Back-to-School Guide

All School Information

List of 10 items.

2020-21 SCHOOL CALENDAR

The 2020-21 school calendar is available here. More in-depth calendars can be subscribed to through myAW (click on the Calendar in the top menu) or on the website by clicking on the RSS feed button.
AWS "GATOR ALLEY" STORE - NOW ONLINE!

Gator Alley is now offering limited items online! You can purchase AWS branded masks and class ties for the USB and USG students. We also have some used uniform items on here.

Contact
gatoralley@aw.org
BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR VOLUNTEERS

As part of ongoing safety efforts, Annie Wright requires all volunteers to undergo background checks, just as employees do. If you wish to volunteer at school (pending when it is safe for parents to be back on campus), please contact your division director to ensure that the proper paperwork has been completed. This includes our Board of Trustees and AWSPA. Here is a link to the form. Please leave at the front desk for Judy Skipper, or email to her at judy_skipper@aw.org.
FIRST DAY PHOTO SIGNS
Click on the link below to download your first day sign. Don't forget to post your photos to Vidigami, and post to social media using #AWSfirstday.
NEW FACULTY & STAFF

Meet our new faculty & staff here.
PHOTO SHARING THROUGH VIDIGAMI
Annie Wright Schools partner with Vidgami, a private and secure website that allows our community to share photos. Vidigami provides access to the many photos taken each year by teachers, staff and other parents.

Easily upload photos from Annie Wright Schools events and activities from your computer or smart phone app (don’t forget to “tag” students in the photos you upload). Currently, Vidigami is only for parents of Annie Wright students, as well students in Grades 6-12. Vidigami will never share or sell photos to third parties.
Parents can download and print photos of their child for free and at the same quality in which the photo was taken.

All parents–new and returning–will receive an invitation when the 2020-21 school year launches. It is important that even returning parents accept this invite, in order to connect you to the new school year. Stay tuned!

Click on the link below to download your first day sign. Don't forget to post your photos to Vidigami, and post to social media using #AWSfirstday.
Contact
Jen Willey
jen_willey@aw.org
REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS FOR SCHOOL
Students are required to have the following immunizations for the school year.

Preschool
Required to be current with childhood vaccinations:
- Hepatitis B
- DTaP
- HIB
- Polio
- PCV
- MMR
- Varicella
Kindergarten - Grade 5
- Hepatitis B: 3 doses
- DTap/Td/Tdap: 5 doses
- Polio: 4 doses
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella: 2 doses
- Varicella: 2 doses OR healthcare provider verifies child had disease
Grades 6-8
- Hepatitis B: 3 doses
- DTaP: 5 doses
- Tdap: 1 dose (must have this Tdap booster for entry to Grade 7)
- Polio: 4 doses
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella: 2 doses
- Varicella: 2 doses OR healthcare provider verifies child had disease
Grades 9-12
- Hepatitis B: 3 doses
- DTaP: 5 doses
- Tdap: 1 dose
- Polio: 4 doses
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella: 2 doses
- Varicella: 2 doses OR healthcare provider verifies child had disease
If your student is on a different vaccination schedule because of missing immunizations for various reasons, this is allowed as long as the immunization form is medically verified and exemption certificate provided if needed. Also see Conditional status students information below.
IMMUNIZATIONS & ACCESSING INFORMATION
The purpose of immunizations is to keep your family and the community healthy and to stop the spread of disease to the most vulnerable.

You can obtain a printable WA State immunization form (CIS) from your student’s school forms on myAW. The school nurse resource board or follow the instructions below.

CERTIFICATE OF IMMUNIZATION
Every student must have a Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) form on record with the school. The CIS form is a legal record of immunizations for school.

Starting August 1, 2020, all immunization records turned in to schools or child care centers are required by state law to be medically verified. Immunization records must be turned into the school before the first day of attendance. This means immunization records turned in to the school must be from a health care provider, or you must attach paperwork from a health care provider to your handwritten form that shows your child’s records are accurate. Your child cannot attend school until you provide these records.

Here are some examples of medically verified immunization records:
- A completed Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) signed by a health care provider.
- A CIS filled out by you or another parent/guardian with medical records attached.
- A CIS printed by a health care provider or school from the Washington State Immunization Information System.
- A CIS printed from MyIR which is a free Department of Health online tool that allows WA state families to view and print their official immunization records themselves. Go to https://wa.myir.net/register to begin the sign-up process.
Please take time over the next few months to ensure your student is up-to-date for with the required school vaccinations.
If your child already meets immunization requirements and has a CIS form already on file with the school, you do not need to do anything.
International students: The CIS form should be available to you in your home language in your student’s school forms on myAW. You can also look on the School Nurse resource board on myAW for CIS form in different languages.

EXEMPTIONS
If you are requesting an exemption from one or more of the immunization requirements, you must provide the school a completed Certificate of Exemption.

Note: Washington State Legislature passed a new law that removes the personal and philosophical option to exempt children from the MMR (Measles Mumps and Rubella) vaccine required for school and child care entry.

Looking to the future: once the CIS form or the exemption form is submitted, it is the parent/guardian responsibility to update the School Nurse on any vaccines that your student receives or is exempt from in the future. The nurse will record those immunizations on your child’s CIS form.
CONDITIONAL STATUS STUDENTS
Students who are actively catching up on their vaccine requirements can start and remain in school with a Conditional Immunization Status. Vaccine series doses are spread out among minimum intervals, so some children may have to wait a period of time before finishing their vaccinations. To attend school in Conditional Status the following conditions must be met:
- The parent/guardian must sign the Conditional Status statement on the Certificate of Immunization Status form acknowledging their child is attending school in conditional status.
- Children must be up to date on their immunizations, having received all of the vaccine doses they are eligible to receive before they can start school.
- When the next catch-up dose is due, the parent or guardian must turn in documentation within 30 days of the due date. Valid documentation includes medical records showing vaccination, evidence of immunity to the disease in question, or a completed Certificate of Exemption (COE) form. If documentation is not received by the required date the child must, by law, be excluded from further attendance, RCW 28A.210.120.
More information is available in the Conditional Status FAQ (PDF) available in the Conditional status section of the School and Child Care Immunization website.
Contact
Paula Coumou
paula_coumou@aw.org or 253.284.5462
SCHOOL FORMS
If you have not done so already, please login in via myAW, go to Resources and then Re-Enrollment & School Forms, to complete all required online school forms, and print out required medical and immunization forms to begin school.
- Immunizations must be up to date and documented on the CIS form in order to attend school next Wednesday.
- In addition to the Gator Pledge, a COVID-19 Assumption of Risk & Waiver Agreement form has been added to each student’s online forms account and is required before starting school. Thank you for committing to keeping everyone in our community safe!
- Route Bus Contracts are also available and must be submitted by Monday, August 24 if you require bus service for your student.
Contacts
Anelisa Cristobal (PS-8)
anelisa_cristobal@aw.org or 253.284.8635

Lisa Bazzanella (Grades 9-12)
lisa_bazzanella@aw.org or 253.284.4323
SCHOOL PLANNERS

All students in Grades 3 through 12 will receive an Annie Wright Schools student planner in the fall.
TRANSPORTATION

We are still working out transportation logistics with the new guidelines from the Department of Health. Watch this space, and future school communications for information about bus service for the 2020-21 school year.

Contact
Judy Skipper
judy_skipper@aw.org or 253.284.8621

All School Upcoming Events

List of 5 items.

OPENING DAY OF SCHOOL: August 26-28
Wednesday, August 26
- Virtual school begins at 8:00 am Kindergarten & Grade 1
- Virtual school begins at 8:30 am for Grades 2-5
- Virtual school begins at 9:00 am for Preschool 3-4 & 4-5
- Middle School students will report to campus in small groups on their assigned day/time:
- Upper School students will begin with asynchronous activities at 11:00 am
Thursday, August 27
- Middle School students will report to campus in small groups on their assigned day/time:
Friday, August 28
- Middle School students will report to campus in small groups on their assigned day/time:
Click on the link below to download your first day sign. Don't forget to post your photos to Vidigami, and post to social media using #AWSfirstday.
Contacts
Anelisa Cristobal (Lower & Middle School)
anelisa_cristobal@aw.org or 253.284.8635

Lisa Bazzanella (Upper School)
lisa_bazzanella@aw.org or 253.284.4323
BACK-TO-SCHOOL COFFEE: August 31

Monday, August 31
8:45 am
Via Zoom (link sent via email)

Annie Wright Schools Parents’ Association is hosting their annual morning reception for all parents, which includes welcomes from Head of Schools Jake Guadnola and Board Chair Michele Cannon Bessler.

Contact
AWSPA President Dawn Turnipseed
dawnturnipseed@kw.com
NO SCHOOL | LABOR DAY: September 7

Monday, September 7

There will be no Early Childhood coverage or Extended Day.

Enjoy the holiday!
NEW PARENT COFFEES: September 18, 21, 22, 29 & 30

New Parent Coffee with the Head of Schools
8:30-9:45 am
September 18, 21, 22, 29 & 30

Parents new to Annie Wright Schools are invited to join Head of Schools Jake Guadnola for a small group gathering over coffee. This is a great opportunity to make connections, ask questions and participate in discussion specific to your experience as new members of our community. Space is limited, please RSVP to reserve your spot or contact Grace Finch for more information.

Contact
Grace Finch
grace_finch@aw.org or 253.284.8604
SPEAKER SERIES KICK-OFF: October 21

Dr. Lauren Ashbaugh | Mental Health Strategies
Wednesday, October 21
7:30 pm
Location: Virtual Event via Zoom

We'll kick off our 2020-21 Speaker Series with Dr. Lauren Ashbaugh, a licensed clinical psychologist with a private practice in downtown Tacoma, Washington. The talk will focus on mental health strategies to address anxiety and depression and resilience practices (sleep, eating, exercise, mindfulness, relationships) that help with coping and wellness.

Dr. Ashbaugh is a therapist, consultant, and trainer who provides evidence-based outpatient psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults, and families. She is strength-based and collaborative in her approach, and strives to be culturally-responsive, trauma-informed, and empowering.

The evening talk will be a virtual event. It is free and open to the public. Please register here.

Thank you to the AWSPA for sponsoring the AWS Speaker Series!

Preschool Info & Events

List of 6 items.

PS EXTENDED DAY, AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Annie Wright offers its Extended Day (ED) Program daily for students in Preschool through Grade 8. For the 2020-21 academic year, morning ED will not be available. Afternoon ED will take place afer school until 6:00 pm.

Registration is available via ACTIVE and a communication will be sent when registration opens in mid-August. There is no fee for students enrolled in Preschool 3-4 and Preschool 4-5.

A variety of specialty clubs may also become available as part of this program for an additional fee. More information and registration will be communicated if we can offer clubs in the 20-21 school year.

Contact
Alicia Mathurin
alicia_mathurin@aw.org or 253.284.8634
LS UNIFORM & CIVVIES
For the 2020-21 academic year we will not require dress uniform. However, any piece of the dress uniform may be worn daily.

We hope to provide consistency from the start, no matter the learning environment, and we do want students in their uniforms even while we learn virtually. It sends the right messages to them - they are part of a larger community, school is important and different than summer and when we return in person, they won’t skip a beat in getting dressed each morning. Thank you for helping support this rule.

Face masks and/or shields will be required by anyone on campus, including students of all ages. Masks may be any color or pattern and can include school appropriate graphics. No non-AWS writing permitted. AWS branded masks are available for purchase on the Gator Alley Online Bookstore.

Here is a quick summary of our two dress codes at Annie Wright for this school year:
- DAILY: the most common uniform and more casual of our typical uniform options.
- CIVVIES: there are designated civvies days when students may wear street clothes of choice (sometimes surrounding a theme), so long as those clothes are appropriate for school.
Please note the uniform does vary between divisions. The Lower School uniform list is here. Uniform policies can be found in the Lower & Middle School Parent Handbook.

Shop for uniforms online:
- Dennis Uniform
- Lands' End
Contact
Erin Gann
erin_gann@aw.org or 253.284.4343
PS SUPPLY LIST

The Preschool supply list can be found here.

If you shop for supplies online, do so via AmazonSmile and give back to Annie Wright Schools!

Anything that the school would have provided, we will provide you to take home on Tuesday, August 25,when you come to meet the teacher. If your family is uncomfortable or unable to come to campus that morning, please let me know and we will arrange a different time to pick up those materials before the start on Wednesday, August 26.
PS INFORMATION SESSIONS: August 19 & 20

Wednesday, August 19, 8:00 am
Thursday, August 20, 4:00 pm
Virtual, link provided upon registration below

In order to accommodate the special needs of our youngest student families and to provide detailed information about our program, Preschool teachers will meet with all new families to PS 3-4 or PS 4-5 before school starts to review the program, explain school routines, supplies needed and strategies to optimize school success. Register here.

Contact
Ann Dicks
ann_dicks@aw.org or 253.284.4161
LS GATOR DAY: August 24 & 25
While this event will be virtual to kick-off a year that starts virtually, it will continue as it always has to give you the necessary information to begin the year. We are doing it in two parts this year.

Part 1
Monday, August 24
5:00-7:00 pm
Virtual via Microsoft Teams (links below)
The parent component takes the place of the event that typically occurs in the Kemper Theatre and Gym. Please note: if you also have a MS student, the Q&A sessions from 6:15-7:00 pm are the same, and are being offered to both LS & MS families.
- 5:00:00-6:00 pm: LS presentation from Ann Dicks
- 6:00-6:15 pm: Brief introductions from Q&A Session Leaders
- 6:15-7:00 pm: Q&A sessions
  - Athletics, Mike Finch
  - Extended Day, Alicia Mathurin
  - Nurse, Paula Coumou
  - AWSPA, Dawn Turnipseed & Alana Zautner
  - LS Learning Support, Devon Morris & Gretchen Voskuhl
  - Microsoft Teams, Sandra Bush & Erik Weiss
  - myAW, Anelisa Cristobal & Jenn Haley
  - General Tech Support (Clever, Seesaw, etc.), Angela Heath
  - LS Follow Up, Ann Dicks
Tuesday, August 25
PS-Grade 1 | 9:00-9:30 am
Grades 2-5 | 9:30-10:00 am
On campus

The second part to Gator Day is for the students. This will be a brief, in-person opportunity to see your child’s teacher and other students in the class and pick up needed supplies and materials for school. We will hold these in designated spots on the exterior parts of campus by class, with everyone distanced and in masks. Stay tuned for specific locations from your child’s teacher.

Contact
Ann Dicks
ann_dicks@aw.org or 253.284.4161
PS BACK-TO-SCHOOL MORNINGS: September 15 & 16

Preschool 3-4: Tuesday, September 15, 8:00-9:00 am
Preschool 4-5: Wednesday, September 16, 8:00-9:00 am
Virtual, watch for link

Parents will have the opportunity to hear about curriculum and programmatic components and goals, and will be done virtually this year. These events are intended for parents only so that you can really focus on hearing more about the program.

Contact
Ann Dicks
ann_dicks@aw.org or 253.284.4161

SHOP & GIVE BACK TO AWS

When you shop with the following online retailers, a percentage of your qualified purchases will be donated back to the AWSPA. Just click on the image below. Some retailers require you to set up an account.

K-Grade 5 Info & Events

List of 7 items.

LS SUMMER WORK

Summer work by grade level can be found on myAW here.
K-GRADE 5 SUPPLY LISTS
Below are links to supply lists, which include any swim and/or PE needs as well. Please note that each supply list varies by grade.

Anything that the school would have provided, we will provide you to take home on Tuesday, August 25,when you come to meet the teacher. If your family is uncomfortable or unable to come to campus that morning, please let me know and we will arrange a different time to pick up those materials before the start on Wednesday, August 26.

If you shop for supplies online, do so via AmazonSmile and give back to Annie Wright Schools!
LS UNIFORM & CIVVIES
For the 2020-21 academic year we will not require dress uniform. However, any piece of the dress uniform may be worn daily.

We hope to provide consistency from the start, no matter the learning environment, and we do want students in their uniforms even while we learn virtually. It sends the right messages to them - they are part of a larger community, school is important and different than summer and when we return in person, they won’t skip a beat in getting dressed each morning. Thank you for helping support this rule.

Face masks and/or shields will be required by anyone on campus, including students of all ages. Masks may be any color or pattern and can include school appropriate graphics. No non-AWS writing permitted. AWS branded masks are available for purchase on the Gator Alley Online Bookstore.

Here is a quick summary of our two dress codes at Annie Wright for this school year:
- DAILY: the most common uniform and more casual of our typical uniform options.
- CIVVIES: there are designated civvies days when students may wear street clothes of choice (sometimes surrounding a theme), so long as those clothes are appropriate for school.
Please note the uniform does vary between divisions. The Lower School uniform list is here. Uniform policies can be found in the Lower & Middle School Parent Handbook.

Shop for uniforms online:
- Dennis Uniform
- Lands' End
Contact
Erin Gann
erin_gann@aw.org or 253.284.4343
LS ATHLETICS
Due to the current pandemic, at this time, our normal fall althletics programming for Lower School students will not happen. In the meantime, we encourage our youngest Gators to stay active. We have a few options to support activity:
- Archived workouts with our PE Team
  These workouts are leveled beginner, intermediate, and advanced, so there's something for everyone.
- AWS Sports Series
  These videos will help you develop into a technically sound athlete in order for you to master your craft.
Contact
Mike Finch
Director of Athletics
mike_finch@aw.org or 253.284.8654
LS EXTENDED DAY, AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Annie Wright offers its Extended Day (ED) Program daily for students in Preschool through Grade 8. For the 2020-21 academic year, morning ED will not be available. Afternoon ED will take place afer school until 6:00 pm.

There are five different Lower School plans for the after school ED program, depending on your family's pick-up time. New in 20-21: monthly payment plans to provide more flexibilty! In order to participate in the Extended Day program, you must register for one of the plans. Registration is available via ACTIVE and a communication will be sent when registration opens in mid-August. There is no fee for students enrolled in Preschool 3-4 and Preschool 4-5.

A variety of specialty clubs may also become available as part of this program for an additional fee. More information and registration will be communicated if we can offer clubs in the 20-21 school year.

Homework support is also offered to students in Grades 1-5, allowing Annie Wright's Extended Day Staff to help students with their assignments.

Contact
Alicia Mathurin
alicia_mathurin@aw.org or 253.284.8634
LS GATOR DAY: August 24 & 25
While this event will be virtual to kick-off a year that starts virtually, it will continue as it always has to give you the necessary information to begin the year. We are doing it in two parts this year.

Part 1
Monday, August 24
5:00-7:00 pm
Virtual via Microsoft Teams (links below)
The parent component takes the place of the event that typically occurs in the Kemper Theatre and Gym. Please note: if you also have a MS student, the Q&A sessions from 6:15-7:00 pm are the same, and are being offered to both LS & MS families.
- 5:00:00-6:00 pm: LS presentation from Ann Dicks
- 6:00-6:15 pm: Brief introductions from Q&A Session Leaders
- 6:15-7:00 pm: Q&A sessions
  - Athletics, Mike Finch
  - Extended Day, Alicia Mathurin
  - Nurse, Paula Coumou
  - AWSPA, Dawn Turnipseed & Alana Zautner
  - LS Learning Support, Devon Morris & Gretchen Voskuhl
  - Microsoft Teams, Sandra Bush & Erik Weiss
  - myAW, Anelisa Cristobal & Jenn Haley
  - General Tech Support (Clever, Seesaw, etc.), Angela Heath
  - LS Follow Up, Ann Dicks
Tuesday, August 25
PS-Grade 1 | 9:00-9:30 am
Grades 2-5 | 9:30-10:00 am
On campus

The second part to Gator Day is for the students. This will be a brief, in-person opportunity to see your child’s teacher and other students in the class and pick up needed supplies and materials for school. We will hold these in designated spots on the exterior parts of campus by class, with everyone distanced and in masks. Stay tuned for specific locations from your child’s teacher.

Contact
Ann Dicks
ann_dicks@aw.org or 253.284.4161
K-5 BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT FOR PARENTS: September 17

Thursday, September 17
6:30-8:00 pm
Virtual, watch for link

Parents will have the opportunity to hear about curriculum and programmatic components and goals, and will be done virtually this year. These events are intended for parents only so that you can really focus on hearing more about the program.

Contact
Ann Dicks
ann_dicks@aw.org or 253.284.4161

Middle School Info & Events

List of 9 items.

MS SUMMER WORK

Summer work by grade level and subject can be found on myAW here.
MS SUPPLY LISTS

Students will be supported in establishing their own methods of organization for papers and assignments, which may require a variety of materials. A well-organized and effective system suited to the individual will allow students to be successful. Students are encouraged to seek out assistance as needed from their advisor once school begins. Here are some general supplies needed.

Download the MS supply list here.

If you shop for supplies online, do so via AmazonSmile and give back to Annie Wright Schools!
MS UNIFORM & CIVVIES
For the 2020-21 academic year we will not require dress uniform. However, any piece of the dress uniform may be worn daily. Also for this academic year, MS students will not change for PHE, so no uniform is required here either, but students will need a change of shoes.

Face masks and/or shields will be required by anyone on campus, including students of all ages. Masks may be any color or pattern and can include school appropriate graphics. No non-AWS writing permitted. AWS branded masks are available for purchase on the Gator Alley Online Bookstore.

Here is a quick summary of our two dress codes at Annie Wright for this school year:
- DAILY: the most common uniform and more casual of the typical uniforms and students will be expected to wear this online and in person.
- CIVVIES: there are designated civvies days when students may wear street clothes of choice (sometimes surrounding a theme), so long as those clothes are appropriate for school.
Please note the uniform does vary between divisions. The Middle School uniform list is here.

Shop for uniforms online:
- Dennis Uniform
- Lands' End
Contact
Erin Gann
erin_gann@aw.org or 253.284.4343
MS ATHLETICS
Due to the current pandemic, at this time, we will not offer any sports until the students return to campus. We remain hopeful that the seasons will start in January, with the following:
- Season 1: MSG Soccer, MSB Basketball, MSG/B Tennis
- Season 2: MSB Soccer, MSG Basketball, MSG/B Cross Country
- Season 3: MSG/B Track & Field, MSG Volleyball, MSG/B Golf, MSG Lacrosse
In the meantime, we encourage our MS Gators to stay active. In addition to the MS PE classes that students will participate in this fall, we have a few options to support activity:
- Archived workouts with our PE Team
  These workouts are leveled beginner, intermediate, and advanced, so there's something for everyone.
- AWS Sports Series
  These videos will help you develop into a technically sound athlete in order for you to master your craft.
Contact
Mike Finch
Director of Athletics
mike_finch@aw.org or 253.284.8654
MS EXTENDED DAY, AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Annie Wright offers its Extended Day (ED) Program daily for students in Preschool through Grade 8. For the 2020-21 academic year, morning ED will not be available. Afternoon ED will take place afer school until 6:00 pm.

There are four different Middle School plans for the after school ED program, depending on your family's pick-up time. New in 20-21: monthly payment plans to provide more flexibilty! In order to participate in the Extended Day program, you must register for one of the plans. Registration is available via ACTIVE and a communication will be sent when registration opens in mid-August.

A variety of specialty clubs may also become available as part of this program for an additional fee. More information and registration will be communicated if we can offer clubs in the 20-21 school year.

Middle School students in Grades 6-8 attend study hall immediately after school until 4:00 pm. There is no fee for study hall.

Contact
Alicia Mathurin
alicia_mathurin@aw.org or 253.284.8634
MS GATOR DAY: August 24
Monday, August 24
5:00-8:00 pm
Middle School Gator Day is an information event for all MS families that will occur via Microsoft Teams. Please note: if you also have a LS student, the Q&A sessions from 6:15-7:00 pm are the same, and are being offered to both LS & MS families.
6:00-6:15 pm: Brief introductions from Q&A Session Leaders
6:15-7:00 pm: Q&A sessions
Athletics, Mike Finch
Extended Day, Alicia Mathurin
Nurse, Paula Coumou
AWSPA, Dawn Turnipseed & Alana Zautner
LS Learning Support, Devon Morris & Gretchen Voskuhl
Microsoft Teams, Sandra Bush & Erik Weiss
myAW, Anelisa Cristobal & Jenn Haley
General Tech Support (Clever, Seesaw, etc.), Angela Heath
7:00-8:00 pm: Middle School Presentation, Clare Wagstaff-Brown

Please note, we have now cancelled the in-person New Student Orientation on Tuesday, August 25. Instead we will hold small on-campus orientation sessions during opening week.
Contact
Clare Wagstaff-Brown
clare_wagstaff@aw.org or 253.284.8649
MS TECHNOLOGY ORIENTATION: August 25
Sessions offered August 25 at 11:00 am or 5:30 pm
Virtual, register below for link
All families of incoming Grade 6 and new Grade 7 & 8 students to the Middle School must sign up for an online session of technology training. Clare Wagstaff-Brown sent an email with registration info; if you haven’t signed up, please visit:

https://bit.ly/ONLINETechOrientation2020

Tuesday, August 25 at 11:00 am
OR
Tuesday, August 25 at 5:30 pm

The orientation includes:
- review of the school’s Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
- discussion about the “culture of technology”
- best practices at school and at home
- care of the device
- review of essential communication platforms
Contact
Clare Wagstaff-Brown
clare_wagstaff@aw.org or 253.284.8649
MS STUDENT ORIENTATION CAMP: August 26-28
Wednesday, August 26 - Friday, August 28
Our Middle School Orientation has traditionally occurred the first three days of school and has included an overnight experience where we have built community and set the tone of the year. We would like to do something as similar as possible this year, so all Middle School students are invited to attend a on campus, 2-hour, physically-distant Middle School Orientation Camp that will be by grade level sections on one of the first three days of school. Online classes will then begin Monday, August 31, for all Middle School students.

Middle School Orientation Camp
Small student groups will be invited to attend our in-person orientation. Here they will collect the school materials they need for the start of the year, meet with their teachers in person (and physically distanced!), meet other students from their small online section, and get the technology training needed to successfully start the school year. Please note that you and your student will receive an invite next week confirming the section they are in and what day and time to attend. These events will all occur outside, we will require health checks, and we will maintain physical distancing at all times. If you are uncomfortable with your student attending the in-person Orientation Camp, we ask that you respond to the invite and let us know so that we can arrange for collection of your student’s materials (laptop, planner, art supplies, etc.) before the first online class day (Monday, August 31).
Wednesday, August 26: Grade 6 Orientation Camp - STUDENTS SHOULD BRING COMPLETED LL SUMMER WRITING WORK WITH THEM TO CAMP TO TURN IN TO MS. STRATE
6 Blue Section: 8:30 - 10:30 am
6 Gold Section: 12:30 - 2:30 pm
Thursday, August 27: Grade 7 Orientation Camp - RETURNING STUDENTS BRING LAPTOPS
7 Blue Section: 8:30 - 10:30 am
7 Gold Section: 12:30 - 2:30 pm
Friday, August 28: Grade 8 Orientation Camp - RETURNING STUDENTS BRING LAPTOPS
8 Blue Section: 8:30 - 10:30 am
8 Gold Section: 12:30 - 2:30 pm
Contact
Shelli Strate
Assistant Director of Middle School
shelli_strate@aw.org or 253.284.4164
MS CURRICULUM NIGHTS: September 10 & October 15

Part 1: Thursday, September 10, 6:30-8:00 pm
Part 2: Thursday, October 15, 6:30-8:00 pm
Virtual, watch for link

The two MS Curriculum Nights are designed to give a more in depth understanding of the scope and sequence of all eight MYP subjects over the three year span in middle school. Each Curriculum Night will focus on four different subjects and allow faculty to give a sneak peek into a typical class and course-specific information. Parents will also receive information about MYP, schedules, events, the school website, the student handbook, the MS Ten Essentials, grading policies, and the Spring Journeys.

Contact
Clare Wagstaff-Brown
clare_wagstaff@aw.org or 253.284.8649

Upper School for Boys Info & Events

List of 10 items.

NEW STUDENT MATH PLACEMENT EXAM: July & August dates
All new Upper School for Girls and Upper School for Boys students must take a math placement exam prior to the start of school. This exam is an online assessment that is offered several times throughout the summer as well as during New Student Orientation. The exam covers some Pre-Algebra skills, but mostly covers concepts found within a typical high school Algebra 1 course. The exam covers:
1. Solving linear equations
2. Linear functions
3. Systems of linear equations
4. Linear inequalities
5. Graphs and systems of linear inequalities
6. Exponential functions and equations
7. Polynomial equations and factoring
8. Graphing quadratic functions
The goal of the placement exam is to identify the most appropriate, yet rigorous course for our new students. Students who feel they are ready for Pre-Calculus or higher will take the Upper School final from the prerequisite course in addition to the math placement exam. Placement into Pre-Calculus (or higher) requires demonstrated mastery of the concepts and skills from the previous course. Please contact Emily Weston (emily_weston@aw.org) to make these arrangements.

The math placement exam can be taken on July 1, July 15 and/or August 5 online. Students are given 90 minutes to complete the exam which must be proctored by an adult. The exam will be open from the hours of 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (PST) each testing day to accommodate each family's schedule and varying time zones. Sign up for the placement exam at least 24 hours prior to testing day by visiting goformative.com/join and entering the testing day’s unique code:

1.       July 1, 2020 Code: PMU2N5
2.       July 15, 2020 Code: KHQLWK
3.       August 5, 2020 Code: 7TKSGR

Information regarding how to access the exam and some guidelines for taking the exam will be sent to families and students the evening prior to the testing day. We hope to get back to families within 3 days of the testing day to inform them of student math placement. A detailed report can be provided on how students performed on each concept if desired. Students who wish to be pushed into a different course can retake the placement exam on any of the scheduled dates throughout the summer. The placement exam is also offered in person during New Student Orientation on August 25. However, retakes after August 25 are prohibited.
USB SUMMER WORK: CHALLENGE ‘24

During summer in the Northwest, “homework” ought to challenge boys in a number of ways. To that end, we present an annual homework challenge. This year, Challenge ‘24, presents a series of tasks that we hope boys and their teachers might complete over the course of the next few weeks. We’ll report out how it all went when we meet in late August.

SUMMER MATH WORK

Summer Math Work for All USB/USG Students

The Upper School Math Department recommends that students practice math throughout the summer to help solidify concepts and skills learned throughout the previous school year so that when school resumes in the fall students will be ready to hit the ground running in their new math course.

We will be using the website IXL and each math course has been given a set of highly curated skills to work on that reviews material from the prerequisite course. Though this math summer practice is not required, we highly recommend students spend some time each week reviewing math material from the past school year. We recommend pacing review throughout the summer instead of sitting down for large chunks of time to “get it over with” as this will help keep math skills fresh.

We recommend students aim for a smartscore of 80 or above on each skill assigned. Many students have used IXL before, so they know that it is designed to use at their own pace. Each skill has similar problems that get progressively more difficult as the smartscore increases. IXL can be a great tool for practicing math skills as it gives students immediate feedback.

Once a new student has been placed into their course, they can access IXL by using the sign in credentials below and using the summer skill lists attached. Most returning students will have sign in credentials consistent with that below; however, some who have accessed IXL for math in the 19-20 school year with different login usernames will have access using those usernames.

www.ixl.com
IXL login: first_last@anniewright
IXL password: aws1884 (change password upon signing in)

Note that these lists are named for the course that a student is entering into in the school year 20-21:

This chart may be helpful for returning students to determine which course they are entering into in the 20-21 school year.

If I took this course in 19-20	I will be entering this course in 20-21
Integrated Math 1A	Integrated Math 1
Integrated Math 1	Integrated Math 2
Algebra 1 & Geometry	Accelerated Algebra 2
Geometry (Green tie)	Accelerated Algebra 2
Geometry (Red tie)	IB Algebra 2
Accelerated Algebra 2 (Green tie)	Pre-Calculus for HL
Accelerated Algebra 2 (Red tie)	IB Pre-Calc SL
Pre-Calculus for HL	IB Advanced Calc 1 HL
IB Algebra 2 SL	IB Pre-Calc & Stats SL
IB Pre-Calc SL	IB Calc SL
IB Advanced Calc 1 HL	IB Advanced Calc 2 HL
IB Pre-Calc & Statistics SL	Statistics
IB Calc SL	Statistics

Contact
Emily Weston
emily_weston@aw.org or 253.284.4151

US MOVE-IN DAY FOR INTERNATIONAL BOARDERS: August 8

Saturday, August 8
8:00 am
AWS Main Building

Dorms will open for all international boarding students to complete the required 14-day COVID quarantine.

Though the fundamentals of the boarding program remain unchanged, we are responding to COVID with new expectations about social distancing, masks and dorm sanitation, and expect students to be responsible and cooperative teammates in these efforts.
US MOVE-IN FOR RETURNING DOMESTIC BOARDERS: August 22

Saturday, August 22
8:00 am
AWS Main Building

Dorms will open for returning domestic boarding students.

Though the fundamentals of the boarding program remain unchanged, we are responding to COVID with new expectations about social distancing, masks and dorm sanitation, and expect students to be responsible and cooperative teammates in these efforts.
US MOVE-IN DAY NEW DOMESTIC BOARDERS: August 25

Tuesday, August 25
8:00 am
AWS Main Building

Dorms will open for new domestic boarding students.

Though the fundamentals of the boarding program remain unchanged, we are responding to COVID with new expectations about social distancing, masks and dorm sanitation, and expect students to be responsible and cooperative teammates in these efforts.
USB PARENT & STUDENT ORIENTATIONS: August 25-2828

Because we will not be able to meet as a full school in person, we have decided to use parts of Tuesday - Friday, August 25, 26, 27 and 28 as community building and orientation time, rather than jump right into academic classes. We have changed the timing of new student orientation on Tuesday, Aug, 25. Instead of a long orientation from 12:30 - 5:30 that day, we will invite ALL 9th graders to come to campus IN PERSON (with masks, of course) to receive textbooks, laptops and laptop orientation from 3 - 4 pm. We want ALL our 9th graders who can to be present for introductions to their classmates and our beautiful building. From 4 - 5 pm, we will offer a similar welcome and orientation for new students in grades 10 and 11. For those of you unable to be here in person, we will make available recordings of these orientation sessions on Microsoft Stream and posted on the myAW resource board; we will also offer a half-hour in-person welcome for you at 5:30 on Tuesday afternoon. For those of you who have not yet taken the math placement exam OR who want to retake that exam, it will be available (required for some) following each welcome session.

It is important to emphasize that, when we predicted the 2020-21 calendar taking the uncertainty of the pandemic into consideration, we added 10 academic days to insure just this kind of flexibility. Students: do not worry that you will have less class time! There are plenty of days for you to get that good learning in! And, yes, seniors, you will still have college week in October.

Classes will begin on our on-line block schedule on Monday, August 31. A link to hat schedule is included later in this letter.

ORIENTATION SCHEDULES
All listed times are Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) / Tacoma time.

Tuesday, Aug. 25: USB 9th grade welcome and laptop distribution (in person)
2 pm

New USB and USG 10th and 11th grade welcome and laptop distribution
3 pm

Math placement exam for ALL students who have not yet
tested and for any students wishing to retake the
placement exam immediately following welcome
3-4 pm for 9th graders; 4-5 pm for new 10th/11th graders

5:30 - 6 pm: optional online greeting for all new USB students unable to join in-person welcome

8 pm: Kick-off event on-line (Microsoft Teams) ALL STUDENT / FACULTY ATTENDANCE MANDATORY

Note: for resident students who had planned to move in on August 24 / 25, in order to participate in Tuesday welcome events in person, you must move in no later than the evening of August 20 in order to complete the required 72-hour quarantine and COVID testing. Please contact Jeff Barber or Susan Bauska for clarification or additional information.

Wednesday - Friday, Aug. 26 - 28:9 - 10 amTextbook pick-up by class
11 am - 2 pmAsynchronous activities
4 - 6 pmSynchronous activities
Wednesday, 2 - 4 pm: Individual and small group meetings, students in US time
zones
Thursday: 6 - 8 pmIndividual and small group meetings, students outside US
zones

More detailed information about orientation plans will be provided next week in the Friday Flash, but we wanted all students to get these required fixed times for connecting with one another and with teachers onto your calendars.

PARENT ORIENTATION
We have scheduled a one-hour orientation from 6:00-7:00 pm on Monday, August 24 (Pacific time) for any new parents who would like additional or more in-depth information about our processes and protocols. Please join for a question-and-answer session at this Zoom meeting link.
USB UNIFORM & CIVVIES
For the 2020-21 academic year we will not require dress uniform. However, any piece of the dress uniform may be worn daily.

Face masks and/or shields will be required by anyone on campus, including students of all ages. Masks may be any color or pattern and can include school appropriate graphics. No non-AWS writing permitted. AWS branded masks are available for purchase on the Gator Alley Online Bookstore.

Here is a quick summary of our two dress codes at Annie Wright for this school year:
- DAILY: the most common uniform and more casual of the typical uniforms.
- CIVVIES: there are designated civvies days when students may wear street clothes of choice (sometimes surrounding a theme), so long as those clothes are appropriate for school.
Please note the uniform does vary between divisions. The USB uniform list is here.

Shop for uniforms online:
- Dennis Uniform
- Lands' End
Contact
Erin Gann
erin_gann@aw.org or 253.284.4343
USB SUPPLIES

During the first week of school, each student will receive an Annie Wright Schools planner, and teachers will inform students about needed supplies. Prior to the start of school, we recommend students purchase a Texas Instruments TI-83 or TI-84 calculator for use in math and science courses.

If you shop for supplies online, do so via AmazonSmile and give back to Annie Wright Schools!
USB ATHLETICS
The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (our state association for education-based athletics) has determined that the 2020-2021 athletic season will be postponed until late December (see below) at which point, we will begin an abbreviated version of fall, winter and spring sports in that order. The WIAA will, however, allow for schools to host sport specific pod trainings. AWS will continue to monitor the health climate for our student-athletes to ensure student safety on-campus.

Private Tennis Lessons will be available with Coach Nate Jones at the Galbraith Tennis Center 3:45 & 4:45 pm starting on September 28. Registration links will be available next week.
For now, Director of Athletics Mike Finch and his team have shared the following schedule to keep athletes in shape and all students physically active:

Optional Conditioning & Practices for all teams in pods of 5-10 dependent upon phase
Season 1: USG Basketball, USB Basketball
- Season 2: USG Soccer, USG Volleyball, USB Tennis, USG/B Cross Country
- Season 3: USG/B Track & Field, USB Soccer, USG/B Golf, USG Lacrosse, USG Tennis
In the meantime, we encourage our Upper School Gators to stay active and our athletics team continues to explore ways to make this possible. Here are some ways to stay active from home:
- Archived workouts with our PE Team
  These workouts are leveled beginner, intermediate, and advanced, so there's something for everyone.
- AWS Sports Series
  These videos will help you develop into a technically sound athlete in order for you to master your craft.
Contact
Mike Finch
Director of Athletics
mike_finch@aw.org or 253.284.8654

Upper School for Girls Info & Events

List of 11 items.

NEW STUDENT MATH PLACEMENT EXAM: July & August dates
All new Upper School for Girls and Upper School for Boys students must take a math placement exam prior to the start of school. This exam is an online assessment that is offered several times throughout the summer as well as during New Student Orientation. The exam covers some Pre-Algebra skills, but mostly covers concepts found within a typical high school Algebra 1 course. The exam covers:
1. Solving linear equations
2. Linear functions
3. Systems of linear equations
4. Linear inequalities
5. Graphs and systems of linear inequalities
6. Exponential functions and equations
7. Polynomial equations and factoring
8. Graphing quadratic functions
The goal of the placement exam is to identify the most appropriate, yet rigorous course for our new students. Students who feel they are ready for Pre-Calculus or higher will take the Upper School final from the prerequisite course in addition to the math placement exam. Placement into Pre-Calculus (or higher) requires demonstrated mastery of the concepts and skills from the previous course. Please contact Emily Weston (emily_weston@aw.org) to make these arrangements.

The math placement exam can be taken on July 1, July 15 and/or August 5 online. Students are given 90 minutes to complete the exam which must be proctored by an adult. The exam will be open from the hours of 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (PST) each testing day to accommodate each family's schedule and varying time zones. Sign up for the placement exam at least 24 hours prior to testing day by visiting goformative.com/join and entering the testing day’s unique code:

1.       July 1, 2020 Code: PMU2N5
2.       July 15, 2020 Code: KHQLWK
3.       August 5, 2020 Code: 7TKSGR

Information regarding how to access the exam and some guidelines for taking the exam will be sent to families and students the evening prior to the testing day. We hope to get back to families within 3 days of the testing day to inform them of student math placement. A detailed report can be provided on how students performed on each concept if desired. Students who wish to be pushed into a different course can retake the placement exam on any of the scheduled dates throughout the summer. The placement exam is also offered in person during New Student Orientation on August 25. However, retakes after August 25 are prohibited.
USG SUMMER WORK: READ|WATCH|LISTEN

Read|Watch|Listen (RWL) replaces traditional “summer reading” with a more engaging, relevant, community-building experience that helps students gain greater cultural awareness. It is entirely optional, non-assessed, and loads of fun. Students, faculty, and parents are encouraged to engage the program to whatever degree they’d like.

The Lists. In small groups, the rising Blue Tie seniors selected books, movies, and albums (or musical artists) that they believed high school students should definitely know.

*Disclaimer: Some of the RWL works are for a mature audience. Students should talk with their parents before watching, reading, or listening to any of the works below.

This Summer. For summer 2020, students are encouraged to read two (2) books, watch two (2) movies, and listen to two (2) albums. The RWL list selections are here.

SUMMER MATH WORK

Summer Math Work for All USB/USG Students

www.ixl.com
IXL login: first_last@anniewright
IXL password: aws1884 (change password upon signing in)

Note that these lists are named for the course that a student is entering into in the school year 20-21:

This chart may be helpful for returning students to determine which course they are entering into in the 20-21 school year.

If I took this course in 19-20	I will be entering this course in 20-21
Integrated Math 1A	Integrated Math 1
Integrated Math 1	Integrated Math 2
Algebra 1 & Geometry	Accelerated Algebra 2
Geometry (Green tie)	Accelerated Algebra 2
Geometry (Red tie)	IB Algebra 2
Accelerated Algebra 2 (Green tie)	Pre-Calculus for HL
Accelerated Algebra 2 (Red tie)	IB Pre-Calc SL
Pre-Calculus for HL	IB Advanced Calc 1 HL
IB Algebra 2 SL	IB Pre-Calc & Stats SL
IB Pre-Calc SL	IB Calc SL
IB Advanced Calc 1 HL	IB Advanced Calc 2 HL
IB Pre-Calc & Statistics SL	Statistics
IB Calc SL	Statistics

Contact
Emily Weston
emily_weston@aw.org or 253.284.4151

US MOVE-IN DAY FOR INTERNATIONAL BOARDERS: August 8

Saturday, August 8
8:00 am
AWS Main Building

Dorms will open for all international boarding students to complete the required 14-day COVID quarantine.

Though the fundamentals of the boarding program remain unchanged, we are responding to COVID with new expectations about social distancing, masks and dorm sanitation, and expect students to be responsible and cooperative teammates in these efforts.
US MOVE-IN FOR RETURNING DOMESTIC BOARDERS: August 22

Saturday, August 22
8:00 am
AWS Main Building

Dorms will open for returning domestic boarding students.

Though the fundamentals of the boarding program remain unchanged, we are responding to COVID with new expectations about social distancing, masks and dorm sanitation, and expect students to be responsible and cooperative teammates in these efforts.
US MOVE-IN DAY NEW DOMESTIC BOARDERS: August 25

Tuesday, August 25
8:00 am
AWS Main Building

Dorms will open for new domestic boarding students.

Though the fundamentals of the boarding program remain unchanged, we are responding to COVID with new expectations about social distancing, masks and dorm sanitation, and expect students to be responsible and cooperative teammates in these efforts.
USG NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION: August 25

Tuesday, August 25
1:00-5:30 pm

We will hold programming for all students entering the USG (this includes students new to AWS and students rising from the AWS Middle School). The programming will run from 1:00-5:30 pm. During this orientation, new students will not only learn about the USG program, they will also receive their laptop. Parents can pick-up their students outside the Schools' main entrance at 5:30 pm.
USG ORIENTATION: August 28

Friday, August 28

In a typical year, we would hold a two-day orientation for the whole of the USG. Given the constraints on this coming year, the orientation will take place on Friday, August 28 during the regularly scheduled academic day; 9:15 am-3:10 pm.
USG UNIFORM & CIVVIES
For the 2020-21 academic year we will not require dress uniform. However, any piece of the dress uniform may be worn daily.

Face masks and/or shields will be required by anyone on campus, including students of all ages. Masks may be any color or pattern and can include school appropriate graphics. No non-AWS writing permitted. AWS branded masks are available for purchase on the Gator Alley Online Bookstore.

Here is a quick summary of our two dress codes at Annie Wright for this school year:
- DAILY: the most common uniform and more casual of the typical uniforms.
- CIVVIES: there are designated civvies days when students may wear street clothes of choice (sometimes surrounding a theme), so long as those clothes are appropriate for school.
Please note the uniform does vary between divisions. The USG uniform list is here.

Shop for uniforms online:
- Dennis Uniform
- Lands' End
Contact
Erin Gann
erin_gann@aw.org or 253.284.4343
USG SUPPLIES

During the first week of school, each student will receive an Annie Wright Schools planner, and teachers will inform students about needed supplies. Prior to the start of school, we strongly recommend students purchase a Texas Instruments TI-83 or TI-84 calculator for use in math and science courses.

If you shop for supplies online, do so via AmazonSmile and give back to Annie Wright Schools!
USG ATHLETICS
The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (our state association for education-based athletics) has determined that the 2020-2021 athletic season will be postponed until late December (see below) at which point, we will begin an abbreviated version of fall, winter and spring sports in that order. The WIAA will, however, allow for schools to host sport specific pod trainings. AWS will continue to monitor the health climate for our student-athletes to ensure student safety on-campus.

Private Tennis Lessons will be available with Coach Nate Jones at the Galbraith Tennis Center 3:45 & 4:45 pm starting on September 28. Registration links will be available next week.
For now, Director of Athletics Mike Finch and his team have shared the following schedule to keep athletes in shape and all students physically active:

Optional Conditioning & Practices for all teams in pods of 5-10 dependent upon phase
- September 28-November 30
Season 1: USG Basketball, USB Basketball
- Season 2: USG Soccer, USG Volleyball, USB Tennis, USG/B Cross Country
- Season 3: USG/B Track & Field, USB Soccer, USG/B Golf, USG Lacrosse, USG Tennis
In the meantime, we encourage our Upper School Gators to stay active and our athletics team continues to explore ways to make this possible. Here are some ways to stay active from home:
- Archived workouts with our PE Team
  These workouts are leveled beginner, intermediate, and advanced, so there's something for everyone.
- AWS Sports Series
  These videos will help you develop into a technically sound athlete in order for you to master your craft.
Contact
Mike Finch
Director of Athletics
mike_finch@aw.org or 253.284.8654