Inflight News (January/February 2024-25)

A NOTE FROM MRS. ROD

Our 5th-8th grade students had the opportunity to hear from the Organization for Social Media Safety (OSMS) on February 18. I hope some of you were able to join their evening parent/caregiver presentation. Their information is compelling and reminds us of the importance of helping slow our adolescents down, especially in the online space. If they are craving independence, let’s give it to them in the real world, not in digital spaces that are not made for them. Despite our 7th and 8th graders having heard from OSMS two years ago, they were still as deeply engaged as the 5th and 6th graders, because this is the world they are all living in. I urge our families to read The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt and explore the curriculum Let Grow on how to build independence in our students. No one parent can do this alone, it takes a village, and we are a team raising unique and wonderful human beings.

Mrs. Rod

Performing Arts Showcase -

The Song Machine: This is Pop December 19 and 20

Our Middle School students were thrilled to perform their pop songs for family and friends, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and heart to the stage We hope you enjoyed the music, the theme, and the passion they shared. The grand finale, Can’t Stop the Feeling, was a special highlight, with every student coming together in song and movement, filling the room with joy and closing out 2024 on a high note

Buddies - January 29 & February 25

Buddies continued w our Love for Readin plan by collaborating premade miniature books. Together, the used their imaginatio to create and write unique stories, bringi their ideas to life in fun and loving way.

WNS Sports Update

This season, both our Boys Soccer team and Girls Basketball team won the PBL Championship, capping off an impressive run of hard work and dedication. Congratulations to all of our athletes and coaches for their commitment and teamwork throughout the season Go Jets!

Family Groups - February

21

During family groups, students worked together to write thankyou letters to local firefighters at Station 9, expressing their appreciation for their service Older students worked together with the younger ones in crafting their messages, making this a collaborative and meaningful activity. In addition to the letters, the school plans to bring lunch to the fire station as a gesture of gratitude. We are excited to deliver these letters to the firefighters and hope that they feel our appreciation for everything they do to keep us safe!

Affinity

Groups

- February 21

During our recent affinity group meetings, students explored the theme of allyship. To prepare for these discussions, they examined historical examples of allyship in morning advisory on February 19 and 20. In their affinity groups, students engaged in thoughtful conversations about allyship in the context of recent Executive Orders from the Trump administration They analyzed the impact of policies such as the removal of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives from government agencies and the "Ending Radical Indoctrination in Schools" order. Additionally, facilitators had the option to discuss other executive orders, including those related to the Migrant Center at Guantanamo Bay and restrictions on transgender-affirming care, if they felt it was appropriate for their group. Given the sensitive nature of these topics, facilitators carefully guided discussions to ensure a respectful and supportive environment where students could reflect on how to be allies to affected communities.

The 8th Grade Show - February 21

Congratulations to our 8th graders on their performance in our annual 8th-grade play! This year’s production was themed around an escape room, bringing mystery and excitement to the stage. Our eighth graders put in tremendous effort both in class and during rehearsals, not only performing but also contributing behind the scenes to bring their creative vision to life From acting to stage design and technical support, they worked collaboratively to make this production a memorable experience for all. We hope you all enjoyed it!