Friday Communication from The Winston School, 8/21/2026

Our first week back to school was filled with energy, connection, and excitement as we welcomed students for a wonderful start to the year. Teachers and staff focused on helping students settle into daily routines, become familiar with classroom expectations, and feel comfortable in their learning environments.

Throughout the week, students had opportunities to build meaningful connections with their teachers and peers through engaging lessons, team-building activities, and welcoming classroom experiences. Students have enthusiastically embarked on a deeper exploration of their academic studies, engaging thoughtfully with new concepts, building foundational skills, and embracing the exciting learning opportunities that the school year has to offer.

Parents may check their students’ Schoology account for current assignments and grades in their classes.

We are so proud of the positive energy our students brought to campus and look forward to an amazing year of learning, growth, and community.

Name: Spencer Siddons

Title: Substitute & Teacher Support

What are you teaching this year or what is your new role? I'm teaching Integrated Math II & III and I'm supporting biology

What should students call you? Mr. Spencer

What brought you to Winston? I wanted more experiences and opportunities teaching, specifically in the field of science

Hometown: Andover, Minnesota

Favorite sport, book, and/or music: Running

In your free time: Running, hiking, rock climbing, painting and drawing

Fun fact: My favorite animal since childhood was frogs and I grew up to be a frog biologist!

Name: Mark Gjestvang

Title: Middle School Science & Integrated Math I Teacher

What are you teaching this year or what is your new role? I'm teaching the middle school science classes and IM 1.

What should students call you? Mr. Mark or Mr. Gjestvang (jest-vang)

What brought you to Winston? I discovered Winston through connections with former and current staff, which led to me gravitating to working here.

Hometown: Boulder, Colorado

Favorite sport, book, and/or music: Volleyball & Baseball, The Dresden Files series, Punk-Rock

In your free time: I play video games, read, snowboard, or play various rec sports at the Y.

Fun fact: I have lived in 4 different states: Colorado, New York, North Dakota, California.

Saturday, August 22

~ ~~9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Saturday School~~ ** CANCELLED **

Tuesday, August 25

~ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Back to School Night

Saturday, August 29