WJHS Highlights
12/16/2022
A Message from the Administrative Team
Dear WJHS families,
This year we have returned to a more "normal" lunch service at WJHS. While we still are not fully staffed in our cafeteria, with the assistance of parent volunteers (thank you, thank you!) we have been able to offer warm lunch options and an a la carte line.
The a la carte line at WJHS offers your child an alternative to hot lunch, or additional offerings to add to their lunch every day. Available items in the a la carte line include cheeseburgers and hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, chips and fresh fruit. We continue to add items as students share what they are interested in having as an option in the cafeteria.
If you are curious about what your child is purchasing, and what they are choosing from the a la carte line, you can check purchases through the parent portal by following the instructions below.
Login to PowerSchool Parent Portal ps.wilmette39.org
In the left hand navigation, click on Balance
Click on the green Make a Payment button on the right side
Sign into RevTrak
Click on Lunch Accounts
To view the purchase details, click on the arrow next to Show Details
If you are concerned by their purchases (i.e. you see they have purchased 4 bags of chips in one day), we encourage you to have a conversation with your child about making the best choices for lunch.
Take care,
Kate, Jeff and Eric
The Instrumental Music Performances this week were spectacular!
8th Grade Graduation Information
- 8th Grade Graduation is Thursday, June 8. We will hold two ceremonies inside the New Trier East Campus auditorium starting at 4:30PM. Save the date!
- Please complete the 8th grade graduation diploma information form HERE.
New Trier Incoming Freshman Page
The New Trier incoming/new student web page is something to bookmark! Important information is now posted regarding registration and upcoming events after winter break. Click HERE to access.
8th Grade League of Women Voters Student Government Program Information
Our 8th Grade Student Government program is sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Wilmette and the goal is to promote leadership opportunities for Wilmette youth. Each group of students studies an issue that the board is working on using the actual documents and information their mentors use. In previous years, St. Joseph's students have analyzed the Gillson Park Lakefront Plan, Wilmette Junior High students have prioritized capital budget items for the Village of Wilmette, and Marie Murphy students have grappled with issues arising from their district's unique structure straddling several communities. This program is open to all 8th grade students. Click HERE to register.
Tech Tidbit
When registering your child for school, there is Acceptable Use of the District’s Electronic Networks that is the formal agreement referenced in section 6 of District 39’s Board of Education Policy. Our network is a vital tool in teaching and learning. It allows for access to global information, relevant content, bridges communication gaps and much more. This agreement is to ensure that all students adhere to strict guidelines while using the district network. At the bottom of the agreement there is a statement for both students and parents.
For Students
I understand and will voluntarily abide by the District 39 Acceptable Use of the District's Electronic Networks agreement. I understand that the District and/or its agents may access and monitor my use of the District’s Electronic Network, including the Internet, my email, and downloaded material, without prior notice to me. I further understand that should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, and school disciplinary action and/or legal action may be taken. In consideration for using the District’s Electronic Network, I hereby release the School District and its Board members, employees, and agents from any claims and damages arising from my use of, or inability to use the District’s Electronic Network.
For Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of Student
As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read the District 39 Acceptable Use of the District's Electronic Networks Agreement. I understand that the District’s Electronic Network is designed for educational purposes and that the District has taken precautions to eliminate controversial material. However, I recognize it is impossible for District 39 to restrict access to all controversial and inappropriate materials. I will hold harmless the District, its employees, agents, or Board members, for any harm caused by materials or software obtained via the District’s Electronic Network. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use is not in a school setting. I have discussed the District 39 Electronic Network Use Agreement with my child. I hereby give District 39 permission to allow my child to access the District’s Electronic Network.
PTO Highlights
THANK YOU FOR TEACHERS AND STAFF DONATIONS
Thank you to all of the families who contributed to the teacher and staff holiday gifts this year. As the holidays approach, the WJHS PTO organizes a one-time gift during the school year from the WJHS families to all teachers, admins, building staff, and crossing guards, to be given before winter break. We will be delivering the gifts Monday morning. Thank you for your generosity!
WINTER AFTER SCHOOL CLUB LISTINGS ARE UP
For those who like to plan early, our fantabulous After School Club Committee has the winter club information on the PTO site. Click here to preview 2023 winter clubs. Winter After School Clubs start in late January. Registration will open Wednesday, 1/11/23 at 9:30am.
APPRECIATION CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
Looking for a holiday gift to say thank you to a special teacher, staff or administrator?
For your $39 donation, the staff member(s) of your choice will be honored with a personalized certificate sent via email and their name posted on our website's virtual Wall of Honor. All donations will benefit our schools by funding the Foundation's Gripp Grant program and, if needed, assisting our school community more immediately through special gifts.
Purchase your Appreciation Certificate here.
CAFETERIA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT LUNCH
The cafeteria needs parent volunteers! Spend 90 minutes of your day helping the school, while viewing your child from a distance (we promise they won't even know you're there!). Come at the scheduled time, check in with the cafeteria staff, and they will let you know where they need the help. You will not need to cook, simply give food to the kids. You are done once 6th period lunch is finished. Please tie your hair back or pop on a cap, otherwise the hairnet may be your only option... You've been warned! :)
District Update
Join Our District 39 Family!
District 39 is looking for outstanding individuals to join our teaching and learning community! We are looking for daily substitute teachers, as well as teaching assistants, custodians, and cooks. Click here for a list of openings and to begin the application process.
Join Us for a Virtual Presentation on KEEP39
Have a child that will be entering kindergarten in the Fall of 2023? Please join our elementary school principals for an informational presentation on our KEEP39 program (Kindergarten Enrichment and Enhancement Program). This presentation will be held virtually via Zoom on January 18 from 6-6:30 pm. Please check your child(ren)’s school newsletter for more information.
Holiday Safety Reminders
District 39 continues to partner with the Wilmette Police and Fire Departments to support safety throughout our community. As we prepare for Winter Break, we want to reiterate the importance of firearm safety and remind you of the many firearm safety practices and programs offered by the Wilmette Police Department. Additionally, please remember that fire safety begins with fire prevention measures and WFD encourages all families to check the batteries and status of their in-home smoke detectors.
Cold Weather Preparations
As we prepare for the heart of winter after Winter Break, please help your children prepare their clothing so that they can comfortably and safely enjoy outdoor experiences and play. Students go outside daily for recess and are also outdoors during other portions of their day, except in instances of extreme weather. To help keep our students safe and able to fully enjoy their outdoor time, students are encouraged to dress warmly. Hats, gloves, winter coats, snow pants and boots are strongly encouraged.
Weather-Related School Closures
Although we always hope to avoid school cancellations, the safety of students and staff is our top priority and occasionally requires consideration of school closures. Weather conditions (including temperature, wind chill and snow accumulation), street conditions (both in Wilmette and in surrounding municipalities), school building conditions, and bus conditions are all considered when evaluating the effects of weather for school.
If inclement weather conditions warrant cancellation of school, District 39 parents and guardians will receive an email, automated call, and text message from the school by 5:30 am on the morning of the school closing. Additionally, school closure notifications are posted to our district website and are relayed to all major Chicago radio and television outlets. When extreme weather conditions exist, parents are encouraged to check email, cell phone messages or the district website for information regarding school closures.
This school year, the first weather-related closure will function as a traditional “snow day,” with all classes canceled for the day. As communicated earlier, that day may be made up as a remote learning day on Presidents’ Day (Monday, Feb. 20). For additional information, please visit our D39 webpage regarding emergency closures.
Parent Education Opportunities
Thank you to all the parents who joined us earlier this week for our Parent Education event titled “Talking with Your Teen About LGBTQ+ Identities.” You can watch a recording of that event by clicking here. Please note that this recording will only be available through the end of December. This event was the first of a three-part series, with part two taking place on Wednesday, Feb. 8.
In between, District 39 will be hosting an event on January 18 titled “Supporting Friendship, Development, and Connection.” Parents can participate in this event virtually via Zoom or in-person at the Mikaelian Education Center. Please click here to register for this event and click here for the full schedule of the 2022-23 parent education events.
Lastly, we invite our families to check out the additional Parent Education events presented by the Family Action Network (FAN). Please click here for more information on FAN and click here for upcoming FAN events.
Board of Education Meeting
Last Monday, the Board of Education held its regular monthly business meeting. The evening began with a public hearing on the 2022 Tax Levy. During the regular business meeting, the Board approved bids for summer construction projects at five D39 buildings, which include further air conditioning of classrooms and other large spaces. The Board also heard a presentation on five-year financial projections. Click here for access to the complete meeting agenda and materials.
Community News
LINK: http://www.wilmette39.org/news/community_events
Learn to play WEIQI GO, a very challenging game.TONIGHT! December 15th, 4:00 - 5:30 pm at the Warming House Youth Center, 800 Ridge Rd., Wilmette
Christmas Brasstacular: Festive music performed by the Lakeshore Brass Ensemble will be held at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church on December 18th at 3:00 pm. The concert is free. Register for tickets here.
Loyola Youth Lacrosse Program is taking registrations for students in Kdg-8th grades. Contqact Greg Sprenzel for more information.
New Trier Township offers a Food Pantry 10am - 4pm weekdays for families that live/work in the township. NT Township also offers Emergency Financial Assistance, Legal Aid Clinic, property tax assistance, social service referrals and other available resources. Go to www.newtriertownship.com for more information.
Wilmette Food Pantry is open every Tuesday 10:00-11:00 am at Trinity United Methodist Church.
"Best Step Tutoring” offers free online tutoring for PreK-12 grades.
Cub Scout Pack 10: Dens 3 (Lions) & 4 (Tigers) is West Wilmette's local troop for Kdg - 1st graders. Email: thirdson88@yahoo.com for more information
HMS/WJHS: For 6th - 8th grade girls
SKATE FOR GIRLS aims to decrease the gender gap in STEM by teaching math through figure skating. Girls can skate weekly for FREE at Centennial Ice Rink on Sundays, January 15-Feburary 19, 1:00 - 3:30 pm. Register at www.skateforgirls.org
Wilmette Junior High School
Email: office-wjhs@wilmette39.org
Website: http://wjhs.wilmette39.org/
Location: 620 Locust Rd, Wilmette, IL, USA
Phone: 847-512-6600
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Highcrest-MSWilmette-JH-516430278443448
Twitter: @hawkwolf39
Principal at Wilmette Junior High School; love being an educator and working with young people; value spending time with friends and family