What a FANTASTIC opening of school this week!
On Monday and Tuesday, our faculty and staff participated in professional development workshops and meetings to launch the year. Workshop topics included phonics instruction, social and emotional learning, goal setting, PBIS, and BARR. Meetings focused on organization, engagement, and celebration. All district employees attended a special luncheon and district celebration. The WHS Blue Blazes Jazz Ensemble opened the meeting with an amazing performance. Dr. Lancia welcomed everyone, reminding us of the power of storytelling and encouraging us to tell and hear stories throughout the new year. School Committee chair Suzanne Salisbury and WEA President Susan Lombardo also addressed the staff and wished us well. Employees were honored for years of service in Westbrook and new employees, those in new positions, and teaching interns were recognized. The meeting concluded with a special performance by Firefly, a member of the Penobscot Nation who shared Wabanaki songs, stories, and wishes for the new year, including a circle dance in which all 500 employees joined in. What a festive way to send us off into the new year!
Open houses at our elementary schools and at WMS grade 5 were very well attended. Thank you to the families, students, and even alumni who attended.
The Fall Athletics season has begun and the WHS Marching Band's competition show Salvage is coming together well.
Students in grades 1-12 began arriving on Wednesday and Thursday, excited to meet their teachers, connect with their friends, and begin to learn. Kindergarteners practiced riding the bus and visited their schools on Thursday and about 30 newly registered kindergarteners completed their screening assessments. They will begin school on Tuesday, September 5. When our PreK students arrive on Monday, September 11, our entire school family will be together. Thank you to everyone who made the opening so positive and joyful!
