Programs
Technology--An Device for Every Student
Our iPads provide a 21st century classroom experience for students and allows equal access to the curriculum. We use iPads on a daily basis for research, word processing, coding, creating digital storybooks, note taking, annotating and much, much more. Students may also use an iPad, projector, keyboard, and on-line resources to collaboratively publish their assignments and projects using programs such as iMovie. Students use technology to research topics related to the curriculum in all grade levels. Students learn to use search strategies, internet navigation and on-line sites, including various applications such as Pages and Google Classroom for publishing and sharing their work.
Science – Delta Education, Full Option Science System (FOSS)
The Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) teaching model is used to integrate and enrich learning in each science lesson. Next Generation Science Standards are used in collaboration with Playa Vista Elementary to implement problem-based science units and lessons. The science content, lesson design, and instructional strategies in FOSS are a high quality program with students “learning by doing.” Each grade will complete a Life, Physical, and Earth Science unit during the year. The program is standards-based with an emphasis on experimentation, observation, and investigation. Instruction culminates with a school-wide Science Fair. Click here to learn more about FOSS science lessons. Click here to learn about the NGSS Science Standards.
Gifted and Talented Education Program (G.A.T.E)
WHES encourages students to be creative and innovative leaders. Under legislation AB 2313, each teacher designs their own plan implemented to motivate and challenge children who are identified(students are initially tested for G.A.T.E. in the 2nd grade)as well as children who are in the referral and screening process. G.A.T.E. students work in clusters and children who are not identified can participate in flexible groups within the classroom. Previous projects undertaken by students in the G.A.T.E. program include creating and publishing our very own school newspaper, The Condor Speaks, writing and performing a podcast using Garage Band, and historical research projects. Click here to learn more.
Language Arts – The Treasures Reading Program
This Program consists of Print Awareness, Phonemic Awareness, Sounds and Letters, Spelling and Vocabulary, Writing, and Reading. It builds upon Phonemic awareness through blending, dictation, decodables, word knowledge, academic language, and vocabulary. This reading program helps students perfect comprehension strategies, comprehension skills, reading, writing, thinking, analyzing, and communication skills. Click here to learn more.
Wellness
WHES is committed to shaping healthy children in body and mind. We guide children to make decisions using the Six Pillars of Character through use of monthly themes and assemblies. We support the American Cancer Society's annually with our JumpRope for Heart fundraiser, which teaches children the importance of exercising the heart muscle, while at the same time teaching compassion for persons afflicted with heart disease. We use Second Step, an anti-violence program, and Too Good For Drugs for helping children avoid the dangers of drug abuse.
Kids need to play. PlayWorks creates a place for every kid on the playground to feel included, be active, and build valuable social and emotional skills. We're changing the culture of school...
Math – Envision Math
This outstanding curriculum is based on the Common Core State Standards. A balanced curriculum that allows for teaching procedural skills, problem solving, and conceptual understanding using hands-on experiences to help students make connections to everyday life is implemented. There are opportunities to learn in a coherent educational system in which the content standards, assessments, curriculum, and professional development are closely aligned to one another.
Arts – Alive And Well At WHES
Our students all get chorus/instrumental music, fine arts, theater arts, and dance. Students in 3rd – 5th Grades can audition for our honors Choir.
Preschool For All Learners (PAL)
Our Preschool For All Learners class is a special day class for children with unique needs. Children are placed in the PAL class as per their Individual Education Plan in accordance with Least Restrictive Environment guidelines.Children with special education eligibility,ages 3-5, attend our 5 day, 4 hour 30 minute program to learn through direct instruction, play, music and a variety of activity centers.