Farewell to Jillian
By Kayla and Aisha
Jillian Honorof, one of Westside's Music and Performing Arts teachers is leaving at the end of this school year. Jillian and her husband, Mark Hespenheide, a former teacher at Westside, are moving to California where they have been offered teaching positions. Mark will be working at the Dunn School and Jillian will be working at the Laguna Blanca School in Santa Barbara, teaching middle and high school students and further developing their Performing Arts program. Jillian says that it will be hard leaving Westside because she has created many close bonds with the students and teachers, it was also her first time not teaching elementary and middle school. It will be hard for her to leave Washington because she has family here, but she is looking forward to the sun, beaches, avocados and good Mexican food. She met Mark in California and she has a lot of positive memories there so she is looking forward to returning. While in California, she wants to get back into film scoring and enjoy the sunshine. As hard as it will be saying goodbye to Jillian we all know she will make just as big an impact she made at Westside at Laguna Blanca School!
BY: Henry and Nate
Westside's 7th grade trip was very successful. We went to Eastern Oregon to go rafting on the Grande Ronde river. The drive there was 8
hours, and when we finally arrived we played capture the flag. The second day we met our 5 river guides and we had brief instructions and then we were on our way down the river. The rapids we went on were a class 1-2 rapids, overall the river was mild and calm. Each night the class indulged on some amazing food made by the river guides.
We had a lot of fun and everyone bonded together. We also played chicken where somebody gets on another person's back and they battle another chicken. We also wrote in journals talking about what we did in the day.
If you asked any 7th grader what their favorite trip was this would most definitely be the best one by far.(no offense)
By Aisha
For the 8th graders last trip together we went to Mt. St. Helens where we learned about the intense day and aftermath of the eruption, explored the Ape Caves and tested our knowledge of the outdoors in a 24 hour survival challenge. We (8th graders) had 2-3 weeks to prepare and plan our trip as a class. We were split up into four groups: Campfire and Stoves, Scheduling, Activities, and Food and planned the trip from there. Campfire and Stoves had to learn how to start and maintain a fire as well as how to use a Coleman Stove. Scheduling took control of things such as van groups and timing. Activities group planned campfire activities and group games/activities. And the food group created the meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks Monday-Friday. This trip was a definite eye opener showing our class how strong of a bond we have with one another and how much we will miss each other when we go our separate ways for high school. Nevertheless it was a great trip filled with emotional bonding moments as well as fun and bubbly ones to make it unforgettable.
Last week the sixth grade went to Dry Falls and Vantage. After a long car ride we arrived at Dry Falls. We explored the visitor center and set up our tents and after a great meal went to bed. However, after only being sleep a little while the wind picked up and we had to get up and make sure the tents didn't fall down. Eventually the tent poles broke. We had to take the tents down and move. We moved to a field by the bathrooms. At eleven o'clock we were settled into our sleeping bags. At one o'clock the sprinklers came on and soaked everything. We finally found a spot and got to sleep.
On Tuesday we packed up and went to Vantage. On the way there we went on a hike. However, Sidney hurt her knee and went to the hospital. For the rest of the day we played at a park.
On Wednesday we woke up in the new campsites in our replacement tents. We climbed for the first time on the trip. Some groups hiked to the sand dunes while others went to a waterfall. For lunch we had the same lunch we had every day of the trip, bread. After lunch we continued our activities including private journaling in the canyon.
Thursday was like Wednesday except we hiked to Never Never Land and we also repelled. Repelling is when you start at the top of a cliff and lower yourself to the bottom.
On Friday we packed up camp and went home. On the way we stopped at the Ginkgo Petrified Forest to look at the petrified wood. We arrived at Westside School at 3:00. All and all the trip was really fun and successful. Even the sprinklers were kind of fun.
Pros and Cons of Going on School Trips
By Carmen and Hanna
We recently surveyed Westside Middle School students on the bests and worsts of MS trips. Here are the results.
Pros:
1. it's a learning experience
2. it's a good time to hang out with friends
3. you get to go rock climbing (on some trips)
4. a good time to get away from your life and let go
5. you get to connect with nature and wildlife
6. you can learn more about your teachers
7. it's a good way to un-plug
8. you go somewhere new every year
9. you try new things and meet new people
10. you go places you normally wouldn't go
Cons:
1. there are venomous creatures
2. it is sometimes dangerous
3. you are nowhere near a hospital
4. if you don't have the right gear, your trip could be really bad
5. you don't have all of your home comforts
6. no electricity
.jpg)
By Hanna and Carmen
The sixth graders at our school are doing are pen-pal project with some kids in Uganda. They write letters to each other every week. The project is optional but more than half of the kids in 6th grade have chosen to do this. The kids plan to write to each other as long as they can.
Commonly asked Questions:
Why are people doing this?
Long term friendship! Also to meet people in different countries. It is an opportunity to build friendships. It is the opportunity of a lifetime.
When did it start?
It started around a month and half ago, but only a few letters have been sent. The first couple weeks were figuring out the details.
How long are they doing it?
It's a hope that this lasts for years or even a lifetime! The official name for the project is friends for ever! It is also a hope that every sixth grade class will be able to do this.
What's happening in the future?
Future is you will carry friends for life. A huge wish is to visit them on a school trip!
How many kids are doing this?
25 kids in Uganda are taking part, and around 30 kids are doing it here.
Chance of a Lifetime
This is the chance of a lifetime for the sixth grade because most 6th grade students don't have many opportunities in life to make a new friend in Uganda. This project could turn into something more serious, and then even traveling to Uganda as a field trip.
Perspective Teacher Interview- Jason
.jpeg)
Last week, Jason, a new potential math teacher from Norway, came to visit Westside. We had the opportunity to sit down with him and ask a few questions. Here are his answers:
What kinds of hobbies do you enjoy?
During his free time, Jason likes to juggle. He's been juggling since he was in middle school and when he lived in Texas before living in Norway, he was a part of the Texas Juggling Society club. Jason also enjoys interactive fiction, a mash of computer programing and writing.
Why did you move to Norway?
Jason's husband works in the oil industry, specifically with software. His company offered him a position and they took it. Jason then found a job working as a substitute teacher at the Oslo International school. He is moving back to the United States because his husband got a job at Microsoft.
How was living out of the country different? What was the adjustment like?
Jason lives in the north side of Norway. He said it was very cold and there is a dramatic difference in daylight. The hardest thing for Jason to get used to was the dramatic differences in daylight and weather. Specifically during Winter because it's very cold and there's barely any daylight. But some of the upsides were learning Norwegian and being so close to everything. Him and his husband can take a trip to Rome for the weekend and be back by Monday where as living in Texas, it would be a must more time consuming and costly trip.
One thing you enjoyed about Westside today?
Obviously, the highlight of Jason's day was talking Kate and I. But there were also other moments Jason enjoyed. As he toured the new campus he described it as "neat to see and imagine what it could become". Another highlight of his day at Westside was his demo math class for the 7th graders.
As a footnote: Jason was offered the position of Westside's 7 and 8th grade math teacher and will join us next year at the new campus.
Westside Volleyball 2015
Kate and Henry
Westside's volleyball season is up and running and off to a good start. About two weeks ago, games began and will be every occurring every weekend through the beginning of April. This year there are five teams for Westside. 5th boys and girls, 6th boys and girls as well as a combined 7/8 grade girls team.
We encourage anyone and everyone to come out and support our teams! Game and practice schedules will be posted on the Westside School website under the athletics calendar.
Update from Mike:
The Westside School sixth grade boys volleyball team played an excellent all-around team game last Sunday, beating St. Anne to run the season record to 2-1. Coach Darren really focused on getting serves in during practice, and it showed, as the team served consistently up and down the lineup. This week’s male Athlete of the Week is Kai C. The team won their first game, and then in the second game, trailed 21-19 when Kai got to serve. The sixth grade rules do not allow one player to serve more than five consecutive points, so Kai did not have a chance to close out the match. However, he served all five in overhand, and won each point, so when he handed the serve off, the team led 24-21, and ended up winning the match. Kai has improved all facets of his game, but his serve is probably the most dramatic improvement. Way to go Kai!
The Westside School sixth grade girls volleyball team played two tough teams to start the year, and entered last Sunday looking for the first win. They came out and played well from the beginning of the match, and ended up beating St. Anthony 2-0, with scores of 25-19 and 25-21. Masha is the female Athlete of the Week. She served well, made some very tough saves, passed well, and was an overall team player. Masha takes volleyball seriously, and does a great job leading by example. Congratulations Masha!
Mystery Artist
by: Emilio Suarez
Hello students, families, and teachers. Some of you may have noticed that there is another announcement on the bulletin board outside of the art room. The board is committed to a "Mystery Artist". Everybody is urged to examine the board and attempt to distinguish the artists utilizing the illustrations that are posted of their artwork and their life.
Last month the "Mystery Artist" was Vincent Van Gogh and the winners were Jordan F., Taka, Jessica (5th) and one anonymous guesser.
This month the artist was Jackson Pollock!
The winners were:
Brendan Smolinski-5
Jessica Wilmot-5
Regan Rowe- 5
Sophia Simpson-Khan-5
Francesca B-6
Caroline Peyton-6
Jaxon
Christian Louie
A Night Out for Westside
Nathaniel and Aisha
This year Westside is hosting a new event for the parents, Westside Night Out. It will be held on March 14 from 6:30 to Midnight at SoDo Park in place of the Annual Westside Auction. It will be a fun filled night with raffles, music, dancing and much more. Mark your calendars for this new and exciting event!
The Westside School 5th grade class are The Kids on Broadway!!!!!!!
by Carson and Nate
The 5th grade classes are doing a series of plays called Kids on Broadway! The plays are, Les Miserables, Annie, Oliver, Cinderella, Matilda, and Lion King. The show is on Monday night April 1st at 6:30 in the MPR. The kids will have to wear black pants and shirts according to what part they are doing. All of the 5th grade students will be in the show and will be 45-55 minutes long. It will be a great show so come see it!!!!
Lady
by Carmen and Hanna
Lady is a short haired female guinea pig and the class pet for Margie’s first grade class pet. She is one and a half years old and came to Westside when she was two months old. Andrew, a first grade teacher, came up with the name, Lady, because the guinea pig seemed very ladylike.
We asked students what they thought of Lady and this is what they said:
“Lady is beneficial to the classroom because it's fun to have a pet to look at; if we didn't have lady there would be a lot of open space, really really cute.”
We also asked what they learned:
“We learned that she's really soft and she puffs when shes resting, that she likes lettuce, kale, carrot strips, bok-choi, broccoli and arugula.”
Finally we asked if she was a distraction?
“According to the students and teachers lady is not a distraction. But, at one time of the day she gets a little crazy, snack time. She squeaks loudly around snack time because she knows shes about to be fed.”
The students get to take her home on the weekends and Margie the first grade teacher cleans her cage. She is very popular with the students and is super cute!
2nd Grade Salmon Project
by Carmen and Hanna
The salmon project is a second grade project that Westside has done for 5 years. The main idea of the project is to learn about the importance of salmon in the Northwest, to understand the salmon life cycle and learn to appreciate nature.
The salmon eggs came from Soo's Creek hatchery. 2nd grade purchased 200 eggs and 198 are living happily. We interviewed the second grade class and their teacher, Laura Holmes. Here are some of their reactions to the project:
"I enjoyed seeing the alvins grow, and watching the eggs hatch." Kiera
"I enjoyed looking at the dead eggs." Cormac
We learned, as interviewers, that the salmon don't have mouths until they are 2 months old.
We also found out that all the alvins clump together for camouflage, because they can't swim with the heavy yolk sac that is connected to their belly. This is how they escape the predators.
All in all, the salmon project was fun for Hanna and I to learn about and is also a great learning experience for the second graders.
8th Grade Bungee Jumping
By Aisha
Over the past the few weeks, the 8th grade has been studying slope and linear equations. To make this unit more entertaining and enjoyable, the 8th grade STEM teacher Sarah created a Barbie bungee jumping project. Each table group was required to figure out how far their Barbie drops with 6 rubber bands, then graph the points and find the line of best fit. The objective of the project was to figure out how many rubber bands would be needed for Barbie to have the most thrilling bungee jump (getting as close to the ground as possible) from 316 cm without testing from that height.
In all, the table groups were generally accurate in their calculations pertaining to the number of rubber bands needed to successfully fall close to the ground. Everybody enjoyed the project and are looking forward to continuing on with our unit on graphing.
2nd Grade 2015 Classroom Resolutions
By Aisha
To ring in the New Year, the 2nd Graders sat down and thought about their hopes and dreams for 2015. Some of the things they wanted were to improve the classroom. As the final product, they neatly wrote their resolutions with a picture drawn to match. I interviewed two of the kids from Richard's 2nd Grade class about their amazing projects. Here are Samantha and Matthew with their responses.
What was this project about/ What did you have to do?
Both Samantha and Matthew said this project was about your hopes and dreams for 2015.
What are your hopes and dreams for 2015?
Samantha said her hopes and dreams for 2015 were to be a better speller and writer in class. And outside of class, she wanted to work on her gymnastics skills and learning how to fully do the kick over. Matthew said his hopes and dreams for 2015 were to become a better drawer and writer both in class and out.
Did you enjoy doing this project?
Both Samantha and Matthew both enjoyed themselves during this project. They said that it was fun to think about what they want to do in the future.
I had a great time learning and interviewing the intelligent children in 2nd grade. I know they will have a great year in 2015.
Aladin Jr. 
To ring in the New Year, the 2nd Graders sat down and thought about their hopes and dreams for 2015. Some of the things they wanted were to improve the classroom. As the final product, they neatly wrote their resolutions with a picture drawn to match. I interviewed two of the kids from Richard's 2nd Grade class about their amazing projects. Here are Samantha and Matthew with their responses.
What was this project about/ What did you have to do?
Both Samantha and Matthew said this project was about your hopes and dreams for 2015.
What are your hopes and dreams for 2015?
Samantha said her hopes and dreams for 2015 were to be a better speller and writer in class. And outside of class, she wanted to work on her gymnastics skills and learning how to fully do the kick over. Matthew said his hopes and dreams for 2015 were to become a better drawer and writer both in class and out.
Did you enjoy doing this project?
Both Samantha and Matthew both enjoyed themselves during this project. They said that it was fun to think about what they want to do in the future.
Farewell to Jillian
By Kayla and Aisha
BY: Henry and Nate
Westside's 7th grade trip was very successful. We went to Eastern Oregon to go rafting on the Grande Ronde river. The drive there was 8
hours, and when we finally arrived we played capture the flag. The second day we met our 5 river guides and we had brief instructions and then we were on our way down the river. The rapids we went on were a class 1-2 rapids, overall the river was mild and calm. Each night the class indulged on some amazing food made by the river guides.
hours, and when we finally arrived we played capture the flag. The second day we met our 5 river guides and we had brief instructions and then we were on our way down the river. The rapids we went on were a class 1-2 rapids, overall the river was mild and calm. Each night the class indulged on some amazing food made by the river guides.
We had a lot of fun and everyone bonded together. We also played chicken where somebody gets on another person's back and they battle another chicken. We also wrote in journals talking about what we did in the day.
If you asked any 7th grader what their favorite trip was this would most definitely be the best one by far.(no offense)
By Aisha
Last week the sixth grade went to Dry Falls and Vantage. After a long car ride we arrived at Dry Falls. We explored the visitor center and set up our tents and after a great meal went to bed. However, after only being sleep a little while the wind picked up and we had to get up and make sure the tents didn't fall down. Eventually the tent poles broke. We had to take the tents down and move. We moved to a field by the bathrooms. At eleven o'clock we were settled into our sleeping bags. At one o'clock the sprinklers came on and soaked everything. We finally found a spot and got to sleep.
On Tuesday we packed up and went to Vantage. On the way there we went on a hike. However, Sidney hurt her knee and went to the hospital. For the rest of the day we played at a park.
On Wednesday we woke up in the new campsites in our replacement tents. We climbed for the first time on the trip. Some groups hiked to the sand dunes while others went to a waterfall. For lunch we had the same lunch we had every day of the trip, bread. After lunch we continued our activities including private journaling in the canyon.
Thursday was like Wednesday except we hiked to Never Never Land and we also repelled. Repelling is when you start at the top of a cliff and lower yourself to the bottom.
On Friday we packed up camp and went home. On the way we stopped at the Ginkgo Petrified Forest to look at the petrified wood. We arrived at Westside School at 3:00. All and all the trip was really fun and successful. Even the sprinklers were kind of fun.
Pros and Cons of Going on School Trips
By Carmen and Hanna
We recently surveyed Westside Middle School students on the bests and worsts of MS trips. Here are the results.
Pros:
1. it's a learning experience
2. it's a good time to hang out with friends
3. you get to go rock climbing (on some trips)
4. a good time to get away from your life and let go
5. you get to connect with nature and wildlife
6. you can learn more about your teachers
7. it's a good way to un-plug
8. you go somewhere new every year
9. you try new things and meet new people
10. you go places you normally wouldn't go
Cons:
1. there are venomous creatures
2. it is sometimes dangerous
3. you are nowhere near a hospital
4. if you don't have the right gear, your trip could be really bad
5. you don't have all of your home comforts
6. no electricity
Pros:
1. it's a learning experience
2. it's a good time to hang out with friends
3. you get to go rock climbing (on some trips)
4. a good time to get away from your life and let go
5. you get to connect with nature and wildlife
6. you can learn more about your teachers
7. it's a good way to un-plug
8. you go somewhere new every year
9. you try new things and meet new people
10. you go places you normally wouldn't go
Cons:
1. there are venomous creatures
2. it is sometimes dangerous
3. you are nowhere near a hospital
4. if you don't have the right gear, your trip could be really bad
5. you don't have all of your home comforts
6. no electricity
By Hanna and Carmen
The sixth graders at our school are doing are pen-pal project with some kids in Uganda. They write letters to each other every week. The project is optional but more than half of the kids in 6th grade have chosen to do this. The kids plan to write to each other as long as they can.
Commonly asked Questions:
Why are people doing this?
Long term friendship! Also to meet people in different countries. It is an opportunity to build friendships. It is the opportunity of a lifetime.
Long term friendship! Also to meet people in different countries. It is an opportunity to build friendships. It is the opportunity of a lifetime.
When did it start?
It started around a month and half ago, but only a few letters have been sent. The first couple weeks were figuring out the details.
It started around a month and half ago, but only a few letters have been sent. The first couple weeks were figuring out the details.
How long are they doing it?
It's a hope that this lasts for years or even a lifetime! The official name for the project is friends for ever! It is also a hope that every sixth grade class will be able to do this.
It's a hope that this lasts for years or even a lifetime! The official name for the project is friends for ever! It is also a hope that every sixth grade class will be able to do this.
What's happening in the future?
Future is you will carry friends for life. A huge wish is to visit them on a school trip!
Future is you will carry friends for life. A huge wish is to visit them on a school trip!
How many kids are doing this?
25 kids in Uganda are taking part, and around 30 kids are doing it here.
25 kids in Uganda are taking part, and around 30 kids are doing it here.
Chance of a Lifetime
This is the chance of a lifetime for the sixth grade because most 6th grade students don't have many opportunities in life to make a new friend in Uganda. This project could turn into something more serious, and then even traveling to Uganda as a field trip.Perspective Teacher Interview- Jason
Last week, Jason, a new potential math teacher from Norway, came to visit Westside. We had the opportunity to sit down with him and ask a few questions. Here are his answers:
What kinds of hobbies do you enjoy?
During his free time, Jason likes to juggle. He's been juggling since he was in middle school and when he lived in Texas before living in Norway, he was a part of the Texas Juggling Society club. Jason also enjoys interactive fiction, a mash of computer programing and writing.
Why did you move to Norway?
Jason's husband works in the oil industry, specifically with software. His company offered him a position and they took it. Jason then found a job working as a substitute teacher at the Oslo International school. He is moving back to the United States because his husband got a job at Microsoft.
How was living out of the country different? What was the adjustment like?
Jason lives in the north side of Norway. He said it was very cold and there is a dramatic difference in daylight. The hardest thing for Jason to get used to was the dramatic differences in daylight and weather. Specifically during Winter because it's very cold and there's barely any daylight. But some of the upsides were learning Norwegian and being so close to everything. Him and his husband can take a trip to Rome for the weekend and be back by Monday where as living in Texas, it would be a must more time consuming and costly trip.
One thing you enjoyed about Westside today?
Obviously, the highlight of Jason's day was talking Kate and I. But there were also other moments Jason enjoyed. As he toured the new campus he described it as "neat to see and imagine what it could become". Another highlight of his day at Westside was his demo math class for the 7th graders.
As a footnote: Jason was offered the position of Westside's 7 and 8th grade math teacher and will join us next year at the new campus.
Westside Volleyball 2015
Kate and Henry
Westside's volleyball season is up and running and off to a good start. About two weeks ago, games began and will be every occurring every weekend through the beginning of April. This year there are five teams for Westside. 5th boys and girls, 6th boys and girls as well as a combined 7/8 grade girls team.
We encourage anyone and everyone to come out and support our teams! Game and practice schedules will be posted on the Westside School website under the athletics calendar.
Update from Mike:
A Night Out for Westside
The Westside School sixth grade boys volleyball team played an excellent all-around team game last Sunday, beating St. Anne to run the season record to 2-1. Coach Darren really focused on getting serves in during practice, and it showed, as the team served consistently up and down the lineup. This week’s male Athlete of the Week is Kai C. The team won their first game, and then in the second game, trailed 21-19 when Kai got to serve. The sixth grade rules do not allow one player to serve more than five consecutive points, so Kai did not have a chance to close out the match. However, he served all five in overhand, and won each point, so when he handed the serve off, the team led 24-21, and ended up winning the match. Kai has improved all facets of his game, but his serve is probably the most dramatic improvement. Way to go Kai!
The Westside School sixth grade girls volleyball team played two tough teams to start the year, and entered last Sunday looking for the first win. They came out and played well from the beginning of the match, and ended up beating St. Anthony 2-0, with scores of 25-19 and 25-21. Masha is the female Athlete of the Week. She served well, made some very tough saves, passed well, and was an overall team player. Masha takes volleyball seriously, and does a great job leading by example. Congratulations Masha!
Mystery Artist
by: Emilio Suarez
Hello students, families, and teachers. Some of you may have noticed that there is another announcement on the bulletin board outside of the art room. The board is committed to a "Mystery Artist". Everybody is urged to examine the board and attempt to distinguish the artists utilizing the illustrations that are posted of their artwork and their life.
by: Emilio Suarez
Hello students, families, and teachers. Some of you may have noticed that there is another announcement on the bulletin board outside of the art room. The board is committed to a "Mystery Artist". Everybody is urged to examine the board and attempt to distinguish the artists utilizing the illustrations that are posted of their artwork and their life.
Last month the "Mystery Artist" was Vincent Van Gogh and the winners were Jordan F., Taka, Jessica (5th) and one anonymous guesser.
This month the artist was Jackson Pollock!
The winners were:
Brendan Smolinski-5
Jessica Wilmot-5
Regan Rowe- 5
Sophia Simpson-Khan-5
Francesca B-6
Caroline Peyton-6
Jaxon
Christian Louie
A Night Out for Westside
Nathaniel and Aisha
The Westside School 5th grade class are The Kids on Broadway!!!!!!!
by Carson and Nate
The 5th grade classes are doing a series of plays called Kids on Broadway! The plays are, Les Miserables, Annie, Oliver, Cinderella, Matilda, and Lion King. The show is on Monday night April 1st at 6:30 in the MPR. The kids will have to wear black pants and shirts according to what part they are doing. All of the 5th grade students will be in the show and will be 45-55 minutes long. It will be a great show so come see it!!!!
Lady
by Carmen and Hanna
Lady is a short haired female guinea pig and the class pet for Margie’s first grade class pet. She is one and a half years old and came to Westside when she was two months old. Andrew, a first grade teacher, came up with the name, Lady, because the guinea pig seemed very ladylike.
We asked students what they thought of Lady and this is what they said:
“Lady is beneficial to the classroom because it's fun to have a pet to look at; if we didn't have lady there would be a lot of open space, really really cute.”
We also asked what they learned:
“We learned that she's really soft and she puffs when shes resting, that she likes lettuce, kale, carrot strips, bok-choi, broccoli and arugula.”
Finally we asked if she was a distraction?
“According to the students and teachers lady is not a distraction. But, at one time of the day she gets a little crazy, snack time. She squeaks loudly around snack time because she knows shes about to be fed.”
The students get to take her home on the weekends and Margie the first grade teacher cleans her cage. She is very popular with the students and is super cute!
2nd Grade Salmon Project
by Carmen and Hanna
The salmon project is a second grade project that Westside has done for 5 years. The main idea of the project is to learn about the importance of salmon in the Northwest, to understand the salmon life cycle and learn to appreciate nature.
The salmon eggs came from Soo's Creek hatchery. 2nd grade purchased 200 eggs and 198 are living happily. We interviewed the second grade class and their teacher, Laura Holmes. Here are some of their reactions to the project:
"I enjoyed seeing the alvins grow, and watching the eggs hatch." Kiera
"I enjoyed looking at the dead eggs." Cormac
We learned, as interviewers, that the salmon don't have mouths until they are 2 months old.
We also found out that all the alvins clump together for camouflage, because they can't swim with the heavy yolk sac that is connected to their belly. This is how they escape the predators.
All in all, the salmon project was fun for Hanna and I to learn about and is also a great learning experience for the second graders.
8th Grade Bungee Jumping
By Aisha
Over the past the few weeks, the 8th grade has been studying slope and linear equations. To make this unit more entertaining and enjoyable, the 8th grade STEM teacher Sarah created a Barbie bungee jumping project. Each table group was required to figure out how far their Barbie drops with 6 rubber bands, then graph the points and find the line of best fit. The objective of the project was to figure out how many rubber bands would be needed for Barbie to have the most thrilling bungee jump (getting as close to the ground as possible) from 316 cm without testing from that height.
In all, the table groups were generally accurate in their calculations pertaining to the number of rubber bands needed to successfully fall close to the ground. Everybody enjoyed the project and are looking forward to continuing on with our unit on graphing.
2nd Grade 2015 Classroom Resolutions
By Aisha
To ring in the New Year, the 2nd Graders sat down and thought about their hopes and dreams for 2015. Some of the things they wanted were to improve the classroom. As the final product, they neatly wrote their resolutions with a picture drawn to match. I interviewed two of the kids from Richard's 2nd Grade class about their amazing projects. Here are Samantha and Matthew with their responses.
What was this project about/ What did you have to do?
Both Samantha and Matthew said this project was about your hopes and dreams for 2015.
What are your hopes and dreams for 2015?
Samantha said her hopes and dreams for 2015 were to be a better speller and writer in class. And outside of class, she wanted to work on her gymnastics skills and learning how to fully do the kick over. Matthew said his hopes and dreams for 2015 were to become a better drawer and writer both in class and out.
Did you enjoy doing this project?
Both Samantha and Matthew both enjoyed themselves during this project. They said that it was fun to think about what they want to do in the future.
I had a great time learning and interviewing the intelligent children in 2nd grade. I know they will have a great year in 2015.
Aladin Jr.
To ring in the New Year, the 2nd Graders sat down and thought about their hopes and dreams for 2015. Some of the things they wanted were to improve the classroom. As the final product, they neatly wrote their resolutions with a picture drawn to match. I interviewed two of the kids from Richard's 2nd Grade class about their amazing projects. Here are Samantha and Matthew with their responses.
What was this project about/ What did you have to do?
Both Samantha and Matthew said this project was about your hopes and dreams for 2015.
What are your hopes and dreams for 2015?
Samantha said her hopes and dreams for 2015 were to be a better speller and writer in class. And outside of class, she wanted to work on her gymnastics skills and learning how to fully do the kick over. Matthew said his hopes and dreams for 2015 were to become a better drawer and writer both in class and out.
Did you enjoy doing this project?
Both Samantha and Matthew both enjoyed themselves during this project. They said that it was fun to think about what they want to do in the future.
By Aisha
For this year's Fall Semester, Westside Middle School's musical theater class is performing Aladdin Jr. They will be performing two nights, Thursday and Friday, December 11 and 12th 6-8 PM. The class has been working very hard since the beginning of the year. Please come and show your support and watch an extraordinary play!.jpeg)
.jpeg)
Middle School Winter Dance
By Kate
After years of school dances in the MPR, it was finally time for a change.....
Coming up on December 5th, the Middle School will be having its first and only, off campus dance! After such a great response of Halloween Fest volunteers, the school, along with the Student Council, was able to organize our event at Dakota Place. The dance will run from 6-8pm and will include everything from decorations, to food and even a DJ. Speaking of which, the Student Council is willing to accept appropriate song requests to add to our playlist. Additionally, our theme this year is Formal Black and White so please come dressed in either or both of the colors.
Dance permission slips have already been handed out in advisories, though many are still available in Susannah's room. The form goes over the most basic of information such as date specifics, dress code and expectations. Also listed is a guest permission box. Each person is allowed to bring one extra friend (5th-8th grade) to join this event. Permission forms are due in by November 25th with a parents signature.
We hope that everyone is able to attend this fun event!
3rd Grade Terrarium
By David and Kieran
3rd grade's exciting new terrarium is blooming with Wisconsin Fast Plants. The third grade classes planted these amazingly quick to sprout plants. They are specifically bred to get energy from lights 24/7, unlike normal plants where there is a night and day cycle. Wisconsin Fast Plants bloom in around 20 days and are ready to release their seeds in around 30 days. Each student planted their own plants and are waiting to see what the plants will do next.
The project goal is to watch them go through their life cycle. They will watch the Wisconsin Fast Plants sprout, grow, and get flowers, pollinate the flowers, and watch until they give their seed pods and die. Students are also watching Bio-Bottles. Bio-Bottles are closed habitats in bottles, where they put in organisms and see if they can survive. Students watch and see if the organisms will generate their needs for survival. The project teaches the 3rd graders about organisms, photosynthesis, and plants in general.
7th Grade Trip
by David and Kai
The seventh grade backpacking trip in the Cascade Range near Cle Elum was full of excitement. The 7th grade class was split up into three groups, each going on different trails in the Cascades. The first night however, they all stayed together at Salmon La Sac, a campground near Cle Elum. On Tuesday and Wednesday they backpacked to Waptus Lake, Kate Lake and Pete Lake. On their last day, Friday, the 7th graders reunited and made the hour and a half journey home.
During the week 7th graders bonded at the campfire talks, explored lakes and rivers, and learned exciting new games. Although each trip had it's funny parts and its difficulties, it was an adventure for all. Everyone overcame a different challenge, from homesickness to hiking. The views were beautiful, the air was fresh, the stars were marvelous.
By Kai and David
The 6th grade trip was more than just a trip, it was an adventure. On the first day the 6th Graders split up into van groups and drove to the campsite in Mazama, Washington. On the first day at camp they woke up and got into their van groups, two went hiking on a fun trail that ended at a beautiful waterfall, the other group went rock climbing at a site of about 15 walls. They were all high up, and very difficult. The second day was the same, but the groups switched activities. On the third day everyone went backpacking. They split up into three different groups, each group going to a different camp. Everybody tried something new on the backpacking trip, one group slept out of tents, and one group even slept next to a river. On the final day everybody reunited, had lunch, and said their farewells to the AWESOME group counselors.
.JPG)
The moon was full (or at least really close) every night, the stars were beautiful, and the air was fresh. There were many funny moments and definitely some good quotes to take home. One of our favorite quotes was by Hanna, "Being smart is knowing that a tomato is a fruit, being wise is not putting it in a fruit salad." 
At some point in the trip everybody was out of their comfort zone, but everyone also overcame their individual challenges. Some struggled more than others, but everybody was still able to have fun. Sydney said, "I really enjoyed playing ninja at the campsite." She also mentioned how she was able to overcome her fear of heights. When asked what her favorite part of the backpacking trip was and she said that there were many funny times when trying to fall asleep.
If you ask any 6th grader, "How would you describe the trip?" They would all say that it was an experience like no other.
By Kate and Kayla
The annual Westside School Halloween Fest is occurring this year on October 25th from 11am to 3pm. This year, the event will be run quite differently. Although there is no longer a haunted hallway, there have been many improvements made throughout the fest including changes in regards to our ticketing system, prizes and games overall. We are currently looking for student volunteers to sign up for one hour shifts to help assist with managing activities and stations throughout. Volunteering service hours will help fund our dance (potentially off campus). Sign up sheets for volunteering are located outside of Susannah's room and are filling up fast. We encourage all students to attend and sign up to help. We look forward to seeing all of you there!
Mt. Saint Helens Trip
On the first day there we hiked a trail near Mt. St. Helens which was by the river that had all the mud and trees in it when it erupted. It was called Hummocks Trail. It was about 4 miles and it was a great nature trail. It was also a great geological learning place. When we were closest to the volcano we went to a visitor center where we learned about Mt. St. Helens and when it erupted.
On Tuesday afternoon of the trip we were told by Sarah, Don, and our guide David that we were about to take part in an activity for the next 24 hours called, the Survival Challenge. We would not get any help by a teacher or guide except to be able to ask questions about what we could use. Our questions could be about anything we needed help on but we only had three. We had to cook our own meals, set up our own tarps, and build our own fires. We did the Survival Challenge to show what we had learned through our middle school experience on our camping trips. We worked together really well and remembered all of our skills that we learned with Westside.
Overall it was a really fun trip and we will always remember the memories we had. We learned how well we could cooperate with each other and how close everyone actually is. It was a huge success and Westside should continue to make the cards, Value Circle, and Survival Challenge a tradition with future 8th grade classes.
Teacher Appreciation Week
By Amber and Kayla
.JPG)
This week, May 12th-16th, we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week with a variety of activities. The WPO, parents and students are excited to show their love and appreciation for the teachers and staff of Westside School. One way we can show our love of learning to our teachers is by leaving them a note on their teacher appreciation sign outside of their classroom. We can remind them of joyful times and assure them of our admiration for the knowledge that they have gifted upon us.
Some activities of the week include...
Monday: Juice Bar Pulp Catering will be in the MPR from 7:30-9:30 to offer delicious pure fruit smoothies to start off their day!
Wednesday: There will be a delicious lunch catered by gourmet food shop andw delicatessen Pasta & Co. and take away homemade cookies to enjoy later. A copy of the menu is attached. Lunch will be served in the staff room from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Friday: In the afternoon, we will be serving delicious cupcakes from Cooking Channel-featured bakery Yellow Leaf Cupcake Co. in the staff room.
There are still a few days left, so make sure to leave the teachers a nice note outside their door so they know how much they are appreciated.
Ella, Daisy, and Kate
It has been about three months since Westside School’s salmon eggs arrived. At the moment, the Coho salmon are in the fry stage of their development. The Coho salmon are appropriately one centimeter wide and one inch long. The second grade will release the Coho salmon within one month. They will have to protect themselves from predators like bears, herons, eagles, whales and fisherman. The salmon have about one month to prepare for their wild release to the great outdoors.
We sent a few questions to Laura about the Coho and these are her answers.
1. What do you hope your class learns from this?
to gain respect for the environment, learn about the importance of salmon in our community and our role in keeping them healthy, the life cycle of the salmon and make scientific observations of salmon in the tank.
2. Do you think your class enjoyed this experience?
The kids have loved the fish. Their experience covers science (fish dissection and anatomy), writing (each child is writing his/her version of Diary of a Salmon inspired by the book series Diary of a Fly, Diary of a Spider and Diary of a Worm) and art projects.
3. Overall how did you think the whole thing went?
So far, the salmon in the tank are thriving, despite a few deaths. The students become very attached to the fish and they learn a lot about them in a variety of ways.
Preston's Return
.jpeg)
By: Owen and Chris
The famous David Preston returned to Westside School last Thursday. It was only temporary but everyone was excited about it. Preston moved to Portland, Oregon last year after teaching for three years at Westside. He moved because his wife, Jen, got a job as a doctor in Portland. He was very well liked around here for many good reasons. He was a great teacher and made it very fun to learn about whatever he was teaching. Everyone was sad when he left last year, and he is missed very much.
Now he is teaching at Abiquia School in Salem, about an hour outside Portland. It is actually the school that ex Westside head of school Jo Ann Yockey works at. He is teaching 5th and 6th math and social studies and 5-8th grade life skills.
In Portland he likes to go exploring and hiking, and he really likes the restaurant. Last year he went to the Timber's/Sounders playoff game and was very disappointed with the Sounders’ loss. We wish Preston the best in wherever he goes in the future and hopes he keeps giving Westide more visits.The Westside Auction Class Art Projects!
By Ella and Kate
On Saturday March 22nd Westside School hosted their 25th Annual Auction. Each grade participated in creating class projects that were auctioned off to raise money for our arts program and school finances in general.
Pre-Kindergarten
This year the Pre-K class created a gorgeous blown glass sculpture with hints of orange and red.
Kindergarten
Using child created drawings as inspiration, the Kindergarten worked with an artist to create a intriguing and visually interesting picture of a mythical dragon-like creature.
First Grade
Using dyed paper sheets the first grade class created a magical array of red, orange and blue layered paper.
Peace by Piece the second grade class created an intricate desk full of magnificent flags of the world by using legos.
.jpeg)
Made by the third grade, a metal masterpiece was created. A bench filled with etchings was made by students of the class
Fourth Grade
Playing along with the theme of the our favorite planet Earth, the fourth grade created a collage of a map of the world with green and blue color tones.
5th, 6th, 7th and 8th Grade
For this years middle school auction products, students were asked to contribute to service work. The 5th grade helped entertain children at Mary's Place, 6th grade helped at Westside Baby, the 7th grade prepared delicious meals for Mary's place and the 8th grade helped sort food at the White Center Food Bank. Auction attendees were asked to contribute money corresponding to hours of work spent per project.
All and all we raised more money this year than the last. The students at Westside thank you so very much for all of your lovely donations. We appreciate all that you have done for us.8th Grade China Trip!
By Grant Comick
.jpg)
This April, the 8th grade Chinese Class will embark on the first ever Westside School international trip. This is a great opportunity to be immersed in the language and become world citizens. I myself am going on the trip and am very excited for it. We will be leaving late Saturday and arriving in Beijing late Sunday. We will be participating in various activities that showcase Beijing and Chinese culture. Here are just a few of the planned activities:
- Guided tour of Beijing
- Dragon boat ride
- Tajik Chinese breathing exercise
- Visit Forbidden City
- Take tour of Great Wall of china
- Rickshaw tour
- Beijing Zoo
- The choice of attending an acrobatics show
- Touring the Olympic Sports Complex
- Experience Chinese culture
- Free time to explore the city and do what we wish.
If all goes as planned, this will be a fantastic start to the annual language trips, I for one, can't wait.
By Amber, Kate and Daisy
.PNG)
For one of the service learning projects we are working on this year, we will be collecting daily necessities for local homeless women and children. We have been studying poverty in the United States and decided that collecting items for Mary's Place would be a great opportunity to learn more about societal dynamics and serve our community. Donations must be in by March 26th, in order to deliver them by the desired date. Drop off boxes will be located at the main and middle school entrances.
Specifically, we need...
- Deodorant
- Season appropriate clothing and coats
- Raincoats
- Children's clothing (especially teen boys)
- Tissues
- Nail clippers
- Toothpaste
- Hair brushes, large combs & picks
- Soap
- Shampoo, hair care products
- Shaving razors
- Tweezers
We hope you are able to help contribute!
Thanks so much for your help!
By: Owen and Jackson
Being the first graduating class of the Westside Middle School is an honor. All the eighth graders will cherish our years at Westside for the rest of our lives. We will remember the best moments, the great friends we made, and the amazing support of our teachers.
We all feel that Westside has prepared us for high school and the rest of our lives. Some of the people in the eighth grade class have been here since pre-school; Owen, Anna C, Anna N, Grant, Lucie, Jordan, and Annika have all been here for 11 years and still just can't get enough of it. The others who came after: Ella, Isabele, Jackson, Jakob, John, Larisa, Lily G, Lily S, Lily T, Niccole, and Rex they are still a big part of the Westside community.
Although it will be great going to a bigger school with more opportunities, we will miss how close the community here is and how nice everyone is to each other. However, we are all very excited to meet new people and make new friends and hopefully will still stay in contact with each other. We will all miss Westside dearly and we will never forget it.
Susannah's Door Knob
By Luke and Chris
Westside's New School Building
By Blake and Chris
Source: - 270
Our new schools completion is just around the corner and the staff is hyped. The new building has been a goal of Westside’s board and administration for a long time. After many years of searching and discussion they have chosen Hillcrest Presbyterian Church as the location of the new school. Due to the sensitivity there is not very much information on the design of the new building because not all of it has been finalized. What has been told to us is that the building will be significantly remodeled. Many place will be lifted and elongated, and much more is to be decided. We will move into the new school in approximately two years. All of the kids and staff at Westside are excited for the new building! Chinese New Year Assembly at Westside
By Kate and Isabel
.JPG)
Friday, January 31st was the celebration of the Chinese New Year or Gong Xi Fa Zai. Although here at Westside we are calling it the "year of the horse". That same day we had a school-wide assembly to commemorate the festival filled with a lion dance and traditional music including drums, symbols and a gong. This was performed by some of our middle school students. As well as that, there were Chinese songs sung by many of the lower school classes.
Aside from in school celebrations, there are many traditions that Chinese families and individuals participate in preparation for the new year. They eat oranges symbolizing gold which brings good fortune and. many have New Years Eve dinners with family. Leading up the New Year people often clean and tidy their homes to clear out the old and bring in the new.
We wish everyone a Happy New Year and can't wait to see what the next year brings both in school and outside.
7th Graders Assist The Homeless
The 7th grade class of 2019 is starting a service learning project for the school auction this year. They are going to make meals for women and children that are homeless and in need of love and support. 7th grade students will make meal boxes for families and emergency snack packs for people that need food in between meals. The name of the food bank that the 7th grade is working with is Mary's Place. They have been helping homeless people that are in need for years and are happy to help the local community. The school auction will happen March 22nd and will begin at 5:30pm at the Seattle Design Center.
By Blake
Winter Masquerade Dance
By Isabele, Kate and Daisy
This years middle school dance is going to be a Winter Masquerade! Students of the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades are invited to party on February 28th from 6-8pm in the MPR. Since the theme is masquerade, people will come wearing masks of all kinds. There will be lights, up-beat, yet school appropriate, songs and food and drinks of all kinds. The Student Council is working together with Middle School Advisories to help create the playlist. . As of right now, there are also plans for a second dance later in the year which is to be determined.
We look forward to seeing everyone!
Teaching Students The Importance of Life
By Amber and Kayla
Laura Holmes, one of Westside’s second grade teachers is introducing students to the the concept of having a life in your hands.Laura has set up the opportunity for her students to raise and care for the two hundred Coho salmon eggs, recently delivered to our school campus from Soos Hatchery in Kent.
The second grade class received the salmon while they are still eggs, and raise them through their egg, alvin, fry, parr and smolt stages. The 2nd grade class will then take a field trip to Fauntleroy Creek where they release the salmon smolts. From this stage the salmon will grow to be about 1-2 feet and venture out into the ocean. If they survive they will return to the same creek in four or so years, where they will spawn and die. And the life cycle of the Coho will start over once again.
Laura is keeping the kids involved through taking turns changing the water in the tank by sucking up the water through a tube. Students also take turns testing the chemical levels in the tank. Students name the fish and enjoy taking care of them too. It's a great experience for them to have the opportunity to be a part of such an adventure!
Alice In Wonderland Cast List
Recently many people in the middle school tried out for the play Alice In Wonderland and the results are:
* Cheshire Cat 1- Danielle
*Cheshire Cat 2- Sarah
*Cheshire Cat 3- Emily
*Matilda- Anna N
*Alice- Lily G
*Small Alice- Eden
*Tall Alice- Nicole
*White rabbit- Lily T
*Doorknob- Jac
*Dodo bird- Nate
* Tweedle dee- Lily S
* Tweedle Dumb- Annika
* Lily- Olivia
* Violet- Jordan M
*Daisy- Helen
*Rose- Lauren
*Petunia- Great
*Caterpillars- Larisa, Jordan, Anna C
*Mad hatter- Callum
*March Hare- Flora
*Queen Of Hearts- Ella
*King of hearts- Rex
*Royal Cards men- Sophie, Elias, Nina, Anna N, Niccole, Jac, Nate
* Lobsters- Sophie, Elias, Nina, Anna, Nicole, Jac, Ella, Rex, Callum, Sarah
Alice In Wonderland Play
If you didn't know already, the next play this year is going to be Alice in Wonderland. A lot of people already can't wait for it! In technical theater (props, makeup, background, etc.) we have already started on working on the makeup for some characters by practicing on other people. They have also talked about some props they are using in the play, and one of them is going to take the entire semester! But just like Willy Wonka Junior, I'm sure the final product will be amazing!
By Greta
Nocturnal Animals in 2nd Grade
.JPG)
Laura's second grade class kicked off October with a unit about nocturnal animals! They have studied bats, owls, and a lot more. Each student got to pick their own nocturnal animal to study and make a poster about it. They presented them to the class by telling about their eating habits, sleeping habits, their natural habitat, etc. They could be as creative as they wanted with the posters, and they certainly were. I was amazed by some of the posters, from the pictures to the writing. And did I mention the second grade loved it?
by Greta
New Teacher Interviews
Henry and Connor recently interviewed some of Westsides’ new teachers, here is what they had to say.......
MARC S
Q1:How are you liking it in Seattle and what have you done as a new Seattlite?
A: I like to go on hikes, go to plays, music events, movies and sports.
Q2:What are your hobbies?
A: I like to sketch, do art, swim, do yoga and cook.
Q3:Why did you decide to become a teacher at Westside School?
A: It is like the school I used to teach at and I like the type of approach this school has. Westside is unique because it's not just all about studying, this school uses a lot of hands on learning which is where you interact such as doing labs.
Q4:Did you play any sports in middle school?
A: I played soccer, lacrosse and I was on the swim team.
MARK H
Q1: Are there any projects you plan to do over the year?
A: I want to put posters up around the room. I also want each student to make their own portfolio for major ideas and what students would like to remember from class. Then, when we get near December, we will do a more split of project.
Q2:What is it like to work with your wife at the same school?
A: It is great and fun. You know how some families see their family members at morning and night, I get to see Jillian all day long. This is the fourth school I have taught at with Jillian so I am pretty used to it though.
Q3:What do you like to do?
A: I like cycling, road biking, running, hiking and backpacking.
Q4: Why did you decide to become a teacher at Westside School, did it have anything to do with your wife teaching here?
A: I had been looking at some other schools but Jillian spoke very highly of Westside and that is how I got here.
Q5:How long have you been teaching?
A: This is my 14th year.
SUSANNAH
Q1: What projects do you plan to do with the 7th graders?
A: We will be looking at their heritage, they will be interviewing a relative and creating a little autobiography starting with shoeboxes. Later on they will move on to a more digital way to study their heritage.
Q2:What projects do plan to do with the 8th grade?
A: On Monday the eighth graders are in a Opera Show where they have to take on the personality of Robber Baron from the Industrial Revolution.
Q3:Where did you teach before Westside?
A: In a school in Honduras,Shanghai American School and the American Embassy School in New Delhi, India.
Q4: How long have been teaching?
A: 10 years.
Q5: Where did you go to middle school and was it anything like this school?
A: Yes and no. I went to Sequim Middle School. Westside is similar because the kids stay in the area a long time, so they are at the same school for a while. It's different because Sequim MS was a bigger school and a public school.
JEREMY
Q1: How long have you been teaching?
A: I have been teaching for 7 years and counting.
Q2: Why did you decide to become a teacher?
A: I decided to become a teacher because I want to help people have a great future and be educated.
Q3: Where did you teach before Westside School?
A: I taught in Cascade Middle School and also in outdoor fields, teaching science usually.
Q4: We know you're an outdoor person, is there a specific place you like to camp?
A: I like camping anywhere where there are almost no people or no people at all.
Q5: Is there a big project that you plan to do in math with the 5th graders throughout the year.
A: I plan to do the baseball project that Preston did last year.
ALICIA BETTY
Q 1: How long have you been doing art?
A: I have been doing art for at least 10 yrs.
Q 2: Have you taught art anywhere else than Westside?
A: Yes and I still am. I am a teacher at the Seattle Art Museum.
Q 3:Where did you go to middle school?
A: Chinook Middle School in Seatac ( by the airport).
Q4:Who was your favorite teacher?
A: Anne Gale at the University of Washington, she is an art teacher.
Q5:Has any of your art been displayed anywhere big.
A: No place super big but at community art shows and school art shows. Although I have
participated in large works of art that have been displayed in big places.
MIKE
Q1:How long have you been teaching PE?
A: 5 years
Q2:Why did you decide to become a teacher at Westside?
A: I was looking for the position of a P.E. teacher and Westside was open for the job so I took it.
Q3:What are all the school sports at Westside?
A: Cross country, Volleyball, Basketball, Track.
Q4:How has the cross country team been competing?
A: We did very well for the season,we had 40 runners all together for the whole school.
SUE
Q1: What school did you teach at in Hawaii?
A: I taught at Hualalai Academy on the Big Island of Hawai'i
Q2: What could you do in Hawaii that you can't or won't do in Seattle?
A: Snorkel and body board
Q3: Why did you decide to teach here at Westside?
A: My kids are both in college so it was a good opportunity to explore a new life adventure!
Q4: Where do you like to go in the Seattle area?
A: So far I really like exploring the Alki Beach area, Pike Place Market and Capital Hill but I'm looking forward to finding a place to watch the Orcas. I'm also getting into the Seahawks and would love to go to a game.
8th Grade Service Learning
The eighth
grader is taking part in a service learning opportunity and needs your help!
This month they are working with a local organization called Survive the
Streets. Survive the Streets is a non-profit organization that helps homeless
people in Seattle by giving them warm gear and clothing to help them
"Survive the Streets" during the cold winter months. What they will
be doing to help this program is holding a gear donation drive here at
Westside. During the month of November they will be collecting the following
gear:
·
Sleeping
bags
·
Backpacks
and duffle bags
·
Large
men’s coats (extra large is the most needed size)
·
New
socks
·
Gloves
Although
they appreciate that you may have other items to donate, they are asking that
you limit your donations to the items above.
The Westside Book Fair
.JPG)
Books, books, shelves of books, from graphic novels to nonfiction……..
The annual Westside Book Fair is coming up, and no matter what you like to read, the book fair will have it! Monday, November 4th through Wednesday, November 6th, the book fair will open up, so mark your calendars.
Not only will students be able to buy books, your teachers may buy books for your classroom library.
In an interview, Kristen, the school librarian, said, "It's a really awesome book fair in the school, where you can stock up on books for reading, or gift. There are a lot of books to choose from. The first year we had a special event of having a shave ice machine, which was really awesome, but we decided having a sticky, melty stuff around books was probably not the best idea."
The theme for this year's book fair is Egyptian Flair, so expect to see Egyptian artwork among the rows of Scholastic and Usborne books. The book fair was started two years ago when Kristin came up with the idea and worked with Sue Winter, Jordan Winter's mom, who is the representative of Usborne books. They thought the more books for the kids, the better! The book fair is also a great way to help the library get more books into our small collection, because we don't have that many books.
When unloading the books the really cool thing is that basically they have big, metal bookshelves that hinge together and lock up, so all you have to do is open up the case, and all of the books are there. They send a few in boxes, and all we have to do is display them on the tables.
You can by books online by going to Kristen’s Library page on the Westside website. There are links to both of the online fairs and you can create a wish list. Finally, there is a way that you can donate books to a child's classroom. Parents can also contribute to wish lists that teachers make. Teachers also teachers make a wish bag that if you (or your parents) wanted to, you could buy the books, donating it to the classroom.
REMEMBER TO BUY BOOKS
and check out
The Halloween Fest
Halloween Fest is just around the corner and The Westside Wolf is here to tell you about it.
The Westside Halloween Fest is on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 12 PM to 4 PM. There will be rides, face painting and lots of games that you can win prizes at. There are also a lot of treats, like caramel apples and beverages.
This is also a great opportunity for middle schoolers to help, especially with the Haunted Hallway. You can sign to help set up, scare people in the Haunted Hallway, or clean up afterwards. Just go to: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E094DA8AB4-middle.
All in all, it is a really cool party, so we hope that you can join us in the fun! ~Nate, Greta and Kieran
The Westside Halloween Fest is on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 12 PM to 4 PM. There will be rides, face painting and lots of games that you can win prizes at. There are also a lot of treats, like caramel apples and beverages.
This is also a great opportunity for middle schoolers to help, especially with the Haunted Hallway. You can sign to help set up, scare people in the Haunted Hallway, or clean up afterwards. Just go to: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E094DA8AB4-middle.
All in all, it is a really cool party, so we hope that you can join us in the fun! ~Nate, Greta and Kieran
