Principal
Dear Whittier Families,
It was this time last year that we transitioned to the new look for Whittier Works using the 80th anniversary logo. This November we again have a new look, courtesy of the PTA and Gina Lenigan, who are pulling together and polishing up the school newsletter. Thank you, PTA for continuing to find ways to support the school! Watch for other changes as we move forward, as well as updates to our website.
Each November we celebrate Veteran’s Day and American Education Week. It seems fitting that these dates “fall” in the month where our nation has a focus on giving thanks. We are thankful at Whittier to once again have two very familiar Veterans coming in to speak with students this year. On Friday, November 7, Army Sgt. John Vath, who served in the Vietnam War, will read to some classes and talk to students about his experiences. Mr. Vath is currently a lunchroom supervisor and until last October was our Head Custodian at Whittier. Then on Monday, November 10, Navy Lt. John Miller will join us for classroom readings and questions. Lt. Miller served in Afghanistan very recently – and he is a Whittier parent. This is a wonderful learning opportunity for our students. Be sure to ask about the visits at home. We hope that you will join in this important recognition by submitting a photo and information about a family member who has served in our armed forces. Our special bulletin board is a tribute to these heroes in our lives!
We are also thankful in Downers Grove to have safe schools, caring and competent teachers, strong curriculum, and supportive families. This winning combination forms the cornerstone of excellent schools. So, just as we close the celebration of Red Ribbon Week and our focus on healthy choices, we look ahead to American Education: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility. We will send home a separate flyer about this week of recognition of all those who make our school a good place for children to learn. Meanwhile, be sure to mark your calendar to join us for Breakfast with Books, where we celebrate your child’s first teacher… you. Come over on the morning of the 18th! Read with your child in his or her classroom. We are so appreciative of this partnership that we enjoy and look forward to seeing you at conferences and at Breakfast with Books.
Sincerely,
Linda Welch, Principal
If I were in charge of the universe, good teachers would earn far more than cabinet ministers; the latter are replaceable, the former are not. |
