The First Six Weeks: Belonging, Significance & Joy
Why WHPS begins the year differently—and why it matters for your child’s learning.
A Different Beginning
We all remember the droning teacher from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off: “Anyone? … anyone?” It’s the classic picture of disengagement.
And in many traditional schools, the reality isn’t far off. By day two, kids are handed workbooks—before anyone has checked what they already know, or whether the work is too easy, too hard, or even relevant. No wonder some students tune out.
At WHPS, we flip that script. The first weeks aren’t about busywork. They’re about belonging and significance, building routines with students (so they actually buy in), and deeply assessing each child’s strengths and needs. When students feel known and safe, the work that follows is purposeful, challenging, and connected to their potential.
“Going slow now means going fast later. When children feel secure, valued, and bold enough to risk a wrong answer—whether laughing it off, trying again, or blurting out “Wait, I don’t get it yet”—that’s when real learning takes off.”
More About the First Six Weeks
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Neuroscience is clear: kids don’t learn deeply just by receiving content. They learn when they feel safe, valued, and engaged—when they connect new ideas to their own lives. That’s when understanding sticks and transfers.
This kind of learning requires risk-taking: raising a hand with an imperfect idea, asking a question that feels uncertain, or being willing to be wrong in front of peers. When those risks feel safe, brains light up.
That’s why the opening weeks are an investment in engagement, not “lost time.” Our 2025 ERB results prove it: WHPS students consistently perform at the highest levels—not because of drills or test prep, but because they are engaged, confident, and making connections that endure.
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This philosophy starts with our staff. Before the year even begins, teachers share their own “Hopes and Dreams,” creating shared principles that ground us as a professional learning community.
Even our meetings mirror the practices we use with kids. Just as Morning Meeting gives every student a voice, our meetings begin with greetings, sharing, reflection, and activities that remind us every voice matters. Teachers set professional goals each year, just as students do, so they experience the same growth and accountability they guide children through.
This year, one orientation activity had teachers build a duck from a handful of LEGO bricks. The results were comical—some had long necks, others giant feet, a few looked like spaceships. Yet every single one was still unmistakably a duck.
That’s the point. With the same purpose and expectations, each person brought their own creativity and voice. That’s exactly the culture we want at WHPS—for our staff and for our students.
As USC neuroscientist Mary Helen Immordino-Yang said on Hidden Brain: “Great teachers do more than convey information. Emotion sits in the driver’s seat of learning.” At WHPS, we see that truth come alive every day.
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Belonging doesn’t stop with students—it extends to families. That’s why we hope you’ll join us for:
Back to School Night – Thursday, September 4 (Parents only)
Welcome Breakfast – Saturday, September 6 (hosted by our Parent Organization)
You’re also invited to get involved with our Neurodiverse Family Affinity Group and Black Family Affinity Group (as a participant or friend and ally), which provide spaces to connect, share, and strengthen our inclusive community. These aren’t just calendar dates—they’re part of the same belonging and shared purpose that fuels your child’s learning.
A Shared Commitment
Mrs. Baroudi and I want you to know our door is always open. Everything we do centers on one goal—what is best for your child.
As we begin this year together, we feel honored to walk alongside your family. We know each child brings their own story, strengths, and spark, and it is our joy to nurture that every day. Thank you for entrusting us with such an important role in your child’s life—we don’t take it lightly. We are excited for the friendships, discoveries, and growth ahead, and we can’t wait to celebrate all that unfolds in 2025–26!
