Learning for Life~Loving to Learn
Aprender para la vida - Amar el aprender
Hello Roadrunner Families,
As we begin the last quarter of the school year, I can’t help but reflect on how much our students have grown—not just in inches, but in their learning, confidence, and character. At Desert Willow we live by our motto: Learning for Life – Loving to Learn … Aprender para la vida - Amar el Aprender, and I see it in action every day across our campus, from students to staff.
I am incredibly proud to work alongside a team of educators who, without a doubt, care deeply about your children and are cheering them on every step of the way. People don’t go into education for the money; they do it because of an undeniable passion for guiding and supporting students to become successful citizens. Even during Spring Break, ideas for the classroom, lunchroom, and lessons often creep into our thoughts while we’re at a baseball game, on a plane, or even just watching TV. Educators are lifelong learners, constantly striving to improve for the benefit of their students.
When we think about learning, we often focus on academics, but learning comes in many forms. It’s about understanding how to navigate different environments, how to be a gracious winner or loser, how to take responsibility for our actions, and how to embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth. Our goal isn’t to create perfect students, but well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life’s challenges.
I share this with you to give a small glimpse into the hearts and minds of the educators who work with your children every day. These are the people you want on your child’s team—the ones who meet monthly to review each student’s progress, who celebrate their successes, who notice when they’ve lost their favorite stuffy or won their big game, and who make difficult phone calls when challenges arise. We are here to support, not to judge, because we know that when we work together, our students thrive.
It is an incredible privilege to work alongside a community that shares a common goal—the success and well-being of our Roadrunners. Let’s continue to partner together as we begin our state testing. Our 5th graders start us off with the AzSCI test on March 24th, 26th, and 27th.
Roadrunner Ready,
Brandie Dunlap, Principal
3rd - 6th Grade State Testing
We ask for your support during this testing season with the following:
- Ensuring consistent attendance at school--on time, every day (please avoid scheduling appointments for your child on testing days).
- Ensuring 9-12 hours of sleep each night for your child.
- Making sure your child has the time to eat breakfast.
- Reminding your child(ren) to do their best every day at school.
- No volunteers on campus on testing days
- Any lunches or items brought in by parents/guardians after 9am will be picked up by the student when there is no testing in progress.
- 3rd-6th grade students should bring: a book to read, water, a sweater (in case the room gets cold), and wired headphones.
Below is some information to educate you on the basics of your child’s state assessments:
- Students throughout Arizona in grades 3-8 will take the Writing, Reading and Math assessments between March 31-April 25.
- Grade 3 students will also take an Oral Reading Fluency assessment that measures the rate at which they can read an unfamiliar passage. Students will use headphones with a microphone in order to submit their test online.
- Grades 5, 8, and 11 students will take AzSCI, a test measuring their proficiency in Science, which includes the standards covered in the previous grades. This test must be completed between March 17- April 11.
We highly recommend that you complete the practice questions and test items for AASA, AZSCI, ACT, or ASPIRE on the testing platform using this link to access the practice tests for your grade: https://home.testnav.com/
Thank you for your support.
DWES testing schedule:
- 5th Grade AzSCI: March 24th, 26th, & 27th
- 3rd - 6th Grade AASA: April 1- April 11th
We were honored to have a former student choose to complete his Eagle Scout Project right here at DWES over Spring Break. The level of attention, dedication, and commitment shown throughout this project was beyond impressive. Every detail was carefully considered, local business made donations, and it was inspiring to see so many volunteers—including former Roadrunners—spending their break working hard to support our school. Their teamwork and generosity truly exemplify the spirit of giving back to the community. We are so proud and grateful for their efforts!
DWES PTO
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
April 5, 2025: Doors open at 6:30, movie will begin around 7:15! We’re showing Moana 2- pizza dinner will be available for purchase!!
Are you ready to make a difference? We are currently seeking new members for our executive PTO board. Click on the google form to learn more about the positions. We currently are seeking every position on our board. So, gather your friends and join the board! It’s a fun way to support your school and doesn’t require too many extra hours a month. It’s amazing having your students beam with pride when you are supporting the school in such a impactful way! This year’s board members will mentor you for 6 months as you step into your new role!
Volunteers make it possible to continue doing what we do to have fundraisers and events. Please see the sign up genius for ways we could use your support as well as signing up for our open board positions. We can't wait for an awesome 2024-25 school year!
School safety is a shared responsibility between our schools and the community. We believe that by working together as a community, we can create an environment where all students feel safe, respected, and valued. We are grateful for and proud of the community members who reported the information. Please emphasize to your student(s), just as we want to emphasize to you, that if you or your student hear or see anything (online or in person) that creates an uncomfortable feeling about school safety, notify school staff immediately. See something, say something.
Health Update for Parents:
(repeat)As we are currently in the midst of respiratory illness season, we kindly ask all parents to monitor their children for signs of illness. If your child is not feeling well, please keep them at home to help prevent the spread of illness. Common symptoms to watch for include: cough, runny nose, fever, and sore throat.
In addition, please remind your child of the importance of frequent hand washing to help reduce the spread of germs.
Lice (repeat)
It is essential to check your child regularly for signs of lice, such as itching or scratching of the scalp, and take the necessary steps for treatment if needed. Please be aware that our school does not conduct lice checks or issue class notifications regarding lice cases. However, we strongly recommend that you consult your healthcare provider for guidance on appropriate treatment options. In addition to speaking with your child about not sharing hats, hoodies, hair items, stuffed animals, etc.
For more information, you can refer to resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS). Both offer useful guidelines on managing lice and preventing their spread.
Thank you for your cooperation and support in keeping our school community healthy and safe.
Drill Communication (repeat)
This year, we will be communicating to our families any time that we have a drill on campus. Not only does that let you know what is going on at campus, but also helps us train and prepare our students and staff and practice our procedures should a real emergency take place on our campus. The different drills that we will be practicing this year have been taught to all of our students and they are as follows:
- Hold: Keep students and staff in classrooms and out of access areas and teachers continue to teach. Why would we have a hold? Medical Emergency, Fight on Campus, etc.
- Secure: Bring all individuals into classrooms or building (secure building and lock outside access points) and teachers continue to teach. Students may or may not transition, depending on the situation. Why would we secure campus? Criminal activity in the neighborhood or a dangerous animal is on campus.
- Evacuate: Students and staff would move from one location to another for safety. Why would we evacuate staff and students? Fire, Mechanical failure, gas leak, bomb threat, etc.
- Shelter: Students and staff stay in classroom and need to be prepared for instructions. Why shelter? Weather, Hazardous materials situation.
- Lockdown: All doors locked, windows covered, everyone is quiet. Why lockdown? Threat or hazard inside of the school, act of violence on site.
PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports)
(Repeat) Spirit days fit into our PBIS system as a positive reinforcement tool, used to reward students for consistently demonstrating desired behaviors by providing a fun, school-wide activity where students can express school spirit through themed dress-up days, creating a sense of community and belonging while encouraging positive behavior.
Welcome to serious athletes who want to take their running and conditioning to another level. This class will focus on the students' running form, agility and endurance. We also will be working on improving our upper body and lower body strength. Most likely will have a Track and Field day competing with the other Elementary schools. This will be determined upon availability of the track at Cactus Shadows High School.
Quarter 4: Building Coping Skills
Dear Parents,
Welcome to our quarterly counseling newsletter! This edition focuses on coping skills—essential tools that help children manage stress, emotions, and everyday challenges. Teaching our kids effective coping strategies fosters resilience and supports their overall well-being. In this newsletter, we’ll share insights, practical tips, and engaging activities to enhance coping skills at home and in our school community.
The Importance of Coping Skills
Coping skills are techniques that help children deal with difficult situations, emotions, and stressors. By learning how to manage their feelings and respond to challenges, children develop emotional intelligence and resilience, which are crucial for their personal and academic success.
Tips for Parents
Model Healthy Coping:
- Demonstrate your own coping strategies when faced with stress. Share how you manage your emotions, whether it’s through exercise, journaling, or talking to a friend.
- Encourage Expression: Create a safe space for your child to express their feelings. Ask open-ended questions about their day and validate their emotions to show that it’s okay to talk about how they feel.
- Teach Problem-Solving: Help your child identify problems and brainstorm solutions. This empowers them to take control of their challenges and fosters a sense of agency.
- Introduce Relaxation Techniques: Teach your child simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, visualization, or mindfulness exercises. Practice these together to make them more effective.
- Establish Routines: A consistent daily routine can provide stability and predictability, which helps children feel secure and better manage their stress.
Fun Activities to Enhance Coping Skills
- Coping Skills Toolbox: Create a physical or digital “toolbox” filled with coping strategies. Include activities like drawing, reading, taking a walk, or listening to music. Encourage your child to choose a strategy when they’re feeling overwhelmed.
- Feelings Journal: Encourage your child to keep a journal where they can express their thoughts and feelings. This can be a great outlet for processing emotions and reflecting on daily experiences.
- Mindfulness Activities: Incorporate mindfulness exercises into your family routine. Try short meditation sessions, mindful breathing, or yoga to promote relaxation and awareness.
- Emotion Charades: Play a game of charades where each family member acts out different emotions. This fun activity encourages recognition of feelings and can lead to discussions about coping strategies.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for your partnership in helping our children build effective coping skills. Together, we can create an environment that supports emotional growth and resilience. If you have any questions or would like additional resources, please feel free to reach out!
Warm regards,
CCUSD Elementary Counseling Department
Around the District
Spring Break (Q4) Reminder for ID’s at the elementary school
Parents,
We will continue to expect our K-6th grade students to wear their student ID’s throughout the day while attending our school. As safety continues to be our top priority, wearing visible identification plays a crucial role in maintaining a secure environment.
Identification and Security: ID cards help our staff quickly identify individuals who belong on school premises. This is particularly important in emergency situations or when we have visitors on campus.
- Access Control: ID cards will be incorporated into purchasing lunch, checking out books, and moving from one location to another on some campuses.
- Attendance and Accountability: Wearing IDs helps us accurately track attendance, especially during emergencies and drills. It also encourages a sense of responsibility amongst students for their own safety and well-being.
- Community Standards: By wearing IDs, students contribute to a positive school culture where safety and respect for rules are valued.
We kindly request your support in reminding your child to not only wear their ID daily, but also to take care of this ID. This is not something that students should be defacing, chewing on, bending, etc.
Wearing your ID at school helps keep everyone safe by ensuring only authorized students and staff are on campus. It also makes it easier to identify each other and access important resources. Keep your ID visible—it's a simple way to promote security and school spirit!
As always, thank you for your continued support and commitment to the safety of our students.
Attendance Matters
(repeat) School attendance is not only a good habit, state law requires it. Arizona State Law (15-802.E, 15-803.) and CCUSD board policy 5-103, requires every person who has custody of a child between the ages of six and sixteen years shall make sure the child attends school for the full time school is in session unless unable to attend due to illness or another legitimate reason.
Your child is expected to be at school every day, unless there is an excused reason not to be. An absence is defined as a minimum of one missed class period per day. An unexcused absence will count as a truant day as defined by law. A student is “habitually truant” if he/she has five or more unexcused absences from school. A student that is absent more than ten percent of the required number of school days per year (18 days) is considered to have “excessive absences” whether the absence is excused or unexcused.
The intent of this communication is to be sure that you are aware of our district policy. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our school's records clerk, Ms. Jennifer. Thank you for your attention and consideration in this matter.
Please make sure you are calling the attendance line daily if your child will be absent unless prior notification has been made to the front office.
Dress Code
(repeat)As the temperatures begin to warm up, we want to take a moment to remind everyone about our district-wide dress code. Our goal is to ensure that all students are dressed appropriately for a comfortable and focused learning environment.
Please take a moment to review the dress code with your child and ensure that their attire meets the guidelines. We appreciate your support in helping students make respectful and appropriate clothing choices for school.
Attire may be prohibited when it:
- Significantly interferes with the District's ability to maintain order; such as disrupting schoolwork, school programs and activities,creates disorder, or prevents any student(s) from achieving educational objectives.
- Affects the health or safety of students, personnel or visitors.
- Conveys affiliation with a criminal street gang.
- Exposes the wearer's midriff, undergarments, or undergarment areas.
- Contains or conveys obscene language, symbols or messages.
- Promotes or depicts the unlawful use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.
- Violates the constitutional rights of any other person(s).
- Is inconsistent with or prohibited by the course, program, or activity.
KidAccount Sign in/out Procedures (repeat)
Starting October 7, 2024, elementary schools will be introducing a new procedure for signing students in and out with KidAccount. During parent-teacher conferences, you will receive KidAccount cards for each of your students. If you are unable to attend parent-teacher conferences, you can pick up your cards at the front office.
Instead of searching for your child’s name in the system, these cards will be used to streamline the process.
Important Details:
- Each family will receive two KidAccount cards.
- The cards can be reused year after year, so please keep them in a safe place.
- If your cards are lost, replacements are available for $5.00 and can be obtained at the front office.
Thank you for your cooperation as we implement this new procedure!
Attendance (repeat)
If your child will be absent, please remember to call our attendance line at 480-575-2800, selecting #1. The line is available 24 hours a day for your convenience. Informing your child's teacher is always helpful, especially if you are requesting homework.
Regular attendance is crucial for your child's success in school. Being present every day helps students stay engaged, build strong learning habits, and make the most of their educational experience.
CCUSD Telecommunication Policy (repeat)
As a reminder, there has been an important update to be aware of are about student telecommunications and devices, including but not limited to cell phones, smartwatches, and non-medical listening devices. Beginning this school year and beyond, students in possession of telecommunications devices will adhere to new guidelines regarding use on school grounds. Please click HERE to read through the updated policy. Remind your Roadrunners to keep their tech in their backpacks.
KIDAccount (repeat)
We have a new sign in/sign out platform for students and visitors. You will notice that we have 2 new white tablets in the lobby for this process. Parents/guardians must always scan their US driver's license and complete the questions on the tablets for signing in a student and signing out a student. No student will be released without the ID being scanned or shown every time.
2024-25 Previous Roadrunner Reviews
Arrival & Dismissal Procedures at DWES
- Arrival at 8:45am (there is NO supervision prior to 8:45am)
- The front parking lot is for parking only, not a drop off student area
- For the safety and security of all our students, we will not call students out of class between 3:00-3:30 pm
- All dismissal transportation changes need to be communicated to our office prior to 2:00 pm
- The safest way for your child to get home is by a school bus or car line pick up
- Do not park in the neighborhood and tell your child to walk to your car without supervision
- Our preschool students dismiss earlier than other classrooms and they are allowed to pull into the bus lane first. This allows our youngest students and our students requiring extra assistance time to safely get into their vehicles and exit campus
- Do not enter the bus lane until preschool has completed dismissal
- It is very important NOT to cut in the lines, as your child(ren) will not be ready for pick up
- Your specific number tells us to get your child(ren) ready for pick up
- Please stay in your car during dismissal. Show your dismissal number to our staff member
- Please have them visible. In the front car line we will unload and load 10 cars at a time
- We will only allow students to climb into cars on the passenger side of the vehicle (for the safety of your child)
- If your child needs assistance buckling their car seat please pull forward and park in the parking lot so that you can assist your child and we can keep the car line moving
- Staff and students do not buckle students
- If your child is not ready at dismissal, we will ask you to park and we will bring them out when ready
- If your child is a “home walker,” they should be walking directly to their house
- Parent Walk Up: Parents need to show family number to staff
A few reminders from the local Phoenix Police Department to follow:
- School zone speed limit of 15mph
- Use marked crosswalks (please do not wave students across the street)
- PCC 36-134 (stopping, standing, and parking regulations)
- ARS 28-815 (blocking bike lanes)
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