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Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Welcome to our new families, and welcome back to those returning! We just wrapped up a full and fun summer program, and now we’re getting excited for a school year filled with new experiences, friendships, and learning. My own three boys have had a great summer between a family vacation and time with friends at Wellington’s camps, but we’re all feeling ready for routine and some cozy fall clothes!
Welcome to Wellington Family Event
I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at our back-to-school event on August 18. It’s a great chance for children to explore their classrooms, meet their teachers, and connect with both new and familiar faces.
- Families who are new to Wellington will head to the Gard Gym at 4 p.m. for a welcome from the Head of School, Eliza McLaren, at 4:15 p.m.
- Returning families can head straight to their classrooms at 4:30 p.m.
- We’ll wrap things up with frozen treats for everyone as we celebrate the start of a new school year!
Please note that the Welcome to Wellington event has been moved from a Sunday to Monday evening. We hope the new timing makes it easier for families to attend, and we’re looking forward to seeing you there!
Dress Code Updates
Earlier this summer, we shared an update about the early childhood and lower school dress code. Based on thoughtful feedback from our community, we’ve made a few small adjustments:
- Solid navy, white, or gray cardigans have been added as an outer layer.
- Students may wear solid navy, white, or gray turtlenecks.
- Solid-colored sweatshirts (navy, white, or gray) are allowed, but hoodies are limited to those purchased from the Sokol Store.
We’re also excited to announce a new partnership with Lands’ End, which will offer uniform pieces designed specifically for Wellington students. An embroidery option will be available on the website starting August 6, allowing you to select your preferred logo from a drop-down menu to be added to your clothing item.
Technology
I would also like to highlight an important note in the school-wide student handbook regarding technology use. While this expectation was in place last year, it’s worth noting again because it’s made a real difference. Early childhood and lower school students should not wear smartwatches or use personal phones during the school day. These devices can get in the way of self-regulation, peer connections, and focused learning. If a device comes to school, it must stay powered off and in the child’s backpack.
Intake Conferences
We truly value the partnership between home and school, and we’re excited to kick off the year with intake conferences on August 18. These meetings are a chance for you to share anything you'd like your child’s teacher to know before the school year begins. Intake conferences are for adults only. You can now register for your intake conference on the Veracross Parent Portal. Registration will close on August 15 at noon.
Aftercare Information
Registration is now open for Early Childhood and Lower School Aftercare, after-school enrichment classes, and Junior Jag athletic clinics for the first trimester. After the school day, families may choose Aftercare, which provides supervised playtime and structured activities or opt for enrichment classes and Junior Jag clinics that offer engaging, skill-based experiences that allow students to explore new interests, deepen their learning, and practice specific techniques in a fun, supportive environment. All options require advance registration. For more details and to register, please visit the Beyond the Bell webpage on the Veracross Parent Portal.
Back to School Page
Just a quick reminder to complete any back-to-school tasks before their deadlines. Taking care of things early helps ensure a smooth start to the year for everyone. Thanks for staying on top of it. We appreciate your partnership!
As your family gets ready for the first day of school, be sure to check out the back-to-school resources for everything you need to know, including drop-off and pickup procedures, Wellington Parent Association information, and safety and security protocols. There’s also a spot for early childhood and lower school-specific information!
We can’t wait to see your children’s energy fill the hallways again soon. Whether your family is brand new to Wellington or returning for another year, we’re so glad you are here. Thank you for being part of this community, and we are looking forward to all the growth, laughter, and learning ahead.
Best,
Shelley Brown
Assistant Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
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