Welches Parent Teacher Corner

As we head into the new year, we want to acknowledge the challenging end to December for our community. Welches Schools were closed 12/17–12/19 due to windstorms, heavy rain, and widespread power outages. We hope everyone has had time to recover and that, despite the disruption, you were still able to enjoy a restful and lovely holiday break with family and friends. Our community truly shows up for one another, especially during tough moments.

Before the storms rolled in, December was filled with holiday spirit at Welches Schools. Our second annual Elementary Winter Wonderland Dance was a huge success, with students and families enjoying an evening of dancing, singing, and fun. The Middle School Leadership Class also shined by planning and hosting their festive Snowball Dance for middle school students.

We’re thrilled to share that our Wreath Sale Fundraiser was another success. Thanks to our amazing community, dedicated parent volunteers, and generous partner Welches Mountain Building Supply, we raised over $5,000 to support vital programs for Welches Schools.

As we step into the new year, winter sports are officially underway. Students are gearing up for the Timberline Winter Snow Sports Program, along with the start of wrestling and basketball season.

Timberline Snow Sports Program – Sign Up by January 5th!Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity for students to learn or improve their skiing and snowboarding skills. Lessons take place on Fridays: January 9, 16, 23 & 30, and February 6. Space is limited, so register soon – no late forms will be accepted, NO EXCEPTIONS. Contact the Welches School office for details.

Right Brain Initiative Artist Residency at Welches: We’re also excited to see creativity come alive through a Right Brain Initiative artist residency, funded by proceeds from our annual Rainbow Run. Artist Beth Wilson will work with students from late January into February. Each student will participate in three one-hour sessions and create a ceramic “imaginary friend” to bring home. We’re seeking volunteers to help keep the kiln running; if you’re interested in supporting this program in late January or early February, please contact volunteer@welchesptco.org.

We are also collecting Thank You Ticket Store donations for our school-wide positive behavior program. These items stock the student store where kids redeem tickets earned for kindness, responsibility, and school pride. We are looking for new or gently used stuffed animals, jewelry, craft supplies, fidgets, 3D-printed items, and costumes or dress-up pieces. Donations can be dropped off at the Elementary School office during school hours.

Spring Fundraising Campaign: Looking ahead, while we will not be holding our annual Spring auction this year, the WPTCO will be launching a spring fundraising campaign focused on monetary donations from businesses and community members. We are incredibly grateful to the Hoodland Women’s Club and an anonymous family who have already helped us get started with donations totaling over $2,750! Their generosity makes a meaningful impact on the programs and opportunities we can provide for our students. Every contribution — big or small — makes a difference.

To get involved, contact our Auction Chair at auction@welchesptco.org, more information to follow! Please check our fundraising page at https://www.welchesptco.org/donate.

Join us at our Next WPTCO Meeting! The WPTCO is a non-profit group that supports Welches Schools and our broader community. Everyone is welcome! Join us on Tuesday, January 19th at 9:00 AM (after school drop-off) in the elementary school library. We’d love to see you there!

Stay Connected: Join our email list at welchesptco.org or email info@welchesptco.org.

Thank you for your continued support — let’s make 2025 a fantastic year for Welches students and schools.