you Ms. Webber!
In 1980, Ms. Pamela Webber was helping her 5 children navigate through their elementary school years at Westview School. One of her children who was in 1st Grade at the time, borrowed a book, Cranberry for Christmas, from the school library.
The book went missing, and was not returned to the school before the family moved to another community.
Eventually the book turned up, so Webber and her children enjoyed reading it many times over the years.
She now reads it regularly with her grandchildren, and cherishes the tattered book which reminds her of many fond memories of sharing a story. But, it always bothered her that the book had never been returned to the Westview School library.
That ended today when Webber showed up to present the school with a brand new copy of the book. She also had an opportunity to review a yearbook from 1980, and decided to make a donation to the school ... which will be used to purchase additional books for the school library! Thank you Ms. Webber!
Common Core, Technology, Standards-based Grading, Oh, My!
What is your child learning at school?--Updated 10/16/2013
All of this information and more can be found on www.wd7.org under the LEARNING tab. Also, in the Learning section, you can read Dr. Kudrna's curriculum blog by clicking on Learning/Curriculum/Dr. Kudrna's blog.
Dr. Kudrna has posted many resources for teachers and families to use. You can explore resources related to the Next Generation Science Standards, Chromebooks, Google Apps for Education, Twitter, Common Core State Standards, inquiry learning, and Web 2.0 tools.
We hope that you enjoy reading about and using the many resources related to what your child is learning at school.
Dr. Kudrna has posted many resources for teachers and families to use. You can explore resources related to the Next Generation Science Standards, Chromebooks, Google Apps for Education, Twitter, Common Core State Standards, inquiry learning, and Web 2.0 tools.
We hope that you enjoy reading about and using the many resources related to what your child is learning at school.
Westview Halloween Guidelines Provided--Updated 10/10/2013
All 3rd-5th grade students will take part in Halloween activities on the morning of Thursday, October 31st. The activities will consist of a parade and PTO-sponsored class parties. This day is an exciting one for many of our students and their families, and many students have been anticipating the celebration for some time. Some guidelines have been developed for all Wood Dale Elementary School students to ensure that all students have a safe and happy celebration and that all students and their families are considered in the activities. If you choose to not have your child participate, please contact their teacher in advance and an alternate activity will be provided.
Guidelines for all students:
1. All students may arrive to school dressed in their costumes.
2. Students are asked to choose costumes that are appropriate for elementary school age children. Students should select costumes that reflect non-violence and are not scary. No weapons, such as guns, knives, or swords, will be allowed at school and students should refrain from using fake blood and excessive facial makeup. Also, no student should wear a costume depicting a character from a PG-13 or R rated movie. Please assist in using good judgment when selecting appropriate costumes for school parties.
3. If any part of a costume is inappropriate or does not follow the rules above, students will be asked to remove it. If there are any questions regarding the appropriateness of a costume, please contact your child’s teacher or the school office in advance. This helps to eliminate disappointment by students on the day of the event when they are asked to remove their costume or parts of their costume.
Parents and other family members are invited to view the Parade of Costumes at 10:15 a.m. along the front (east) of the school. In case of inclement weather, parents are invited inside the gymnasium to view the parade.
Due to limited space and supervisory issues, the party will be limited to students in the classroom, the teacher, and the room parents as designated by the PTO. PTO-designated parents can begin arriving at school at 10:00 a.m. Please check in at the PTO table just inside the main entrance before being directed to the teacher’s lounge. Please enter the building from the main entrance with no need to ring the doorbell since you will be welcomed by other PTO volunteers upon arrival.
Again, thank you for cooperating with the above guidelines so that all children will enjoy the event!
Guidelines for all students:
1. All students may arrive to school dressed in their costumes.
2. Students are asked to choose costumes that are appropriate for elementary school age children. Students should select costumes that reflect non-violence and are not scary. No weapons, such as guns, knives, or swords, will be allowed at school and students should refrain from using fake blood and excessive facial makeup. Also, no student should wear a costume depicting a character from a PG-13 or R rated movie. Please assist in using good judgment when selecting appropriate costumes for school parties.
3. If any part of a costume is inappropriate or does not follow the rules above, students will be asked to remove it. If there are any questions regarding the appropriateness of a costume, please contact your child’s teacher or the school office in advance. This helps to eliminate disappointment by students on the day of the event when they are asked to remove their costume or parts of their costume.
Parents and other family members are invited to view the Parade of Costumes at 10:15 a.m. along the front (east) of the school. In case of inclement weather, parents are invited inside the gymnasium to view the parade.
Due to limited space and supervisory issues, the party will be limited to students in the classroom, the teacher, and the room parents as designated by the PTO. PTO-designated parents can begin arriving at school at 10:00 a.m. Please check in at the PTO table just inside the main entrance before being directed to the teacher’s lounge. Please enter the building from the main entrance with no need to ring the doorbell since you will be welcomed by other PTO volunteers upon arrival.
Again, thank you for cooperating with the above guidelines so that all children will enjoy the event!
District 7 to Host Community STEM Event--November 7, 2013
Wood Dale Dist. 7 – Bensenville Dist. 2 – Fenton Dist. 100
Treat your family to a night of SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, and MATH
Please Join Us For Our
FAMILY STEM NIGHT
Thursday, November 7, 2013, 6:00-8:30 at Wood Dale Junior High
Presented in conjunction with
NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY STEM OUTREACH PROGRAM
100 Hands-On Exhibits – Special Performance by Fermilab’s MR. FREEZE – Raffles – FUN!!!
Treat your family to a night of SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, and MATH
Please Join Us For Our
FAMILY STEM NIGHT
Thursday, November 7, 2013, 6:00-8:30 at Wood Dale Junior High
Presented in conjunction with
NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY STEM OUTREACH PROGRAM
100 Hands-On Exhibits – Special Performance by Fermilab’s MR. FREEZE – Raffles – FUN!!!
District 7 Implements "Fitnessgram" Initiative--Updated 09/24/2013
This fall District 7 is implementing Fitnessgram as part of our comprehensive Physical Education Program.
Fitnessgram is a fitness assessment and reporting program for youth, first developed in 1982 by the Cooper Institute in response to the need for a comprehensive set of assessment procedures in physical education programs. The assessment includes a variety of health-related physical tests that assess aerobic capacity; muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility; and body composition.
Scores from these assessments are compared to Healthy Fitness Zone standards to determine students' overall physical fitness and suggest areas for improvement when appropriate. Similar to the way in which we track growth in academic areas using the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessments, parents will receive reports of their student's progress several times during the school year.
Please consider incorporating some sort of fitness activities into the everyday lives of your children and families!
Fitnessgram is a fitness assessment and reporting program for youth, first developed in 1982 by the Cooper Institute in response to the need for a comprehensive set of assessment procedures in physical education programs. The assessment includes a variety of health-related physical tests that assess aerobic capacity; muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility; and body composition.
Scores from these assessments are compared to Healthy Fitness Zone standards to determine students' overall physical fitness and suggest areas for improvement when appropriate. Similar to the way in which we track growth in academic areas using the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessments, parents will receive reports of their student's progress several times during the school year.
Please consider incorporating some sort of fitness activities into the everyday lives of your children and families!
Welcome to the 2013-2014 School Year!
While I hope all families from the Westview School Community have had a wonderful summer, the start of a new school year is just days away! To many, welcome back! And, to the families of our third grade students transitioning from Oakbrook School, or families that are new to the Wood Dale community, I welcome you to Westview School! Please let me know if I or any member of the staff can assist during this transition!
Once again this school year, I intend to use both School Reach voice and e-mail messages, in addition to this web site to communicate with parents in order to keep you informed of upcoming events and school news. The following is an excerpt from a recent update e-mail sent to parents. If you are not currently receiving these weekly updates, please contact the school office to provide your e-mail address to be added to the distribution list.
Documents that have recently been updated in the Virtual Backpack can be accessed HERE.
August 13—New Family Tour—7:00 p.m.
August 18—District 7 PTO Back to School Celebration 7:00-9:00 p.m.
August 19–Curriculum Night—Westview School
August 21–First Day of School for Students—regular school day hours
Board of Education Meeting—7:30 p.m.
For your information:
We look forward to another wonderful year of enhancing the educational experience of our students! The PTO Executive Board met informally this summer to draft a budget and plan for the upcoming year. On Curriculum Night, please take a few moments to complete and return the papers you will find inside the Westview School Folder provided to each child—compliments of the PTO! We look forward to the participation of all parents from the Westview School community throughout the year! We also look forward to seeing you all at the District 7 Joint PTO Back to School Event on August 18th (See attached flyer).
Reading Newsletters for Parents:
Families can access free, helpful resources for assisting your child with reading by clicking on the "More" tab across the top banner on our Westview News web site or by clicking HERE. New issues are uploaded by the second week of each month. These monthly tips are available in English and Spanish. If there is anything else that we can do to support your reading efforts at home, please contact your child's teacher.
Common Core Standards Newsletters:
Newsletters about the Common Core Standards at Grades 3, 4, and 5 will be included on our Westview School News web site each month for families to review. Click on the following Links to see them:
3rd Grade
4th Grade
5th Grade
Additional resources are referenced in the newsletters which can also be found on the Illinois State Board of Education website at www.isbe.net
2013-2014 School Year Information:
Once again this school year, I intend to use both School Reach voice and e-mail messages, in addition to this web site to communicate with parents in order to keep you informed of upcoming events and school news. The following is an excerpt from a recent update e-mail sent to parents. If you are not currently receiving these weekly updates, please contact the school office to provide your e-mail address to be added to the distribution list.
Documents that have recently been updated in the Virtual Backpack can be accessed HERE.
- School Supply Lists
- PTO Back to School Swim Party Flyer (also attached)
August 13—New Family Tour—7:00 p.m.
August 18—District 7 PTO Back to School Celebration 7:00-9:00 p.m.
August 19–Curriculum Night—Westview School
- 6:00-6:30 Bilingual Families (Polish—Art Room; Spanish—Library)
- 6:30-7:00 Classroom Presentations (Gr. 3-5 Classrooms)
- 7:00-7:30 Classroom Presentations (repeat) (Gr. 3-5 Classrooms)
August 21–First Day of School for Students—regular school day hours
Board of Education Meeting—7:30 p.m.
For your information:
- Office Hours are 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Please give us a call if there is anything we can do to assist your family at 630-766-8040.
- Please spread the word to other members of the Westview School Community about this weekly e-mail. Parents who are not yet receiving this weekly update can simply call the school office at 630-766-8040 to provide their e-mail address and get added to the distribution list.
We look forward to another wonderful year of enhancing the educational experience of our students! The PTO Executive Board met informally this summer to draft a budget and plan for the upcoming year. On Curriculum Night, please take a few moments to complete and return the papers you will find inside the Westview School Folder provided to each child—compliments of the PTO! We look forward to the participation of all parents from the Westview School community throughout the year! We also look forward to seeing you all at the District 7 Joint PTO Back to School Event on August 18th (See attached flyer).
- Westview School PTO Executive Board 2013-2014
- Olga Perez ~ President ([email protected])
- Jacqueline Carillo ~ Vice President ([email protected])
- Vacant~ Secretary
- Stacey Kirsch ~ Treasurer ([email protected])
- Meeting Schedule—Mark your calendars now!
- Tuesday, September 24th
- Tuesday, November 19th
- Tuesday, January 28th
- Tuesday, March 25th
- Tuesday, May 27th
Reading Newsletters for Parents:
Families can access free, helpful resources for assisting your child with reading by clicking on the "More" tab across the top banner on our Westview News web site or by clicking HERE. New issues are uploaded by the second week of each month. These monthly tips are available in English and Spanish. If there is anything else that we can do to support your reading efforts at home, please contact your child's teacher.
Common Core Standards Newsletters:
Newsletters about the Common Core Standards at Grades 3, 4, and 5 will be included on our Westview School News web site each month for families to review. Click on the following Links to see them:
3rd Grade
4th Grade
5th Grade
Additional resources are referenced in the newsletters which can also be found on the Illinois State Board of Education website at www.isbe.net
2013-2014 School Year Information:
- District 7 sent informational letters to all families on Friday, August 9th, including class placement. It is assumed that all families who have registered one or more children in school will receive this information early this week at the latest.
- Please contact Mrs. Garcia in the school office at 630-766-8040 if you have any questions or need assistance preparing for the new school year.
- Westview School has undergone some significant changes since June!
- A new roof and Heating/Air Conditioning system were installed!
- iPads for all 3rd graders have been delivered!
- Chromebooks for all 5th graders have been delivered!
- Three new staff members have joined the faculty:
- Ms. Ashley Curran—3rd Grade
- Ms. Deanna LaHart—Special Education Resource/Intervention
- Mrs. Melanie Bellock—Substitute Music
- We also had many changes in teacher assignments throughout the school district—please see a listing of staff and a building map on pages 5 and 6 in the Student Parent Handbook which is posted on the main Westview web site HERE.
Westview School Spirit Wear Now Available for Purchase Online
If you are interested in purchasing any apparel to show Westview School Spirit, you may now do so online!
To order Westview spirit wear, please go to this site: www.cr-promotions.com.
On the left side click on "online stores."
Please locate Westview School and enter the access code: Westview13 (cAsE sensitive).
You can now view products and shop online!
The online store accepts: VISA, MASTERCARD and DISCOVER cards.
If you do not have a credit/debit card, please send cash or a check (payable to Westview PTO) to the school office with your order information including child's name, teacher, grade, and the items you'd like to purchase, and the PTO will place your order.
Please note: The web site requires the use of pop-ups. If your pop-up blocker is on, please turn it off or the site will not work. At checkout, for shipping method, please select your child’s teacher. Please note that all sales are FINAL. There are NO refunds or exchanges. If you order a size and it does not fit, we cannot replace it.
Please email Olga Perez at [email protected], or call Chris at 630-470-9059, or email: [email protected] if you have size questions or other questions about spirit wear.
Sizing samples are available in the office.
Order Deadline: 9/13/13
Thank you for your support of the Westview PTO!
To order Westview spirit wear, please go to this site: www.cr-promotions.com.
On the left side click on "online stores."
Please locate Westview School and enter the access code: Westview13 (cAsE sensitive).
You can now view products and shop online!
The online store accepts: VISA, MASTERCARD and DISCOVER cards.
If you do not have a credit/debit card, please send cash or a check (payable to Westview PTO) to the school office with your order information including child's name, teacher, grade, and the items you'd like to purchase, and the PTO will place your order.
Please note: The web site requires the use of pop-ups. If your pop-up blocker is on, please turn it off or the site will not work. At checkout, for shipping method, please select your child’s teacher. Please note that all sales are FINAL. There are NO refunds or exchanges. If you order a size and it does not fit, we cannot replace it.
Please email Olga Perez at [email protected], or call Chris at 630-470-9059, or email: [email protected] if you have size questions or other questions about spirit wear.
Sizing samples are available in the office.
Order Deadline: 9/13/13
Thank you for your support of the Westview PTO!
A Message From the Superintendent Regarding Publications
During the course of the school year, the District 7 staff regularly looks for opportunities to inform the community about all the wonderful activities going on in our schools, as well as the achievements of our students. One way to do this is through the use of articles and pictures posted on our website and in other publications. Please note that the school district is allowed to provide/publish/post certain information about your child without permission from parents/guardians, as outlined in the Family Educational and Privacy Act (FERPA). This information is located on page 17 of the 2013/14 Parent Student Handbook. Should any family not want such information released or used by the district in their publications, it is the family’s responsibility to notify your child’s school, in writing, of their wishes. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions regarding this matter.
John W. Corbett, Ed. D.
Superintendent
John W. Corbett, Ed. D.
Superintendent
The Benefits of Taking Time for Family Meals
Submitted by: Kelly Marks, School Social Worker
Taking time out for family meals has a lot of hidden benefits. Eating dinner together can have a positive effect upon the character and social development of the children, school grades will be better, there will be less stress at home, stronger family communication, and you will be more likely to hear about a serious problem. Studies agree that family meals are of high importance, but schedule conflicts and other barriers limit the number of family meals.
The simplest meals, like ordering pizza, qualify as family dinners. The goal is to get everyone to the dinner table and spend time together. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Information adapted from Web MD
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/family-dinners-are-important
Taking time out for family meals has a lot of hidden benefits. Eating dinner together can have a positive effect upon the character and social development of the children, school grades will be better, there will be less stress at home, stronger family communication, and you will be more likely to hear about a serious problem. Studies agree that family meals are of high importance, but schedule conflicts and other barriers limit the number of family meals.
The simplest meals, like ordering pizza, qualify as family dinners. The goal is to get everyone to the dinner table and spend time together. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Set a goal, twice a week?
- Keep the meals simple.
- Plan ahead and be prepared for the meals.
- Get the family involved. Let kids help prepare the meals, set the table.
- Make it enjoyable. Try not to talk about cleaning their rooms, curfews, school problems, family conflicts, etc.
- Technology free meals. No television, computer, video games, phone, MP3 players.
Information adapted from Web MD
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/family-dinners-are-important
Ms. Donahoe Selected for Prestigious Internship
Ms. Andrea Donahoe, General Music Teacher at both Oakbrook and Westview Elementary Schools, has been chosen to participate in The San Francisco School Orff Internship Program next school year!
Ms. Donahoe has participated in professional development using the Orff methodology for teaching music for several years and has utilized this approach while working with children in grades 2-5 during her time in District 7.
Recently, she was selected to participate in this intensive apprenticeship in a private school setting during the first semester of the 2013-14 school year. Ms. Donahoe will learn and teach under the guidance of three internationally recognized music educators as she gains continuing education credits and develops further expertise to eventually apply back in Wood Dale with our students.
We are delighted with her selection to be included in this rewarding opportunity and a search is already underway to find a long-term substitute for her during the first semester of next school year.
Ms. Donahoe has participated in professional development using the Orff methodology for teaching music for several years and has utilized this approach while working with children in grades 2-5 during her time in District 7.
Recently, she was selected to participate in this intensive apprenticeship in a private school setting during the first semester of the 2013-14 school year. Ms. Donahoe will learn and teach under the guidance of three internationally recognized music educators as she gains continuing education credits and develops further expertise to eventually apply back in Wood Dale with our students.
We are delighted with her selection to be included in this rewarding opportunity and a search is already underway to find a long-term substitute for her during the first semester of next school year.
Estimation Station
Wood Dale School District 7's food service provider, Arbor Management, recently sponsored an estimation contest. Students who purchased a school lunch were given a ticket on which they could guess how many jelly beans were in a jar on display in the multipurpose room.
Several students tied for having the closest guess that there were 1000. The exact number had been 993, so each of the children's names were placed into a jar and a winner was chosen--Karen from Mrs. Weichenhain's 4th Grade class. She wins the entire jar of jelly beans!
Each of the other children who guessed 1000 received a cookie during the lunch period, courtesy of Arbor Management!
Several students tied for having the closest guess that there were 1000. The exact number had been 993, so each of the children's names were placed into a jar and a winner was chosen--Karen from Mrs. Weichenhain's 4th Grade class. She wins the entire jar of jelly beans!
Each of the other children who guessed 1000 received a cookie during the lunch period, courtesy of Arbor Management!
Summer Art Opportunities Available
WOOD DALE ARTISTS: Keep your creative skills sharp by using your leftover ART supplies from school this summer! Get inspired by the things around you; a tree, crazy clouds, or even siblings.
Also check out "Art with Mrs. Alper" at www.artwithalper.weebly.com! You can find not only our classroom project ideas, but also a link to our Artsonia artwork where you can browse, explore, and leave comments for friends.
Mrs. Alper's website also includes an "Art for Fun" tab with links to over 30 online art-related activities. That means creativity for HOURS. Parents and students, sweep aside summer boredom by checking out these fun, easy, and "teacher-approved" websites either at home or the library. You can print them, play online, or just get some ideas to store for later! Don't be a snooze, get creative!
Also check out "Art with Mrs. Alper" at www.artwithalper.weebly.com! You can find not only our classroom project ideas, but also a link to our Artsonia artwork where you can browse, explore, and leave comments for friends.
Mrs. Alper's website also includes an "Art for Fun" tab with links to over 30 online art-related activities. That means creativity for HOURS. Parents and students, sweep aside summer boredom by checking out these fun, easy, and "teacher-approved" websites either at home or the library. You can print them, play online, or just get some ideas to store for later! Don't be a snooze, get creative!
Westview to Hold Food Drive April 22-26--Wood Dale Food Pantry to Benefit
As a school, we will collect non-perishable food items for ONE week.
Please send the food items to school with your child during the week of April 22-26. At the end of the food drive, we will be donating all of the items to the Wood Dale Food Pantry. This pantry is located on Wood Dale Road and allows only Wood Dale families to choose two bags of groceries once a month. They serve an average of 20 families each month.
It is our goal that every child brings in at least one item to experience the joy of giving and to help the families in the Wood Dale community.
Any and all donations are greatly appreciated!
Please send the food items to school with your child during the week of April 22-26. At the end of the food drive, we will be donating all of the items to the Wood Dale Food Pantry. This pantry is located on Wood Dale Road and allows only Wood Dale families to choose two bags of groceries once a month. They serve an average of 20 families each month.
It is our goal that every child brings in at least one item to experience the joy of giving and to help the families in the Wood Dale community.
Any and all donations are greatly appreciated!
Westview Green Teams to Participate in Wood Dale Green Fair
Saturday – April 27th
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Wood Dale City Hall
404 N. Wood Dale Rd.
Westview School Green Teams will be collecting:
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Wood Dale City Hall
404 N. Wood Dale Rd.
Westview School Green Teams will be collecting:
- Box Tops for Education
- Capri Sun pouches & all empty aluminum drink pouches
- Campbell's labels for Education
- Emptied glue sticks/Dried out markers
- Ink cartridges/Cell phones
Westview to Host Open LMC Event--Wednesday, April 17th from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
* Learn about our computers and other devices
(Learn how to set up a Twitter Account to follow your child’s school!)
* Access our Wireless Internet Connection
* Complete Homework/Conduct Research
* Check Out a Book and Read
The District 7 LMCs
Open for Learning!
This Spring District 7 is Hosting
Family Open LMC Nights!
What can you do in our LMCs?
-Learn about and work on our Computers
-Access the Wireless Connection
-Complete Homework
-Checkout a Book & Read
-Play Educational Games
DATES & TIMES:
Wednesday, April 17th Westview LMC - 4:30-6:30 Twitter Class*
Thursday, May 2nd Junior High LMC - 5:00-7:00 PowerSchool Class*
Tuesday, May 14th Oakbrook LMC - 5:30-7:30 WD7 Webpage Class*
*Technology Classes for Parents will be Offered. Learn how to: Set-up a Twitter
account, Access the WD7 Webpage &Use the PowerSchool Parent Portal.
(Learn how to set up a Twitter Account to follow your child’s school!)
* Access our Wireless Internet Connection
* Complete Homework/Conduct Research
* Check Out a Book and Read
The District 7 LMCs
Open for Learning!
This Spring District 7 is Hosting
Family Open LMC Nights!
What can you do in our LMCs?
-Learn about and work on our Computers
-Access the Wireless Connection
-Complete Homework
-Checkout a Book & Read
-Play Educational Games
DATES & TIMES:
Wednesday, April 17th Westview LMC - 4:30-6:30 Twitter Class*
Thursday, May 2nd Junior High LMC - 5:00-7:00 PowerSchool Class*
Tuesday, May 14th Oakbrook LMC - 5:30-7:30 WD7 Webpage Class*
*Technology Classes for Parents will be Offered. Learn how to: Set-up a Twitter
account, Access the WD7 Webpage &Use the PowerSchool Parent Portal.
Bully Report Feature Now Available Online--Updated March 21, 2013
Bullying is a problem in virtually every school across the country. Westview is no different.
When bullying occurs, we often try to encourage the victim to appropriately advocate for themselves, and we attempt to teach the person who acts as the bully, other ways to express their feelings.
However, we often find great success by encouraging others, the "bystanders," to get involved. In order to make the process of reporting an easy one, students, parents, or anyone that becomes aware of a bullying situation, can report a brief description of the problem, by completing an online form that is sent directly to the principal. The form can be found under the dropdown button "Home" on the Westview News web site, or by clicking HERE.
When bullying occurs, we often try to encourage the victim to appropriately advocate for themselves, and we attempt to teach the person who acts as the bully, other ways to express their feelings.
However, we often find great success by encouraging others, the "bystanders," to get involved. In order to make the process of reporting an easy one, students, parents, or anyone that becomes aware of a bullying situation, can report a brief description of the problem, by completing an online form that is sent directly to the principal. The form can be found under the dropdown button "Home" on the Westview News web site, or by clicking HERE.
Westview Receives ANOTHER Educational Grant from Exxon Mobil--updated 3/7/13
Thanks to Exxon Mobil Corporation for their recent Education Grant to Westview School in the amount of $500. The grant is intended to promote learning in the areas of Math and Science.
The owner of the Mobil station at 337 W. Irving Park Road in Wood Dale, Mr. Sam Funteas, nominated Westview to receive the grant once again this year!
After we published the above announcement, a representative from another local Mobil station presented us with another $500 check as part of the same program. Many thanks to owners of "Bucky's Express" Mobil station at 1000 N. Wood Dale Road who also chose for Westview School to be the recipient of this grant.
Our staff are currently working on developing programs in partnership with Northern Illinois University to enhance our Professional Development for staff, while providing students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, also known as STEM subjects.
The owner of the Mobil station at 337 W. Irving Park Road in Wood Dale, Mr. Sam Funteas, nominated Westview to receive the grant once again this year!
After we published the above announcement, a representative from another local Mobil station presented us with another $500 check as part of the same program. Many thanks to owners of "Bucky's Express" Mobil station at 1000 N. Wood Dale Road who also chose for Westview School to be the recipient of this grant.
Our staff are currently working on developing programs in partnership with Northern Illinois University to enhance our Professional Development for staff, while providing students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, also known as STEM subjects.
Battle of the Books Season Concludes
This month we concluded the Battle of the Books program sponsored by the Wood Dale Library. In October, grade level teams of 4-7 students joined together read a designated set of 30 books. The “battles” began in January and concluded this month. Participants faced off with the other teams to answer questions from the 30 titles. Extra points were given if the team knew the author of the book. We had wonderful participation this year! In 3rd grade we had 9 teams with a total of 51 students participating. In 4th grade we had 12 teams with a total of 64 students participating. In 5th grade we had 9 teams with 53 participants.
Congratulations to all of the students who made the commitment in October and met the challenge by reading their books and for attending the battles at the Wood Dale Library to support their team!
And the winners are…
Congratulations to all of the students who made the commitment in October and met the challenge by reading their books and for attending the battles at the Wood Dale Library to support their team!
And the winners are…
2nd Annual Pancake Breakfast--Sunday, February 10th
Join us on Sunday, February 10th at Wood Dale Junior High, for a delicious Pancake Breakfast. There will be plenty of food and raffles for all ages.
We will also be showcasing the academic and artistic achievements of our students. All proceeds will be used to benefit the children of Wood Dale School District 7.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Serving from 8am to 1pm at Wood Dale Jr. High
Food – Fun – Raffles – Games – Prizes - Entertainment Provided by our Students!!!
Pre-sale Tickets: $5
Tickets at the Door Day of the Event: $7
Children under 3 years are free
Ticket order forms on Westview Virtual Backpack.
We will also be showcasing the academic and artistic achievements of our students. All proceeds will be used to benefit the children of Wood Dale School District 7.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Serving from 8am to 1pm at Wood Dale Jr. High
Food – Fun – Raffles – Games – Prizes - Entertainment Provided by our Students!!!
Pre-sale Tickets: $5
Tickets at the Door Day of the Event: $7
Children under 3 years are free
Ticket order forms on Westview Virtual Backpack.
Peer Mediators Trained and Ready to Assist--Updated January 28, 2013
Congratulations to the following fifth grade students who are the Peer Mediators for the 2012-2013 school year. These students have completed 3 months of training which will allow them to help Westview students solve their conflicts.
Mediation is a communication process in which a third party helps people work together to resolve conflicts peaceably. Peer mediation is designed to teach students to find alternative ways to resolve conflicts and to encourage them to solve their own problems in a constructive fashion.
Peer mediators are available during lunch and recess to help students work out an agreement. A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation.
(Peer Mediators are sponsored by Mrs. Kelly Marks, School Social Worker.)
Mediation is a communication process in which a third party helps people work together to resolve conflicts peaceably. Peer mediation is designed to teach students to find alternative ways to resolve conflicts and to encourage them to solve their own problems in a constructive fashion.
Peer mediators are available during lunch and recess to help students work out an agreement. A teacher, student, or the principal can request students to go through mediation.
(Peer Mediators are sponsored by Mrs. Kelly Marks, School Social Worker.)
2012-2013 Peer Mediators:
Kari Olson
Alexis Romo Juliet Salawa |
Emily Sanchez
Abigail Subach Emily Trzmielewski |
Karen Villegas
Angel Zaragoza |
Recess Equipment Donations Being Accepted--Updated December 20, 2012
Any Wood Dale families who have basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, jump ropes, or similar sports equipment that is not being used are encouraged to consider donating it for our students to use during the recess periods.
If you are interested in doing so, please send the equipment in with a note stating that you are donating it, so that we may write “Westview” on it and make it available to all students during the recess periods.
Thanks for your help and generosity!
If you are interested in doing so, please send the equipment in with a note stating that you are donating it, so that we may write “Westview” on it and make it available to all students during the recess periods.
Thanks for your help and generosity!
Curriculum Open for Public Comment--Updated December 17, 2012
Over the last few years the teachers have reviewed and revised the Language Arts and Math curriculum. If you are interested in viewing and commenting on any of these draft curricula, we would welcome your input.
The curriculum will be available for public comment January 28th-February 1st from 8:00 A.M.-3:30 P.M. at the Wood Dale School District Board of Education Office or on our District website at www.wd7.org/Learning/Curriculum.
If you should have questions or comments, please email Dr. Merri Beth Kudrna at [email protected].
The curriculum will be available for public comment January 28th-February 1st from 8:00 A.M.-3:30 P.M. at the Wood Dale School District Board of Education Office or on our District website at www.wd7.org/Learning/Curriculum.
If you should have questions or comments, please email Dr. Merri Beth Kudrna at [email protected].
Change in School Resource Officer to Support District 7 Schools
Happy Holidays to all Wood Dale District 7 families! As your School Resource Officer for the last 4 years, my heart will be forever warmed by the generosity and caring I daily witnessed by our Wood Dale youths. I have enjoyed my time getting to know so many of our students and their families.
You might initially think that if a student or family got to know me, a police officer, there must be a lot of problems. I would challenge you on that. I got to know so many of you in so many different ways: teaching about drugs and alcohol, teaching some of the Constitution, doing wellness checks, greeting your little and big ones as they got on and off the bus, being available as a resource, and yes, sometimes having to give a little guidance where they may have fallen short.
To sum it up, I felt that I got to be a bit of the District staff but without the school’s walls and boundaries. This summer, I was given the opportunity though, to change the direction of my police career. I accepted the position of detective and have moved into the Investigations Division at the Wood Dale Police Department.
This fall has been tough to fulfill both duties so after the winter break, I will have a successor: Officer Michael Danzi. He will transition in and I am positive, he will adapt well into his new role. I am confident he will also become just as attached to our children, families and staff as I have and will become your go-to person to help link our community, schools and youth.
I will truly miss celebrating with your children during their school milestones and giving them an ear or the strength they sometimes need as their voice and advocate. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and every one of our Wood Dale families for sharing a piece of your child’s education with me.
Happy Holidays and a huge welcome to Wood Dale District 7 Police Liason Officer Michael Danzi!
Sincerely,
Detective Melody Rissman
Wood Dale Police Department
You might initially think that if a student or family got to know me, a police officer, there must be a lot of problems. I would challenge you on that. I got to know so many of you in so many different ways: teaching about drugs and alcohol, teaching some of the Constitution, doing wellness checks, greeting your little and big ones as they got on and off the bus, being available as a resource, and yes, sometimes having to give a little guidance where they may have fallen short.
To sum it up, I felt that I got to be a bit of the District staff but without the school’s walls and boundaries. This summer, I was given the opportunity though, to change the direction of my police career. I accepted the position of detective and have moved into the Investigations Division at the Wood Dale Police Department.
This fall has been tough to fulfill both duties so after the winter break, I will have a successor: Officer Michael Danzi. He will transition in and I am positive, he will adapt well into his new role. I am confident he will also become just as attached to our children, families and staff as I have and will become your go-to person to help link our community, schools and youth.
I will truly miss celebrating with your children during their school milestones and giving them an ear or the strength they sometimes need as their voice and advocate. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and every one of our Wood Dale families for sharing a piece of your child’s education with me.
Happy Holidays and a huge welcome to Wood Dale District 7 Police Liason Officer Michael Danzi!
Sincerely,
Detective Melody Rissman
Wood Dale Police Department
Wood Dale Park District Health Fair--January 5th
What: Wood Dale Park District Health Fair!!
We will have vendors from various healthy food markets, health professonals, fitness specialists, safety professionals and Physical Education Teachers.
Families are encouraged to attend and find healthy ideas for food, fitness, recreation and general health needs!
Where: Wood Dale Park District
When: Saturday January 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE, yes that right FREE!!!!"
We will have vendors from various healthy food markets, health professonals, fitness specialists, safety professionals and Physical Education Teachers.
Families are encouraged to attend and find healthy ideas for food, fitness, recreation and general health needs!
Where: Wood Dale Park District
When: Saturday January 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE, yes that right FREE!!!!"
Reading Newsletter Now Available--updated 12/7/2012
As you know, a child's ability to read goes hand in hand with overall success in school. Also, we have focused many efforts on improving the Home and School connection, so that parents are better equipped to assist their child with these skills, outside of the school day.
With this in mind, I am pleased to announce that each month, we will be posting a new parent newsletter, full of tips for parents. Appropriately, the newsletter is called "Building Readers" and is published by the Parent Institute. Our subscription to these newsletters allow us to send home paper copies, and make them available electronically.
Families will be able to access this new resource by clicking on the "More" tab across the top banner on our Westview News web site. New issues will be uploaded by the second week of each month. These monthly tips will be available in English and Spanish. If there is anything else that we can do to support your efforts at home, please contact your child's teacher.
With this in mind, I am pleased to announce that each month, we will be posting a new parent newsletter, full of tips for parents. Appropriately, the newsletter is called "Building Readers" and is published by the Parent Institute. Our subscription to these newsletters allow us to send home paper copies, and make them available electronically.
Families will be able to access this new resource by clicking on the "More" tab across the top banner on our Westview News web site. New issues will be uploaded by the second week of each month. These monthly tips will be available in English and Spanish. If there is anything else that we can do to support your efforts at home, please contact your child's teacher.
District 7 Staff Members Present at State Conferences--Updated 12/3/12
Wood Dale School District 7 Instructional Coaches were chosen to present at a regional conference, Raising Student Achievement, held in December. Multiple counties participated in this highly attended conference.
District 7 Instructional Coaches were selected to do 2 presentations, The Path to Guided Math & The Road Now Traveled. Both presentations took participants through our journey of incorporating the new Common Core State Standards into our district’s curriculum.
In addition, one of our Instructional Coaches presented at the regional Chicago National Conference of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) in November. We are very proud of the professional development that our Instructional Coaches offer District 7 staff as well as sharing their knowledge with other school districts in Illinois.
District 7 Instructional Coaches were selected to do 2 presentations, The Path to Guided Math & The Road Now Traveled. Both presentations took participants through our journey of incorporating the new Common Core State Standards into our district’s curriculum.
In addition, one of our Instructional Coaches presented at the regional Chicago National Conference of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) in November. We are very proud of the professional development that our Instructional Coaches offer District 7 staff as well as sharing their knowledge with other school districts in Illinois.
Five Ways to Bully-Proof Your Child--Updated November 29, 2012
Bullying is a legitimate problem at schools across the country. Westview School and the Wood Dale community are no exceptions. We continually strive to take a proactive approach to confronting bullies and bully behavior with individual students, classroom activities, and whole-school assemblies. (See related Blog Post "Ease the Tease")
Mrs. Marks, School Social Worker, often provides support to teachers and students in this area, and recently discovered an excellent online resource for parents. Regardless of whether or not you currently have concerns about your child being a bully or being bullied, all parents are encouraged to take a few moments to learn about ways to handle this challenging topic.
Mrs. Marks, School Social Worker, often provides support to teachers and students in this area, and recently discovered an excellent online resource for parents. Regardless of whether or not you currently have concerns about your child being a bully or being bullied, all parents are encouraged to take a few moments to learn about ways to handle this challenging topic.
Westview LMC Web Site Provides Access to FREE Resources--Updated 11/29/12
Happy holidays from the Westview Library Media Center!
Thank you for purchasing books at the Scholastic Book Fair during parent teacher conferences. Westview School uses the profits to purchase more resources for our students and teachers. A big THANK YOU to our wonderful PTO for continuing to support our LMC through the book fairs! All of our students benefit from your purchases.
Last month, I attended the PTO meeting to explain some additional online resources to support our students at home. Students and staff are enjoying access to Destiny Quest, our new district-wide collection management system. By logging into Destiny Quest (using their id# and password) students can gain access to their library account to see what books they have checked out, they can access our ebook (electronic) collection to read books on their computers at home, and they can search out grade-level appropriate websites for research.
The link to Destiny Quest can be found by going to the Westview School page on the WD7 district website and by clicking on the Westview LMC page. The Destiny Quest link is on the top of my page. Students can login by clicking “login” at the top. The directions for reading ebooks can be found in the middle of my webpage. If you own an iPad there are directions for getting the free apps needed to read our ebooks at home on your iPad.
I also have a link to the Wood Dale Public Library from my webpage. Tumblebooks is another great resource for ebooks that are free. Click on the link on my webpage to go to the Wood Dale Library’s website. From there click on “e services” on the left hand side. Then click “online databases” and scroll down to Tumblebooks. There is not a password needed to access these books.
Thank you for purchasing books at the Scholastic Book Fair during parent teacher conferences. Westview School uses the profits to purchase more resources for our students and teachers. A big THANK YOU to our wonderful PTO for continuing to support our LMC through the book fairs! All of our students benefit from your purchases.
Last month, I attended the PTO meeting to explain some additional online resources to support our students at home. Students and staff are enjoying access to Destiny Quest, our new district-wide collection management system. By logging into Destiny Quest (using their id# and password) students can gain access to their library account to see what books they have checked out, they can access our ebook (electronic) collection to read books on their computers at home, and they can search out grade-level appropriate websites for research.
The link to Destiny Quest can be found by going to the Westview School page on the WD7 district website and by clicking on the Westview LMC page. The Destiny Quest link is on the top of my page. Students can login by clicking “login” at the top. The directions for reading ebooks can be found in the middle of my webpage. If you own an iPad there are directions for getting the free apps needed to read our ebooks at home on your iPad.
I also have a link to the Wood Dale Public Library from my webpage. Tumblebooks is another great resource for ebooks that are free. Click on the link on my webpage to go to the Wood Dale Library’s website. From there click on “e services” on the left hand side. Then click “online databases” and scroll down to Tumblebooks. There is not a password needed to access these books.
Waste Audit Explored by 5th Grade Green Team--Updated November 19, 2012
Upon returning from Outdoor Education, the 5th grade green team further explored the amount of waste we produce at Westview School by conducting a waste audit. Volunteers from SCARCE, an organization based in Glen Ellyn, came to our school and helped the eleven 5th grade Green Team members analyze not only the amount of waste, but the types of waste produced during our lunch hour.
The students got down and dirty, wearing rubber gloves of course, and sorted the garbage from the 5th grade lunch hour into a variety of piles. These categories included: whole food, partially eaten food, recyclable material, compostable material, petroleum products, Terracycle products, and garbage. This activity produced a total of 47 total pounds of landfill waste during just one lunch period! This amount was a huge improvement as compared to the 67 pounds from last year’s fifth grade waste audit. The students were amazed at the amount of whole food that gets thrown away. The amount of whole food that was thrown away totaled 25 pounds. Complete sandwiches and salads were thrown away, which is a waste of energy and food.
Our goal is to begin composting on a small level this year, by possibly starting with vermicomposting in a few classrooms. Vermicomposting is composting using worm bins. These bins are virtually odorless and would allow students to start becoming familiar with composting, but on a small level during snack time. The Green Team has been fundraising for the last few years through the Terracycle program, inkjet printer cartridges, as well as Box Tops for Education. The goal for later down the road is to one day compost all possible materials during the lunch time hours with an outdoor compost bin. “We hope that students will begin changing the way they see garbage both at school and at home,” stated Mrs. Cericola, the 5th grade Green Team sponsor.
For further information on all of our green teams, as well as to see pictures and videos, visit the Green Team website at www.westviewgreenteam.weebly.com.
The students got down and dirty, wearing rubber gloves of course, and sorted the garbage from the 5th grade lunch hour into a variety of piles. These categories included: whole food, partially eaten food, recyclable material, compostable material, petroleum products, Terracycle products, and garbage. This activity produced a total of 47 total pounds of landfill waste during just one lunch period! This amount was a huge improvement as compared to the 67 pounds from last year’s fifth grade waste audit. The students were amazed at the amount of whole food that gets thrown away. The amount of whole food that was thrown away totaled 25 pounds. Complete sandwiches and salads were thrown away, which is a waste of energy and food.
Our goal is to begin composting on a small level this year, by possibly starting with vermicomposting in a few classrooms. Vermicomposting is composting using worm bins. These bins are virtually odorless and would allow students to start becoming familiar with composting, but on a small level during snack time. The Green Team has been fundraising for the last few years through the Terracycle program, inkjet printer cartridges, as well as Box Tops for Education. The goal for later down the road is to one day compost all possible materials during the lunch time hours with an outdoor compost bin. “We hope that students will begin changing the way they see garbage both at school and at home,” stated Mrs. Cericola, the 5th grade Green Team sponsor.
For further information on all of our green teams, as well as to see pictures and videos, visit the Green Team website at www.westviewgreenteam.weebly.com.
From the Desk of the Principal--Updated October 30, 2012
As you know, this web site has replaced our traditional monthly newsletter that gets sent home at the end of the month. Instead, this web site, managed by the principal, has new content uploaded throughout the month, so that we can keep the Westview School Community better connected with what is happening each day.
When you arrive at the main page of the site, you'll notice our blog. Here, photos and a short caption give you a glimpse of how our students at 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade are learning each day. You'll gain insight into ways that technology is being integrated into our curriculum, and how students are learning at a greater depth in response to the new Common Core Standards for learning. Our hope is to post several new photos per week, with more for special occasions such as 5th Grade Outdoor Education Program in late September! These blog entries are displayed in the order in which they are posted, and they are automatically stored in archives that can be accessed along the right margin of the page.
As you look at the navigation bar across the top of the screen, you'll see a tab for General School News, which is where you found this article and others related to the entire school. You'll also notice a tab for each of our three grade levels. These stories will continue to be updated at least once per month. While this summary information will give readers an overview of grade level news and curricular topics, many teachers are now maintaining their own web pages in order to communicate a greater level of detail to parents and interested virtual visitors.
"More"
If you look across the navigation bar to the far right, you'll notice a tab labeled "More", with a drop down menu including "Character Cafe." Here, we'll list the monthly group of students who were recognized for showing outstanding character at school, and participated in a special activity with Mr. Buttimer. These students also have their photos on display in the main hallway at school.
This drop down menu also includes a link back to the official Westview School site. Once there, you can look along the right margin and view the District 7 or Westview School Report Card. This document, provided annually by the Illinois State Board of Education, is available online, or a printed copy can be sent home upon request. Printed copies are also available in the school office.
We hope that you enjoy accessing this new web site electronically during the course of the month. We also realize that some of our families do not have the opportunity to access this site online. Therefore, we will continue to post information to this site periodically, and also send home printed copies of a compilation of web content along with the breakfast/lunch menu, on the last school day of each month.
Finally, this new section also includes a new feature called Feedback. Should any visitor to our Westview School News site wish to offer a question, critique, or compliment to any member of the faculty, they can simply complete the brief online form and the message is instantly e-mailed to the principal!
When you arrive at the main page of the site, you'll notice our blog. Here, photos and a short caption give you a glimpse of how our students at 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade are learning each day. You'll gain insight into ways that technology is being integrated into our curriculum, and how students are learning at a greater depth in response to the new Common Core Standards for learning. Our hope is to post several new photos per week, with more for special occasions such as 5th Grade Outdoor Education Program in late September! These blog entries are displayed in the order in which they are posted, and they are automatically stored in archives that can be accessed along the right margin of the page.
As you look at the navigation bar across the top of the screen, you'll see a tab for General School News, which is where you found this article and others related to the entire school. You'll also notice a tab for each of our three grade levels. These stories will continue to be updated at least once per month. While this summary information will give readers an overview of grade level news and curricular topics, many teachers are now maintaining their own web pages in order to communicate a greater level of detail to parents and interested virtual visitors.
"More"
If you look across the navigation bar to the far right, you'll notice a tab labeled "More", with a drop down menu including "Character Cafe." Here, we'll list the monthly group of students who were recognized for showing outstanding character at school, and participated in a special activity with Mr. Buttimer. These students also have their photos on display in the main hallway at school.
This drop down menu also includes a link back to the official Westview School site. Once there, you can look along the right margin and view the District 7 or Westview School Report Card. This document, provided annually by the Illinois State Board of Education, is available online, or a printed copy can be sent home upon request. Printed copies are also available in the school office.
We hope that you enjoy accessing this new web site electronically during the course of the month. We also realize that some of our families do not have the opportunity to access this site online. Therefore, we will continue to post information to this site periodically, and also send home printed copies of a compilation of web content along with the breakfast/lunch menu, on the last school day of each month.
Finally, this new section also includes a new feature called Feedback. Should any visitor to our Westview School News site wish to offer a question, critique, or compliment to any member of the faculty, they can simply complete the brief online form and the message is instantly e-mailed to the principal!
Westview Students to Participate in Mock Election
Wood Dale, IL--Students at Westview Elementary School will have a chance to ensure that their vote counts! However, rather than selecting the leader of the free world for the next four years, students at the west suburban intermediate school will be deciding how to celebrate their next Spirit Day on November 9th.
The school's Building Leadership Team, including several teachers and the principal, recently made the decision as a way to promote school unity, while experiencing and celebrating the democratic system.
Because students frequently select political candidates based only on whom they believe their parents support, voting for the actual presidential candidates seemed likely to cause division among the 352 students, without a chance to actually impact the real election. Instead, students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade will have the opportunity to vote for a special Spirit Day on Friday, November 9th in the hopes of promoting school spirit, while still impacting a legitimate decision. Choices for the special day include:
UPDATE:
At 3:20 p.m., the winning choice for our November 9th spirit day was announced: Sports Day! On November 9th, Westview students and staff will be encouraged to wear things related to any of their favorite sports teams!
The results were as follows:
The school's Building Leadership Team, including several teachers and the principal, recently made the decision as a way to promote school unity, while experiencing and celebrating the democratic system.
Because students frequently select political candidates based only on whom they believe their parents support, voting for the actual presidential candidates seemed likely to cause division among the 352 students, without a chance to actually impact the real election. Instead, students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade will have the opportunity to vote for a special Spirit Day on Friday, November 9th in the hopes of promoting school spirit, while still impacting a legitimate decision. Choices for the special day include:
- Crazy Hair Day
- Hat Day
- Sports Day
- Mismatched Day
- Write In:_______________________
UPDATE:
At 3:20 p.m., the winning choice for our November 9th spirit day was announced: Sports Day! On November 9th, Westview students and staff will be encouraged to wear things related to any of their favorite sports teams!
The results were as follows:
- Crazy Hair Day=18%
- Hat Day=10%
- Sports Day=28%
- Mismatched Day=20%
- Write In: 91 write in votes were cast for 21 different ideas.
Schoolwide Enrichment Model Continues Throughout District 7 Schools
Hello Parents and Guardians!
My name is Joe Krause and once again this year I will be working with teachers and students as we continue to implement the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) at Oakbrook, Westview and Wood Dale Junior High. SEM is an enrichment approach for all schools interested in high-end learning and developing the strengths and talents of all students. The SEM provides enriched learning experiences and higher learning standards for all children through three goals; developing talents in all children, providing a broad range of advanced-level enrichment experiences for all students, and providing advanced follow-up opportunities for young people based on their strengths and interests.
At each school I will work collaboratively with the LMC Directors/SEM Consultants to assist students and teachers. Karen Karolczak is the SEM-C at Oakbrook. Lisa Acord is the SEM-C at Westview and Mary Jo Cline is the SEM-C at Wood Dale Junior High. Our guiding principles this year include integrating SEM in all subject areas, building capacity in staff to enrich or replace curriculum and focusing on inquiry/problem and project-based learning. This type of learning will offer students choices and a chance to think critically to complete the projects.
These projects have proven to be very effective in motivating and exciting learners at all grade levels. Projects will include the use of technology and will promote 21st century learning skills. In addition, we will assist teachers by providing resources to facilitate inquiry based learning in the regular education classroom. Primarily, the program will be implemented in the classroom. A student’s performance on assessments and in-class work will determine whether or not a student will participate in a project. A student does not “qualify” for SEM. A student may work on one project and then not work on the following one. Similarly, a student may not work on a current project, but work on a future one. Outside of the projects, we are always searching for ways to enrich and/or replace curriculum for all students.
We are in the process of putting all project materials on our new webpage at http://wooddalesem.weebly.com/ The web site can also be accessed from the teacher tab on the wd7.org webpage. If your child is not working on a project at school, they certainly can work on it at home using the resources from the webpage. On the website my Twitter feed will appear. I comment and discuss primarily on inquiry based learning and technology in education. If these ideas are of interest to you, feel free to follow me.
If you have any questions feel free to contact me at [email protected] I look forward to another great year assisting students at all grade levels and helping these students become 21st century learners.
Sincerely,
Joe Krause, SEM Consultant
My name is Joe Krause and once again this year I will be working with teachers and students as we continue to implement the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) at Oakbrook, Westview and Wood Dale Junior High. SEM is an enrichment approach for all schools interested in high-end learning and developing the strengths and talents of all students. The SEM provides enriched learning experiences and higher learning standards for all children through three goals; developing talents in all children, providing a broad range of advanced-level enrichment experiences for all students, and providing advanced follow-up opportunities for young people based on their strengths and interests.
At each school I will work collaboratively with the LMC Directors/SEM Consultants to assist students and teachers. Karen Karolczak is the SEM-C at Oakbrook. Lisa Acord is the SEM-C at Westview and Mary Jo Cline is the SEM-C at Wood Dale Junior High. Our guiding principles this year include integrating SEM in all subject areas, building capacity in staff to enrich or replace curriculum and focusing on inquiry/problem and project-based learning. This type of learning will offer students choices and a chance to think critically to complete the projects.
These projects have proven to be very effective in motivating and exciting learners at all grade levels. Projects will include the use of technology and will promote 21st century learning skills. In addition, we will assist teachers by providing resources to facilitate inquiry based learning in the regular education classroom. Primarily, the program will be implemented in the classroom. A student’s performance on assessments and in-class work will determine whether or not a student will participate in a project. A student does not “qualify” for SEM. A student may work on one project and then not work on the following one. Similarly, a student may not work on a current project, but work on a future one. Outside of the projects, we are always searching for ways to enrich and/or replace curriculum for all students.
We are in the process of putting all project materials on our new webpage at http://wooddalesem.weebly.com/ The web site can also be accessed from the teacher tab on the wd7.org webpage. If your child is not working on a project at school, they certainly can work on it at home using the resources from the webpage. On the website my Twitter feed will appear. I comment and discuss primarily on inquiry based learning and technology in education. If these ideas are of interest to you, feel free to follow me.
If you have any questions feel free to contact me at [email protected] I look forward to another great year assisting students at all grade levels and helping these students become 21st century learners.
Sincerely,
Joe Krause, SEM Consultant