Westminster Words

ASK! (After School Kids!) Westminster’s

Lower School after-school program that extends the school day for an additional charge. Parents have the option of registering their child for one to five days per week in any or all of the three sessions during the school year.

Cats Short for “Wildcats.” Many clubs, groups, and teams incorporate “Cats” in their nicknames. The WiredCats are the School’s robotics team, the CoopCats are the Lower Schoolers who take care of the chickens at Love Hall, and the KickCats are our soccer teams, just to name a few.

Catbackers Westminster’s all-sports booster organization that communicates the latest sports news, helps build school spirit, and provides volunteer opportunities in support of the athletics program. Participation is open to anyone with an interest in Westminster athletics.

CATapult A yearlong leadership program for students in fifth grade that seeks to develop students as empathetic, engaged citizens. Center for Teaching A center dedicated to all aspects of professional growth for our faculty and those from other schools who participate in the center’s activities.

Christian Emphasis Week An

opportunity for students and faculty to pause in the middle of the busy school year to reflect, celebrate, and be inspired by Christian teachings and values.

Class Rotation Night An evening when

Middle School and Upper School parents follow student schedules for brief class periods to meet teachers who discuss course goals.

Cluck Hall A chicken coop adjacent to the Lower School playground that houses hens hatched at Westminster. Children care for the animals and sell fresh eggs, using the proceeds to “take care of our chickens and do good deeds.”

Dress-up Days Days when students are expected to dress in more formal attire, typically for a religious service or awards ceremony.

Family Service Days Weekend events

that offer families the opportunity to serve the community together organized by PAWS and the Glenn Institute.

The Glenn Institute Established in 2003 through the generosity of Tom ’65 and Lou Glenn, the Glenn Institute for Philanthropy and Service Learning sponsors programs and experiences to enable students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni to make meaningful contributions to society.

Grade Chairs Grade-level advisors in Middle School and Upper School who serve as advocates and resources for students regarding academic, social, and extracurricular activities.

Grandparents and Special

Friends Day A half-day event in the fall when grandparents or special friends join students at school. Alternates yearly between Lower School and Middle School. Middle School will host for the 2021-22 school year.

JanTerm An intensive, three-week course of study allowing Upper School students to focus on a single topic in great depth and at an accelerated pace. This immersive learning experience offers unique, hands-on experiences in the classroom as well as off-campus field trips and opportunities for overnight travel.

Love. Challenge. Lead. Change

These four words communicate what is at the heart of Westminster.

Westminster extends Christian love to all. Our students are nurtured by challenge. Wildcats lead with their hearts and minds. They have the power to change the world.

Lynx An all-school yearbook created by Upper School students under the guidance of faculty advisors.

PAWS Parents Association of The Westminster Schools, a service organization for all parents. When you join the school community, you automatically become a member of this organization and are welcome to participate in PAWS meetings, activities, and events. PAWSinLS Parents Association of The Westminster Schools in the Lower School, a service organization that supports Lower School administration and faculty by sponsoring age-appropriate activities, events, and service opportunities that enrich the experience in Love Hall. All parents of Lower School students are members of PAWSinLS.

Pigskin Picnic A picnic supper (organized by PAWS and Catbackers) for students, parents, faculty, and friends before a home varsity football game.

The Westminster Fund Annual fund

campaign that runs from July 1 to June 30. Gifts enhance the day-to-day experiences of our students inside and outside the classroom. Your family is encouraged to participate at a level meaningful to you.

WCAT Student broadcast program that captures and reports events happening around campus and exposes students to broadcast journalism.

WelcomeCats Families who serve as a helpful connection and resource during the new Wildcat onboarding experience. WelcomeCats are perfect for answering questions about school life and getting acquainted with the Westminster community.

Wellness and Leadership A ninth grade

transition program that develops skills and student understanding of health, wellness, and leadership.

WestFest Our all-school spring music festival hosted by PAWS. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, family, and friends to relax and enjoy food truck fare and live music from our talented performers.