Dear Whittier Families,

This year was especially meaningful as our school community welcomed many new students, families, and staff impacted by the closure of schools in our district. We recognized that transitions like these can be both emotional and challenging, and as a staff, we worked intentionally and with care to ensure every student and family felt seen, respected, and treated with dignity. We are proud of how our community came together with compassion and inclusivity, creating a stronger and more connected Whittier for all.

We recently celebrated our amazing 6th graders as they prepare to take the exciting step into middle school. We also welcomed back West High graduates for a final walk through our school — a special moment for both them and our current students.

Our students finished the year stronger than they began—both academically and socially—and we are incredibly proud of their growth and accomplishments. Their hard work, resilience, and progress have been inspiring to watch.

As the year ends, we are saying goodbye to several valued staff members who will be pursuing other paths next year:

• Ms. Callister (Intervention)
• Mr. Weavil (Special Education and Intervention)
• Dr. Moses (Special Education)
• Ms. Thomas (Counselor)
• Ms. Blagogee (1st Grade)
• Ms. Miller (2nd Grade)
• Ms. Bigler (5th Grade ELP)
• Ms. Schmock (5th Grade)
• Ms. Jones (6th Grade ELP)
• Ms. Camary Davis (Paraprofessional)
• Ms. Callie Madsen (Office Support)
• Ms. Jaden Morey (Paraprofessional)
• Ms. Loretta Jeppson (Cafeteria Manager)

We are deeply grateful for their hard work, dedication, and the positive impact they have had on our students and school community. They will be greatly missed, and we wish them all the best in their next chapters.

At the same time, we are excited to welcome the following new team members to Whittier:

• Ms. Jody Peterson (Special Education)
• Mr. Tyler Adams (Special Education)
• Ms. Julia Schleifman (Counselor)
• Ms. Miriam Rodriguez (Kindergarten)
• Ms. Stephanie Feller (5th Grade ELP)
• Dr. Vanessa Jordan (Principal)

We are still in the process of hiring for 5th Grade General Education and 6th Grade ELP positions. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and energy our new team members will bring, and we are confident they will be valuable additions to our school community.

Looking ahead:

• Final report cards for school year 2024-25 will be mailed out within the week.
• June 9-July 17: Summer Learning Program at Whittier, Monday through Thursday, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. In addition, our Summer Food Service Program will run from June 9 through July 17. Breakfast will be served from 8:00 to 8:45 a.m., and lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This program is open to all children 18 and under, and meals are provided free of charge. For 1st grade(rising 2nd grade) families participating in the Horizons summer program at Rowland Hall, please note that Rowland Hall will be providing transportation for 1st grade students who signed up, with pickup and drop off at Whittier Monday through Friday.
• July 15: Registration for the next school year 2025-26 begins. More information will be sent out as we get closer to that date.
• August 15: Back to School Night from 4:00–7:00 p.m. in an open house format.
• August 19: First day of school for students. Please mark your calendars!

Finally, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for allowing me the honor of serving this remarkable community over the past four years. Whittier will always hold a special place in my heart.

Wishing you all a safe, restful, and joyful summer.

Sincerely,

Dr. Conley