Dear Washburne Families,

Greetings! It gives me great pleasure, as Principal of Carleton Washburne School, to welcome you. Washburne is a tremendously dynamic learning environment that is steeped in rich traditions while priding itself on meeting the diverse needs of middle school children. The staff is dedicated to each and every student and works together with parents to ensure children are challenged, engaged and successful. We are committed to educational excellence and work diligently to ensure that curriculum and instructional practices allow for individual growth and are in line with best practice.

Washburne School will be launching a revitalized advisory program for the 2010-2011 school year that will better serve the needs of the students. The advisory concept has a rich history in Winnetka, and it is a direct reflection of the District's child-centered approach to progressive education. With such a rich history, advisory is an integral part of the middle school experience in Winnetka and is often described as "the heart of our school." Please check the Advisory link on our web page for further information and details on the program.

We are also beginning a new Flex Program Model that meets twice a week and provides many advantages for students. First, it allows students who are involved in band, orchestra, and chorus to attend rehearsals during the school day. Second, it creates a venue through which students can receive specialized assistance in Math and Writing by working with specialists in those areas as needed. Third, it allows time for students to access the resource center and computer lab to gather information, work on projects, and get assistance. The fourth opportunity for students is our Humanities Exploration class and the Math/Science Exploration class. Both of these programs will allow students to work on independent student projects under the guidance of teachers, allowing students to explore areas of interest in these particular genres. Please check the Flex Program link on our web page for more information on this exciting new program.

I'm sure you will find your experience at Washburne a truly extraordinary one. We pride ourselves on being a successful school for young adolescents that provides:

• Curriculum that is relevant, challenging, integrative, and exploratory;
• Multiple learning and teaching approaches that respond to student diversity;
• Assessment and evaluation programs that promote quality learning;
• Organizational structures that support meaningful relationships and learning;
• School-wide efforts and policies that foster health, wellness, and safety;
• Multifaceted guidance and support services.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions. I look forward to working with you to provide the best educational opportunities for our children.

Yours truly,
Cathy Rosen, Ed.D.