What's Up Westside

• September 2nd - First Football Game 7pm at SWAC

• September 7th - First Day of School 8:50am start time for 9th Graders, 12:45pm for 10-12th Graders

• September 9th - PTSA Outdoor Movie 6-10pm WSHS Courtyard

• September 14th - Theater Information Meeting 4pm

• September 21st - Auditions for the Fall Theater Production

• September 22nd - PTSA Meeting: Meet Your Administrators 7-8:30pm School Library

• October 13th - Curriculum Night

• October 14th - NO SCHOOL

We had a great Ice Cream Social event last night for our incoming 9th grade families in preparation for the 22-23 school year. Great to see the excitement and positive energy from students and families. Thanks to everyone who helped organize including PTSA volunteers and staff. We tried to include in this newsletter what students will need to get started. This includes first day schedule, regular schedule, orca card information, etc. Please note that student schedule will be distributed on the first day. Anything that is currently available online is subject to change as we make final shifts to classes as we work to balance classes.

I am excited for the opportunity to engage with our students and families again this school year. Please pay close attention to any district communications that may come out over the next several days leading up to the start of school. Our community is our strength and I look forward to the school year.

ORCA CARD INFORMATION:

• Students current ORCA cards (cards from last year) will become their NEW free youth transit pass on 9/1/22.

Student ORCA cards will continue working through 2022-23, even if there is an expiration date of 8/31/2022 printed on the back. IGNORE IT and DON’T THROW IT AWAY!

• Students should use last year's cards for the 2022-23 school year.

• Students can pick up ORCA cards 2nd day of school. We will have a table in the library and in the commons during lunch.

• If you need a card: Register your ORCA at www.MyORCA.com by June 30, 2023.

Tips for SPS students on using Metro to get to school: https://kingcountymetro.blog/2021/09/07/tips-for-seattle-public-school-students-on-using-metro-to-get-to-school/

INCOMING GRADE 9 STUDENTS- DAY 1(SEPT. 7) SCHEDULE AND ORIENTATION

• All grade 9 students will participate in an orientation on the first day of school, Sept. 7. Incoming 9th grade students will start school at the regular school time of 8:50am on Sept. 7. and will participate in a 1/2 day orientation prior to the remaining students grades 10-12 arriving. Here is the Day 1 Schedule for Grade 9:

8:15-8:50 9th Graders arrive, breakfast available in cafeteria.
8:50-12:10 Link Crew Orientation. Start in the main gym.

12:10-12:40 9th Grade LUNCH

12:45-1:15 Closing assembly. In the Theatre

1:20-2:00 Period 1: (Lockers, Video Welcome, etc)

2:05-2:20 Period 2:

2:25-2:40 Period 3:

2:45-3:00 Period 4:

3:05-3:20 Period 5:

3:25-3:40 Period 6:

Grade 10-12 Students Day 1 (Sept. 7)

• Grades 10-12 are on a late-start schedule for Day 1. They do not start period 1 until 1:20pm. Grades 10-12 will not be allowed into the building (except for new grade 10-12 students attending the orientation indicated below) until the grade 10-12 Lunch.
• There will be posters around the school with student names and first period classroom numbers. Students will report to period 1 to get their schedules, etc.
• Building CLOSED to 10th-12th Grade students until 12:40pm (except Link Leaders, ASB and New 10th-12th grade)

11:35-12:40: Orientation for new 10th-12th grade students in library

12:45-1:15: 10th-12th grade lunch

1:20-2:00 Period 1: (Handout Schedules, Lockers, Video Welcome, ?)

2:05-2:20 Period 2:

2:25-2:40 Period 3:

2:45-3:00 Period 4:

3:05-3:20 Period 5:

3:25-3:40 Period 6:

NEW BELL TIMES

School Hours: 8:50 a.m. – 3:40 p.m.
Wednesdays: 8:50 a.m. – 2:25 p.m.

1st period: 8:50-9:45 a.m.

2nd period: 9:50-10:45 a.m.

3rd period: 10:50-11:45 a.m.

Lunch and Club Block: 11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

4th period: 12:45-1:40 p.m.

5th period: 1:45-2:40 p.m.

6th period: 2:45-3:40 p.m.

STAYING CONNECTED

There's a lot going on at WSHS and we want you to be a part of it!

Here are the ways to stay connected:

• Talking Points Messages: you are automatically enrolled and will receive text messages sent by the school and district. Translations are available in over 100 languages!
• What's Up Westside: bi-monthly newsletter automatically delivered through the Talking Points App.
• School Website: westseattlehs.seattleschools.org
• ASB Instagram Posts: @wshasb
• Music Program: wshsmusic.org
• Drama Club: sites.google.com/westsidedrama.com/wshsdrama/home
• WS Booster Club: https://westseattleboosterclub.org/
• WSHS PTSA Facebook Page: Like and follow facebook.com/WildcatsWSHS
• WSHS PTSA Website: http://wshsptsa.org/

• Email questions to: wshsptsacommunications1@gmail.com

The text notification service Remind will be transitioning to customized Talking Points groups. Watch for additional information as the transition is still in the works.

UPDATE COMMUNICATION PREFERANCES

Update Your Contact Information

Make sure we have your most up-to-date contact information. During the month of September, parents and guardians can update family contact information on the Student Verification Form in the Source. After September, families should contact their student’s school to update contact information. Visit ps.seattleschools.org to log in to the Source.

Manage your Messages

Want phone calls for some messages, but only email or text messages for others? You can manage your communication preferences online.

• Visit go.schoolmessenger.com
• Log in with the email on file at your child’s school
• After you log in, select ‘Preferences’ in the menu and update how we connect best with you!

PICTURE DAY

September 20th is picture day! The school is looking a few volunteers to make it go smoothly. If you are interested in volunteering contact Amy Huber at: aahuber1@seattleschools.org

VOLUNTEER PAPERWORK

In order to volunteer with Seattle Public Schools, you must go through an application process. For all volunteer resources and application instructions visit: https://www.seattleschools.org/departments/volunteer/

SAVE THE DATE - OCTOBER 13TH: CURRICULUM NIGHT

The start of a new year is always stressful as we sort out schedules. Please be patient and remember there are 3 counselors for roughly 1300 students.

Counselor Caseloads:

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

Last Names Go-Pa, Mallory Neuman mlneuman@seattleschools.org

Last Names Pe-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

CALLOUT FOR VOLUNTEERS

• In search of a Co-Treasurer: Being a treasurer is a great way to see how much our PTSA directly supports students and staff beyond what the district is able to do. We use Quick Books and it’s all been set up for years. Plus, as co-treasurer you have a chance to learn the position under the tutelage of our current treasurer. The time commitment is about 4 hours a month for a newbie, plus attending a board meeting the second Thursday of the month 7-8:30pm, as well as the general membership meetings.
• In search of a Fundraising Chair: We need someone with a passion for fundraising to lead us toward our goal of supporting the school's tutoring program. The time commitment is variable and includes updating the board once a month and attending general membership meetings.

• In search of a BLT Representative: The Building Leadership Team is a group of teachers, administrators, parents, and students that meet once a month to ensure the school implements their Continuous School Improvement Plan in accordance with the school mission, provide input and leadership on key decisions that impact the school, and act as the school's communication center. Yes, it's a big important job with a front row seat and lasting impact.
• In search of a RET Representative: Every school in SPS is has a Racial Equity Team. RET team members are committed individuals whose goal is to ensure that each child receives what they need to reach their academic and social potential. If you have a passion for social justice this is a position for you.
• In search of a Food Worker Card Holder: We'd like to serve popcorn at our Movie Night on September 9th and we need a food worker card to do it. This is a one off volunteer opportunity.

• In search of Movie Night Volunteers: Duties include selling concessions, set up, and clean up on September 9th.

Please contact wshsptsapresident@gmail.com if you are interested or have any questions.

FALL COMMUNITY BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES

Please join us:

• September 9th - WSHS Family Outdoor Movie Night in the WSHS Courtyard 6-10pm.
• September 22nd - PTSA Meeting: Meet Your Administrators in the WSHS Library 7-8:30pm (introducing ** Door Prizes **)

We look forward to seeing you in-person at these events! You do not need to be a member to come to the meetings.

WHY PTSA?

Because you support a thriving school community! At it's core, the PTSA is about advocating for kids, supporting staff, and building community. It takes donations and volunteers to do it. Be a part of making WSHS the school community you want! Become a member of the PTSA at: http://wshsptsa.org/

ACADEMIC SUPPORT FUNDING

While donations to the PTSA are always welcome, and always go directly to supporting our community of parents, staff, and students, this year we have a special ask. The school is asking the PTSA for the funds to support Saturday School and afterschool tutoring due to an expired levy. We are hoping to raise the funds necessary to fill the gap. If you are able, please consider making a donation toward student academic support. http://wshsptsa.org/you-can-help/donations

AMAZON SMILE - SUPPORT PTSA WHEN YOU SHOP

Did you know that when you shop on AmazonSmile your purchases can also support the West Seattle High School PTSA? It's free and only takes two minutes to setup. A percentage of your Amazon purchases will be donated to the WSHS PTSA. Just follow these simple steps to turn your purchases into donations for the WSHS PTSA. https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/community/how-to-sign-up-for-amazonsmile

Fall Sports are underway!

To support our Wildcat Athletes check game schedules on the Athletic Department Website:

https://westseattlehs.seattleschools.org/student-life/athletics/fall-sports/

Fall Home Game Football Schedule (Games at SWAC 7pm kickoff)

Sept 2nd - WSHS vs Renton HS - Parent Appreciation

Sept 23rd - WSHS vs Chief Sealth HS - Huling Bowl

Sept 30th - WSHS vs Lincoln HS

Oct 7th - WSHS vs Lakeshore HS - Homecoming

Oct 14th - WSHS vs Ingraham HS - Senior Night

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

We have been busy cleaning up back stage and getting ready for a new year!

Please join us for our all things theater Information Meeting September 14th after school in the auditorium.

- Coming To A Theater Near You -

"The Curious Mrs. Savage" - "a heartwarming comedy" ~ Cooper Margell

Audition Dates: September 21st after school in the auditorium. Call Backs Sept 22nd.

We're excited to make some music!

• Sept 1st - Percussion Camp is happening in the music rooms 9am-12pm
• Sept 9-11th - Band Camp
• Sept 12-16th - Jazz Ensembles placement auditions

For more information go to the Music Department Website: www.wshsmusic.org

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

https://westseattlehs.seattleschools.org/calendar-and-news/whats-up-westside/

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