ForWard 6.28.26
From the Co-Presidents:
Dear Ward Families
As we wrap up another amazing school year, we want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for making this such an incredible year for our school community. From school events and fundraisers to classroom celebrations and everyday support, we are so grateful for the time, energy, and enthusiasm that helped make this year so special.
A special congratulations to all of our wonderful 5th graders as you take this exciting next step and head off to middle school. We have loved watching you grow, and while we will miss seeing your familiar faces around school, we know you are going to do amazing things ahead. And to all of our parents and families — congratulations, we made it to summer! Thank you for everything you do to support our students, teachers, and school community throughout the year.
We wish everyone a fun, relaxing, and well-deserved summer break. We look forward to seeing everyone again in August for Popsicles in the Park as we kick off another great year together.
Have a wonderful summer!
Two More Days to Order School Supplies - Due July 1!
Many thanks to everyone who has already ordered school supplies for next year! Orders must be placed by July 1 so supplies can be packaged, shipped, and organized into classrooms before school begins in the fall. Our teachers are incredibly grateful for the support.
So far, we've reached about 75% participation schoolwide, but there's still time to help your grade level take the lead!
Congrats to the current 1st grade who won a dance party with Bubbles the Dolphin for the highest participation!
Current standings:
Rising K: 86%
Rising 1st: 65%
Rising 2nd: 90%
Rising 3rd: 70%
Rising 4th: 61%
Rising 5th: 79%
Ordering takes just a few minutes: click the link, select your child's fall grade, and your teachers will receive high-quality, name-brand supplies, organized and classroom-ready before the first day of school.
You'll also have the option to donate an extra supply kit for a student in need. We're hopeful this new program will be a true win-win for both families and teachers.
Order by July 1. Supplies will arrive and be classroom-ready in mid-August.
As always, please reach out to us at copresidents@wardpto.org with your ideas, questions, concerns, or suggestions on how we can help you. You can also subscribe to our PTO calendar here.
- Elizabeth Loehr + Elizabeth Weinberg, Ward PTO Co-Presidents 2024-27
Thank you again to the many families who have already signed up to volunteer next year. We are thrilled by the strong volunteer support already in place for the 2026–27 school year.
Please take a look at our available opportunities, sign up if you're interested, and reach out with any questions. We are always happy to talk through the various roles, answer questions, and help you find an opportunity that matches your interests, schedule, and availability.
We are especially looking for volunteers to help with the following roles:
Treasurer for 2027-29 - Training for this role will begin in Spring 2027. Help oversee the PTO’s finances by managing the budget, tracking income and expenses, coordinating reimbursements, and handling required tax filings and financial reporting throughout the year.
Creative Arts and Sciences (CAS) Grade Level volunteers for K, 1, and 3 - support 1–2 grade levels by coordinating engaging, curriculum-connected enrichment programs during the school year, by collaborating with teachers and outside presenters.
Fall Spooktacular Committee- help plan and organize one of Ward’s favorite community events! Committee members coordinate activities and stations for this free October event, creating a fun and festive experience for families before additional day-of volunteers are recruited.
Teacher Appreciation Committee - work with the Teacher Appreciation Chairs to plan and execute bi-monthly grade-level teacher appreciation events in addition to events during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Sports Event Organizer - coordinate group outings for Ward families by connecting with local sports teams and organizations to arrange ticket blocks. Flexible role with just a few events annually.
Newton Community Education (NCE) at Ward School — School Year 2026-2027
NCE Summer Camps and Swim Lessons
2026 summer camps are now live, with offerings such as 3D Printing, Glass Art, Creative Filmmaking, Wide World of Storytelling, Art Adventures, Swim Lessons, and so much more! Families can view full camp listings and register through the new NCE Registration Portal. Scholarships are available through NCE’s Financial Assistance program
Click here to learn more and register!
Celebrating 100 Years of Ward — 1928 to 2028
In 2028, our school will mark an incredible milestone: 100 years of learning, growth, and community. As we prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration, we’re inviting you to play a special part.
Our centennial events will bring together students, alumni, families, and the community. To make it unforgettable, we’re building a dedicated team of volunteers and school alumni to support planning and day-of activities.
Be part of a historic milestone
Connect with other parents and staff
Help create meaningful memories for students
Show your pride in our school community
We Need Our Community. Join Us in Honoring the Legacy by filling out this form to let us know if you are interested in attending or participating in the Ward School's 100th Celebration, which will take place in Spring 2028.
We're currently only collecting contact information; the celebration committee will get in touch as we get closer to the event.
Upcoming Event Highlights
This year, Service Stars is partnering with Newton Community Education at Newton North. We'll have a table there where the kids will be selling lemonade and baked goods to raise money to purchase Fusion Dolls for kids in need. More info below, and here is the link to register.
Summer Art Camp in Newton!
Please reach out to us by emailing copresidents@wardpto.org