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Editor’s note: The following message from new Westfield Washington Schools Superintendent Dr. John Atha addresses a few timely and significant topics for the new school year.
Dear Westfield Washington Schools Community,
As we start a new school year, I am writing to you to emphasize a fundamental truth: parents and caregivers are the first and most influential teachers in a child’s life. At WWS, we deeply value this foundational role and see ourselves as your dedicated partners in this vital endeavor of nurturing and educating your children.
Our partnership is guided by five core principles of our school district: Compassion, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Hard Work. These principles should not only be words on paper; they should be tenets that shape our mission of ensuring high levels of learning and growth for each student. They inform every decision we make and every interaction within our schools.
These principles also guide us in creating a caring, participatory, and safe learning environment where all students, families, and staff are welcomed and feel a strong sense of belonging. We believe that a strong sense of community is essential for fostering academic excellence and personal growth.
As a public school district, we are proud to serve over 7,000 families within our boundaries, as well as the families of the dedicated employees who work tirelessly to execute our mission each and every day. This commitment means that we embrace the rich diversity of our growing community.
Because we are deeply committed to creating a community where everyone feels welcomed, valued, connected, and has a strong sense of belonging, I need to share information with you and ask you for your assistance.
As we reviewed our student discipline data from last year, we identified an increase in the use of inappropriate and harmful language, specifically racial slurs. The use of such language is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. It is deeply hurtful to our students, staff, and families, and it runs counter to everything we stand for here at WWS. The impact of these words extends far beyond the moment they are spoken, creating an environment of disrespect and fear.
While schools play an important role in teaching and reinforcing respectful behavior, these lessons are most powerful when they are also modeled and discussed at home. The values we share as a community are shaped by the conversations, expectations, and examples set by families. When students hear a consistent message from both home and school about treating others with dignity and respect, it helps them make better choices, even in difficult moments.
That’s why we are asking you to take time to talk with your child about the importance of using words that build others up rather than tear them down. Encourage them to think about how language can either strengthen relationships or cause lasting harm, and to choose kindness even when it’s not easy. These conversations can help ensure that every student feels safe, respected, and included in our schools.
Please know that we are grateful that you choose to partner with Westfield Washington Schools in the education of your children. It is a responsibility that we accept with the utmost respect and dedication to ensuring we meet and exceed your expectations. We also appreciate your support as we work together to make our district and community a great place to live and learn.
Sincerely,
Dr. John Atha