Westridge Family Notes
Westridge Elementary School | September 10, 2021
Learning Highlights
Mrs. Light's class playing an addition and subtraction game during math.
6th graders in Mrs. Benson's classroom have been learning about wetlands. Students collected plants for creating a wetland in a bottle.
Science Inquiry question: Why are wetlands so important for our ecosystem? What is the importance of filtering in wetlands?
Leader in Me
During September, Westridge leaders are learning about different ways to live Habit 1: Be Proactive. Habit 1 is the habit of personal responsibility. It is where students and staff are reminded that we are responsible for our actions, reactions, and attitude. It is a powerful thing to learn that YOU and YOU ALONE are responsible for showing others your true self. Below are some of the key principles we are practicing and great ways to connect at home:
I am a responsible person. (Talk about what ways your student can help around the home. Celebrate responsible actions - "Thanks for clearing your plate /picking up your play space. That really shows responsibility."
I take initiative. (Encourage your student to see a problem and find solutions to fix it. When challenges arise simply say, "Wow that is tricky, what will you try first? I am here to brainstorm if you need help." "Thanks for noticing that wasn't working and taking action to help." )
I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods and therefore my own happiness. (On those difficult mornings, remind students to see the positive side and turn their attitude around. When you catch them doing that on their own, HUGE KUDOS! This is a great opportunity to celebrate a growth mindset by stating affirmations - "This is tough but so am I!" " I can do hard things." Another great home idea - Fix the I’M BORED slump with creating a family list of activities to complete when bored.
I do not blame others for my actions. (Everyone makes mistakes! Just own it and be honest about them. A proactive person focuses on things they can control and allows time to make positive choices before reacting. A true apology is a very proactive approach.
I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is watching. (This ties up Habit 1 perfectly. Should I do my homework first or go play with friends first? Should I make my bed in the morning or go watch tv? Should I brush my teeth without being reminded or have bad breath/cavities soon? ) I am in charge of me and when things are taken care of, the rest of the day takes care of itself.
Challenge: Pick one of the above practices and really look for it each week. Take the time to celebrate proactive actions and grow more proactive practices when you notice a need. Encourage your student to share proactive practices at home with their teacher to continue to grow proactive muscles all around.
Westridge Spirit Wear
Exciting news…WESTRIDGE SPIRIT WEAR is now available to shop online. Click on the link to grab your favorite tiger gear. There is youth and adult sizing available and lots of fun options to help support & show your school spirit! Go tigers!
1st & 3rd Wednesday
The third Wednesday of the month, we encourage staff and students to wear Westridge attire or school colors.
Early Dismissals
Don't forget...every Wednesday is an early dismissal at 3:10 pm. This includes the first day of school. Please make necessary arrangements.
Heartland Parent Session
Parent Session: Smart but Scattered: Helping Children and Teens Strengthen Executive Skills to Reach Their Full Potential
September Dates:
September 21: Fall School Pictures
- Virtual students: 8:00 - 8:45am in the Media Center
- Onsite students: during the day
Westridge Elementary School
Beth Brewer, Principal
Jeannette Barnes, Assistant Principal
Website: https://www.wdmcs.org/schools/westridge/
Location: 5500 E.P. True Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Phone: 515-633-5400
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wdmwestridge