A NOTE FROM MRS. ROD
Things are really picking up speed here on campus! Students are deeply immersed in working on cumulative project experiences, practicing their collaboration skills, and getting prepared to exhibit their learning to all of you. We look forward to hosting you at K-8 Open House on Thursday, May 22, from 6:30-8pm as well as hosting you at our various grade level capstone exhibits. With many big events to round out the year, I encourage you to keep reading the Weekly E-News and checking the All School Calendar.
Warmly,
New York Broadway Trip
Our middle schoolers took Manhattan by storm on a five-day whirlwind adventure through the heart of New York City! From our home base at the stylish Hotel Indigo in the Financial District, students explored iconic neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and, of course, the Great Bright Way. With our charismatic guides, Nate & Alan, leading the charge, we kicked things off with a walking tour of Battery Park and Wall Street, paused for reflection at the 9/11 Memorial, and conquered the NYC Subway like pros. The days that followed were filled with unforgettable highlights: a cruise around Lady Liberty, playing and picnicking in Central Park, marveling at Lincoln Center and the Met, and indulging in M&M’s, black-and-white cookies, and Junior’s cheesecake.
Theatre was at the heart of the trip—from improv workshops and a Broadway Q&A to cheering on Boop! The Musical and The Great Gatsby (with our very own workshop leader stepping into the lead role of Gatsby!). We sang, we danced, we climbed the Empire State Building, we whispered secrets at Grand Central, and walked the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO. This experience wasn’t just a trip; it was a full-on love letter to New York City, filled with laughter, learning, and memories we’ll carry forever.
Entrepreneurial Day - April 16
At our 3rd Annual Entrepreneurial Day, students had the chance to design, market, and sell their own products, gaining hands-on experience as young business owners. The event encouraged collaboration across grades, as students supported one another and practiced skills like money management, customer service, and creative problem-solving
It was a fun and engaging day that highlighted the talent and spirit of our WNS community. We’re so proud of our student entrepreneurs and grateful to everyone who helped make the day a success!
Spring Fling Dance - April 25
Last Friday, our MPR became "Midnight in Manhattan" as students gathered for the Spring Fling dance. 6th graders, attending their first WNS dance, joined in with their older classmates, quickly finding their place on the dance floor. Students looked great in their semi-formal attire, and the eighthgrade families provided tasty refreshments throughout the evening. The dance fulfilled its "fundatory" purpose, bringing our middle school community together for a fun night of music and friendship as we approach the end of the school year.
Buddies - April 30
Our buddies focused on our next reading series odes! Students had a great time learning about and reading odes together. Buddies sat in groups or pairs, taking turns reading the poems aloud. Curiosity, laughter, and fun were shared by all! We have one final buddies meet-up at the end of May, and we can’t believe our special time together is coming to an end.
Upcoming Dates
EVERY FRIDAY IS SPIRIT DAY!
Monday, May 5 - Friday, May 9: Faculty & Staff Appreciation Week
Friday, May 9: Film Festival at Playa Vista Cinemark (6-7:30pm)
Thursday, May 22: K-8 Open House (6:30-8pm)
Friday, May 23, & Monday, May 26: School will be closed for a faculty & staff professional development day and Memorial Day.
Wednesday, May 28: 8th Grade SWIM Exhibit at LMU (6-8pm)
Announcements
If students are absent from school, they are responsible for following up with their teachers to figure out what they need to make up.
Friday, May 30: Spring Musical - Spamalot (6-7:30pm)
Monday, June 2: 7th Grade SPLASH Exhibit (6-8pm)
Wednesday, June 4: 6th Grade DIVE Exhibit at WNS (4-5pm)
Please help us by removing your child’s devices at night and supporting our no chewing gum and no eating candy at school policies
Coming up in our May/June issue
Buddies Capstone Project Highlight Performances