West Weekly: Remembering, Giving, & Growing Together
West Families,
We have officially completed our fifth week of school! As we head into the weekend, I want to share a few updates, reminders, and opportunities happening at West.
Remembering September 11
Today, September 11, we took time this morning to remember a day that holds an important place in our nation’s history.
While the events of September 11, 2001, occurred long before our students were born, the lessons that followed are still meaningful today. In the days and weeks after 9/11, people across our country came together to help one another, support their communities, and show kindness during an incredibly difficult time.
Those lessons connect directly to who we strive to be at West. We teach our Redbirds to be Responsible, Respectful, Safe, and Kind (RRSK) every day. Being kind to someone who needs help, showing respect for others, making responsible choices, and looking out for the safety of our community are all ways our students can make a difference.
Today, we remember those who lost their lives, honor the many people who helped others, and remind our students that even small acts of kindness and service can have a powerful impact.
🟡 Kellsie’s Hope — Help Fight Childhood Cancer
Students received yellow socks for Kellsie’s Hope this week! We are asking students and families to fill their yellow socks with loose change to help support the fight against childhood cancer.
Every coin can make a difference!
Click here for more information:
https://www.parentsquare.com/feeds/87720949
📸 Picture Day — Friday, September 18
Picture Day is next Friday, September 18!
Dress to impress, Redbirds!
🤝 Join the Gilson-West Parent Teacher Group
We would love to see more West families become involved with our Gilson-West Parent Teacher Group! Our PTG helps support our students, staff, school activities, and opportunities for families to connect with our schools.
Click here for more information:
https://www.parentsquare.com/feeds/87483236
🍇 Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program
Our Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program started today! Thanks to funding through the Illinois State Board of Education, students will have opportunities on Mondays and Fridays to try fresh fruits and vegetables at school.
Today’s fruit was black grapes!
Fun fact: The dark purple-black color of black grapes comes from natural plant compounds called anthocyanins, which are also found in foods like blueberries and blackberries.
Students are not required to eat the fruit, but we encourage our Redbirds to be adventurous and give new foods a try!
🌳 First Quarter RRSK Reward — Walk to the Park
Our first-quarter RRSK reward will be a walk to Olin Park on Friday, October 23!
To earn the opportunity to attend, students must:
Have zero referrals
Have all schoolwork turned in
Consistently meet our RRSK expectations: Responsible, Respectful, Safe, and Kind
Permission slips were due Friday, September 18.
Please remember that returning a permission slip does not guarantee attendance. Students must continue meeting all eligibility requirements through the reward date.
This is a great opportunity for students to work toward a fun experience while demonstrating the expectations that make West a great place to learn!
📱 Staying Connected With West
ParentSquare
All school communication continues through ParentSquare. Please make sure you are connected so you don’t miss important announcements and updates.
Important Numbers
West Elementary School: 618-463-2134
Bus Garage: 618-466-5400
Facebook
Follow our Facebook page for pictures, celebrations, reminders, and a look at what’s happening around West.
My Ride K–12 App
Families who use bus transportation are encouraged to use the My Ride K–12 App to stay updated on transportation information. You will need your student’s 6-digit “Other ID” found in Skyward Family Access to register.
Thank you for another great week at West. I hope all of our Redbirds and their families have a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable weekend.
Every Redbird. Every Day.
TaRael Kee
Principal
West Elementary School