What’s Good Wednesday is our weekly celebration about Westlawn’s social-emotional learning (SEL) wins. In elementary school, SEL is incredibly important because it teaches students valuable skills like understanding and managing their emotions, interacting positively with others, and making responsible decisions. These skills are not only beneficial for academic success but also for navigating the complexities of life beyond the classroom. By integrating SEL into the curriculum, schools create an environment where students feel supported and empowered to develop empathy, build healthy relationships, and thrive both academically and personally. SEL sets the stage for students to become well-rounded individuals equipped with the tools they need to succeed in school and in life.

This month we are featuring SEL and specials. Read on to learn about what we are doing at Westlawn, and how parents and caregivers can continue to support SEL at home. And, follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest #WGW news every Wednesday morning in your social media feeds.

April 3, 2024

What's Good Wednesday gives you an inside view of the importance of Creative and Critical Thinking skills with Ms. Flegal. These skills encourage students to apply what they learn and build on prior knowledge, make decisions and weigh the pros and cons, work collaboratively to expand their thinking, listen to different points of view, and connect to different ideas. In kindergarten and first grade, students used Play-Doh to create different shapes and images, using their creativity to learn. They practiced asking questions, allowing students to express themselves and share their thoughts about their creations.

April 10, 2024

What's Good Wednesday wants you to see why we love our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math) program with Mrs. Winters. This program encourages students to be independent thinkers, develop creative problem-solving skills, engage with real-world applications, and engage with project-based learning. In addition, it fosters creativity, critical thinking, and innovation that supports well-being and mental health. In second grade they use Ozobots, small robots, to teach simple coding and programming that encourages creativity and encourages kids to think critically.

April 17, 2024

What's Good Wednesday is sharing a glimpse into the numerous resources our school library provides for our students. Our librarian, Ms. Heyer, and our school-based technology specialist, Ms. Dushok, collaborate to support and develop students' skills. Students have investigated topics and explored various technology tools. Kindergarteners learned about coins and applied their learning creatively using Wixie. Canva lessons on NASA supported students' learning in third grade about eclipses, which paired nicely with a Britannica search.  Sixth graders discussed the importance of citing sources for research projects and explored the World Book database. In addition, students take time to browse shelves and check out books of interest to read. During choice time, students can navigate the new tools and resources shared. At home, check in with your child on what books they have been checking out and the latest technology tools they have been using and learning about.

April 24, 2024

What's Good Wednesday brings the beautiful sounds of the chorus and instrumental ensemble students. Mrs. Cutler and Mrs. Layton works their musical magic to bring harmony and fun to our music program. Choral singing is a beautiful art form, and the students have done an amazing job. Come check out their hard work at Kid Flix, our student musical, on May 9!

Kara Andrews-Pastor is Westlawn’s SEL coach. She works with staff to ensure that SEL best practices are used throughout the building and to ensure that staff and students can build deep, meaningful relationships that help optimize student learning. Email Ms. Andrews.