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Whittier Back to School Carnival and
Picnic Thursday, September 12th 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. @ the Whittier Playground
Enjoy entertainment from the School of Rock and Carnival Games
We will provide hamburgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers.
You bring a dish to share, beverages & chairs or blankets
Let’s be green and bring your own plates, napkins and utensils
Please bring to share:
Side dish if your last name starts with A - N
Dessert if your last name starts with O - Z
***Please label if includes nuts***
Volunteers Needed!
We need help setting up, serving and cleaning up. Please Sign up through the Members Toolkit.
Complete and return to the Whittier School Office by Monday, September 9th.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Student (s) Name: _____________________________________________
Indicate # of items:
________ Hamburgers _______ Hot Dogs ________ Veggie Burgers
Whittier Wear! For Sale September 3-17
All sizes $15 (men, women, children) Hoodies & performance shirts also available
www.customink.com/fundraising/whittierschool
Shirts will be delivered to your child’s classroom to take home with no shipping charge or you may have your order sent
directly to your address.
Please include your child’s name on your order to assist with classroom delivery.
WHITTIER SCHOOL BIRTHDAY BOOKS
Dear Whittier Parents and Guardians, You are invited to share in Whittier’s Birthday Book Program! We hope you and your
child will participate in this worthwhile program that increases the number of books our children can choose in the Whittier library. With parents and students helping, the program raises approximately $2500 for the library. Please take a moment to read about the Birthday Books program.
The Birthday Books cart is loaded with new and wonderful fiction and non-fiction titles selected based on school needs. Your donation goes toward the purchase of new hardcover books that cost between $20-$25. Although the program is called Birthday Books you may donate to commemorate any special occasion, important person, ethnic holiday or favorite teacher. After returning the form and donation, students can select books from the cart to donate to the library. The joy the children get from picking a book, seeing his or her name inside and donating the book to the library is almost as important as the book itself. Your donation helps to teach the joy of giving as well as receiving. All donations are tax deductible.
This is how it works. This form is sent home with each student at the beginning of the
school year and also in the month preceding his or her birthday or half birthday. If you wish to participate you need only donate once at whichever time you wish. When we receive your donation we will send you a tax receipt and your child will be called to the library by one of the birthday book volunteers during the month of his or her birthday, half birthday or special event to choose a book from the Birthday cart. Although the book will remain the property of the library, your child will be honored as follows:
1. A bookplate with your child’s name is placed in the front of the book, listing their
birthday or special occasion. For years to come, other students will know that your child donated this particular book.
2. Your child will be the first to check out the book and share it with his or her classmates and family.
3. Your child will receive a Whittier pencil. 4. Your child’s photo will be taken with the book and displayed in the Whittier library
until the end of the school year. If you would like to participate, please fill out the form on the reverse. We look forward to seeing your child in the library.
I would like to donate a book to the Whittier School library in honor of my child’s birthday or other special event.
NAME (as it should appear in the book)_____________________________________________ (Please print clearly) BIRTHDATE OR SPECIAL EVENT TO COMMEMORATE (please specify) _____________________________________________________________________________________ CHILD’S TEACHER and GRADE___________________________________________________ YOUR NAME_____________________________________________________________________ AMOUNT OF ENCLOSED CHECK/CASH____________________________________________ (Make check payable to Whittier PTO) Return form and donation to your child’s teacher. Questions? Please contact: Terri McConville (parent volunteer) [email protected] Laurie Conley (Whittier Library Media Specialist) [email protected]
Lunchroom Monitor The Green Team is seeking loyal regulars or occasional volunteers . We have important work going on in the lunchroom teaching young citizens the basics of composting and recycling . Note New Whittier lunch times are 11:30am - 12:25pm. Please see the link below to sign up (early and often!) located on the homepage of the PTO Website under Get Involved, Volunteer Sign Up. https://whittierpto.membershiptoolkit.com/volunteer/50712
What’s Involved:
1. Meet in the Lunchroom at 11:30am. 2. Check that all 5 stations are set up and labeled. It is all set up by the
Custodians and so should already be in place. - Bucket for liquid dumping - Recycling Bin for regular recycling and FULLY emptied Milk Cartons - Landfill Bin - Composting Bin (this is one to closely monitor - no plastics sporks,
ketchup packets, etc.) - Tray collection table
3. Help kids find their meal cards, get in line and direct them to Bonnie the Lunchroom Manager if missing a card (only the 2nd lunch period younger kids really need help with this).
4. Help open packets. Give bathroom permission to kids with raised hands. 5. Help kids follow the disposal directions into the 5 bins. Teach them the ins and
outs of Recycling/Composting. 6. That’s it!
Questions: Green Team Co-Chair, Cathi Ward; 617-816-4143
WHITTIER 101
Curious about school culture and
discipline at Whittier?
Is my child’s academic progress
monitored?
How can you tell if your child
needs extra help or is “falling
behind”?
What supports are available for
my child?
What is social justice?
Sponsored by the
Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019
9 am -12 pm
Whittier ElementaryChildcare and Refreshments will be
provided. Please RSVP for
childcare to [email protected]
Our Whittier educators and staff will discuss what academic and behavioral supports are used to help Whittier students during the school year
Waste Free Event Checklist Thank you for your commitment to helping our school reduce waste for events large and small. Your efforts are greatly appreciated and we are here to support you. Please use this checklist as a guide for your waste-free event. Contact your green team chair with any questions or suggestions.
1. Contact your school administrator to request the triple bin set up for your event (compost, recycling, landfill). Allow 3-4 weeks.
2. Request green bins from Village of Oak Park for any outdoor or off school grounds events. Contact Cameron Hendricks: [email protected] with your request for portable triple waste bins, signs, bags. Allow 2-3 weeks.
3. Ask vendors to only provide compostable/recyclable plates, napkins, utensils. If they cannot provide zero-waste items, please decline them and ask that they not be made available at your event. Allow 3-4 weeks.
4. Purchase only compostable plates, cups, napkins, utensils for your event. Costco has some bulk items. Webrestaurants is a wholesale resource: https://www.webstaurantstore.com Encourage “bring your own” items including reusable water bottles to every event. Allow 3-4 weeks.
5. Request large water jugs for each event. Encourage “bring your own” water bottle and offer only recyclable/compostable cups. If you have a dishwasher, consider reusable cups and run dishwasher. Allow 2-3 weeks.
6. Cans are better than plastic. If your event involves beverages, canned items are better than plastic. Water jugs and reusable water bottles or compostable cups are best. (only 10 percent of bottles are recycled when compared to 50 percent of cans. Cans also are more efficient to recycle than bottles. Once the aluminum has been produced, it can be recycled over and over again.)
7. Contact school administrator to request additional waste pick up in advance of your event. It will add a small expense--but it will be more costly if you do not arrange in advance. Allow 3-4 weeks.
8. Arrange volunteers to monitor the triple waste bins on the Day Of Event. Allow 3 weeks.
9. Promote to your audience this is a Zero Waste Event. Every communication promote Zero Waste and encourage BYO reusable water bottle. Allow 3-4 weeks and repeat message each time.
10. Reduce the wrappers. Rather than individually wrapped candy/chips, consider bulk popcorn scooped into compostable cups, bulk cookies/brownies with a napkin, soft pretzels, muffins other bulk treats that have wrappers that can be composted or recycled. Allow 2-3 weeks.
11.
FALL SESSION Monday, September 23 to Thursday, December 19
THE LINE UP
Day Time Class Grades Duration Price (Early Bird/Regular)
Monday No class: 10/21 11/25
3:15 – 4:15 Science Lab K-2 11 classes $150/$160 Let’s Get Crafty 2-5 11 classes $155/$165 Colored Pencil Kids K-5 11 classes $140/$150 NEW! Lion King Jr. Broadway Dance 2-5 11 classes $110/$120 Coding for Kids 3-5 11 classes $120/$130
Tuesday No class: 10/22 11/26
3:15 – 4:15 Yoga Kids K-5 11 classes $165/$175 Kitchen Wizards K-5 11 classes $155/$165 Multi-Sport Madness (Younger Kids) K-2 11 classes $150/$160 Learn to Knit 3-5 11 classes $120/$130 Whittier Warblers Chorus K-3 11 classes $90/$100
Wednesday No class: 10/23 11/27
2:45 – 4:15 (note: 1.5 hour class)
Multi-Sport Madness (Older Kids) 3-5 11 classes $215/$225 Good Food Experience K-5 11 classes $175/$185 Actor’s Garden K-5 11 classes $180/$190 Lego STEM FUNdamentals K-5 11 classes $215/$225
Thursday No class: 10/24 10/31 11/28
3:15 – 4:15 Taekwondo K-5 10 classes $120/$130 Dynamic Chess K-5 10 classes $150/$160 Experiential Painting & Mask Making K-5 10 classes $180/$190
Missing one of your favorites? Due to scheduling conflicts, Clay Play with Ms. Connell and Chicago Edge Soccer are not available this fall, but we expect them back in the winter! IMPORTANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND DATES • Registration is ONLINE ONLY at http://whittierpto.org/index.php/wise-registration/. • Registration opens Friday, September 6 and ends Friday, September 13. • All scholarship requests MUST be received by Wednesday, September 11. • Register by Wednesday, September 11 to save $10/class. • All classes are eligible for cancellation due to low registration.
IMPORTANT NOTE for FALL 2019
• Registration will again be online only. If you will have difficulty getting internet access during the registration period, please email [email protected] or call the Whittier office at 708-524-3080 for special accommodations.
• We will be using the new PTO Membership Toolkit for WISE registration this year. All parents and guardians must be registered on that platform in order to sign up for WISE. If you need to register, go to www.whittierpto.org and click on the yellow “Register/Login” button.
SCHOLARSHIPS The PTO will continue to offer need-based scholarships to those who qualify (maximum one course per child). Check the box on the registration form to request. Scholarships, like all WISE classes, are first-come, first-served. No scholarship requests will be accepted after Wednesday, September 11.
REGISTRATION Registration begins Friday, September 6 and ends Friday, September 13. Classes are first-come, first-served. In the past, many classes have filled up the first day, so register early. Go to http://whittierpto.org/index.php/wise-registration/ to register and pay online via PayPal.
Registration is online only. If you will have difficulty getting internet access during the registration period, please email [email protected] or call the Whittier office at 708-524-3080 to make special accommodations.
You will receive registration confirmation by email the week of September 16. No registrations will be accepted after the session has begun, and no refunds will be issued after the second class. Registrations without payment will not be accepted unless you are requesting a scholarship.
LOGISTICS • After the dismissal bell, your child will report to the auditorium, where attendance will be taken and
children will receive a nut-free snack. • Instructors will escort your child to the front office of the school at the end of WISE.
Parents/guardians should pick up their children PROMPTLY at 4:15 pm. • If your child will be absent, please mention WISE when you call the school office, so that we are
alerted. We take your children's safety very seriously, and we must account for every child.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES! WISE needs volunteers for our program to run. If you are able to help take attendance and supervise students before classes start OR help dismiss them when classes end, please keep an eye out for an email to sign up. Attendance volunteers will receive $50 off of one class, to be given as a refund after registration ends. Email [email protected] with questions. Thank you for your continued support.
QUESTIONS? Please email [email protected] or call the Whittier office at 708-524-3080. If you have suggestions on how to improve the WISE program, please email us at [email protected].
Course Descriptions Fall 2019
MONDAYS 3:15 – 4:15 pm
The Science Lab (K – 2nd Grade) Instructors: Caroline Baker and Kathy Villasin Discover and learn about science in the world around you in ways you never expected! With the classroom as our lab, each week you'll become the scientists and conduct exciting experiments. Together we will investigate topics from all disciplines of science. Our experiments will often include something gooey, strange, stinky, colorful, explosive, pretty, or surprising, and will always be fun! We'll take time to learn about what's happening in each lab. Students will be encouraged to generate and share their own ideas about the science behind what they observe. Participants will also finish the class with a lab book of experiments that can be conducted again at home. (Min. 7, Max. 16 students)
Let’s Get Crafty Basic Sewing & Crafts (2nd – 5th Grade) Instructors: Georgina Swanson and Nancy Hoehne Do you like to do different kinds of crafts or sew? Join Let's Get Crafty to make a variety of crafts with fabric, yarn and other supplies. It will be a chance to be creative while we make things together and learn new skills. (Min. 8, Max. 12 students)
Colored Pencil Kids (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: Cheryl Rausch Calling all creative kids! This colored pencil class will teach students about the fun and versatility of colored pencils. The class covers all aspects of drawing with this fun and diverse medium. We will discuss everything from playing with the blending of colors, learn about highlights and shadows, and even exploring how to draw hair, feathers and fur! We will teach children how to work with colored pencils and to find the fun in creating with color. No prior experience necessary. All materials will be provided. This class is offered through MAPP Sports. (Min. 6, Max. 20 students)
NEW! Lion King Jr. Broadway Dance Crew (2nd – 5th Grade) Instructor: Anne Marie Williams Calling all dancers and Lion King fans! In this class, students will learn unique choreography to the iconic Lion King soundtrack. Students will work together to form distinct formations and movements specific to each song's theme and emotion. Students will have an opportunity to showcase their creativity and express their spirit through dance! On the last session of the class, a performance will be open to families and students will be able to showcase the dances they have learned. (Min. 6, Max. 14 students)
Coding for Kids (3rd – 5th Grade) Instructor: Paula Spring Learn to code by exploring different programming sites, including Scratch, designed for younger programmers. Then create animations, games, and other fun projects. We will also use our coding skills to program robots, including the Sphero and Ozobot. All programming experience levels welcome; we will build up from wherever your skill level begins. (Min. 5, Max. 8 students)
Course Descriptions Fall 2019
TUESDAYS 3:15 – 4:15 pm
YogaKids (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: Kim Vulinovic We’ll stretch like dogs and fly like eagles! YogaKids classes use yoga as a springboard for education. Each class explores a different theme through movement, storytelling and meditation. Poses strengthen and stretch muscles. Breathing naturally tunes kids into their energy levels. And books, toys and games make each class fun and educational. Yoga unites the body and mind to improve self-esteem, focus and fitness. To participate fully in the class, children should wear comfortable clothes (e.g., leggings/sweats, not dresses, tights or jeans). (Min. 6, Max. 16 students)
Kitchen Wizards (K – 5th Grade) Instructors: Kerri Druckmiller and Sondra Nelson Calling all chefs! Explore cooking in fun and interesting ways as we create recipes that you can make again at home. Each participant will receive a collection of recipes that we make during the class! NOTE: Be sure to note your child’s allergies on your registration for optimum class participation. (Min. 8, Max. 16 students)
Multi-Sport Madness (Younger Kids) (K – 2nd Grade) Instructor: Legacy Sports One of Legacy Sports’ most popular programs includes variations of traditional gym games like relay races, tag, capture the flag, dodgeball, and soccer, as well as our popular Legacy games like Hand Hockey, Illinois Jones and Battleship. You don’t want to miss out! (Min. 10, Max. 20 students) includes t-shirt
Learn to Knit (3rd – 5th Grade) Instructor: Georgina Swanson This beginner class will introduce students to the basic knitting stitch. We will practice knitting with the goal of making a small bag or pouch by the end of the session. (Min. 5, Max. 8 students)
Whittier Warblers (K – 3rd Grade) Instructor: Anjali Karia Students are invited to participate in Whittier Warblers, a primary chorus where we will learn the basics of good choral singing and posture, as well as a variety of songs. The last session of the class will be a concert open to guardians and guests. No prior chorus experience is necessary--only a love for music and singing. (Min. 10, Max. 30 students)
Course Descriptions Fall 2019
WEDNESDAYS 2:45 – 4:15 pm (note classes are an hour and a half)
Multi-Sport Madness (Older Kids) (3rd— 5th Grade) Instructor: Legacy Sports One of Legacy Sports’ most popular programs includes variations of traditional gym games like relay races, tag, capture the flag, dodgeball, and soccer, as well as our popular Legacy games like Hand Hockey, Illinois Jones and Battleship. You don’t want to miss out! (Min. 10, Max. 20 students) includes t-shirt
Good Food Experience (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: Sugar Beet Schoolhouse
From starting a garden from seed to preparing tasty seasonal snacks, students will learn how they can be part of the Good Food movement! What is Good Food? We’ll find out through hands-on garden projects, local food tastings and cooking classes, and awesome visits from Good Food advocates who are making the world healthier, and tastier, through their work. This class will take place both inside the Community room and outside in the Whittier outdoor classroom! NOTE: Please note your child’s allergies on your registration for optimum participation. Because the class is outside regularly, please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. (Min. 8, Max. 15 students)
Actor's Garden: A Play a Day (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: Alex Frisch Students will take a quick bow as they put on a mini play every class. Each week each student will receive a script, be cast in a role, learn blocking and maybe even put on a costume piece or two. The only thing we will not have is an audience. This class is an opportunity to explore putting on production without the added pressure of getting it “performance ready.” Students will also engage in theatre games and acting exercises, making this class a perfect blend of process and product. This is all about FUN! (Min. 9, Max. 15 students)
Lego STEM FUNdamentals (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: Play-Well TEKnologies Power up your engineering skills with Play-Well TEKnologies and tens of thousands of LEGO® parts! Apply real-world concepts in physics, engineering, and architecture through engineer-designed projects such as: Hot Air Balloons, Space Stations, Tugboats, and the Eiffel Tower. Design and build as never before, and explore your craziest ideas in a supportive environment. There are no prerequisites for this course. (Min. 11, Max. 16 students)
Course Descriptions Fall 2019
THURSDAYS 3:15 – 4:15 pm
Taekwondo (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: Flying V Martial Arts Our Taekwondo classes offer a total fitness program integrating mind, body and spirit. The program focuses on improving not only basic motor skills, but developing students’ confidence, self-esteem, discipline, respect and focus. Furthermore, our program consists of a balanced cardiovascular workout, including punching, kicking, and blocking skills while using self-control and the Taekwondo tradition. Participants will improve coordination, power of concentration, balance, and both physical and mental discipline. The program will encourage students’ sense of commitment and persistence in the face of challenges while helping them enter society with a more confident and enthusiastic outlook. (Min. 5, Max. 30 students)
Dynamic Chess (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: William Aramil Classes are intended to increase the chess knowledge of every child. In addition, children will be able to apply the overall thinking skills learned from the chess program to other areas within their education. Each student will begin as a Pawn (the first level) and progress their way up to a King (the 6th level) as they show their efficiency and mastery of topics within the curriculum. All playing levels are welcome, including absolute beginners! All children signed up for Dynamic Chess at Whittier will be given access to Chesskid.com for an entire calendar year ($50 value). Children will be able to play others in class and all over the world online, watch videos, and work on several exercises to unlock online achievements! (Min. 10, Max. 30 students)
Experiential Painting and Mask Making (K – 5th Grade) Instructor: Terry Mueller Kids of all ages thrive when their creativity is nurtured. They learn to trust their inner voice and develop confidence in themselves as they explore their unique creative process. Experiential Painting provides a structured, non-judgmental environment and full freedom for kids to express themselves. They are encouraged to explore, express and experiment creatively. The first seven weeks of class focus on the painting process, then an optional mask making project is introduced during the last four weeks. The mask making moves into a deeper level of self expression, which continues to support the experience of their inner imaginary world. This class is designed for children to repeat over and over, as their creativity continually blossoms and every session has new lessons and games that help open their creative process. (Min. 6, Max. 18 students)
Instructors Fall 2019
WILLIAM ARAMIL (Dynamic Chess) William Aramil is a U.S. National Master and author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Chess Openings. William was the 2002 and 2003 Illinois High School Champion and also the 2003 Denker National High School Champion. In 2004, he won the collegiate section of the K-12/ Collegiate Championship. William is the trainer of the 2011 and 2013 Whitney Young Magnet High School State Champions. He has also coached the Kindergarten State Champion and several other top players at the elementary level in the state. William is the current Head Coach of the OPRF High School Chess Team. (www.dynamicchessinc.com)
CAROLINE BAKER (The Science Lab) Mrs. Baker has taught kindergarten and first grade at Whittier for over ten years. She also taught first grade at Irving school in Oak Park before joining Whittier. Mrs. Baker has lived in Oak Park for more than 20 years and has three children. She is looking forward to another year of offering hands-on learning at Whittier through the WISE program.
KERRI DRUCKMILLER (Kitchen Wizards) Whittier's own Kerri Druckmiller, M.S., currently teaches second grade and is a former Whittier parent. Past recipient of the Illinois Golden Apple award for excellence in teaching, she looks forward to cooking up a storm!
ALEX FRISCH (Actor's Garden: A Play a Day) Alex Frisch has enjoyed working with the Actor's Garden for the last decade, first as a student, then as a counselor, and for the past five summers as Summer Camp Assistant Director. She has a degree in Theatre from Northwestern University and is currently working as an Assistant Speech Team Coach at OPRFHS while completing a secondary concentration in History from Northwestern. Her career as a Chicago Actor and Teaching Artist has been, and will continue to be, driven by her passion for story-based, interactive learning and education.
NANCY HOEHNE (Let's Get Crafty Basic Sewing and Crafts) Nancy Hoehne is a third grade teacher at Whittier School. She minored in Art and knows that the importance of creating and making things teaches you about self-expression and finding your hidden talents. She is looking forward to teaching Let's Get Crafty and making projects with a group of enthusiastic Whittier kids!
DAN KANE & LEGACY SPORTS (Multi-Sport Madness) Dan is the owner of Legacy Sports Camp. Dan coached boys' and girls' junior high basketball for four years at St. Giles and has run basketball camps and programs for over 10 years.
ANJALI KARIA (Whittier Warblers Chorus) Anjali Karia is the K-5 music teacher at Whittier. She has been in the district since 2004 and has also taught music at Holmes and Beye. Previous to teaching, Ms. Karia was a professional actress, performing in musicals and plays in the Chicago and New York areas.
TERRY MUELLER (Experiential Painting and Mask Making) Terry Mueller has been teaching Experiential Painting with kids since 2009, when she opened her studio, Creative Changes. She has taught kids' summer camps sponsored by the Oak Park Arts District and the Oak Park Art League for several years. She's been offering her creative painting class in after school programs in Oak Park since 2013 and is continually fascinated by the creative nature of children. Since 2001, Terry has painted with Michele Cassou, who is the developer of Process Painting (aka Experiential and/or Point Zero Painting).
SONDRA NELSON (Kitchen Wizards) Sondra Nelson, M.A., is a former Whittier parent, a Whittier first grade teacher and a veteran WISE instructor. She is excited, once again, to share her enthusiasm for cooking with a great group of kids.
PAULA SPRING (Coding for Kids) Paula Spring is a Title I tutor at Whittier. A former classroom teacher and Whittier instructional coach, she is very excited to be teaching the Coding for Kids class again this session.
PLAY-WELL TEKNOLOGIES (Lego STEM FUNdamentals) Play-Well brings over 20,000 pieces in each class/camp, and hundreds of projects, so there is no limit to what you can build. We teach through play. We explore, solve problems, and express ourselves through LEGO. Our curriculum is designed by engineers and refined by teachers, but the kids just think it's fun!
Instructors Fall 2019
CHERYL RAUSCH (Colored Pencil Kids) Cheryl Rausch is a professional illustrator & photographer with two great passions: art and nature. Combining the two has been her biggest goal over her 30 year art career, and has provided much creative inspiration over the years. One of her favorite mediums is the amazing colored pencil, which can provide the lush richness and value you might see in other mediums, and the product is easily accessible and affordable to just about everyone. Colored Pencil Kids is offered through MAPP Sports (www.mappsports.com).
SUGAR BEET SCHOOLHOUSE (Good Food Experience) Sugar Beet Schoolhouse is a nonprofit that provides positive, hands-on learning experiences that connect people with good food. Started by Whittier mom Cheryl Munoz, Sugar Beet Schoolhouse offers cooking, gardening and wellness workshops out of its kitchen and greenhouse in River Forest. The Schoolhouse also partners with area schools and community organizations to ensure that everyone has access to fun and engaging experience that inspire a new generation of Good Food Advocates.
GEORGINA SWANSON (Let's Get Crafty Basic Sewing and Crafts, Learn to Knit) Georgina Swanson is a third grade teacher at Whittier School. She loves sewing, quilting and making many different kinds of things. She is looking forward to teaching Let's Get Crafty and Learn to Knit and making projects with enthusiastic Whittier kids!!
KATHY VILLASIN (The Science Lab) Kathy Villasin is a kindergarten teacher and former Whittier parent. She has degrees in Teaching, Child Development, and Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Villasin is excited to explore and experiment with the students in the Science Lab class.
VINSON VILLENA (Flying V Martial Arts) Master Vinson Villena has over twenty-five years of experience practicing the martial art of Taekwondo and has taught across Asia and the United States. Some of his accomplishments in this sport include being a Sixth Degree Black Belt, an NCAA Taekwondo MVP, a Certified International Instructor, and former Philippine Taekwondo Team Player. Additionally, he has competed and won in several local and international tournaments. He opened Flying V Martial Arts in 2013 in Oak Park because he loved what he was doing and wanted to share the true meaning of marital arts – respect, discipline, focus, confidence, self-esteem – with his students. Focusing on the true meaning along with character development helps his students reach their full potential. Classes are taught with genuine care to enhance students’ spirit and life through training their body and mind.
KIM VULINOVIC (YogaKids) Kim Vulinovic is a Whittier alum and the director and teacher of the YogaKids classes at Oak Park Yoga. She has studied a variety of yoga styles for over 20 years. She is a Certified YogaKids Teacher (CYKT) and a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). Kim has found that both boys and girls enjoy the active, calming and fun parts that comprise each YogaKids.
ANNE MARIE WILLIAMS (Lion King Jr. Broadway Dance Crew) Anne Marie Williams is a Whittier first grade teacher who started dancing at the age of four and was trained at the Academy of Dance arts in ballet, jazz and lyrical. She started competing at the age of 11 with her studio and danced for her high school poms team. In college, Mrs. Williams danced for Clemson University dance team. After college, Mrs. Williams continued her love for dance by choreographing for her school musicals. She has created and taught choreography for 101 Dalmatians (2015), Lion King Jr. (2016), Lion King Kids (2017 & 2018). Last year, she taught jazz technique and private lessons at Deforest Dance Academy in Elmhurst. She now looks forward to bringing her expertise and passion to Whittier!
In This IssueSeptember 2019
PTO Update / Page 2
Fun Run / Page 5
Nurse's Note / Page 6
Green Team / Page 7
Dates to Remember / Page 11
WHITTIER ELEMENTARY715 NORTH HARVEY
OAK PARK, ILLINOIS 60302 708.524.3080
www.op97.org/whit t ier
Welcome Back f rom the PTO!We hope you are all off to a great start at Whitt ier for the 2019/2020 school year!
We're Shesel Washington and Shailushi Ritchie, your new PTO co-presidents. Shesel is mom to her own Wildcat, Josette, a third grader. Shailushi also has a third grader, Lex. Her Whittier alum, Isha, is now a sixth grader.
The PTO is responsible for countless programs and events throughout the school year to enhance our children?s experience. Please refer to our PTO Program and Events page for that information.
Some of our goals for the PTO this year are the following:
- Promote family engagement at Whitt ier. - Promote Wildcat Pride. - Promote a more positive school culture that
celebrates and supports diversity.
And of course we all look forward to working with our principal, Mr. Patrick Robinson, and the new staff !
We are looking forward to seeing you all at the Back to School Picnic! Thank you to Luis Barrera and all that have stepped in to help to make this event possible!
The PTO is already very busy, working hard and has a full calendar planned for this year! We need your help, whether it is volunteering your time, making a f inancial contribution, or both!
Remember, this is YOUR PTO! The PTO is comprised of volunteer parents, guardians and teachers! EVERY Whittier family and all staff are a part of our PTO.
We eagerly welcome your feedback and participation. Please look out for a regular form in the Tuesday News where you can provide feedback to the PTO.
We look forward to another great year with you!
Sincerely, Shesel Washington and Shailushi Ritchie
shesel.washington@gmailcom/ [email protected]
2
Get Involved!Everyone is welcome to participate, volunteer, and contribute in any way that works for you and your family.
Volunteering is a great way to make a positive dif ference in every child?s Whittier experience, including your own! And, it?s also a lot of fun for the adults and a good way to get to know your fellow parents/guardians.
Whether helping at a one-day event or on a long-term project, at home or in the building we are grateful for your involvement!
Learn more about volunteering for Whit t ier PTO by: Attending our PTO Meetings the f irst Tuesday of the month at 7PM (free babysitt ing on site!)
Signing up for specif ic events and programs on our website at whitt ierpto.org? click on the Get Involved tab and look for the Signup.com button.
Liking our Whittier PTO Facebook page!
Fil l ing out an online volunteer form on our website if you would like more information, or are interested helping out generally throughout the year.
Please contact London Black for more information about volunteering: [email protected]
GET TO KNOW YOUR PTOPTO Leadership Team
Co-PresidentsShesel Washington
Shailushi Ritchie
Co-TreasurersJames Overbeck
Destinie Brannigan
SecretaryAbigail Hodges
Co-VPs Communicat ionKirsten Jackson
David Gulbransen
Co-VPs DivCoKate Cares
Munirah Curtis
VP EnrichmentLauren Castro
VP Fundraising Jamia Ponder
Co-VP Green Team Nicki HuelsCathi Ward
VP Parent Engagement London Black
Wellness Commit teePatricia Engebretson
Elizabeth McVey Kelly Witt
VP WiseMaureen Spain
Teacher/PTO LiaisonSondra Nelson
PrincipalPatrick Robinson
Past PresidentsBrigitte Bostrom
Sofia Villafuerte-Daly
Recognit ionTeacher Appreciat ion
Dinners Maureen Spain
Luncheon Shelly Gustavson
Kelly Sculles Jennifer O?Rourke
FundraisersAmazon Smile
Shayla Bell
Art to Remember Terri McConville
Birthday Books Terri McConville
Book FairBrigitte Bostrom
Box Tops Kellie McGinnis
Fun Run Commit teeShayla Bell (chair)Elizabeth Carrier Elizabeth McVey
Kelly Witt
Trivia NightPadmini Kanive
Restaurant NightKrystina Ryan
Spring Silent Auct ion Edith Gomero
Whit t ier WearChristine Diedrich
WANT TO JOIN THE FUN?
VIEW OPEN ROLES
(AND GET INVOLVED!)
t inyurl .com/PTOopenings
Events & Act ivit iesBack to School Picnic
Luis Barrera
End of the Year Picnic Betsy Hart
Ethnic FestShesel Washington (temp)
Fal l Harvest Dance Terri McConvilleElizabeth Cruz
Olympic Day Julie Burwell
School Kits Rehka Rajkumar
Whit t ier at the Movies Shannon Kazyak
Christine Diedrich
World Language Lori Robert
YearbookMary Furman
Green Team / Wel lnessGarden
Nicki PetersSuzanne Grif f in
Beaut if icat ionJustin Witt
Greg Diedrich
Communicat ionsCommunicat ionsStacey McCordOlivia Schreiner
FacebookSuzanne Grif f in
Greenleaf News Julie Burwell
Website Leslie Stevens Saria Lofton
Curious about a PTO program or project? Find one of these f riendly folks!
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Here is a brief summary of what your PTO does!
The PTO supports and funds many academic endeavors such as: After-school homework helpers Other programs that support learning
PTO funds are responsible for bringing cultural enrichment programs to Whittier: Opera for the Young Hubbard Street DanceTheatrical performances Author visits Library subscriptions One Book, One School Camp Edwards Scholarships WISE (Whittier IS Enriched) scholarships
Oak Park Education Foundation programs like: Science AllianceGeared UpArt StartArchitecture Adventure
The PTO provides support within your child?s classroom, like: $100 gif t for each teacher for beginning-of-year classroom supplies $5,000 each school year for teacher grants (ex.: Froebel blocks; individual dry erase boards, magnetic t iles; science supplies; f ile folder games; and multi-sensory materials) One f ield trip bus ride per 2 classrooms
The PTO sponsors community events such as:Back-to-school and spring picnicsFamily NightsPumpkin Festival Turkey Trot Olympic Day
Funds are also used to recognize school staff , teachers and students. Teacher dinners during conferences Teacher appreciation events Retirement gif ts 5th grade luncheonPBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports).
The PTO also sponsors the education and enrichment efforts of the Wellness Committee and the Green Team, as well as the annual Service Day.
The PTO is able to fund most of these programs through its fundraising efforts throughout the school year, like:The Fun Run Trivia Night The Fun Fair and Auction The Fall and Spring Book Fairs Art to Remember WISE classes Restaurant/Shopping Nights
The Whit t ier PTO: Your Parent , Teacher Organizat ionDid you know that most of the programs and activities at Whittier outside the basic educational curriculum are sponsored and funded by the PTO?
Whit ter World Language Luncht ime Enrichment ClassesWhittier's PTO is proud to sponsor our World Language lunchtime enrichment classes again this year!
Students in grades 2-5 can sign up to learn a foreign language, such as French, German, American Sign Language, or Hindi (new this year!).
The program will take place once a week during lunch hour and will run from October to March, for a total of 20 classes.
Look for the informational f lyer with more details in your student's backpack in September!
Contact our World Language chair, Lori Robert at [email protected] with any questions.
Get Ready for Whit t ier Wear
Sales are open!
Grab a newly designed Whittier t-shirts for men, women, children, and toddlers. Just $15 per shirt.
Sales end Wednesday, September 19. Shirts will be delivered about 2 weeks later.
Place your order at www.customink.com/ fundraising/whitt ierschool
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Let 's Get Ready to Run, Wildcats!Wednesday, October 2ndThe Whittier Fun Run is a walk/ run-a-thon fundraiser. Kids come out to the ball f ield with their class and grade level peers and run/walk laps, exercising to fun tunes. Students gather pledges toward a $50 per child goal. Our collective goal is to raise $16,000 to support programs all year.
The PTO relies on this event to generate funds to support a wide range of programs. The PTO subsidizes the cost of f ield trip bus rides, provides annual teacher grants and funds enrichment like Hubbard Street Theater and Opera for the Young, Homework Help, our after school program (WISE) and Camp Edwards scholarships, l ibrary subscriptions, One Book-One School, school picnics, Olympic Day & Wellness food tastings. All these things are only possible with outstanding community support. Donations are tax deductible since our PTO is a 501(c)3.
Fliers will be coming home with info. Ready to get started? You can register now on our new platform at www.getmovinfundhub.com and select ?Register As Parent? and use the School Identif ier: 5d2f47547adf f
Create your online account by September 21 and your child's classroom teacher will provide an "experience coupon" in class such as choosing a song or game for the class, bringing a favorite toy to school or wearing pjs to school! If you can't create an account online, reach out to [email protected] for support.
We will continue to take pledges until October 18, so keep sending them in until then. Doing so also gets your child a chance to win prizes for themselves and their class!
2018 Fun Run participants
Dear Whittier Families,
I hope the school year is off to a great start! I am thril led to be serving you and your children this school year.
In order to have a productive and enjoyable year we must keep our students safe and healthy. The following information will help us achieve this together.
If your child has any special health care needs and/or you anticipate a need for medicat ions at school please be sure to have a ?Prescription Authorization Form? completed.
All medications, including over the counter medications, require this form to be completed by a physician. Some orders may also require a completed action plan.
Please contact me as soon as possible to be sure the proper forms are completed. All health forms are available on our district website.
Al l kindergarten and new students to Whit t ier are required to have a completed ?Cert if icate of Child Heal th Examinat ion? submit ted at the beginning of the school year.
The physical exam must be dated on or after August 28, 2018. Students who do not have this examinat ion submit ted by October 15, 2019 wil l be excluded f rom school unt i l they are in compl iance.
REMINDER: Parents must complete and sign the ?health history? section before submitting health examination form to the health off ice. Kindergarten students and students new to Il l inois schools are
required to submit proof of an eye exam by an optometrist of physician (such as an ophthalmologist) no later than October 15th, 2019.
Proof of a recent (within the last year) dental exam must be submit ted for al l kindergarten and second grade students. These forms need to be submitted to the school health off ice on or before May 15, 2020.
Regular and consistent attendance is imperative for your child to succeed in school. However, do not send your child to school with any of the fol lowing symptoms:
- Constant coughing- Constant ?runny? nose - especially with yellow or green mucous
- A temperature of 100 degrees or higher- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea- Rashes or any scratching for unknown reasons
- Watery, itchy eyes with drainage
Al l students must be without fever or vomit ing (without medicat ion) for 24 hours before coming back to school af ter an i l lness.
REMINDER: Handwashing is the f irst l ine of defense for keeping our students and staff healthy. Encourage frequent hand washing at home and at school.
Nuts and nut products are NOT al lowed in any classroom. This includes products that are labeled ?processed in a facility that shares equipment with nut products?. Do not send nuts or nut products as a snack for your child to eat. In addition, there is NO food sharing between students al lowed at any time during school. Snack and celebration foods allowed in classrooms include:
-Fresh Fruit -Fresh Vegetables-Pretzels-Packaged Popcorn
It is extremely important that I am made aware of any and al l heal th concerns that your child may have. If this information was not given during registration please contact me at [email protected] as soon as possible. Remember to continually update me on changes in your child?s health.
Please know that as your school nurse, I am here to help. I will always make decisions based on what is best and safest for your child and all of the students at our school. Feel free to contact me at any time if you have questions or concerns.
Thank you, Hilary Winkelhake, RNWhitter School [email protected]
nurse's note
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Support the ArtsHave any of the following? Donate to Ms. Connell!
*wipes * hand sanitizer * non-scented lotion * t issues * milk jug rings * bottle caps * wine corks * pop tabs * knitt ing yarn * any small, cool, weird trinkets & items
Or, lend a hand to hang art around the school by writing [email protected]
Garden Cat Club 2019Memories have been made in the garden all spring and summer long!
Before the school year ended in June, many classrooms and our WISE Sugarbeet Schoolhouse class planted in our garden. The Garden Cat Club hosted several summer meet ups including a student inspired litter clean-up night, popsicle night, and a potluck gathering.
Weekly family volunteers gathered, watered, weeded, and harvested all summer long. Some of our favorites from this summer included beautiful sunflowers, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, zucchinis, beets, lettuces, snap peas and green beans.
We planted a pollinator garden and families even found caterpillars growing on our dil l plants studying the life cycle of butterf l ies. More to come in the garden this Fall as teachers will continue gardening with their classrooms!
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Service Day 2019Last Spring we had to delay our Service Day due to the snow and rain!
This didn?t stop our parent volunteers from brightening up our blacktop. A very special thank you to Justin Witt and Olivia Schreiner for repainting the USA map, classroom line up circles and four squares. We hope you enjoy the extra color on your way back to school!
Oh, how our
garden grows!
What is DivCo?The Whittier Diversity Committee is one of the committees on the Whittier PTO. Each school in District 97 has a diversity committee that does varied events related to diversity and inclusion? ranging from lectures, providing educational sessions about resources, discussion groups on race and equity, and hosting inclusive playdates.
The Whittier Diversity Committee is for you and what you feel is important as it relates to diversity and inclusion. Please check us out, join, or volunteer.
Stay tuned for the next general meeting.
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BACK TO SCHOOL PICNICTHURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
WHITTIER 101SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
PICTURE DAYTUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
PTO MEETINGTUESDAY OCTOBER 1
WALK TO SCHOOL DAY+
FUN RUNTUESDAY OCTOBER 2
COMMON GROUNDFRIDAY OCTOBER 4
WHITTIER AT THE MOVIESFRIDAY OCTOBER 18
PTO BOOK FAIROCTOBER 23-25
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE (HALF DAYS)THURSDAY OCTOBER 24
FRIDAY OCTOBER 25
PUMPKIN FESTIVALOCTOBER 29-30
HALLOWEEN PARADETHURSDAY OCTOBER 31
INSTITUTE DAY (NO SCHOOL)FRIDAY NOVEMBER 1
Whit t ier 101 SessionPlease join our teachers and staff for this very informative and eye-opening talk. We will discuss questions related school discipline, educational supports, social justice, and school culture.
When: Saturday, September 14, 2019 from 8:30 am to 12 pmWhere: Whitt ier Elementary ?Auditorium
Free childcare will be provided. Please RSVP by Wednesday Sept 11 for childcare to [email protected]
Refreshments will be served.
SAV
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Whit t ier DivCo
Chalkthe
Walk 2019
