Welcome Students and Parents to the 2023-2024 School Year!

Date: August 25, 2023

Dear Tiger Families,

I hope this letter finds you well and enjoying the last few days of summer break. As we gear up for the start of a new school year, I wanted to take a moment to share some important updates and new policies that will be in effect as we welcome back our students.

First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude for your continued support and collaboration. Our school community thrives because of the partnership between our dedicated educators, motivated students, and engaged families. I am beyond excited to be taking on the new role as the 6-12 principal.

We are excited to welcome students back to campus on Tuesday, August 29th and look forward to seeing everyone on Monday, August 28th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. for Open House. Open house is a great time to meet teachers, fill out paperwork, pay fees, and check student schedules.

Updated Handbook Policies:

This Walnut Grove Junior High and High School Handbook serves as a comprehensive guide to our school's policies, procedures, and expectations. It is essential for students, parents, and guardians to be familiar with its contents to ensure a successful, positive, and safe school experience.

 I want to take this time to update you all on a few new items.

1. **Junior High Cell Phone Policy:** Page 24 of the handbook states 

All Junior High students who have a D or F in a class when biweekly grade checks are run, must turn in their cellular device to the office each morning. This is to ensure that students are focused on improving their grades. They can return to having their cell phone after two weeks and with the improvement of grades.

2. **Technology Usage: ** 

We are asking that all students in grades 6-12 pay a nonrefundable $25.00 fee to help cover the cost of broken or damaged devices. You can find an updated Technology Usage Handbook on our school website.

3. **Student Dress Code:** Page 39 of the handbook states

Headgear (caps, hats, etc.) Students may wear caps and hats in the school and classrooms at the teacher’s discretion. Hoods are not permitted. 

Please take the time to review the updated Junior High and High School Handbook thoroughly. Moving into the new school year, the attendance and tardy policies (although, not new) will be a strong focus in an effort towards continuous growth and improvement. You can access the handbook on our school's website (wgtigers.com) or printed copies are available upon request from the school office.

Parent-Teacher Communication Platform:

We are working on updating all parent contact information. We ask that you check your child’s contact information when you register them. A few great ways to stay in touch with upcoming events and important information is by signing up for Textcaster (wgtigers.com), viewing our school website and events calendar, and connecting on our social media platforms.

In closing, we ask that all Junior High and High School parents and visitors enter through the office doors into our secure vestibule where they can check in.  We will be updating all parents and students regarding drop off and pick up procedures once all plans are finalized with our current construction project. 

I am genuinely excited about the upcoming school year and the opportunities it holds for each student to grow. I am confident that, together, we will create an enriching and supportive environment where every child can thrive. 

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out to our administration or staff. We value your input and are here to support you and your student(s). 

Wishing you a wonderful end to your summer and a fantastic start to the school year!

Respectfully,

Emily Woody

6-12 Principal