4th & 5th Grade Community Services
In addition to our music, art and chorus programs, several student activities are offered at Washington Open. Through these activities students can learn to exercise leadership, cooperation, and community support.
Safety Patrol
What is Safety Patrol?
The School Safety Patrol program was started in 1946 by the California State Automobile Association to ensure the safe crossing of children to and from school. The safety patrol program is a vital part of promoting traffic safety around Washington Open. The students in this program are actively involved in the control of the student body and traffic situations.
Washington Open's Safety Patrol is a select group of Fifth Graders that are committed to providing a safe school environment for all students at Washington Open Elementary. They protect students from the hazards of crossing crosswalks in the parking lot and teach fellow students about traffic safety during drop-off and pick-up hours. These student leaders are learning teamwork, communication skills, confidence, and pride while they serve as members of the Safety Patrol.
How Can You Help?
Our Washington Open Safety Patrol needs parent help in order to build on our collective success!
What parents can do:
- Recognize students and families demonstrating safe behaviors
- Assist in monitoring and supporting the crosswalks in the parking lot
- Support traffic flow by reminding families of safety procedures
- Monitor pedestrian access points to our campus
- Slow in school zones & near parks
- Watch carefully for pedestrians & bicyclists
- Yield to buses
- Obey traffic laws
- Follow instructions of Safety Patrol and Crossing Guards
Student Council
Student Leaders
Student Leaders Program Overview
The Student Leaders program is a community service and leadership initiative designed specifically for 4th and 5th grade students. This program not only fosters personal growth in young leaders, but also plays a vital role in creating a supportive and nurturing environment for the entire school community.
Responsibilities and Activities
During lunch recess, Student Leaders take on a variety of responsibilities that assists younger students. They provide guidance and support to Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd graders, ensuring that these younger students feel safe and included during playtime. By supervising recess activities, Student Leaders help manage the use of recess equipment, making sure that all students have access to games and activities.
Student Leaders are also trained in conflict resolution , and serve as peer mediators, helping younger students navigate disagreements and resolve issues amicably. This not only empowers the younger students but also allows the Student Leaders to develop critical problem-solving and communication skills.
Leadership Development
The Student Leaders meet twice a month under the guidance of a dedicated upper grade teacher who specializes in leadership development. During these meetings, they engage in various activities aimed at enhancing their leadership skills, such as team-building exercises, role-playing scenarios, and discussions about effective communication and responsibility. This structured approach ensures that the Student Leaders not only learn theoretical concepts but also have opportunities to apply these skills in real-world situations.
Community Impact
The impact of the Student Leaders extends beyond just their immediate responsibilities. By stepping up to assist younger students, they contribute to a culture of empathy, kindness, and cooperation within the school. Their efforts help build strong relationships between grades, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The older students become role models for the younger ones, demonstrating the importance of leadership and service to others.
Green Team
The Green Team is formed by 4th grade volunteers and help keep our environment green! The Green Team educates fellow students about recycling. They meet weekly on Wednesday to collect recyclables and discuss ways to keep our planet clean. Current Initiatives: Working with Gardening team to create a compost pile for lunch scraps & collecting dried markers for recycling.