Staff and students returned from Thanksgiving break to witness the stunning transformation of Winston's largest classroom building, which two alumni families and former founding board members generously funded. The extensive upgrades include new electrical, heating, air conditioning, WiFi, and a new roof, windows, floors, and doors. Enhanced security features, modernized classrooms, new restrooms, and a dedicated occupational therapy room further elevate the space, providing an improved environment for learning and growth. We deeply appreciate everyone's patience and cooperation over the past few months and are excited to envision the future transformations across the rest of the school campus. | |
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In this issue: Winter dances…students celebrate with music, laughter, and festive holiday cheer. A big thank you to our Parent Association for making the event a success! Mock Trial Highlights: Mr. Vasquez's Government class engaged in a compelling courtroom simulation presided over by Principal Kelsey Garrison. Boston & NYC Spring Break Trip: Secure your spot for this enriching adventure by December 19, 2024! Annual Fund Update: Your contributions empower Winston's mission. Join the community of heroes shaping students’ futures. NFAR Autism Superhero Race: Join Winston's team for the 5K on Saturday, April 12, 2025, and support programs for neurodivergent individuals. Sign up today! Spotlight on Alumni: David Rivera ('19) shares his story advocating for autism research and the renewal of the Autism CARES Act, showcasing Winston’s impact on his life and success.
Stay engaged and informed as we move into an exciting winter season at Winston!
| Parent Association volunteers Stacey Wallach, Edythe Harding, Nichole Schere, and Christine Bachelor generously donated their time and talents to make today's student dance a success. | |
The 2024-2025 Winston Academic Calendar is on our website. Click here.
Friday, December 6
~ Middle School Winter Dance, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
~ High School Winter Dance, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
~ Dungeons & Dragons with Messrs. Jacobsen and Weber, Mx. Roberts, 3:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, December 7
~ Saturday School
Monday, December 9 - Friday, December 13
~ Star Math Testing
Tuesday, December 10
~ Parent Association Meeting, Room 25 or via Zoom, 2:30 PM
Thursday, December 12
~ Student Council Oggi’s Pizza Fundraiser at Lunch, $2 a slice
~ Middle School Field Trip to the Del Mar branch of the San Diego Library, 9:45 AM - 12:15 PM
Saturday, December 14
~ Saturday School
Friday, December 20
~ End of First Semester
~ Pajama Day
~ Dungeons & Dragons with Messrs. Jacobsen and Weber, Mx. Roberts, 3:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, December 21
~ Saturday School
Monday, December 23 - Monday, January 6
~ Winter Break, No School
Tuesday, January 7
~ Classes Resume
~ Second Semester begins
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Today, Winston students celebrated the season at our Middle and High School Winter Dances, creating wonderful memories with friends and peers! The festive atmosphere was filled with music, laughter, and joy, making it a truly special event for everyone involved. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our outstanding Parent Association for their generous donations and invaluable volunteering efforts. Your support made this event possible and brought so much cheer to our school community. Thank you for helping us make this day unforgettable! | |
NFAR--National Foundation for Autism Research--CALLING ALL WINSTON SUPERHEROES! Race for Autism 5K Run/Walk Balboa Park, San Diego, Saturday, April 12, 2025! Interest form below.
The race raises funds for programs and services that benefit neurodivergent individuals.
This inclusive event welcomes all in the community! The fee is $30 per adult, $25 for youth 13-17, $20 for children 12 and under. Please let us know if you'd like to join our Winston team of superheroes, which will qualify us for a discount package.
Join our interest list here!
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On Thursday, Mr. Vasquez’s Government class students participated in a mock trial. They worked in groups to develop arguments, deliberate on a murder trial, and determine a verdict of guilty or not guilty. Principal Mrs. Garrison presided over the trial as the judge. | |
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David Rivera, a Winston School Class of 2019 alum with autism, shares his personal story to highlight the importance of renewing the Autism CARES Act, the primary federal source for autism research, services, and training. Rivera reflects on his struggles in middle school, where standard support systems failed to address his specific needs, leading to academic setbacks and emotional distress. His journey took a positive turn when he transferred to The Winston School, which provided personalized support tailored to autistic students, helping him rebuild his confidence and achieve academic success.
Rivera credits the Autism CARES Act, established in 2006, for advancing autism research and enabling programs like diagnostic evaluations and specialized training. He emphasizes that while progress has been made, the act's renewal is essential to ensure continued support for the growing number of children diagnosed with autism (1 in 36). Now the president of the nonprofit Mentoring Autistic Minds, Rivera advocates for Congress to renew the act to sustain vital resources that empower autistic individuals to succeed.

You can read his story here.
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We’re thrilled by the positive response to our rescheduled spring trip announcement! This unique opportunity to explore Boston and New York City with our students promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with discovery, learning, and connection.

As a reminder, the trip will take place during spring break, from Monday, March 31, to Friday, April 4, 2025. Our partnership with another school enriches the experience by fostering new friendships and helps make the trip more affordable for all participants.
Next Steps
If you haven’t already, be sure to:
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Sign up by the deadline: Thursday, December 19, 2024.
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Use our Tour Center ID: Winston-2024 to register and access detailed trip information here.
2. Mark your calendars and get ready for an exciting journey!
For any questions or additional information, please contact Mary Sterling-Torretti at maryst@thewinstonschool.org.
We can’t wait to share this adventure with our students and appreciate your support in making it a reality. Thank you for helping us create meaningful, life-enriching experiences for the Winston community.
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Heroes Needed: Heroes Welcome
Empower Tomorrow’s Heroes – Support The Winston School Annual Fund
At The Winston School, every student is a hero in the making, and your support helps them reach their full potential. By giving to the Annual Fund, you join a community of champions—parents, alums, and friends—who make transformative programs and personalized learning possible.
As one new family shared:
“The Winston School is an extraordinary place where students are celebrated for who they are. The staff goes beyond professionalism—they genuinely care about every student. Winston has created a community of acceptance and learning unlike any other. Our kids have truly found their home here.”
Your gift, big or small, directly impacts our students and helps shape their futures. Be a hero today and help us empower tomorrow’s heroes. Every contribution makes a difference!
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Last Chance! Community Holiday Drive in support of PATH–People Assisting the Homeless. The deadline is Monday, December 9.
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Led by Winston's parent, Nicole Schere, the drive will include donations of new adult-sized fleece blankets and homemade cookie donations.
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The Student Council and Mentor Club will coordinate to maximize impact.
Parents interested in helping can sign up using the Sign-Up Genius Link.
Tuesday, December 10
~ Parent Association Meeting, Room 25 or via Zoom, 2:30 PM
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