Dear Voyager Students, Families, and Guardians, July 2012
We hope this letter finds you well and that the summer has brought you lots of excitement, fun, and relaxation so far. Although it is only July, the school year is right around the corner, and we have planned some exciting new changes for the 2012-2013 school year. We believe these new philosophies and opportunities will maximize the potential of each Voyager student to reach their individual hopes and dreams for the year. We also believe these changes will help in streamlining communication and building a supportive and meaningful community. Some of these changes, as described in the June letter from Mrs. Parks, include Aron Merrill and Colleen O’Brien, teaching 5th/6th grade Language Arts/Social Studies and Math/Science respectively. Martha Quatt and Lauren Wesnak teaching 7th/8th grade Math/Science and Language Arts/Social Studies respectively. Courtney Sherman co-teaching in all areas, providing direction and implementation of individual learning plans(IEP). An additional change includes a 5th-8th grade advisory program which will help in building and keeping our 5-8th grade community strong. Other supports include the keeping of Kiva Fridays, the Theater Unit, Field Trips, and 5-8th grade literature groups. More specific details about our changes will be articulated in the Voyager Handbook, which you will receive on the first day of school.
Along with our new philosophy changes, Voyager House has two new team members (mentioned above), who we are really excited to welcome into our community. Courtney Sherman, our new 5th-8th grade special educator, is a Master’s level graduate from the University of Vermont. Courtney has been a tutor and para-educator. Courtney is excited to join the team, get to know our students, and implement individual educational plans for our students. Lauren Wesnak, our new 7th/8th grade Language Arts and Social Studies teacher, brings a wealth of experience to Voyager. She most recently interned with Full House teacher, Tracey D’Amato, while attending UVM for her Masters in Teaching. Prior to Williston, Lauren worked for three years as a residential educator at Rock Point School in Burlington. Lauren’s passion, energy, and artistic flair will allow her to challenge students to think critically about themselves, their community, and the world.
Some other exciting news! We have a two day, one night Voyager adventure planned for the 6th and 7th of September
at Siskin Adventure Camp in Derby, VT. Although 6th-8th graders have been there before, we will have a whole new set of challenges and activities planned for these days that will welcome our new 5th graders and help to lay the foundation for a great year. Paperwork and permission slips will be going home the first day of school so please be on the lookout for them! If you are interested in joining us, please contact Kim Russ, our TA, so that we can add you to the chaperone list.
5th Grade Students: Williston Central School 5th graders will be assessed in several areas before the school year begins. The math and literacy skill information will guide teachers and support staff as we plan interventions for students who need extra support or challenge. The Voyager testing will be on Monday, August 20th from 2:15-3:45 pm in the WCS dining room. A make-up session will be offered on Tuesday, August 21st from 10:30-12:00.
All Students:Additionally, all new students (5th graders included) will have a mentor this year. This mentorship will be an integral part in the building of the Voyager House culture. Mentors and mentees will share the same advisory for the entire school year and have special activities for collaboration. Mentors will be notified in early August and both Mentees and Mentors will be invited to join us for a Meet and Greet breakfast on the morning of Tuesday, August 28th.
On the reverse side of this letter, please find the school supply list for the 2012-2013 school year. Be sure to locate the correct list for your student, as we have different lists for ⅚ and ⅞. Once again, we welcome our new families and look forward to our continuing our relationships with our present families. We thank you for your continued support and please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. Enjoy your summer!
Sincerely,The Voyager TeamAron Merrill, amerrill@cssu.orgColleen O’Brien, cobrien@cssu.orgMartha Quatt, mquatt@cssu.org Lauren Wesnak, lwesnak@cssu.orgCourtney Sherman, Special Educator, csherman@cssu.orgKim Russ, kruss@cssu.org
Don’t Forget Me! Important Dates:
- Monday, August 20th, 2:15-3:45 PM - 5th Grade Testing
- Tuesday, August 21st, 10:30-12:00 - Make-up Date for 5th Grade Testing.
- Monday and Tuesday, August 27th and 28th - Hopes and Dreams Conferences - for parents/students new to Voyager. Parents will be contacted to schedule a time for this meeting.
- Tuesday, August 28th - Mentor and Mentee Meet and Greet Breakfast!
- Wednesday, August 29th - First day of school!
- Thursday and Friday, September 6th and 7th - Voyager Overnight Field Trip to Siskin Adventure Camp, Derby, VT!
- Friday, September 7th - Voyager Pizza Picnic Pick-up! More details to come!
- Thursday, September 20th (6:30-8:00pm) 5-8th Grade Common Curriculum Night
School Supply list for 2012-2013
We ask that all students refer to the ⅚ or ⅞ supply list below,while doing your school shopping for this school year.
In addition, new students should bring $12 in cash by Tuesday, September 4, 2012, for the purchase of a portfolio, sheet protectors, and a daily planner. Returning students need only pay $7, if their portfolio and sheet protectors are in good shape. Otherwise, returning students may decide to purchase a new one per the price for new students. Returning students, please be sure that portfolios come back to school by the first week or two of school.
⅚ Grade
| ⅞ Grade
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