πŸ“š GET READY FOR A LITERARY ADVENTURE! πŸ“š

The magic of the Scholastic Book Fair is coming to the WMS Library next week, and we want YOU to be part of the story! Whether you're hunting for the latest graphic novel, a spine-chilling mystery, or that iconic giant eraser, Family Reading Night is the place to be.

Mark your calendarsβ€”it’s going to be one for the books!

πŸ—“οΈ THE DETAILS
WHEN: Thursday, April 9

TIME: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

WHERE: WMS Library

✨ WHY ATTEND?
Explore New Worlds: Browse hundreds of new titles and find your next favorite read.

Support Our Library: Every purchase helps put more books on our school shelves!

Family Fun: Grab some bookmarks, enter our giveaways, and enjoy the library vibes after hours.

Pro-Tip: Skip the cash and set up your student’s eWallet beforehand for easy, touchless shopping!

We can’t wait to see our WMS families celebrate the power of reading together. See you there, trail-blazers! πŸ“–βœ¨
1 day ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
Book fair family night information on a star-filled background
The Scholastic Book Fair’s giving program is open to businesses, organizations, alumni, and the entire community! Anyone can support students in our school who need help buying books. Learn more at https://www.scholastic.com/bf/washingtonmiddleschool19. #ScholasticBookFairs
3 days ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
book fair

Create your child’s Book Fair eWallet so they can shop cash-free, worry-free, and independently! It’s easy to set up and easy for others to contribute funds! Start here: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/washingtonmiddleschool19. #ScholasticBookFairs

4 days ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
scholastic book fair
Your child is cordially invited to attend our Scholastic Book Fair on April 7-10! Get them prepared by visiting https://www.scholastic.com/bf/washingtonmiddleschool19, where you can also create a Book Fair eWallet. It’s gonna be the Best. Fair. Ever! #ScholasticBookFairs
5 days ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
kids enjoying books at the book fair
The Scholastic Book Fair is coming! SAVE THE DATE for April 7-10 and get your reader psyched to pick out their own books! Start exploring together: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/washingtonmiddleschool19 #ScholasticBookFairs
8 days ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
scholastic book fair
TIny Tribe Pre-K Wrap-Around Program is here to help families by providing before and/or after-school care.

Children must be 3 to 4 years of age on or before September 1, 2026.
*Must be a resident of Johnston City CUSD #1 or the child of a district employee.
*HOURS: Early Hours 7:30-8:10, AM Care 8:10-12:10, PM Care 10:45-2:45, After Hours 2:45-5:30, and Full Day Care 7:30-5:30.
*COST: $50 registration fee, due with enrollment forms.
There is a daily fee for wrap-around care.
*Start Date: August 2026
*How to Register: In-Person registration forms can be picked up at Jefferson School or Unit Office. Please return to Renee Grisham, Wrap-Around Supervisor at Jefferson School.
*Registration must be completed by August 1, 2026.
*Questions: Contact Renee Grisham, call 618-983-7561 or email rgrisham@jcindians.org.
ENROLL NOW to reserve your spot!
12 days ago, JC Schools
Tiny Tribe
11:30 Dismissal on Friday, March 27th
12 days ago, JC Schools
March 27
πŸƒβ€β™‚οΈ SPEED. STRENGTH. SPIRIT. πŸƒβ€β™€οΈ
The wait is over! It’s time to hit the blocks and kick off an epic season. Whether you’re a returning athlete or trying something brand new, we want to see you on the track!

Check the schedule below to see when your grade takes the field:

πŸ“… THE LINEUP:

5th & 6th Grade: Monday, March 23 (3:00–4:30 PM)

7th & 8th Grade: Tuesday, March 24 (3:00–4:30 PM)

πŸ“ LOCATION: High School Track

⚠️ PRO TIP: You can’t run if you aren’t cleared! Make sure your physical and all paperwork are turned in BEFORE you arrive.
20 days ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
Track and Field Title Slide
Our 8th Grade Scholar Bowl team delivered a commanding performance during last week’s tournament, dominating the first two rounds of play. Their impressive season concluded in a thrilling quarterfinals match against Herrinβ€”a true "nail-biter" that came down to the final round. Despite a narrow 10-point loss, our scholars showed incredible grit and sportsmanship, finishing their season as one of the Top 8 teams in the region. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication!
about 1 month ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
8th grade scholar bowl competes at regional tournament
8th grade scholar bowl competes at regional tournament
8th grade scholar bowl competes at regional tournament
Gear up, fans! We have a jam-packed week of athletics coming your way. From "Barbie" vibes to Camo vibes, there’s a seat in the stands with your name on it. Here is your official rundown for February 23–28:

Monday, Feb 23
Volleyball (Home) vs. Hamilton County: It’s CAMO NIGHT! 🦌 Hide from the competition, but don’t hide your spirit.

5th Grade Girls Basketball: Away @ Harrisburg.

Tuesday, Feb 24
Volleyball: Away @ Herrin.

5/6 Boys Basketball (Home) vs. Pinckneyville: Come protect our home court! πŸ€

Wednesday, Feb 25
Volleyball (Home) vs. Goreville: Get your pink on for PINK OUT / BARBIE NIGHT! πŸŽ€ Let’s make the gym a "Dreamhouse" and support a great cause.

Scholar Bowl: Away @ Marion. (Go show off those big brains! 🧠)

5th Grade Boys Basketball: Away @ Herrin.

Thursday, Feb 26
5/6 Boys Basketball: Away @ Zeigler/Royalton.

Volleyball: Away @ Sesser/Valier.

Friday, Feb 27
5th Grade Boys Basketball: Round Robin @ Sesser. πŸŒͺ️

Saturday, Feb 28
Boys Basketball: Round Robin continues @ Sesser.

Volleyball: Away @ Hamilton County.
about 1 month ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
WMS athletics title slide with the wms logo on a black and white checkered background

It is that time of year again to complete the 5Essentials Parent Survey. Your input is important to us!

To complete the parent survey:

Visit: survey.5-essentials.org/illinois/ and select Parent Survey
Select the necessary language to complete the survey. (English or Spanish).
Enter email address and county of your child’s school
Advance to survey questions.
Answer all applicable questions.
Click Submit Survey.
This is a state requirement for us. Please note below information that describes what the 5 Essentials survey is about:

5 Essentials is an evidence-based system designed to drive improvement in schools nationwideβ€”it reliably measures changes in a school organization through the 5Essentials Survey utilizing these five components found to be critical for school success:

Effective Leaders: The principal works with teachers to implement a clear and strategic vision for school success.
Collaborative Teachers: The staff is committed to the school, receives strong professional development, and works together to improve the school.
Involved Families: The entire school staff builds strong relationships with families and communities to support learning.
Supportive Environment: The school is safe and orderly. Teachers have high expectations for students. Students are supported by their teachers and peers.
Ambitious Instruction: Classes are academically demanding and engage students by emphasizing the application of knowledge.
You can also complete the survey in our office. There will be Chromebooks available in the lobby for any parent who would like to come by the school to complete the survey. Our office hours are Monday-Friday 7:30am-4pm.

about 2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
JCHS welcomes the Class of 2030 and their parents to join us for freshman registration on Wednesday, March 4, at 6:00 PM* in the JCHS Commons. We will be discussing HS class requirements and administration will be available to answer
questions. Students will select their 9th grade courses at this meeting. We hope to see all 8th grade students and their parents at this very important event! *WMS volleyball players will meet at 4:00.

If you have any questions, please contact Jamie Chiaventone, School Counselor, at (618) 983-8638.
about 2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
JCHS Freshman Registration
❀️ Kindness in Bloom: The ALOP Valentine’s Takeover!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!

For their latest group project centered on Kindness and Caring, students went beyond the classroom to show their appreciation for the team that keeps our school running. This wasn't just a lessonβ€”it was a full-blown "appreciation mission."

πŸ’Œ The Mission:
Each student selected two teachers or staff members who have made an impact on their journey. But they didn't just stop by to say thanksβ€”they arrived with:

Handmade Masterpieces: Custom-designed, heartfelt Valentines created right here in the ALOP classroom.

A Sweet Surprise: Every card came paired with a special treat to brighten their day.

🌟 Why It Matters:
At its core, ALOP is about growth, connection, and community. By taking the time to craft these gifts and deliver them personally, our students practiced the art of gratitude and saw firsthand how a small gesture can create a massive ripple of positivity.

The smiles in the hallways said it allβ€”mission accomplished!

"Kindness is a gift everyone can afford to give." β€” The ALOP Team
about 2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Our ALOP (Alternative Learning Opportunities Program) students just leveled up the school’s vibe with a serious dose of heart!
Last chance to order yearbooks!
If you are paying in person with cash/check, please send your order form to the middle school office by Friday, 2/13. If you are ordering online, orders are due by Sunday, 2/15. Yearbooks are $14.50 each. We will not be able to take any late orders. Thank you!
about 2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
Yearbook Orders

🌹 Spread the Love (and Support the 8th Grade!)
Looking for a sweet way to brighten someone’s day this Valentine's? Our Annual 8th Grade Carnation Sale is officially here!

Whether it’s for a best friend, a favorite teacher, or a special family member, a carnation is the perfect way to say "I'm thinking of you." Plus, every flower purchased helps fund our 8th-grade end-of-year activities!

πŸ’° Pricing:
1 Carnation: $3

2 Carnations: $5 (Double the love!)

πŸ“ How to Order:
Don't let the deadline slip by! You can grab an order form in one of three ways:

Mrs. Dobraski’s Room

The Main Office

Download & Print the form here!

Note: Please return all forms and payments by 2/11/26 to ensure delivery on Friday, February 13.

Thanks for supporting our 8th graders! πŸŽ“βœ¨

about 2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
valentine carnation sale info on a pink floral background
Dental Safari will be providing dental check-ups to the students of Washington School on Thursday, February 12, 2026. If you would like your child(ren) to participate, please complete the dental consent form available in the office or online at www.dentalsafariforms.com. Thank you!
about 2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
tooth and dental tools on a blue-green background
Huge sweep for Scholar Bowl! πŸ† Our 7th and 8th grade teams both dominated the buzzer today against DuQuoin. The 7th graders secured a solid 110–55 victory, while 8th grade brought the heat with a massive 210–50 win. Way to show off those smartsβ€”go teams!
about 2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
Cabin fever? Not at WMS! After being snowed in from recess since last week, our 5th and 6th graders were definitely feeling a little stir-crazy. Today, Ms. Stark and Mr. Harris came to the rescue! They turned up the volume and transformed lunch into an impromptu Library Dance Party! 🎢 It was the perfect way to burn off that extra energy and have a blast indoors. Way to keep spirits high!
2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
Mr. Harris shows off his dance moves
Students enjoy dancing in the library
Students enjoy dancing in the library
Ms. Stark helps lead the dance
Ms. Stark shows off her dance moves
🏐 Get Ready to Serve Up Some Spirit! 🏐

Our Volleyball Spirit Nights are here! Come out, dress up, and cheer on the team at our upcoming home games. Here’s the lineup:

Tue, 2/3 vs. Elverado: Neon/Construction Night 🦺

Tue, 2/10 vs. West Frankfort: Hawaiian Night 🌺

Wed, 2/11 vs. Unity Point: Patriotic Night

Mon, 2/23 vs. Hamilton County: Safari/Camo Night πŸͺ–

Wed, 2/25 vs. Goreville: Pink Out/Barbie Night πŸ‘‘

Mon, 3/2 vs. Christopher: Black Out Night ⬛

Wed, 3/4 vs. Zeigler-Royalton: 8th Grade Night (Red & Black) βš«πŸ”΄

Mon, 3/9 vs. Sesser: Pajama Night 😴

Show your school pride and support our volleyball team! See you there! Go Indians!
2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
table of all 8 spirit nights
Heads Up, Hoops Fans! πŸ€

The schedule has shifted, but the game goes on! Tonight's home game is off, but our boys are now traveling to West Frankfort to battle it out on the road.

Saturday Morning Basketball: The rescheduled game vs. Hamilton County is set for this Saturday (1/31) at 10:00 AM (Away). Go Indians!
2 months ago, Dee Dee O'Bright
WMS athletics title slide with the wms logo on a black and white checkered background