Elementary Departmentalization

This approach supports deeper content expertise, stronger instruction, and helps students build independence in preparation for middle school. It also allows teachers to collaborate and personalize instruction more effectively.

Yes. Each student will still belong to a homeroom and start and end their day there. This teacher will be a consistent adult connection for your child.

Yes. Students will travel with the same classmates throughout their day.

Transitions will be structured, brief, and consistent. Teachers will help students develop routines and skills to manage materials and time responsibly.

Teachers are selected to teach specific subjects based on their strengths, experience, and passion for the content area. Principals and District Supervisors worked closely with staff to ensure each teacher is placed where they can best support student learning. The WCASD is committed to providing high-quality instruction from educators who are enthusiastic and well-prepared to teach their assigned subjects.

Students will be thoughtfully grouped by their homeroom class. These groupings are carefully designed to create balanced classrooms that support a positive learning environment and meet students’ academic and social needs. Teachers and principals collaborate to ensure every child is placed where they can thrive. Students will remain as a homeroom.

Yes. All students will continue to receive the support services they are entitled to, including gifted education, special education, speech and language services, occupational and physical therapy, counseling, and academic interventions. These services will be coordinated with the departmentalized schedule to ensure minimal disruption to core instruction. Our teams will work collaboratively to support each student’s individual learning and developmental needs.

No, we will not be leveling our fourth and fifth grade classes.

Students will be introduced to the new departmentalized model before the end of this school year. Principals and school staff will share the information in a positive and age-appropriate way, often through classroom conversations, school announcements, or special transition activities. The goal is to help students feel informed, confident, and excited about the change. Students will have an opportunity to meet and greet their teachers in August.

Instrumental music lessons will continue as scheduled and will be carefully coordinated with the new departmentalized schedule. Teachers will work together to ensure that students can attend their music lessons without missing essential classroom instruction. Just like in previous years, flexibility and collaboration among staff will help support students’ participation in both their academic and musical growth.

Families will communicate student attendance or school logistics to the child’s homeroom teacher. Academic concerns should be directed to the teacher of the respective subject area. Teachers will continue to collaborate and communicate regularly with families through emails, newsletters, conferences, and other communication platforms.

Teachers will provide support, scaffolding, and encouragement. Students will be introduced gradually to the new routine and given time to adjust. We will work closely with families to ensure a smooth transition.

Families can support their child by encouraging routines, helping with organization, and talking positively about the new structure. It’s important to reassure your child that it’s okay to ask questions and that their teachers are there to support them.