Washington Street School fifth graders participated in a “Day in Clay” workshop with professional ceramic artist and educator Cliff Mendelson from Jan. 8-9, as part of the school’s Artist-in-Residence Program.

Mendelson demonstrated the art of creating pottery by hand, sharing traditional techniques by Native American potters and often-used symbols, patterns and imagery. Each fifth grader created their own Native American-inspired vase or textural bowl clay piece.

“Our cultural arts program of creating Native American-influenced pottery fosters self-awareness and cultural appreciation, helping students connect with their emotions and heritage,” Principal John Stella said. “Through collaborative pottery-making, students practice social skills like empathy and cooperation, aligning with our SEL goals.”

Date Added: 1/15/2025

Washington Street School’s band and chorus students treated audiences to festive holiday tunes during three performances of their Winter Concert, held on Dec. 18 and 19.

The show began with the third and fourth grade chorus, under the direction of music teacher Kelly Tesar. With cheerful smiles and dance movements, the group sang “Ready, Set, Snow!” “Feel the Joy of Hanukkah” and “Who Put the Christmas Presents Under the Tree?”

The band, under the direction of teacher Jason O’Connor, followed the younger chorus members with performances of “Winter Winds,” “First Winter’s Sleigh Ride” and “All for Chanukah.” Members of the Jazz Band showcased their skills in a rendition of “Jingle Bell Rock,” as well.

Chorus students in fifth and sixth grade took their turn on the stage, singing “Beboppin’ Santa Claus” and “A Hanukkah Wish.” Their final song, “Hot Chocolate!” also featured a dance routine by some of the chorus members.

The concert concluded with a holiday medley sing-along and the band finale of “Feliz Navidad.”

The chorus and band students dedicatedly rehearsed for the concert for about two months and performed for their peers and families over the course of the three shows.

Click here to view the Winter Concert at WSS 2024 slideshow.

Date Added: 12/23/2024

Last month, in honor of November being Men’s Health Awareness Month, our school participated in the “Movember Movement” to raise awareness and support for men’s health. To honor the cause throughout the month, students and staff were encouraged to wear blue on Fridays, and staff could donate to wear jeans and join in No Shave November. Students were given fake mustaches, as well, to join the fun. The school raised  $432.00 for Movember Foundation, which is dedicated to men’s health awareness and cancer research.

Date Added: 12/13/2024

Washington Street School’s first grade classes excitedly gathered in the library for a special guest visit from local author Roseanne Critelli on Nov. 26. Ms. Critelli read her recently published, festive children’s book, “The Adventures of Luca and Sonny: Spirit of Christmas.”

The book, which is about two spirited puppies, focuses on the spirit of giving and spending time with loved ones during the holiday season.

Following the read-aloud, school social worker Rosie Carino shared some of the students’ prepared questions, such as “How many books have you written?” and “Is your story fiction or nonfiction?” Each student received a Luca and Sonny bookmark from Ms. Critelli and had the chance to win a raffle of her three published works.

Date Added: 12/4/2024