As November begins, this a good time to think about progress made so far this year towards goals, hopes for what is ahead, and taking a good look at the things in a student’s control. I like to remind students often that the only thing they can truly control is their own words and actions. When forces outside of themselves begin to impact them, we want to remind them of what resources they have access to that ARE in their control - teacher support, talking with school counselors, sharing things with their parents, reviewing their own academic resource, and more! And, at times like these, the importance of self-care - having strategies that provide a reset and reframe their perspective on the issues at hand. If students do not yet have a go to self-care strategy, talk about that at home. When things are feeling heavy, what can they do to help themselves?
Pen Ceremony: October 4
The Pen Ceremony has been a meaningful tradition at WNS for 17 years, marking an important milestone for 8th graders. Each student receives an engraved pen, symbolizing the beginning of their final year and highlighting the power and responsibility of their words and actions. This ceremony emphasizes how their choices can influence their peers, shape the school community, and have a lasting impact. We hope the 8th graders use these pens with pride!
8th Grade DC Trip: October 13-18
The 8th graders recently embarked on a memorable trip to Washington, D.C., where they explored significant historical and cultural landmarks Among the places they visited were the FDR, MLK, and Jefferson Memorials, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Portrait Gallery, the Lincoln, Vietnam Veterans, and Korean War Memorials, the Capitol Building, and the Library of Congress. This trip provided a wonderful bonding experience, and we hope that the memories and lessons learned will continue to inspire them throughout the rest of their journey at WNS.
7th Grade Joshua Tree Retreat: October 16-18
The 7th graders spent three unforgettable days in the desert, engaging in activities like hiking, rock climbing, scrambling, and bouldering. Surrounded by nature, they took a break from technology, allowing themselves to fully embrace the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere. This outdoor adventure not only gave them the chance to challenge themselves physically but also to strengthen their bonds with one another, creating lasting memories in a serene and breathtaking environment.
6th Grade Catalina Retreat: October 23-25
6th graders embarked on their overnight to Fox Landing on October 23. Although it is only 26 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, Fox Landing felt like a whole other world! Students experienced an intensive ropes course, night rock climbing, and a mini ecology hike. Students also dove into oceanography, getting steeped in plankton and tide pools. The major highlight of the trip was snorkeling definitely night snorkeling! 6th graders not only made new memories, but grew closer as a class, enjoying time in nature, with one another, and away from technology!
Buddies: October 29
As we continue to promote the love of reading, buddy pairs focused on a shared reading experience. Each buddy brought a book that they wanted to share with their partner. Buddies took turns reading to each other and enjoying each other's company!
Halloween: October 31
Halloween at WNS is always an event to remember, filled with excitement, costumes, and plenty of laughter. Each grade proudly showcases their costumes, dancing and parading with the rest of the school. This year, eighthgrade parents stole the show as they waddled out in their penguin suits Students from Kindergarten to 8th grade followed with their own parade across the turf, with faculty, staff, and WNS families joining in the fun. Even with classes, students had time to connect in advisory, play games, and enjoy family groups. The energy was contagious! The day was a perfect blend of creative costumes, teamwork, and community spirit. We can’t wait for more events like this throughout the year Thank you to everyone who participated!
Upcoming Dates + Announcements
Every Friday is Spirit Day! The entire community is encouraged to wear WNS gear to celebrate community and belonging. Feel free to wear any kind of WNS gear every Friday.
Fall Conferences - Friday, November 1 & Monday, November 4
Affinity Groups & Breaking Bread - Wednesday, November 13
Affinity Groups are gatherings of our WNS middle schoolers who share a common identity, interest, or experience. These groups provide a space for students to connect, support one another, and discuss issues relevant to their shared identity. Often organized around aspects like race, gender, culture, or interests, affinity groups foster community, promote understanding, and encourage conversations about equity and inclusion within our community. We also use these groups as a way to promote collective action, advocacy, and empowerment.
Breaking Bread is a long-standing WNS tradition where Family Groups meet around an oilcloth signed over the years by past members of that family group and share a moment of gratitude. New members of the family group get to sign their name on the cloth, and then we break bread together.
Mid-Semester Reports: These will go live in OnCampus on Monday, November 25. These are a snapshot in time and not a formal report.
Fall Break - Monday, November 25, through Monday, November 29
School Resumes - Tuesday, December 3
Coming soon...
You’re invited to see The One Act Play That Goes Wrong on Friday, November 15, at 6pm in our Black Box Theatre.
