Dear Washington Wizards,
Welcome back, families! We hope your break was restful and filled with joy. As we begin a brand-new year under our theme, “Ignite the Spark: A New Beginning,” we are excited to launch our January initiative, Spark Health! This month, we invite our community to commit to daily physical activity, whether it’s a 15-minute walk, stretching, dancing, or playing outside. Small, consistent movement builds energy, focus, and confidence, reminding us that every new beginning starts with one simple step. Let’s ignite our spark together and make healthy choices part of our daily routine!
Shout-Outs & Spotlights
Golden Sneaker - Congratulations to our Golden Sneaker winners this month, 1C and 5D!
Reminders for Families
The upcoming NJ4S presentation will focus on "Raising Resilience," offering insights into what resilience is, the contributing factors, and practical ways parents can cultivate it in their children. This presentation is scheduled for Tuesday, February 3rd, at 7:00 PM at EMS. Please use this link to sign up; we look forward to your attendance! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4AABA72BAAFFC52-61520518-raising
The 6th Grade Fair View Lake trip is scheduled for September 16th and 17th, 2026. For more information, please check out their website by clicking here: 6th Grade Fairview Lake Field Trip 2026 Website
Get the latest scoop on all the awesome things happening in our specials block at Washington! Our fantastic special area teachers have put together a January newsletter just for you. Click here to learn more about what your child is doing in Art, Spanish, PE, Music, Technology, and Media!
Kindergarten registration opens on January 19th, we can't wait to welcome our newest class of Wizards!
A note from Mrs. Manzo: Each year, our students have the opportunity to participate in the Music K-8 Cover Contest, which is an annual art contest sponsored by Music K-8 magazine. Students in kindergarten through 8th grade are invited to create an original piece of artwork inspired by music. The winning artwork is featured on the cover of a future Music K-8 magazine issue, with additional recognition for finalists. This optional contest is a fun way for students to combine creativity and music while showcasing their artistic talents! All completed cover contest drawings must be turned in to me by WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026.
A few reminders for the new year:
If your child is sent with a lunch that requires a fork or spoon, please make sure to send one in.
Students should arrive at school between 8:35 and 8:50 a.m. and remain until 3:20 p.m. Late arrivals and early departures can disrupt our learning environment.
If your child plays an instrument, please ensure they bring it to school on their scheduled band days. This helps them make the most of their music class.
We have filtered water stations throughout the building, and we’re happy to provide a cup if your child forgets their water bottle. There’s no need to worry about dropping one off!
If your child is out for ANY reason, sick, on vacation, etc., please call Washington’s main number and follow the prompts to leave a message on the attendance line.
Have a lovely weekend everyone!
Sincerely,
Kelly O’Brien
Friday Folder Documents: Please click here to see the most recent Friday Folder documents.
2026 Music K8 Cover Contest Template
Wyckoff Family Connection Series - Raising Resilience
Wyckoff Kindergarten Registration 26-27
Wyckoff Preschool Registration 26-27
Upcoming Events:
1/13/26 - Washington PTO Meeting @ 9:15 - MPR
1/15/26 - 5th Grade Advanced Band Concert for Parents @ 2 pm
Washington Family Game Night @ 6:30 pm
1/19/26 - Schools Closed for Students
1/22/26 - Washington Family Game Night Snow Date @ 6:30
2/4/26 - Spirit Day
Washington Global Day of Play
2/10/26 - Washington PTO Meeting @ 9:15 - MPR
2/11/26 - Washington Science Fair - Grades 3-5 @ 6:00 - MPR
2/16 - 20/26 - Schools Closed - Winter Break
2/27/26 - Washington Theme Day
3/2-6/26 - Washington Read Across America Week
3/4/26 - Spirit Day
3/6/26 - Washington Read-A-Thon
3/10/26 - Washington PTO Meeting @ 9:15 - MPR
3/13/26 - Washington Theme Day Snow Date
3/16/26 - Minimum Day for Students - Dismissal @ 1:05 pm
3/18-19/26 - Washington Spring Book Fair - Student Shopping Only
3/20/26 - End of Second Marking Period
3/27/26 - Report Cards Released @ 3:30 pm
4/1/26 - Spirit Day
4/3/26 - Schools Closed - Good Friday
4/10/26 - 1st & 2nd Grade Spring Concert for Parents @ 2:30 pm
4/14/26 - Washington PTO Meeting @ 9:15 - MPR
4/20-24/26 - Schools Closed - Spring Break