This fun getting-to-know-you event is generally held the first Sunday before the Back to School -Open House in August. Incoming Kindergarten parents/caregivers and their families are invited to meet on the playground behind the school for a picnic. Tents are set up with flags representing each of the four languages. The PTSO sponsors this event and provides water, sodas and frozen treats. Several PTSO board members are in attendance to answer questions and meet & greet.
Open House
Open House is typically held on the Thursday before the first day of school. Students and parents will get the opportunity to meet the teachers and visit the classrooms during a staggered schedule of times. Information tables are set up for transportation, ASEP, and the PTSO. Spirit wear shirts and other various Waddell items are available for purchase during this time.
Sip & Sob
Feeling a little blue about about the start of the school year and dropping your Kindergartener or middle schooler off for another year at Waddell? Well, your PTSO is here for you, you are not alone. We will be there on the first full day (after staggered entry) with a hug, tissues, and coffee. Look for the Free Hugs signs near the cafeteria. Your little ones are not the only ones adjusting to a new schedule. We get it. Have a cup of coffee with your fellow Waddell Parents, meet some new friends and pick a shoulder to cry on. Your PTSO will be here for you!
Schultüten (all 5th & 1st)
Come see this Waddell tradition where 5th graders present the 1st graders with a Schultüte on their first day of school. This is based on the German tradition where parents and grandparents present children with a paper or plastic cone filled with goodies upon entering the first grade.
Spirit Week
We’ve got spirit yes we do, and this is the week the kids really look forward to showing it! Each day during spirit week has a different theme- crazy sock day, crazy hair day, pajama day, etc. This is the week that ends with our Fun Run. It’s a great way to get kids excited about the Fun Run and show off their school pride. And for kids who wear a uniform every day, this is one of their favorite weeks!
German Cultural Night
German Cultural Night is a great family event with student performances including dances, songs and historical presentations. There is traditional German food and arts and crafts for you to enjoy.
International Week
During International Week, each day has a Country of the day. On that day, students may dress in traditional costume, folkwear from that country, or wear the solid colors of the flag of that country. Morning announcements feature stories and facts about each country. Prizes are given to the students if they say the phrase of the day to the staff.
World Market
Enjoy an evening winter celebration at Waddell! There are live performances by the chorus, handbells, and band. Delicious food from around the world is served. There is an International Craft Bazaar with handmade gifts, toys and treasures to be found. You can also bid on one of the many items available at the Silent Auction.
Chinese Cultural Night
Student performances and food are the highlights of this exciting night that showcases the Chinese culture and celebrates Chinese New Year.
Mardi Gras
Donuts are served to every student- it’s the closest thing we can get to a beignet! A Mardi Gras parade features all K-4 classes. Parents are encouraged to line the halls and watch the parade as it laps around the school twice. 5th graders have a special dance on Mardi Gras.
Chaperone / Child Dance
It’s time to get dressed up and shake your tail feathers with your little ones. A fantastic DJ and amazing lights transform our gym into a fun place for a night of dancing. There is a candy bar, cookies and punch to keep you hydrated and full of energy.
French Culture Night
This is a fun family event with student performances including our Poetry Slam winners. There are photo ops galore and lots of food for you to enjoy!
Japanese Culture Night
Come savor Japanese food and take in a bit of the culture of Japan with performances and other fun activities for the whole family!
MS Snow Ball
The Middle School Snow Ball is the winter dance for the middle school grades and is held right before the Winter Break. This event is held during school hours. A DJ comes to bring the gym to life with what is a great time for all!
Teacher Appreciation
This is a week where we show our teachers how much they mean to us! The PTSO provides food for our wonderful teachers and staff and each day students are asked to bring in goodies and expressions of appreciation for their teachers.
Arts Extravaganza
Come out and enjoy performances from the band and chorus all while strolling along the hallways enjoy food and student art.
Field Day
All elementary grades take to the field for a fun day of various activities. From Tug of War to Zumba, there is something for all to enjoy!
8th Grade EOY dance
This is a fun time for the 8th graders and gives them the chance to celebrate together before moving on to High School. The dance is held in the gymnasium during school hours.
Moving On Ceremonies
These ceremonies are for the 5th and 8th graders and are held during school hours. Parents and other family members can come to celebrate this milestone!
Book Character Day
Book Character Day is held the last school day before Halloween. Students are encouraged to dress up as their favorite book character and some teachers may have special activities for the students to participate in.
Hispanic Culture Night
Hispanic Culture Night is a celebration full performances, food and beautiful traditional costumes. It is a fun night for the whole family!