Cougar Update
July 30, 2023
Sept. 24, 2023
Parent Teacher Conferences
The Westridge staff is excited to get to talk to parents and let them know all of the amazing things your students are doing in class. Please mark your calendar for the parent teacher conference times and dates below. You do not need to schedule a time in advance.
- Monday, Oct. 9th from 3:30 pm until 7:15 pm
- Wednesday, Oct. 11th from 3:30 pm until 7:15 pm
- Thursday, Oct. 12th from 8:00 am until 11:30 am
Physical and Immunization Reminder
This is just a reminder to 7th grade parents to please have your child's physical and immunizations updated prior to October 11th to avoid exclusion. Nebraska law requires a physical exam and Tdap immunization before students start their 7th grade school year. The physical must be dated within 6 months of the start of the school year. If you have any questions, please contact Nurse Bowley.
8th Grade Save the Date
GISH will be Hosting their annual Islander Extravaganza on Monday, Nov. 6th from 5:30 to 7:30 in the GISH West Gym. This is an opportunity for students to learn about the academies, meet coaches and get a glance of all of the opportunities Grand Island Senior High has to offer.
Upcoming Events
- Sept. 25 - 4:30 pm - Cross Country at Brickyard Park in Hastings
- Sept. 25 - 7:00 pm - PTO at Westridge
- Sept. 26 - 4:15 pm - 7th grade Volleyball at Walnut
- Sept. 26 - 3:45 pm - 8th grade Football at Columbus
- Sept. 26 - 4:15 pm - 8th grade Volleyball vs Sunrise at Westridge
- Sept. 26 - 4:15 pm - 7th grade Football vs Columbus at Westridge
- Sept. 27 - 4:00 pm - 7th grade D League Volleyball at Barr
- Sept. 20 - 4:00 pm - 8th grade D League Volleyball at Westridge
- Sept. 20 - 4:00 pm - D League Football at Walnut
- Sept. 28 - 4:15 pm - 8th grade Volleyball vs Hastings at Westridge
- Sept. 28 - 4:30 pm - 7th grade Football at GICC
- Sept. 29 - 5:00 pm- Cross Country at Stuhr Museum
Small Group Opportunity
The Westridge counselors and social worker are excited to offer students the opportunity to participate in small groups at our school. These small, confidential sessions provide a safe and supportive space for students to address specific social skills. Through discussions and activities, students can develop essential life skills, build relationships with peers facing similar issues, and gain a greater understanding of themselves. If you believe your student may benefit from being part of a small group please reach out to their counselor or the social worker.
Strengthening Families Program Classes
Howard elementary is hosting the Strengthening Families Program classes. This program is designed improve child parent relationships, provide effective discipline practices, and increase childhood resilience. Please see the attached fliers for more information and how to register. You may also contact Amy Hanna at Howard for additional information.
Tips for Positive Attendance
- Avoid taking extended trips when school is in session.
- Set bedtime and morning routines with your child to develop expectations of regular school attendance.
- Have a consistent transportation plan ahead of time.
- Talk with your child about their feelings toward school. Acknowledge any negative feelings toward school attendance.
- Consult with your child’s physician or the school nurse when illness is contributing to absenteeism.
- Schedule appointments outside of school hours as often as possible.
- Monitor your student’s attendance and grades on Synergy through the ParentVue app.
- Talk with your student’s teacher, social worker, or counselor to address any concerns; We are in this together!
Reminders
Student IDs
Students are required to have a student ID visible on their upper body at all times when they are in the building. All students will receive a temporary ID and lanyard on the first day of school. They will need to exchange that temporary ID for their permanent ID approximately 1 week after school pictures are taken. If a student forgets their ID they may purchase a temporary sticker ID in the main office for $1. Students may also purchase a new lanyard in the main office for $1. If a student loses their ID they may purchase a new ID and lanyard for $5 in the main office.
Dress for Success
To help ensure we start the year with positive momentum at Westridge, we wanted to share a friendly reminder about the “Dress for Success” district dress code.
Your students deserve to be confident AND prepared while at school. Part of those preparation efforts include dress code.
Apparel must comply with health and safety codes and not detract from learning.
For all students, mid-thigh to top of chest are to be covered while also concealing undergarments.
Approved religious attire or protective headwraps are approved. At this time, due to safety - hoods, caps, bandanas, durags, etc. are not approved to wear while in school buildings.
IDs must be worn and be visible at all times.
Feel free to explore the full dress code policy on the district website HERE and our handy “Dress for Success” flyers in English and Spanish.