May 20, 2024

Dear Wayne-Westland Community Schools Students, Staff and Families,

Weekly Letter to Students, Parents and Staff

Thank you for sharing such heartfelt sentiments during Teacher Appreciation Week. Their dedication and hard work often go unnoticed, so it’s heartwarming to know our teachers and staff felt appreciated and loved this week. When parents and students come together to express their gratitude, it creates a nurturing environment that benefits everyone involved. Staff play a crucial role in shaping young minds and fostering a positive learning environment. So, thank you for acknowledging their hard work.

This past weekend, the district hosted the first annual Soaring Stripes Basketball Tournament for 4-12 grade students. It was a resounding success, with over 20 teams competing and several hundred spectators cheering them on. We are proud of our students' sportsmanship and the support shown by our families and staff. This event not only showcased our students' talents but also helped support our elementary sports program. Watch our upcoming newsletters for information about our Fall NFL Flag and cheerleading registration for fourth—and fifth-grade students.  

Important Upcoming Dates:

  • May 24     Half Day of School (K-12 Students) Last day of school for high school seniors

  • May 27     No School (Memorial Day Recess) 

  • June 5         Half Day of School (High School Students Only) 

  • June 6         Half Day of School (K-11 Students)

  • June 7        Half Day of School (K-11 Students) Last Day of School

Check the school newsletters and calendars for other upcoming events at your child’s school. 

Summer Learning:

We are thrilled to partner with several community organizations to offer our students a diverse range of exciting summer programs. These programs, from virtual academies to career exposure camps, are designed to enhance learning, foster creativity, and provide a fun-filled experience. Some of the programs include: 

  • The Engineering Society of Detroit offers a virtual Girls in Engineering Academy program for middle school students. 

  • Career-Tech Summer Camp will provide exposure and awareness to various careers for 3-8 grade students. 

  • BUSting with Learning brings literacy resources directly to elementary students, offering free books, school supplies, and engaging games and activities. The initiative travels through neighborhoods to distribute books directly to children, ensuring resources are accessible to all.

  • KinderLit Summer Camp is for rising Young 5s and Kindergarten students, and it allows them to acclimate to our schools and learn dynamic literacy strategies.

Meet Up and Eat Up Summer Meal Program:

Free meals will be available for children 18 years of age and under or persons up to age 26 enrolled in an educational program for the mentally or physically disabled recognized by a state or local public educational agency. Meals will be provided Monday through Thursday. No service July 1-4, 2024. Check our website for specific times and locations. 

Together we can make these last three weeks of school count, embracing all the opportunities and resources our district provides. We will finish strong and ensure every student thrives.

Sincerely, 

John Dignan, Ed.D.
Superintendent