Dear Washington Parents and Guardians,
I would like to reveal just a little bit about myself at each
opportunity. I have three lovely children (Kaitlyn, Mikaela, and Courtney)
and a wonderful wife (Jennifer). We love the outdoors, camping, and skiing.
My wife teaches at Taylor Elementary School, another small school over by
Patty Jewett, so teaching runs deep in our family. I was a science teacher
in District 11 for six years and I love to explore the world of science.
Everyday things spark my curiosity and everything can be a science lesson
(just ask my kids). I hope that we can spark that same curiosity in your
children this coming year.
Speaking of sparks… With Core Knowledge in
its third year at Washington, students at every grade level are introduced
to more challenging and interesting topics. Starting with kindergarten,
students learn about the continents and maps. They study about plants,
animals and weather. In first grade, children begin to learn about early
explorers and the American Revolution. Second graders will learn about
cycles of nature, insects and the human body. In third grade, students
study astronomy, earth science, and the thirteen colonies. Fourth graders
investigate magnetism, electricity, and geology. Finally, fifth graders
build on their knowledge about early explorers, Native Americans, Westward
Expansion, and the Civil War. In addition, Core Knowledge provides skill
development opportunities in reading, writing, and mathematics. Our Core
commitment continues to grow and is a great addition to our school.
Teachers will be sharing more information about Core Knowledge throughout
the school year.
I want to invite you to be a regular visitor
to Washington. Contact Melody Collins, our Community Liaison, if you would
like to volunteer. Melody would love to sign you up to help. There is also
a very active and ambitious PTO. The PTO supports the school through
Fundraisers, by organizing special events and through volunteering. Please
join this great group of parents.
Parents are also invited to join our Building Accountability
Advisory Committee (BAAC) which meets on the 3rd Tuesday of
the month at 2:50 pm. BAAC is an oversight committee that helps set
Washington’s goals and priorities. Contact the school office if you want to
become a member of this very important committee.
Washington is a community of high achieving
students. The staff takes great pride in Washington’s educational program.
We know learning happens when children feel safe, receive encouragement, and
are challenged. Our community also understands that we need to support one
another. Let us know if we can help you and your child. Working together,
we will enjoy watching our students achieve many successes.
Sincerely,
Terry Martinez
Principal
