Mission Statement:
At Weston Elementary School our mission is to create the best possible learning environment for all students. We will “be there” for our students by being competent, flexible, and sensitive to the needs and abilities of all learners. We will focus on learning. We will recognize diversity and growth and development needs of each individual. We will “choose” to model an attitude of enthusiasm and positive self-image. Our school will be a haven for harmony, courtesy, safety, and self-worth. We will embrace an atmosphere of “goodwill and energy” that creates a sense of belonging and family. We will teach in a way that addresses all modalities of learning. We will offer a variety of academic activities in an attempt to create an inclusive environment; so all students can be actively involved in learning. We will find ways to make learning “fun”, by appreciating creativity and having a good time in a respectful manner.

Vision:

Our vision at Weston Elementary School is based on a combination of two philosophies that we believe will help create a productive and positive school climate: standards based instruction and the Fish! Philosophy.

We believe all children can learn. Children learn in different ways and are provided a variety of instructional approaches to support their learning.
We set high expectations for all children through standardized curriculum and instruction.
We recognize diversity and offer all students opportunities to express their individual needs and talents through a variety of artistic, technological, athletic, social, and intellectual outlets.
We believe learning takes place in a supportive and safe environment where creativity and risk taking is encouraged. Our positive school climate enhances self-esteem, productivity, achievement, and a sense of belonging.

Standards based instruction sets high expectations for all children through the teaching of core standards, assessing the students on those standards, and then using the results to plan future teaching.

The Fish! Philosophy comes from the Pike’s Place Fish Market in Seattle, Washington. Stephen C. Lundin, John Christensen, and Henry Paul share the Philosophy in several books.

There are four Fish! Principles.

Choose Your Attitude. There are many things in life we cannot control. What we can control is our response to both the good and bad things that happen to us. Your outlook determines everything. When you look for the best, you will find possibilities you never imagined.

Be There. Be truly present in your work. Focus your full attention on what you are doing and the kind of student you are being. Support your friends and classmates with a kind word, gesture, deed, or shoulder to lean on.

Make Their Day. Think of others. Welcome them to join in. Think of ways to make someone else’s day positive. Make a difference.

Play. Be creative in your work. Make your learning fun by joining in and being a part of it all. Have a good time in a respectful way.

We are committed to these philosophies, which we believe result in academic excellence and the cultivation of individual potential through a cooperative, enriched environment where each person feels significant and appreciated. We see successful schooling as a result of cooperation among students, parents, families, teachers and administrators, support personnel, and the community.