Washington Middle School Counseling

Thomas Perez, appointed by President Obama as assistant U.S. Attorney General in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, visited WMS today, specifically to take a look at our anti-harassment program for all students, “We All Belong (WAB)”. Mr. Perez, who has two children in middle school, was enthusiastic about the work we are doing to educate our students about civil rights for all, and with the protocol we have in place to respond to reports of harassment and bullying.

After discussing our program with some administrators, teachers and counselors, Mr. Perez visited 4 classrooms during our WAB period this morning, observed the curricula exercises and materials being presented in all three grades, and talked with the students. Afterward, he spoke in front of 120 students and Student Cabinet officers, reviewed his own work in civil rights over the past 20 years, discussed the importance of embracing diversity in all areas of our lives, and encouraged students to seek employment in a field they are passionate about. He then took several questions from the student audience. Finally, he met privately with members of WMS’ Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA), offering them his support and encouragement.

We were very happy to welcome Mr. Perez to our school. He is highly supportive of our work, and he is also clear about the importance not only of academic achievement, but especially of non-academic learning for all middle school students. Given the financial cuts happening in our schools, and the increasing emphasis in our District and country on test scores and academic courses at the expense of social and emotional and arts education, his words of encouragement couldn’t have come at a better time.

The Puget Sound Engineering Council (PSEC), in conjunction with National Engineers Week, provides a one day fair that intends to educate K-12 students and their families about the various disciplines within engineering.  The Fair is hosted by the Museum of Flight from 10:00 to 5:00.  There is no cost to attend the Fair, which is held in a separate room of the Museum.

Today is the start of 2nd semester! The year is half done, and we have a lot of work to do to help all your students have a successful year. Parents and guardians: be aware of the “3rd quarter slump”, where students inexplicably start sliding in virtually all areas. They will need extra attention and support to stay afloat.