What's Up Westside

• February 20-24 - NO SCHOOL - Mid-winter Break

• March 7th - PTSA First Tuesday at Larry's

As we start Black History month and next week's Black Lives Matter in Schools Week, this is a good time for us to celebrate the Black Excellence that is part of the fabric of our community. It is also a time to reflect on our values and whether we are creating the safe, inclusive, anti-racist climate we all desire. I would like to challenge us to reflect on how each of us contribute to building a space in which all students can thrive, free of racism and bigotry. We are not immune to to the acts of racism that happen in our community at-large. There are times when racist words are spoken or symbols of hate are found right here at West Seattle High School. These incidents bring to light the need for us to continually work on creating inclusive environments and eliminating prejudice. We can always learn more and do better towards building a more inclusive society and positive school climate. So, not only will we be highlighting Black History and Black Excellence in our classes throughout the month of February, our PTSA has purchased rights to a film we will be showing next week called Race to Be Human. The details on how to sign up to the showing are in a post in this newsletter. This is a great opportunity to lean into our collective and individual work around anti-racism. Very excited for that event. In addition, I wanted to provide other resources you can access to spark conversations in your homes around topics of race, racism, discrimination, etc. I have said this before, our strength is our community and the stronger each of us can be in building a place that is safe and supportive for all, the closer we will be to making sure each and every student can be successful.

Other Resources:

• A PARENTS’S GUIDE to Preventing and Responding to Prejudice
• Talking to Kids about Race and Racism
• The Anti-Defamation League resources
• ADL No Place for Hate

Go Wildcats!

STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Check out the student news site, The Olympian: https://wshsolympian.com/

WSHS WILDCAT NEWS ON YOUTUBE

Wildcats Wednesdays channel on YouTube has the weekly video updates our kids watch during advisory, as well as recordings of live streamed basketball games.

Counselor Caseloads:

Last Names A- Fa, Erica Nguyen etnguyen@seattleschools.org

Last Names Fe-Mar, Kinsey Hedeen krhedeen@seattleschools.org

Last Names Mas-Po, Mallory Neuman mlneuman@seattleschools.org

Last Names Pr-Z, Christine Nutters canutters@seattleschools.org

TEEN LINK RESOURCE

Where to Turn For Teens - Teen Link

Teen Link is a program of Crisis Connections that serves youth in Washington State. Teen volunteers are trained to listen to concerns and talk about whatever's is on your teen's mind – bullying, drug and alcohol concerns, relationships, stress, depression or any other issues your teen may be facing.

If a teen or an adult concerned about a teen or has questions or concerns about drug use, they can now call, chat, or text to www.teenlink.org

The PTSA is a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Add your voice and help make WSHS the community you want to be a part of.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

We NEED help! We have a number of committees of one (or two) and are looking for a broader range of voices. Please consider joining our Communications, Fundraising, Legislative/ Advocacy, Future Board Nomination, 2023-24 Budget, and Community Awards (Golden Apple and Golden Acorn) committees. Send your interest and questions to wshsptsapresident@gmail.com!

JOIN US

First Tuesdays Parent Social at Larry's Tavern

February 7th is First Tuesday at Larry's!

Take the opportunity to socialize AND benefit WSHS students!

While partial proceeds from the whole night (4pm to close) will go towards our fundraising efforts, 7pm is the "prime time" to meet other WSHS community members.

"RACE To Be Human" Screening + Student Panel (WSHS Theater). Don’t forget to reserve your tickets for this must-see film which uses the power of student voice to provide a doorway into a courageous conversation about something that impacts all of us - race. You will also get to hear perspectives from a panel of WSHS students, plus see Gaia Corvino’s award winning student film capturing the POC experience at WSHS. This event is free and recommended for ages 10+, so make it a Movie Night and bring the whole family! Childcare will be available on-site.

Become a member of the PTSA at: http://wshsptsa.org/

Make a donation to fund academic supports

Congratulations to our winter sports athletes on their spectacular seasons!

Cheer - 2nd in State

Bowling -

Wrestling -

Girls Basketball -

Boys Basketball -

Follow Wildcat schedules and scores at:

https://www.metroleaguewa.org/

The Spring Sports line up:

• https://westseattlehs.seattleschools.org/student-life/athletics/fall-sports/
• https://twitter.com/WSHSAthletics1
• https://www.instagram.com/westseattle.athletics/
• https://www.facebook.com/WSHSAthletics1

WSHS Boosters Club works to defray equipment and transportation costs. To make a donation or purchase spirit wear visit: https://westseattleboosterclub.org/

LOOKING TO HIRE TEENS?

Hey business owners, hiring managers and community organizers! West Seattle High School will be hosting a Job and Internship Fair on April 5, 2023 from 12:00pm to 3:00pm. If you’re hiring teens for any summer or long-term positions, reach out to Katie Meyer at kemeyer@seattleschools.org

If you would like to share something with the West Seattle High School community, please contact wshsptsacommunications1@gmail.com

Email: wshsptsacommunications1@gmail.com
Website: westseattlehs.seattleschools.org
Location: 3000 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116, USA
Phone: 206-252-8800