Washington Terrace Elementary in Washington Terrace was recently named the FOX 13 News Cool School of the Week, an honor given because of its strong focus on student involvement and leadership, according to the recognition. The school prioritizes placing students at the center of various programs and activities.
A key initiative fostering student leadership is the Bulldog News program, where students assume roles such as news anchors and reporters. Bulldog News teacher Austin Moffitt confirmed that he started the program specifically to enable students to deliver news to their peers and to provide them with important leadership opportunities. Randy, a student reporter for Bulldog News, expressed his enjoyment in the role, stating he likes "asking people questions and their opinions." Leadership roles extend beyond the newsroom; the school also operates a Hope Squad, in which students serve as advocates and a voice for their classmates.
In addition to student-led programs, Washington Terrace Elementary cultivates a positive environment through initiatives like the kindness cart. First-grade teacher Jessica Deboer launched this cart to enhance morale among teachers. Deboer stated that every other Wednesday, she gets the cart out, plays music, and actively welcomes the teachers. Principal Phil Nestoryak also makes student recognition a significant priority. Each month, Principal Nestoryak visits classrooms to acknowledge students who are making a notable difference within the school community. Students can receive an Academic All-Star Award for academic achievements or a Citizen of the Month Award for demonstrating positive habits and leadership. Nestoryak noted that these monthly themes are designed to encourage positive development, with this month's theme being "be proactive."
The school also integrates arts and physical activity into its student experience. During the morning events for the "Cool School" visit, choir students presented a performance. Additionally, students who participated in the school's recent production of "Beauty and the Beast" arrived at school dressed in costume, showcasing their involvement in performing arts. Keeping students active is another focus, with physical education activities designed to be both engaging and fun. P.E. teacher Kimberely Strong, widely known as Miss Kimmy, is described as the school's "biggest champion" for these active learning initiatives. In recognition of her work, Granite Credit Union surprised Miss Kimmy with a donation, offering their thanks for her dedicated efforts.