October 31, 2024
Dear Watertown Public Schools Faculty, Families, and Students,
Strategic Planning Update
On Monday, October 28, the Strategic Planning/Welcoming Schools Committee kicked off the first meeting of the year with an intriguing presentation led by Mr. Jonathan Costa, Executive Director of EdAdvance, our local Regional Education Service Center (RESC). The presentation focused on the emergence of Artificial intelligence and how it is changing the economy and the landscape of education.
With an emphasis on WPS’ current Vision of a Graduate, the committee was encouraged to consider how we might adapt our current set of competencies outlined in the Watertown Vision of a Graduate to best reflect the skills the graduating class of 2037 will need when they graduate from the Watertown Public Schools. Yes! Our current Kindergarteners are the class of 2037!
As we continue to work towards answering the question: “What does it mean to be educated and intelligent in an era of Artificial Intelligence (AI)” the committee will soon dive into determining exactly what those priority competencies are through the upcoming collaborative work sessions. Regular updates will be provided to the WPS community. The next Strategic Planning/Welcoming Committee meeting will take place on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 - 5:30-6:45PM. If you are interested in being part of this important work, you can still sign up by completing this form, click here.
Wall of Honor Recipient Mr. Keith Borkowski
With friends, family, colleagues and supporters in the audience, long time Coach Keith Borkowski was inducted into the WHS Wall of Honor. Please click here for the full press release. Congratulations to Coach Borkowski!
A Safe and Healthy Halloween
We wish all of our families who plan on trick or treating this evening a safe and healthy Halloween. Click on these two resources for important safety reminders.
Election Day
A reminder that there is no school next Tuesday, November 5th, due to election day. Parent Teacher Conferences will take place in all schools.
Keep Scrolling for more pictures! Sincerely,
Dr. V
Important Dates to Remember
October 31 - Halloween
November 1- Diwali Festival of Lights Begins
November 5 - Election Day. Students DO NOT attend school, Schools Open for Parent/Teacher Conferences
November 6 - Early Release Day. Parent/Teacher Conferences
November 8 - Judson Veterans Day Assembly, Senior Center guests visit!
November 11 - Veterans Day, Schools Closed - Town Veterans Day Memorial Ceremony
November 12 - Regularly Scheduled BOE Meeting, 7PM, WHS Lecture Hall
November 14-16 - WHS Theatre Presents “Fantastic Mr. Fox”, 7PM WHS Auditorium
November 19 - 8th Grade Orientation at WHS, 5:30-7:30PM
November 20 - School Capital Projects Building Committee Meeting, 7PM, Town Council Chambers
November 21 - WHS Homecoming, La Bella Vista
November 25 - Regularly Scheduled BOE Meeting, 7PM, WHS Lecture Hall
November 27-29 - Thanksgiving Holiday, All Schools and Offices Closed
November 28 - Turkey Bowl/WHS Football at WHS John Mills Complex
Events In and Around Town
Diwali
Diwali, often referred to as the Festival of Lights, is a major celebration in India and across the globe. This festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Traditionally, families illuminate their homes with oil lamps known as diyas, create intricate rangoli designs using colored powders, and share festive meals filled with sweets. For many, Diwali serves as a moment for spiritual introspection, a celebration of prosperity, and a time to strengthen bonds with family and friends. The festival spans five days. In 2024, Diwali will be celebrated primarily on October 31st and November 1st. We wish all of our families celebrating Diwali a wonderful time.
Native American Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month, celebrated every November, is a time to honor the vibrant cultures, traditions, and contributions of Native Americans. This month provides an opportunity to acknowledge the history, resilience, and diverse experiences of Indigenous peoples in the United States. The observance began in 1990 when President George H. W. Bush signed a joint resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month, building on earlier efforts to recognize Native American contributions. Throughout November, various events and educational programs aim to foster discussions about Indigenous history and culture. The National Museum of the American Indian plays a key role in supporting these conversations by offering resources and information to enhance understanding and appreciation of Native American heritage.
