Westridge Wildcat News
Friday December 9, 2022
Message From the Principal
Hello Westridge,
If I could summarize this week in two words they would be high energy. I think Westridge could have been a strong alternative power source for the electric grid this week with all the energy we were producing here. Most of this high energy was positive. People are excited-- staff and students alike! We had an incredible Character Trait Awards Assembly today which was also full of energy, focused on Gratitude. The entire assembly was run by our 5th grade Leaders, and they did an amazing job! (see pics below)
A few more things:
--Our Toy Drive is going well also. We've filled about 5 barrels so far! If you have toys to bring in make sure they get to us by next week Friday.
--Occasionally we have had some community members passing through the back of our campus during recess times and other times. They've been gracious about moving along when we let them know the campus is closed during the school day. This has been happening more frequently though. We could use everyone's support in passing along the message that the fields, playgrounds, and walking paths are not open to public from 8:00 to 2:50 (with the exception of parents dropping off and picking up of course).
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Noah
In This Newsletter:
Save the dates!
Spirit Week!
Newspaper - Digital Version
Hunger Fighters Thank you
Closed campus
Continuing Reminders:
Minted Fundraiser
Foster Child Toy Drive
Winter i-Ready
Opt Out Form- State Assessments
STEM News and Needs
Nurse Notes
Meet the Westridge Staff!
Reporting Tardies and absences
Statewide Assessment Notice
Save the Dates!
There will be no PTSO meeting in December!
12/11: 4th grade families at Elf Jr movie 1pm
12/12: 5th grade families at Elf Jr Play 1pm
12/12 - 12/6: SPIRIT WEEK! (See below!)
12/13: Vision Screening (Grades K/1/3/5 only)
12/14: PTSO Restaurant Fundraiser at California Pizza Kitchen
12/19-1/2: No School (Winter break)
1/19: PTSO Meeting 7pm
PTSO Event's Page Calendar can be found here for more info on Parents Nights out and Meet Ups!
SPIRIT WEEK IS NEXT WEEK!
Hunger Fighters Thank You!
Thank you to all of the Westridge families who volunteered to shop for and deliver Thanksgiving meals last month. Because of your generosity Hunger Fighters were able to provide boxes to 104 families in our community! Special thanks to Tori Plummer for coordinating this effort in record time.
Reminder: Closed campus during school day
Please remember that our playground, field and blacktop are closed to the public during the school day. Please do not bring dogs to the field or younger (non-school aged) children to the playground until AFTER school (2:40pm / 2:00 on Thursdays) Thank you!
Winter Break Read-A-Thon
Your elementary student is invited to join in LOSD’s first-annual Winter Break Read-A-Thon! It’s a fun program developed by our high school students. Your child will learn more about it during library time. Keep reading for more information and watch the video:
What is a “Read-A-Thon”?:
All elementary school students in LOSD are encouraged to read as much as they can over winter break! Read alone, with an adult, listen to an audiobook…whatever inspires a love of literacy!
Family and friends are asked to pledge an amount for each book their student reads to a corresponding class fund.
One-time donations and/or continuous pledges per books read are accepted.
All donations support our local Lake Oswego Public Library and SMART Reading, an Oregon-based organization whose goal is to provide access to books and reading sessions to students in need.
Our Goal:
To encourage elementary school students to read at least five books over winter break.
To inspire elementary school students to raise $20 each to help us reach our district-wide goal of $5,000+ in donations!
To promote healthy reading habits throughout our local district, and to improve literacy across Oregon!
How to participate:
We are using a website called 99Pledges to keep track of reading and collect donations.
Here's how it works:
Click here to create an account for your student. Scroll down to the bottom, and click "Add Participant".
Once you fill out the quick form, you will receive an email from 99Pledges. The email will have two links: one to manage your page and one to share with others to collect donations.
Once your student's page is created, send the link to relatives and friends so they can help support your student in their reading goals! When sending the link, share how many books your student plans to read so their donors can pledge accordingly.
Each time your student finishes a book, update the book tracker on the website!
Prizes:
Every LOSD school that raises$3,000 or more by the end of the Winter Break Read-A-Thon will be entered into a drawing for a school-wide donut party! (Note: We will have alternative prizes for students with dietary restrictions or allergies).
The school that reads the most books will be crowned "The FIRST-EVER LOSD Read-A-Thon Champions!", and will receive a giant banner to put in their library, presented by us at a celebratory school assembly!
On top of this, a prize will be awarded to the student who reads the most in each grade across the district!
Thank You!
Thank you to our amazing LOSD community for all the time and support you dedicate to our local community and kids. It’s because of your support we can host fun events such as these. We wish you all the best this holiday season, and happy reading!
Questions?
Email us at:
li00665990@loswego.k12.or.us (Alicia Li)
scipi05456@loswego.k12.or.us (Jeb Scipio Del Campo)
bohn802784@loswego.k12.or.us (Sam Bohn)
Donate gifts to children in foster care!
Minted Fundraiser
Ordering holiday cards and gifts? Shop online at Minted using the code FUNDRAISEWESTRIDGE. You save 20% and Minted donates 15% to the Westridge PTSO.
Medical Guidance from Health Authorities
Please take a few minutes to review the information and resources below regarding Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) updates and resources for respiratory viruses, including Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Monkeypox (mpox), plus Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease (HFMD). This information can also be found on our District Nurse website page.
Oregon health officials recently issued a call to action in response to the rapid spread of RSV and Influenza virus. State health officials recommend that people:
Stay home when sick.
Cover coughs and sneezes with the inside of your elbow, or with a tissue that you immediately throw away after use.
Clean and disinfect all high-touch surfaces, including doorknobs, faucets, chairs, countertops, and tables.
Regularly wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after coughing or sneezing into a tissue.
Avoid sharing cups, water bottles, and other drink containers, or eating utensils.
Get a flu shot and stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations, including new bivalent boosters. There is no vaccine for RSV.
Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces.
Monkeypox (mpox)
Monkeypox is passed from person to person by close physical contact (not just sexual), but unlike some other disorders affecting skin it remains infectious until all scabs are gone and skin is dry. As such, a very precise and accurate diagnosis of skin lesions, particularly in high-contact sports such as wrestling is important. We continue to advocate for early testing and treatment of students who are ill as well as close collaboration with local and state health departments during times of outbreaks. Most importantly, prevention is the hallmark of controlling these illnesses in our students. With OHA’s announcement this Fall of pediatric mpox (monkeypox) cases in Oregon, it’s important to share information on tools available to manage this illness.
OHA Monkeypox Website – Regularly updated and includes evidence-based information about this illness.
Monkeypox Vaccination Providers – Use zip code to explore healthcare locations providing vaccines.
CDC Monkeypox Toolkit for Schools and Early Care and Education Programs – Provides a user-friendly format for existing monkeypox considerations in schools.
AAP Monkeypox Website – American Academy of Pediatrics site with information and resources.
Influenza (the Flu)
The flu was nearly nonexistent during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic but is now making a significant comeback and earlier in the year than normal. Many students have already been affected and many more will be. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Practice (AAFP) recommend early testing for those who are symptomatic to differentiate the Flu from COVID-19. Also, most antiviral medications against the Flu are most effective if started in the first 48 hours.
OHA Flu Prevention Website – Information for prevention and vaccines.
CDC Influenza Resource Center – Information and resources in multiple languages.
AAP Influenza Recommendations – American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations for prevention and control.
AAFP Influenza Website – American Academy of Family Physicians resources for prevention.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a common respiratory virus that is transmitted through respiratory droplets, direct contact, and by touching contaminated surfaces. For most children, RSV produces mild illness, however, children under 2 years old are especially susceptible to RSV and are at increased risk of severe illness and hospitalization. It is important to note that many school-age children have siblings at home who may be younger and more susceptible to severe illness and hospitalization. The ways we can prevent the spread of RSV and other respiratory illnesses are familiar and include frequent and thorough handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, masking, and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.
OHA RSV Website – Information about symptoms and prevention.
Oregon’s RSV Report – Updates RSV activity in Oregon every Wednesday.
CDC RSV Resources – Information about prevention, symptoms, and care.
AAP RSV Guidance – American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
There has been a notable increase in outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in Oregon this year, particularly this Fall. HFMD is an infection caused by a virus. Although HFMD is common in children younger than 5, several recent outbreaks have involved high school or junior high students, including student-athletes. Common symptoms of HFMD include fever, mouth sores, and rash (commonly on the hands and feet). HFMD spreads through fluids spread through coughs and sneezes, fluids from blisters or scabs, contact with feces, and contact with objects and surfaces that have the virus on them. Most people with HFMD recover on their own in seven to 10 days. Treatment of HFMD is symptom-based: drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration and use over-the-counter medication to relieve fever and pain from mouth sores.
OHA HFMD Information for ADs, Coaches, Athletic Trainers, and Parents (English)
OHA HFMD Information for ADs, Coaches, Athletic Trainers, and Parents (Spanish)
CDC HFMD Website – Information about symptoms and prevention.
Winter i-Ready
This Winter, all elementary students will complete two online i-Ready assessments. Like Fall, one is for math and the other is for reading. i-Ready is a diagnostic that will help us determine your child’s strengths and areas for growth, personalize their learning, and monitor their progress throughout the school year. i-Ready allows us to meet your child where they are and provides us with data to inform and tailor instruction to accelerate growth. This is the second of three i-Ready assessments we give each year, and the results will be shared with parents.
Nurse Notes:
WHEN TO KEEP YOUR STUDENT HOME FROM SCHOOL
Please follow this link to see when and for how long to keep your student home due to various symptoms.
Is your child up to date? Check here and be sure to update school records before you leave for Winter Break.
Meet the Westridge Staff!
Each week we will get to know a few Westridge staff members with a Q&A session!
This week, we met up with classified staff members Brooke Taylor, Conor Kositch, Patti Pribyl, and Lauren Calbreath
Brooke Taylor:
Q: What is your job here at Westridge?
A: General Educational Assistant
Q: How long have you worked at Westridge?
A: This is my first school year
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Phoenix, Arizona
Q: What did you do after high school?
A: I went to college and got a bachelor's degree in media arts, then changed my mind and got a doctorate in pharmacy! After my kids were born, I was a full-time mom until now!
Q: Tell me about your family or any pets!
A: My husband Pete and I have been married for 14 years and we have two boys who attend Westridge. We have a little black poodle named Shadow who loves to cuddle!
Q: What are somethings you love to do in your free time?
A:I love old movies and music. In college I DJed on the campus station and the classical station for the town of Tucson. I think I'm pretty good at trivia too!
Conor Kositch:
Q: What is your job here at Westridge?
A: Special Educational Assistant
Q: How long have you worked at Westridge?
A: This is my second year
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Beaverton, Oregon
Q: What did you do after high school?
A: 2 years at Willamette University
Q: Tell me about your family or any pets!
A: I love cats but don't have any because I've become allergic to them :(
Q: What are some interesting or fun facts about you?
A: My Birthday is the exact half point of the year.
Q: What are some things you love to do in your free time?
A: I enjoy blues dancing and hosting board game nights.
Patti Pribyl:
Q: What is your job here at Westridge?
A: General and Special Educational Assistant
Q: How long have you worked at Westridge?
A: This is my 9th year
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: The Bay Area of California
Q: What did you do after high school?
A: Attended college and worked
Q: Tell me about your family or any pets!
A: I have a husband, two daughters,one son,three granddaughters and one grandson. I also have a 15 month old lab puppy.
Q: What are some interesting or fun facts about you?
A: I love Disneyland!
Q: What are some things you love to do in your free time?
A: I like to hike with my husband and puppy and hang out with friends and family...I also love to travel
Lauren Calbreath:
Q: What is your job here at Westridge?
A: Library Tech
Q: How long have you worked at Westridge?
A: This is my 8th year
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I moved to Beaverton, Oregon from Louisiana when I was 10.
Q: What did you do after high school?
A: I went to the University of Oregon, Go DUCKS! After graduation I moved to San Diego and worked for Starbucks and Apple!
Q: Tell me about your family or any pets!
A: I have been married for 17 years to my husband Aaron who is a Firefighter/Paramedic. We have a son Kai (15) and a daughter Waverly (12). Our fur baby is Ike, an 85 lb English doodle!
Q: What are some interesting or fun facts about you?
A: I grew up a competitive swimmer and water polo player. I love to travel anywhere I can snorkel. Both of my kids went to Westridge and now I am their taxi service! I was thrifting long before it was "cool," ha!
Q: What are some things you love to do in your free time?
A:I love watching my kids play sports! Nothing beats summer camping on mountain lakes. Wave hello if you see me out walking my dog!
Oregon State Assessment Opt-Out Form
Each school year, Oregon students take assessments to meet federal requirements. The purpose of these assessments is to provide data that schools can use to ensure that every child is on track and achieving learning goals.
State law requires us to inform you that a form is available from the State Department of Education that allows you to opt your child out of the math and English Language Arts assessments for the current school year. Should you wish to opt out your child, fill out the form and submit it to the main office at your child’s school. Please note the submission deadlines listed on the form. Meeting the deadline will help the school with planning and preparation. If you wish your child not to participate in the science assessment for grades 5, 8, and 11, submit this request in writing to the principal of your child's school.
If you have questions or want more information about state assessments, please contact your child’s principal or teacher(s).
Click here for opt-out form for Math and English Language Arts.
Reporting tardies, absences and illnesses:
Office phone number and voicemail: 503-534-2371
Attendance Secretary: Andrea Murphy (murphya@loswego.k12.or.us)
Principal's Secretary: Jodi Steward (stewardj@loswego.k12.or.us)
Safe Oregon
Parents-guardians who have concerns about a student’s well-being are encouraged to reach out to their principal, and to maintain strong lines of communication and partnership between students, families, staff, and other resources.
SafeOregon is also an effective way to report a tip regarding safety threats or potential acts of violence to our students or schools.
(Students should also be aware that intentionally providing a false report is a serious offense.)
Stay connected with the LOSD AP:
Contact information for the Westridge PTSO
Find us on Facebook!
Follow us on Instagram @westridge.ptso
Email: westridgeptso@gmail.com
Yearbook Photos: yearbookwestridge@gmail.com
Westridge Elementary School
Email: hurdn@loswego.k12.or.us weaverl@loswego.k12.or.us
Website: https://www.losdschools.org/wr
Location: 3400 Royce Way, Lake Oswego, OR, USA
Phone: 503-534-2371