Family Engagement Guide

Family Engagement Belief Statement

At Westside Elementary, we believe that families are essential partners in the education of our children.  We value diversity, inclusivity and transparency.  We strive to create a supportive school community that is a safe space where all families feel seen, heard and a part of our community.  We are One Family.

En Westside Elementary creemos que las familias son socios esenciales en la educación de nuestros niños. Valoramos la diversidad, la inclusión y la transparencia. Nos esforzamos por crear una comunidad escolar solidaria que sea un espacio seguro donde todas las familias se sientan vistas, escuchadas y parte de nuestra comunidad. Somos Una Familia.

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Volunteer Opportunities

  • Dudes on Duty-Community Schools
  • Volunteering for events
  • Volunteering for clubs/activities
  • Volunteering for OPTs board and committee chairs

Communication: Peachjar, Sign-up Genius, OPTS speaking and being a part of school functions, clear statement of what we are looking for and where to sign up, translate all materials

Curate many levels of commitment and opportunities to be involved or volunteer.

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Family Engagement Events

August 20 - Kinder Playdate
August 27 - Ready Set Go
September 18 - Back to School Bash
October 3 - Hispanic Heritage Day
October 23 - Blood Drive & Conference Night
November 20- Indigenous Heritage Night
December 18 - Winter Celebration 
January 15 - Wildcat Family Night 
February 6 - Read Your Heart Out 2026
February 19 - Black History Celebration Night 
February 26 - Blood Drive & Conference Night
March 19 - Women's History 
April 16 - Autism Awareness Night 
May 21 - AAPI Heritage Night
June 4 - Party on the Playground 
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How parents & caregivers can help us meet our school goals

  • Student Goal Setting 
  • Connection during P/T Conferences to set goals for students
  • Throughout the year
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How do families know how their student is doing?

  • End of Unit Summary Sheets (Literacy and Math)
  • Parent/Caregiver Conferences
  • Communication from child’s teacher(s)
  • Report Cards
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How can families get involved with our SCO?

  • Second Tuesday of every month 6-7:30
  • Meal and childcare provided
  • Invites shared before via email/BB Connect
  • Stay informed: Facebook, website
     
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How will teachers communicate with families?
  • Remind
  • Email
  • BB Connect
  • Phone
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How will the principal communicate with families?
  • BB Connect
  • Remind
  • Phone 
  • Email
  • Smore Newsletter
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How can families contact the school? Main Office: 608-834-7500
Attendance: 608-834-7500 (Press 1)
Principal Nikki Harcus: 608-834-7501
Associate Principal Emily Leslie: 608-834-7551