Parent Newsletter 12.22.23
Watertown High School
Weekly Update
Thanks to our students, families, and staff for making 2023 a banner year for the Gosling Nation! Reflecting on the year, I am extremely proud of our entire community for the many amazing things we have accomplished together. Be sure to take a few moments and check out some of our favorite moments at the bottom of the S’more. Your support is very much appreciated as we continue to work together to provide the best possible experiences for our students as they prepare for their future successes!
On behalf of the WHS staff, we hope everyone has a safe, happy, healthy holiday season with friends and family. We look forward to a fantastic start to 2024 when students return on January 3rd. See you in 2024!
Badger Boys & Badger Girls State
Junior students interested in government, leadership, and meeting other juniors from around the state, are encouraged to check out Badger State Boys and Badger State Girls! It is an all-expense paid week long opportunity at UW-Eau Claire for Boys and UW-Oshkosh for girls. It also looks great on a high school resume. If interested, see Ms. Pirkel in the Main Office.
Junior ACT Prep
WHS continues to prepare the 11th grade students for the statewide ACT test on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Junior students began accessing digital ACT resources during homeroom on Wednesday, December 20 through IXL. Junior students received their results from the Spring 2023 PreACT in homeroom to complete the Goal Setting Student Handout, input their scores into IXL, and IXL develops a personalized skill plan to guide ACT practice. Student can access IXL both at school as well as outside of WHS. IXL provides an opportunity for development of specific skills to enhance their score on the ACT in March and take advantage of IXL test prep
In January and February, students will also be given information about using MyACT.org as another resource to prep for the test. We encourage families to engage in conversation with their students to best prepare for the exam in March.
FSFSA Update
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will become available by December 31st, 2023. FAFSA data is used to determine eligibility for grants, work study and federal student loans. Many colleges use FAFSA data to determine eligibility for institutional aid, such as scholarships. All students, regardless of perceived financial need, should complete the FAFSA.
What can you do right now? Prior to completing the FAFSA, students and parents/guardians must create a Federal Student Aid account, also known as a FSA ID.
If you need help completing the FAFSA, consider attending a College Goal Wisconsin event. College Goal Wisconsin is a free statewide program, with both in-person and virtual events.
Chromebook Updates
As the winter break approaches, it's important to ensure that our students not only have a rejuvenating time but also maintain the tools they use daily for their education. With Chromebooks becoming an integral part of their learning experience, it's essential to take some extra care during this break to ensure these devices remain in optimal condition. Here are some tips to help your scholar care for their Chromebook during the upcoming holiday break:
Proper Storage
- Advise your scholar to store their Chromebook in a safe and dry place when not in use. Keeping it away from extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight can prevent damage and extend its lifespan.
Cleaning Routine
- Regularly cleaning the Chromebook is crucial. A soft, dry cloth can help remove dust and fingerprints from the screen and keyboard. Avoid using harsh chemicals or liquids, as they might damage the device.
Battery Care
- Suggest that your student does not leave the Chromebook plugged in constantly. Periodically charging and discharging the battery helps maintain its health. Additionally, encourage them to charge the device using the original charger to prevent potential issues.
Software Updates
- Remind your child to install any pending software updates before the break begins. These updates often include crucial security patches and performance enhancements, ensuring the device functions smoothly.
Responsible Use
- Emphasize responsible usage habits, such as avoiding food and drinks near the Chromebook and being mindful while transporting it. Caution can go a long way in preventing accidental spills or mishaps.
Encourage Communication
- Keep communication open with your child about the importance of taking care of their Chromebook. Remind them that it's not just a device, but an essential tool for their education.
By implementing these simple yet effective measures, your learner can enjoy a worry-free break while ensuring their Chromebook remains in top-notch condition for the upcoming school term.
Remember, taking care of their Chromebook not only preserves the device but also instills a sense of responsibility in your child towards their belongings. Here's to a safe, relaxing, and tech-friendly winter break for your family.
Watertown Athletic Booster Club
Trivia Night - Saturday, February 3, 2024
The 18th annual Watertown Athletic Booster Club Trivia Night will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024 in the Watertown High School gymnasium. Doors will open at 5:30pm, with trivia starting at 7:00pm. See flyers for registration information. New this year, early bird pricing is $80/team if register by January 14, 2024. After January 14th, the cost to register a team is $120. Get your registration in early and save! All teams will register as a table for 8 regardless of how many players you have. You can choose to pay online or mail in your team’s fee. Please follow the directions on the registration website to register your team. As a reminder, all student athletes are expected to participate by volunteering to help at trivia night or by being part of a trivia team.
Women in Welding Class
Tech Savvy STEM Workshop - Grade 9
WHS Year in Review!
Great Things Happening Around WHS!
Some WHS students where seen this morning having a "Friend Christmas Party" in the Media Center before school!
After baking German cookies and writing recipes in German, 3rd year students participated in the annual tradition of making gingerbread houses. Students in other German classes this trimester will judge their handiwork and determine a winner.
After baking German cookies and writing recipes in German, 3rd year students participated in the annual tradition of making gingerbread houses. Students in other German classes this trimester will judge their handiwork and determine a winner.
Now Hiring
The WUSD is looking for individuals who would be interested in substitute teaching. A substitute teaching license or regular teaching license is required from the Dept. of Public Instruction. Substitute teachers are paid $140 per day. Please apply on WECAN at https://wecan.waspa.org/ and find vacancy #192089. For additional assistance, contact Sarah Miller, Executive Assistant in Human Resources at millers@watertown.k12.wi.us or by phone at 920-262-1460 ext. 3223.
Important Upcoming Dates
- WUSD 11:30 a.m. Early Release: Friday, December 22
- Winter Break: December 23 - January 2
- School Resumes: Wednesday, January 3
- Freshman Preview Night (current 8th graders): Tuesday, January 9
- No School - Teacher Work Day: Monday, January 15
WHS Phone Numbers
Watertown High School: 920-262-7500
Attendance Line: 920-262-7537
Student Services: 920-262-7550
Watertown High School Fax: 920-262-7545
Attendance Fax: 920-262-7538
Student Services Fax: 920-262-7589