Blue & White Newsletter - 4/19/24
Week of April 15, 2024
Reunification Surprises - Returning From Deployment
Master Sergeant Adrianna Frey was reunited with her sons, Jayden Zapata-Frey (6th grade) and Anthony Frey (4th grade), today after a 7-month deployment with the Air Force.
The Middle School held a Spirit/Pep Rally today during which Jayden and the entire Middle School engaged in various Minute-to-Win-It style games and activities, each grade level racking up points. As a final "Who can be the first to show me a _______," the requested item was an American flag. Jayden was quite surprised to see his mom enter the gymnasium with her American flag in hand! You can see the video of their reunification by clicking Jayden's bar below.
After her reunification with Jayden at the Middle School, together, they traveled to Trimmer Elementary to surprise Anthony! While working diligently in the Media Center, Anthony's mom and brother surprised him with their stealth entry into the Media Center! You can see their reunification in Anthony's bar below.
Thank you, Master Sergeant Frey for your service! And thank you, Jayden, Anthony, and your family for your service as a military family! We know you will all have a WONDERFUL weekend, and beyond!
Husky Dog Pound Competition - "Shark Tank"
Students from Mr. Christopher Storm's Entrepreneurship Club at the High School participated in a Shark Tank-inspired business pitch competition last month. The seventh annual Husky Dog Pound Competition brought more than 600 students making up over 150 business pitches from all over Pennsylvania to Commonwealth University — Bloomsburg on Thursday, March 21st.
Club members worked for several months to develop business concepts which they pitched in front of a panel of judges. Students also enjoyed a college fair, campus tour, and a delicious meal in Scranton Commons. While our teams didn't make the podium this year, we look forward to returning to placement to advance to the next level of the competition.
Sherrod Anderson, Randelle Agravante, and Philip Lingenfelter's business, SmartChef, helps customers say goodbye to wasted ingredients and hello to delicious, personalized meals tailored to their preferences and dietary needs. Using the power of AI, SmartChef promises to be your culinary companion in creating a more sustainable future by revolutionize the way we manage food and make a positive impact on the environment.
Nathan McGladrie, Owen Doolittle, and Marco Cifuentes Araujo's business, Eco-Cart, helps to address the environmental concern of the five trillion plastic bags consumed each year. With Eco-Cart, you can go from checkout to your trunk. Our foldable shopping cart eliminates the need for bags entirely, a win for both the environment and the consumer.
Pictured (L-R) top center photograph below: Nathan McGladrie (11th), Owen Doolittle (11th), Randelle Agravante (12th), Sherrod Anderson (12th), Philip Lingenfelter (11th), and Marco Cifuentes Araujo (11th).
Organism Exploration - It's Dissection Time!
The students in Ms. Tracey Elder's Zoology class at the High School have been studying worm phyla--Platyhelminthes, Nematodes, and Annelids. With each of the phyla, the students have performed various activities to help learn about their characteristics, structure and function, examples, and ecological importance. For instance, the earthworm is classified in the phylum Annelida. Students were able to learn about an earthworm’s behavior as well as their external anatomy by working with live earthworms. Students also dissected an earthworm to study the earthworm’s internal and external anatomy. These activities help students to understand how body systems work as well as the complexity within organisms.
Exploring Polygons: Constructing Shapes with Straws and Twist Ties
Students in Mrs. Kelly Murphy's first grade class at Wallace Elementary are learning about defining attributes of polygons during heir math time. A polygon is a two-dimensional geometric figure that has a finite number of sides. The sides of a polygon are made of straight line segments connected to each other end to end.
Last week they made polygons using straws and twist ties. They focused on identifying the number of sides and vertices for each polygon.
Ms. Wagner's Class Hosts an Authors' Tea
Last week, students in Ms. Marlena Wagner's 1st grade class at Wallace Elementary had an authors' tea. Each student wrote a story, edited it, and typed it! Then, their parents/guests came in and the students were able to share their stories. We have some very creative and imaginative student writers!
Special Feathered Visitors Come to Lincolnway!
Mr. Matt Smith returned to Lincolnway Elementary again this year with several of his birds to do a presentation for the second graders. The students are learning about chicken embryology in science. All nine classes are incubating chicken eggs this year. Mr. Smith brought several varieties of chickens and ducks along with his two turkeys from last year, Tucker and Marshmallow.
Pictured to the left, Ms. Kelsey Sersen's autistic support students also enjoyed seeing the many different types of birds as second grade prepares for the most exciting part of their egg unit - hatching time!
Newest Member of the Basketball 1,000 Point Club!
At last week's Work Session of the Board of Directors, senior Faith Walker was recognized for her career accomplishments while here at West York. Faith is one of our select few three-season athletes. She was a member of the volleyball team which qualified for Districts all four years she was on the team. Faith ended her volleyball career with 545 kills, 17 assists, 52 aces, 88 digs, and 33 blocks. Also, for these past two years, Faith has also been a member of the track and field team. Her specialties include the high jump, sprints, and relays.
But the focus at the meeting was to honor Faith for her leadership and accomplishments in basketball. During her tenure, the team qualified for the District 3 Tournament three times finishing 8th, 7th, and 4th place. They also qualified for the PIAA State Tournament three times with an Elite 8 appearance, which has only ever been accomplished one other time in our program’s history.
As if all that wasn’t enough, Faith now holds the record for the most points scored in a single season with 509 points. Faith has also achieved the coveted 1,000 point milestone this season. She is now the 7th member of the girls’ basketball 1,000 Point Club and is 5th place all-time in scoring with 1,062 career points. Her name will forever be immortalized on the banner in the gym.
Faith has been an excellent role model for all of the up and coming Bulldogs that will follow in her footsteps. She is a great example of the byproduct of hard work and dedication. She has done a lot here at West York both on and off the court. We wish her the best as she continues her basketball career at the Division I level at Duquesne University!
Mr. Fuhrman presents the 1,000 Point Club banner.
Mr. Lynn Kohler - School Board President,
Faith Walker, Dr. Todd Davies - Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Brandon Fuhrman - Athletic Director, and Mr. Jason Getz - Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach.
Wallace Spring Fest
Thank You Elementary PTO!
The West York Elementary PTO hosted the final season party for Wallace Elementary last Friday. Each elementary school has a seasonal event throughout the year. Trimmer Elementary had Fall Fest, Lincolnway Elementary had Friendship Fest, and Wallace Elementary enjoyed their Spring Fest. Thank you to our parent volunteers who donated and helped the day of the event! These wouldn’t be possible without your support. Stay tuned! End of the year fun days are coming up in late May!
Future Leaders
On Wednesday, Sarah Grubic and Dr. Todd Davies attended the Future Leaders of York luncheon. Sarah has been a participant in the Future Leader of York program for the 23-24 school year.
Each year, high school students from over twenty York County high schools learn to become lifelong, responsible, active participants in their hometown community. Participants develop leadership skills and lasting relationships with each other and community leaders. In addition to a Saturday retreat and 6 weekday sessions, the students perform community service projects, meet with established community leaders, participate in a community leader networking session and learn about informed giving and grant-making, both in theory and in actual practice.
Students are selected by their respective school districts in late spring for participation during the following school year. Students interested in becoming a Future Leader of York should apply through their Counseling Center counselor.
Trash to Energy Program
First graders at Wallace Elementary participated in one of the “Trash to Energy” programs offered by the York County Solid Waste Authority. They were introduced to the history of paper, how it’s made, the use of trees to make paper, and the importance of recycling and preserving our natural resources. They enjoyed the hands-on experience of making their own piece of recycled paper!
Thank You West Manchester Township Fire Department!
Recently, it was necessary for us to replace the roping on the flagpole at Lincolnway Elementary. We are very grateful for the help and "reach" provided by Chief Laughman of the West Manchester Township Fire Department!
The Power of the Sun
On April 8th, Ms. Emma Geiger's class at Trimmer Elementary learned about the eclipse by watching a Discovery Education video and reading an article. Students then investigated the strength of the sun's light by making sun prints. They collected objects around the school and placed them on construction paper. The prints were left outside until Tuesday for the sun to work its magic.
Wallace Elementary Faculty Gather for the Great Eclipse!
Faculty and staff at Wallace Elementary gathered to experience last Monday's solar eclipse! While at home, Mr. Jonathan Hoffman's dog was also enjoying the eclipse from behind the safety of the special viewing glasses!
Please Join Us for the Annual District Multicultural Fair!
The Multicultural Fair is an annual District-wide event where West York families unite and raise awareness of the rich culture represented in our district through the celebration of ethnic food, music, dance, art and more.
West York Area Middle School
1700 Bannister Street
Thursday, May 2, 2024
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
- To attend, admission is free with the donation of one or more canned goods for the Bulldog Pantry.
- To participate, bring food, cultural artifacts, photos, and displays of a country or culture. Reserve a table in advance by contacting Mrs. Gomez-Myers via email at mmmyers@wyasd.org.
We hope to see you there!
K-5 Remake Learning Night!
K-5 FAMILIES . . . JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL
WEST YORK TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING ELEMENTARY STEM ACTIVITY NIGHT
Wallace Elementary School
2065 High Street
Tuesday, May 7th
5:30 - 7:00 PM
Come for a night of fun and exciting hands-on activities!
Please click the image below to RSVP!
This assists us in preparing the necessary amount of supplies/materials.
April 12, 2024
9th/10th Grade:
Matt McCoy
For working hard in class the last few days! Keep it up!
11th/12th Grade:
Dameon Gray
For taking accountability for his actions and being a model student among his peers!
Faculty/Staff:
Mr. Albert Janaszek
For always doing the right thing!
April 19, 2024
9th/10th Grade:
Lily Fake
For caring about your work and progress in class!
11th/12th Grade:
Gage Weathersby
For saying good morning everyday!
Faculty/Staff:
Mrs. Amanda Kazi
For holding this ship together one strip of duct tape at a time!
How Sick is Too Sick for School?
This is a question parents often ask. We know that mornings can be challenging for adults and children alike. Sometimes we wake and might not feel our best, but once we get moving, often we find it wasn't a problem making it through the day - at work or at school.
So, here's a great reference for assisting you in determining whether to send your child to school when they have complaints of not feeling well. You can click here for a printable copy to hang on your refrigerator on family bulletin board.
Have You Reconnected with Us?
Recently, we created fresh Facebook and Instagram accounts, as shared in our March 1st newsletter. Be sure to Like/Follow us so you don't experience FOMO - Fear of Missing Out!
Click below to Like and Follow us!
2024-2025 District Calendar Now Available!
At the February 20th Board Meeting, the 2024-2025 District Calendar was approved and you can access it from our website by clicking the bar below.
Important Dates - Late April - Early May
- Friday, April19, HS/MS Spring Jazz Concert @ HS (7:00 p.m.)
- Thursday, April 25, Off to Kindergarten @ Wallace (5:30 p.m.)
- Saturday, April 27th, HS Prom (6:00 p.m.)
- Wednesday, May 1, 5th Grade Guide to Middle School (6:30 p.m.)
- Thursday, May 2, MS Cultural Fair (5:30 p.m.)
- Friday, May 3, HS Spring Band Concert (7:00 p.m.)
- Monday, May 6, MS Academic Recognition Awards Assembly (6:30 p.m.)
- Tuesday, May 7, K-5 Remake Learning Event/Wallace Art Show (5:30 p.m.)
- Friday, May 10, Early Dismissal
The Bulldog Breakdown
Check out this week's issue of the Bulldog Breakdown, a weekly recap of the prior week's athletic accomplishments and lists the upcoming sporting events.
Don't miss important information on the PIAA postseason events, brackets, schedules, and how to purchase tickets! Simply click the Bulldog image to view the latest issue!
Kindergarten Registration is Now OPEN!
Kindergarten registration for the 2024-2025 school year is now open. We encourage families to register early. Simply click the image to the right and click on Create A New Account. Even if you already have students in West York, you will use the Create A New Account to begin the registration process for your incoming kindergarten student. Children need to be five years of age by September 1, 2024, to be eligible for kindergarten.
If you have any questions, please contact our Registration Office at 717-792-2796 extension 1216.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
IN AND AROUND THE DISTRICT
Calling All Elementary Parents/Guardians and Staff!
Are you passionate about shaping the future of our school community? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of our students? We're looking for dedicated individuals to join the PTO Board for the 2024-2025 school year!
Positions Available:
- President
- Vice President
- Assistant Treasurer
If you're interested in any of these positions or want to learn more, click the image below to fill out the volunteer form by April 30th. The May 15th meeting is a must attend (6:00 pm) at Wallace Elementary.
Let's work together to make the 2024-2025 school year the best one yet!
Flower Bouquets for 2024 Graduation Ceremony
The Class of 2025 is holding a Commencement Bouquets fundraiser for the 2024 graduation! This is a great opportunity to have a beautiful bouquet of roses conveniently ready for you just outside the ceremony entrance! If you would like to pre-purchase a bouquet, please scan the QR Code below or click the picture to be directed to the vendor website.
Save 46% on Hershey Park Tickets While Supporting our Elementary PTO & MS PTSO
Here is a fun way to support our Elementary PTO and our Middle School PTSO while giving your family a fun day at Hershey Park with a 46% discount on park tickets, and 17% discount on parking.
TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED BY FRIDAY, APRIL 19TH!
Orders received in the school offices
on Monday, April 22nd will be processed!
DON'T WAIT!
Click the bar(s) below to access the Elementary PTO Form and/or the Middle School PTSO Form.
WYAHS Football Team Fundraiser! A Night at The Races!
Join your fellow Bulldogs at a Night at the Races, a fundraiser to benefit the West York Area High School football team!
Wyndam Gardens
Friday, May 10th
Doors Open at 5:00 PM, Dinner at 6:00 PM
Contact Jess for Tickets and Questions
223-281-4262
$65.00/Person includes Dinner
Other gambling will be available
Kids Bowl Free Program
Check out the Kids Bowl Free Program! This program is designed by bowling centers to give back to the community. We have three bowling centers in our area that are participating:
- Colony Park Lanes
- Laser Alleys
- Suburban Bowlerama
Step 1: Go to https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/all_centers.php#PA and find a center near you.
Step 2: Create an account for your family.
Step 3: Enjoy an entire summer of bowling FUN!
Three FREE Comic Books!
Comix Connection located on White Street in the Carlisle Commerce Center will be giving out three free comic books on Saturday, May 4th! Be sure to stop by to get yours and get a head start of selecting your summer reading materials!
Free Synchro Clinic!
Community Corner
Be Sure To Check It Out Often!
The Community Corner of our website offers families many helpful links to organizations or flyers about upcoming or ongoing community activities, clubs, and events. The information on this webpage changes frequently and those changes will be highlighted here as they occur. The latest updates are pictured below.
From our Home webpage, click on Community to access links to various organizations/community events.
Newly Added: Belmont Summer Academy - Theatre Summer Camps
Here are just some examples:
- Cub Scouts (Boys & Girls ages 5-12)
- Girl Scouts
- West York Boys Club
- YMCA of York
- YWCA of York
Community Resources such as:
- United Way
- Community Progress Council
- Dream Wrights Center for Community Arts
- Belmont Summer Academy - Theatre Summer Camps