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 springtime activities. 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.

May 1, 2024

What's Good Wednesday starts off with wishing everyone a very HAPPY May 1st! Today kicks off grades 3-6 Reading SOLs, standardized tests in which kids statewide participate. “Test score measures of achievement tell you where a student is, but they don’t tell you where a student could end up.” -Carole Dweck. This time of year can bring mixed feelings for many students and families.  K-2nd grade students send good luck messages, and you GOT THIS vibe for 3rd-6th grade students.  On test day, we encourage a good night's sleep, a healthy breakfast, and to remain positive!

May 8, 2024

What's Good Wednesday takes us outside to join all the recess fun with our students. During this time, weather permitting, students go outside, breathe in the fresh air, and get vitamin D. Recess allows them an opportunity to engage with peers, physically exercise, and play creatively. Recess serves several benefits for our students. It is a valuable time to enhance communication skills, learn to negotiate, play cooperatively, share, problem-solve, and develop coping strategies. This is a great opportunity at home to model and discuss appropriate ways to build these skills and strategies.

May 15, 2024

What's Good Wednesday would like to highlight our before and after school clubs. Students had an opportunity to participate in various clubs throughout the year. Here are some of the ways students participated this year: practiced their acting skills at Drama Club, combined movement and rhythm in Cheer Club, experimented and explored When Science Meets Art, balanced science concepts and applications at Science Olympiad, investigated using critical thinking skills in Drones, Micro:bits, and Lego Robotics, and provided physical activity building confidence through Running Club that participated in the Jaguar 5K, Falls Church High School's annual community race. These are just a glimpse of this year's fun, engaging activities.

May 22, 2024

What's Good Wednesday is spotlighting the cross-collaboration of our buddy classes. Buddy classes are when two classes, older and younger students, unite to build community and share their love for learning. This is an opportunity for students to converse with their buddies about books, mathematics, creative and critical thinking tasks, etc. The older buddies become role models by demonstrating positive behaviors and encouraging the younger buddies to try their best.

May 29, 2024

What's Good Wednesday has had a fantastic year, and this week, we are highlighting all the wonderful and fun moments we cherish together as we finish out the year. The end-of-year features our students' celebrations and accomplishments since we know this time often comes with mixed emotions. Students and staff work together to finish the year strong with continuous smiles and engaging learning opportunities.   

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.