MAY 2020
Whittier Middle School Wolverines
Whittier Pride
From the Principal's Desk
As I write this year’s last newsletter, I have mixed emotions. I am sad that we do not get to say good-bye and celebrate our 8th graders. I am disappointed that Honor’s Fest is now being done through the mail. I struggle with hallways that have been quiet for too long and I miss everyone. I am also grateful that we have been able to keep our students and families as safe as possible. I thankful for being able to be a part of Whittier and the grace and kindness everyone has shown me in my first year here.
Today we face the unknown, and that is scary. The plans we make may never have to made again, and decisions made in moments have long last ramifications. These are times we have not seen, and I hope for our future’s sake, we do not see them again. In a world flipped upside down, the constant these past few weeks has been the community of Whittier.
Whittier is defined by and celebrates its differences: different races, cultures, ideas, socio economic levels. When you come here, you see everything and that is who we are; who we have always been; and who we will be. These are the children who will change the world. They are kinder, better, smarter, and more equipped than we ever have been. They are strong. They accept others, and they know they must change the world to make it better. Nothing about these last months have changed this. If anything, it has made us stronger. We appreciate each other more. We miss each other and we understand the importance of being together. We see the division this can cause in others and want to show what we do here to be simply “Whittier.” A school bigger than any one person or group.
So even though we are in times that are confusing and at time volatile, there is no doubt in my mind that the next generation continues to be prepared to face the future. These past 52 days will not change their lives for the worse, but instead will allow them to celebrate their differences. They will be smarter in real ways. They will appreciate more. They understand the meaning of sacrifice.
Someday soon our halls will have laughter, our gyms will be full, our students will sing, dance, and learn in this building. Our teachers will be here, as they always are, to help them be the best they can be. We have learned these past months that learning takes place in all different venues and through all different vehicles. But most importantly we recognize that the human connection is what drives us all. We miss you. We will see you soon. Take care and be well.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Please note that our hours have changed: 10-1:00 are official public hours.
If you are here in between the hours of 10-1:00, please know that we will be following procedures to keep everyone safe. These procedures will be explained once you have entered the alcove. Thank you for your understanding.
YEARBOOKS, PLEASE READ!!
If you purchased a Yearbook this year, you will still be receiving it. But due to delays with COVID-19, it will not be ready by the end of the school year. With office and printer closures the books will tentatively be ready mid-summer. They will be mailed out to your homes at that time. If your address has changed since school closed, or will be changing by mid summer please notify the school office or email myself so we can get you your yearbook. If you have any questions or concerns, please email Mrs. Selken at annie.selken@k12.sd.us
Coming Up...
Get A Jump Start On 6th Grade with Whittier Middle School Jump Start August 3 - 6, 2020 - Register Now
Get to know your new school and get information about:
Schedules, lockers, the lunchroom, chromebooks, music programs, after school programs, our fantastic library, and…so much more!
Cost is $50.00 for the week (due with completed registration form). There is room for 40 students per session, so register early. BUSING IS NOT AVAILABLE
Registration Forms are due by June 1!!
Hope to see you there!!
*Limited scholarship opportunities are available, please call 367-7620 to see if your student qualifies*