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Empowering Children with Bilingual Superpowers: WSD ...
At Westminster School District (WSD), we are redefining bilingual education by immersing children in multiple languages as early as four months old. Our dedication to fostering multilingualism and cultural awareness has earned us prestigious accolades, enhancing WSD’s role as a national leader in early dual-language learning. These awards not only highlight our excellence but also reinforce our commitment to high-quality bilingual education and community engagement. About CABE The California Association for Bilingual Education (CABE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting bilingual education and equity for multilingual learners in California. Each year, CABE hosts a statewide conference that brings together educators, administrators, and policymakers to share best practices, showcase successful bilingual programs, and recognize outstanding achievements in dual-language education. The conference features workshops, school site visits, student performances, and award ceremonies to celebrate excellence in bilingual learning. Celebrating Excellence in Bilingual Education The CABE conference recognized WSD’s groundbreaking efforts by creating an inaugural award specifically to honor our leadership in early dual-language learning. Our commitment was further celebrated through key awards: DeMille Elementary received the CABE Legacy & Visionary Board Award , recognizing its outstanding contributions to bilingual education, and Land Early Learning Center earned an honorable mention for the CABE Seal of Excellence , highlighting its innovative dual-language programs. Showcasing Our Model Schools WSD took center stage at the CABE conference, where attendees had the unique opportunity to visit Willmore Language Academy and DeMille Language Academy . These tours demonstrated how our dual-language immersion model helps students thrive by not only mastering two languages but also developing as globally aware citizens. Parents witnessing these successful programs firsthand gain confidence in enrolling their children, knowing they are investing in a high-quality, award-winning education. Engaging Families Through Cultural and Academic Excellence Beyond academic achievements, WSD celebrated cultural diversity through engaging performances and interactive workshops at CABE. Highlights from the CABE conference included: - Student Performances: Stacey Middle School Folklorico, Willmore Danza Group, and Warner Middle School VACC students captivated audiences, showcasing the vibrancy of bilingual education. - Educator-Led Workshops: WSD staff members shared best practices, effective teaching strategies, and curriculum insights, reinforcing our district’s role as an innovator in dual-language learning.“It’s an honor to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate team of educators, administrators , parents, and staff who believe deeply in the power of multilingualism. Their support and commitment to providing academically rigorous and culturally rich experiences for all students is what makes Westminster School District so special. Being recognized by CABE is an incredible honor that reaffirms the impact of our work and the importance of multilingual education. As we look to the future, we remain focused on expanding access, embracing new languages, and empowering our students to thrive as confident, culturally aware global citizens,” said WSD Chief Academic Officer Michelle Watkins. - Superintendent’s Address: Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen delivered a welcome speech, reaffirming WSD’s deep commitment to bilingual education and community engagement. “Westminster School District (WSD) is committed to multi-lingual learning and rich cultural and linguistic experiences and I am immensely grateful to our dedicated teachers and staff and the supportive families who partner with our schools to ensure a premier educational experience,” Hansen said. “In the future, WSD will expand the award-winning dual immersion programs to two additional schools and introduce more languages that are guaranteed to put our students at the forefront of college and career opportunities in our global society." Strengthening Enrollment Through Recognition By leveraging our achievements, WSD continues to attract families seeking the best bilingual education for their students. These award-winning programs not only provide academic and cultural enrichment but also assure families that their children are receiving a top-tier education backed by local and national recognition. As we move forward, WSD remains committed to expanding its impact to ensure that more students benefit from the power of bilingual learning. Through continued excellence and recognition, Westminster School District is setting the standard for bilingual education—one award, one student, and one engaged parent at a time.
Friday, Apr 04 2025
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Every Middle School in Westminster School District E...
Triple Crown for Westminster: Every Middle School Earns Coveted 'Schools to Watch' Title! Westminster, CA - Westminster School District (WSD) proudly announces that all three of its middle schools— Johnson, Stacey, and Warner—have been designated as 2025 California and National Schools to Watch. This prestigious recognition highlights the schools' exceptional implementation of programs aligned with the four key domains: Academic Excellence, Social Equity, Developmental Responsiveness, and Organizational Structures. "This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our students, teachers, and staff," said Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen, Superintendent of Westminster School District. "Our middle schools have consistently demonstrated their commitment to providing a rigorous and engaging academic experience that prepares students for future success. This recognition reaffirms our position as the premier Pre K-8th grade school district in Orange County." With this accomplishment, WSD joins an elite group of districts in California where every middle school has earned the Schools to Watch designation. The schools will be honored at the California League of Middle Schools Annual Conference in March 2025, where they will share best practices with other top-performing middle schools across the state. Jeremy Khalaf, Board President of Westminster School District, expressed his pride in the district's achievement: "This recognition is a reflection of our collective commitment to educational excellence. It underscores the innovative and inclusive learning environments we've developed in our middle schools, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive." The California Schools to Watch program, supported by the California Department of Education, the California League of Middle Schools, and the California Middle Grades Alliance, in partnership with the National Forum, requires schools to undergo a rigorous application process and on-site evaluation. To maintain this status, schools must reapply every three years, demonstrating their continued commitment to excellence. For more information about Westminster School District and its Schools to Watch designation, visit https://www.wsdk8.us/ .
Thursday, Mar 06 2025
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REMINDER: Chromebook Insurance Open Enrollment is Go...
Dear Westminster Families, As the new school year rapidly approaches, please remember to purchase Chromebook insurance for your student's device. This protection covers accidental damage, theft, loss, and vandalism, ensuring uninterrupted learning and avoiding unexpected repair or replacement costs. By purchasing insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that your child's Chromebook is protected, and you won't face unexpected expenses of up to $275 for a full replacement if something happens to the device. Enroll now at Securranty to ensure uninterrupted learning. For questions, contact our support team at (714) 894-7311 Ext. 1051. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. NOTE: If you have coverage from School Device Coverage, it remains valid until August 28, 2024, after which you can switch to Securranty. Warm regards, Westminster School District
Tuesday, Jul 23 2024
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SERVICE DISRUPTION - TELEPHONE OUTAGE | Westminster ...
Hello WSD Families, We are experiencing a district-wide phone outage affecting all schools and offices in the Westminster School District. Verizon has identified a fiber break on a utility pole as the source of this issue. Their crews are currently working to repair the problem. At this time, there is no estimated time for service restoration. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. For urgent matters, please use alternative communication methods such as email or the district's website. For additional questions contact help@wsdk8.us and for more updates head to WSD Status Page We will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this unexpected outage. [Tuesday, Jul 2 at 10:01 AM] Verizon has identified the reason for service disruption and is in the process of restoring service. All phones are currently operational across the district; however, the crews are still working on repairing multiple broken fiber lines. There remains the potential that we could temporarily lose service while the lines are being repaired, however, Verizon is working to ensure that there are no additional disruptions in service. WSD will continue to monitor and provide updates as necessary.
Tuesday, Jul 02 2024
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Stay Connected | March 2024 Newsletter
Hello Westminster School District Families, Don't miss out on the latest news and updates from the WSD! Our Stay Connected newsletter is packed with exciting information about events, student achievements, and everything happening in our schools. Head over to Stay Connected | March 2024 Newsletter to check out the latest edition and stay in the loop. You won't want to miss a thing!
Saturday, Apr 13 2024
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WSD INSPIRES! AND HIRES
Dear WSD Families, Our District is always looking to hire great people to join our team by tapping into the talents within our own community. If you, or anyone you know, is looking for a job, please scan the QR code or visit www.edjoin.org/westminstersd for a full list of opportunities available. Thank you, Rich Montgomery Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources
Friday, Apr 12 2024
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APPLY NOW | Citizens' Oversight Committee | Parent R...
Hello Westminster School District Families, We hope your week is going well. The Board of Trustees of the Westminster School District (WSD) is seeking a qualified, interested individual to serve as a committee member on the lndependent Citizens' Oversight Committee ("COC”) for the Measure T Bond program. Qualified candidates must live within the Westminster School District Attendance boundaries. WSD is seeking to fill a vacancy in the "Parent Representative" category. Anyone interested in applying can head to our website .
Thursday, Feb 08 2024
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED | California Association of Biling...
Hello Westminster School District Families, Next month, Westminster School District staff, students, and families will be participating in the annual California Association of Bilingual Education (CABE) Conference at the Anaheim Convention Center from February 21 - 24. The purpose of CABE, is to offer learning sessions for parents and staff to help them gain insight and skills for how best to support their student’s success in their academic Career. Westminster School District is looking for Parent and Staff Volunteers to help throughout the week. The conference offers training and workshops for educators and emerging bilinguals! If you are interested please head to the link to fill out the Volunteer Interest Survey . We hope you are able to join us! Thank you.
Thursday, Jan 25 2024
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Westminster School District | Learning & Attendance ...
Hello Westminster School District Families, We have important information to share with you about our Learning & Attendance Recovery Programs. Please take a look at the flyer below for more details about this monthly program. Thank you and have a good evening!
Friday, Jan 19 2024