Principal's Newsletter

What a week! Despite the many adjustments to our ordinary schedule, students continued to grow and make progress. Grown ups, thanks for getting your children to school on time and ready to learn!

In Pre-K, students expanded their knowledge of community helpers by talking about the different kinds of helpers within a particular field (e.g. different kinds of doctors, different kinds of emergency responders), and they made community helper hats to use in the dramatic play center. At home, try “hunting” for an object that is a specific color, shape, starts with a specific letter sound, or is something a community helper might use (e.g. a toothbrush, a piece of mail, a flashlight). When your child finds the object, prompt them to tell you more about its characteristics. This is a fun way to practice following directions and developing language skills.

In Kindergarten, students wrapped up their Show & Tell writing unit with a writing celebration. They gave each other feedback using post-its with symbols, and were excited to share their work with friends from different tables. Students were even more excited to compliment each other's hard work! In math, students explored number grids and practiced using them as a tool for counting. As a connection to our upcoming Grandparents' and Special Persons' Day, the read aloud title this week was A Morning with Grandpa by Sylvia Lui.

Enjoy this week's photo gallery -

IMPORTANT! The last day to register guests for Grandparents' and Special Persons' Day will be Mon, Jan 22.

Kindergarten students have been working hard in preparation for this special event. Each child will be allowed four guests. Prior registration is required, and all guests MUST present photo identification on the day of the event. Please take note of scheduling adjustments for the afternoon performances.

As December 21 marked the first day of winter, we want to remind you of the district’s Inclement Weather Procedures, which are posted on the district website under “District Information.” Deciding whether to close our schools or alter the arrival/dismissal of the school day based on weather forecasts is an imprecise process. We strive to make the best decision possible, however, based on the information and variables at the time. All staff and families will be notified of any emergency closings via text, email, and voice call. Notifications also will be posted on the district/school websites, on district social media, and on local media sites.

ONLINE REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2024-2025 KINDERGARTEN / GRADE 1

Online registration is open for Kindergarten and 1st Grade in the Westfield Public School District for the 2024-2025 school year. Detailed instructions and forms are available under "Student Registration" at www.westfieldnjk12.org. Please share this information with friends and neighbors with young learners in Westfield.

Currently enrolled students will be automatically registered for the 2024-25 school year. Updated immunization records are required for students moving from Pre-K to Kindergarten. Please visit Lincoln School --> Health Services --> FAQ (item #10) for more information.

If you are planning to have your child attend Kindergarten at Lincoln School, your child’s health information must be updated. You have provided a physical exam and immunization record which was appropriate for preschool but may not fulfill Kindergarten requirements. Failure to meet the minimum vaccination requirements may result in your child being excluded from starting/attending school.

Please click on the link to review the Required Immunizations for Kindergarten. You may print this informational sheet and bring it to your child's pediatrician so they may ensure your child has received all school required vaccine doses.

Additionally, please ask your child's pediatrician to complete the attached Physical Exam form at their 5 year check up.

*Patient portal care summaries printed from home will NOT be accepted. Physical and Immunization documents must be provided by the doctor's office and signed and stamped by the physician.

Our fabulous PTO has lined up a laser show performance by Prismatic Laser. Advanced ticket purchases are strongly recommended. This event will take place in the Multipurpose Room, and doors will open at 3:30 PM. More information to follow!

This story celebrates the special bond with a grandparent and grandchild. Mei Mei's grandpa practices tai chi in the garden, and she eagerly joins in, adding her own flair. As Gong Gong teaches her the slow, graceful movements, Mei Mei reciprocates by attempting to teach him the yoga positions she learned in school.

Enjoy the story and the resources for tai chi!

January

26: Training Day | Kindergarten Performance "Grandparents' and Special Persons' Day"

February

1: First Day of Black History Month

2: Spirit Day | PTO Winter Family Social | MP1 Report Cards Issued

5: School Counseling Week

8: PTO General Membership Meeting @ 7:30 PM

14: Valentine's Day Class Parties

15: Dental Hygiene Assemblies

16: Schools Closed

19: Schools Closed

23: Training Day