"Knightly" News
Washington Street Elementary - April 14, 2023
Upcoming Events:
April
- 18 - 5th Grade M-STEP: ELA
- 19 - Kindergarten Screening
- 20 - 5th Grade M-STEP: Science
- 21 - Popcorn Friday
- 21 - 4th Grade to Lansing
- 25 - 5th Grade M-STEP: Math
- 27 - 5th Grade M-STEP: Social Studies & 3rd Grade M-STEP: ELA
- 28 - Career Fair
- 28 - Progress Reports
May
- 4 - 5th Grade to Greenfield Village
- 8 - FUN RUN!
- 12 - 5th Grade Field Day @ Bulldog Stadium
Fun Run
The WSE Fun Run Fundraiser packet was sent home this week. Please consider participating! This is our one and only fundraiser for the year. Students have a chance to earn great prizes: Classroom raffles, cotton candy, a pool party, pancakes with the principal, an obstacle course inflatable party, and more! The Fun Run will be held on Monday, May 8. All donations are due by May 9 to be eligible for prizes.
Also, we are in need of parent volunteers on May 8 from 10-2:30. Please email Mrs. Knight at jknight@otsegops.org if you are interested in helping!

M-STEP
Students in grades 3 – 8 and 11 will be assessed on Michigan’s current content standards in English language arts (ELA), mathematics, science, and social studies. This year, the M-STEP (Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress) will be given from April 10th through May 26th in an online format.
ELA
- 5th Grade - 4/18
- 4th Grade - 5/11
- 3rd Grade - 4/27
Math
- 5th Grade - 4/25
- 4th Grade - 5/4
- 3rd Grade - 5/11
Science
- 5th Grade - 4/20
Social Studies
- 5th Grade - 4/27
IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT STUDENTS ARE IN ATTENDANCE ON THE DAYS OF TESTING!
2023-2024 Class Placements
Spring is the time of year when we begin planning for the 2023-2024 school year. Placement of children in classes is a part of that planning and a most difficult task. Responsible placement decisions take time and many consultations among staff members. Our goal is to make the best match between student, teacher, and learning environment. Many factors must be considered such as gender ratios, academic ranges, social behavior, personalities, special needs, and learning styles. If you feel you have special insights regarding your child that could assist with our selection, it is certainly welcome. We ask parents to adhere to the following guidelines:
• Provide information about your child’s needs.
• Do NOT request a specific teacher or friendship group. A detailed description of your child’s learning style and individual needs is more helpful.
• Information must be in writing-email jknight@otsegops.org this FORM -- or fill out a form in the office on or before May 5th.
Remember that due to the many factors involved, we are unable to make any guarantees, other than the fact that we will put much thought, consideration, and individual attention into each and every placement. We hope you will rely on our expertise and know that the best possible placement will be made for your child.
Bulldog PRIDE
Congratulations to the following students for being selected as their classroom PRIDE winner for the week!
P - Positive Attitude
R - Responsible Actions
I - Integrity Within
D - Determination to Succeed
E - Expect Excellence
Kindergarten: Faith TerAvest, Wesley Weber, Praxus McNees
1st grade: Noah Moore, Madalyn Hanson, Bristol Weston
2nd grade: Maddie White, Thomas Dreyer, Layla Reitkerk
3rd grade: Mayzie Jackson, Ellie Brokema, Roemello Moore
4th grade: McKenna Carpenter, Bentley Parker, Raelyn Letts
5th grade: Peter Whitaker, Titus Eckert, Silas Haneckow
Counselor's Corner
How well are you Listening to Your Child?
Communication between parents and children is important for developing a positive relationship. You want your child to know that you are always available to talk about school problems or difficult situations. But when your child talks, how well are you listening? Answer yes or no to the questions below to find out?
Do you give your child some uninterrupted listening time every day, like after school or before bedtime?
Do you avoid interrupting when your child is speaking to you?
Do you say that you want to hear what your child is saying, but if it is a time when you can’t focus on the child, set a time for later when you can give your full attention?
Do you ask questions if you don’t understand what your child is trying to say?
Do you sometimes rephrase what your child said to confirm what you understood?
How well are you doing? If most of your answers are yes, you are promoting effective communication with your child by demonstrating strong listening skills. For no answers, try those ideas.
**Adapted from an article by The Parent Institute






Recess Dress Code
As we embark on the spring season, please dress your child in layers since the temperature fluctuates drastically throughout the day. Morning recess can be rather chilly and as you know our Michigan weather continues to throw us for a loop. Thank you for your support!




Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch must enroll each year. The deadline is Sept. 30th
Washington Street Elementary
Attendance Line: (269)694-7880
WSE BASE: (269)694-7835