Notes from the Head of School

Happy last Friday in September!

*Today at lunchtime, an Emergency Alert came through to notify us that the Westfield Police Department is looking for a missing 26 year old, nonverbal, Autistic man. An approximate location on our side of the city was listed. The students were in the cafeteria and before they went to recess I wanted to ensure we had the necessary information we needed, so I called a "shelter in place" . As everyone who had their phones in the cafeteria received the emergency alert, the sound was loud, startling, and caused some big feelings. I explained to  everyone that we are safe on campus and the purpose of the alert was a tool to help a person in need. The students went outside for recess, with some needing some extra support and reassurance.

*The Garden Club had their 1st official meeting this week. More than 20 students helped harvest, weed and reseed for fall. We love when students of all ages come together for a wonderful community activity! If you have not visited our garden and greenhouse yet, be sure to do so on October 8th during our Open House!

*Speaking of our greenhouse... It's official! 9th grader Ames is an Eagle Scout! His Court of Honor was held last Sunday and it was a wonderful celebration of Ames' hard work and dedication to the organization. Congratulations Ames!

*The Wolfpack Cross Country team competed in their 1st meet of the season on Wednesday at GCC hosted by Four Rivers School. Our mighty 5 did awesome - conquering a hilly course and setting their times to beat for the season. Next week, we travel to Eagle Hill for a 330 start!

*On Thursday, our Student Council officers rocked their 1st official assignment as school representatives. They organized and ran a few rounds of Bingo with our neighbors at Armbrook Village Assisted Living. These four navigated the challenges and joys of playing games with the residents in the Memory Care neighborhood. It was truly a wonderful collaboration. Stay tuned for pictures from next week's meetup as our lower school students read to the residents.

*In Oral Expression class, Ms. Daley challenged her students to write out the directions for making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. As you can see, it wasn't as easy as they thought it would be! Some great laughs were had while the class learned about the importance of paying attention to details!

*Scenes from a huge game of Fishy Fishy at recess this week - our students LOVE this game!

*Today was our first "Reading Meeting" of the year. What does that mean? Periodically throughout the month, we hold Friday meetings where students are tasked to prepare and practice a reading to present to their peers. Grades 4-7 meet in one space and Grades 8-12 in another. This is a longstanding White Oak activity. As much as this causes nerves and some initial panic, students learn to get comfortable with reading and presenting in front of groups; a skill that serves them well both in and out of the school community. I attended the high school meeting today and I was so incredibly impressed by the readings prepared by Grades 11 and 12. Topics included the upcoming NHL season, the history of buffalo sauce, the origin of Pokeman, a popular movie speech, the story behind how guitar distortion was born, places that bring our students peace, and even... a lyrical reading of the song "September" by Earth, Wind, and Fire! And the way our students cheered for and supported each other was second to none! Amazing job - I am so proud!

*Wednesday is the last day to order your mums from the Senior Class fundraiser!! Scan the QR Code on the flyer below to place your order! Payment can be made via venmo or cash or a check can be sent into the school. Pickup is October 8th - the night of Open House - there will be a variety of colors available on a first-come, first-served basis. Thank you for the support!

*NEW CLUB ALERT* -A note from Camilla: Hi Everyone, I just want to invite anyone who likes to play Pokemon cards, or wants to learn how to play to join our Pokemon Club at Milk Break and Lunch.  See Camilla for details.

• Pokemon Battles
• Pokemon Trading.
• You can bring your own decks. If you don't have any you can use my pre-made decks.  
• I hope to battle you!!

*NEW CLUB ALERT* The SheLeads Club is open to all female-identifying students in Grades 8-12. Next week, our 3 student leaders will take the names of those interested in joining. This will be a space that is positive, inclusive and impactful where female leaders will explore topics affecting them academically, socially, and culturally.

To kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the SheLeads Club is asking everyone to wear pink on Thursday, October 1st!

**Save the Dates:

*Thursday, October 8th - 4-6PM: Our Annual Fall Open House - RSVP to Mrs. Sutter

*Wednesday, October 21st - 9-10AM: Our first Parent Advisory Group meeting of the year! RSVP to Mrs. Sutter

*October 22 & 28th - Parent/Teacher Conferences. you will receive a notice from Betsy Ricco to schedule a time to meet with your student's teachers

*November 6th - School Picture Day

Have a great weekend!

Jody

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