Weekly Update for WMS
January 16, 2026
Weekly Update for WMS
Friday greetings, Westbrook Middle School community! Let's catch up on the week and look ahead.
Recognition from State Representative Carney
In case you missed it, State Rep. Devin Carney recognized WMS for educational excellence in this social media post. Mr. Carney congratulated Daisy Ingraham, Mile Creek, and Westbrook Middle School for earning Connecticut's Schools of Distinction designation. He credits this achievement to the dedication of faculty, staff, and students, noting their commitment to excellence (he’s absolutely right!). The recognition honors schools ranking in the top 10% of Connecticut's Next Generation Accountability System, which evaluates test scores, attendance, graduation rates, and college/career readiness metrics. Thank you for noticing, Mr. Carney!
Finding Nemo Jr.
Westbrook Middle School is making a splash with Finding Nemo Jr.! Our talented thespians are beginning the process of bringing this colorful, high-energy musical to life, building excitement for performances on March 26–28. Featuring beloved characters, catchy songs, and an uplifting story, the show promises fun for all ages. If you have any questions or scheduling conflicts, please reach out to Ms. Floyd.
Daisy Dash
The 13th Annual Daisy Dash 5K is back on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Daisy Ingraham. This community favorite features a Run/Walk 5K and a Kids Fun Run, with all proceeds benefiting the Westbrook Public Schools PTO. Join us for a fun morning supporting our schools and students. Interested in supporting the event? Click this Sponsor link to get involved before the February 9 deadline. Register today and be part of our biggest fundraiser of the year!
Safety and Security
Westbrook Youth and Family Services, in collaboration with other local town Youth and Family Services agencies, is hosting an online safety workshop for parents called "Parenting in the Smartphone Years." This is the second workshop in the series, and is geared towards parents who are navigating their child having a phone and being safe while gaming and on social media. A recording of the first workshop, which was about slow tech parenting, is available at the same link. Parents did not need to have attended the first workshop in order to attend the second workshop. Registration and all resources can be found by clicking this link.
School safety and security remain a top priority. We regularly conduct safety drills to ensure students and staff are prepared in a variety of situations. Our most recent fire drill was unannounced and took place during class transitions. Students had been prepared for this scenario and responded exactly as instructed. The acted swiftly, safely, and quietly. Their calm and responsible actions demonstrate that they are right on track and taking these expectations seriously.
WMS Upcoming Dates to Remember
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January 20 |
PTO Meeting - Virtual at 6pm - Meeting Link |
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January 23 |
End of Quarter 2 (Semester 1) |
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January 31 |
Cornhole Tournament - 11am - WHS Gym |
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February 12 |
School Wide Spelling Bee |
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February 12 |
Early Dismissal |
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February 13-17 |
No School-February Break |
ATHLETICS
Middle school basketball is well underway, and our teams have settled into the season with strong effort and enthusiasm. Each week, our student-athletes continue to grow, compete, and represent Westbrook with pride on the court. We appreciate the great turnout at our games and thank our families and community members for their continued support.
During games, we kindly ask that all spectators, including children, remain in the gym at all times, except for brief trips to get water or use the restroom. This helps ensure a safe and positive environment for everyone and allows us to keep hallways and other spaces clear during events.
Volunteers Needed to Run the Concession Stand During High School Basketball Games
The Westbrook Athletic Boosters are seeking student and parent volunteers to work the concession stand during home boys and girls basketball games this season. Each shift is about 1 hour and 15 minutes and students can earn community service hours. All funds raised support our student-athletes and senior scholarships. Sign up here.
Second Annual Athletic Boosters Cornhole Tournament
We’re excited to announce the Second Annual Westbrook Athletic Boosters Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser! We hope you’ll join us for another fun-filled day supporting Westbrook athletics.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, January 31st
Time: Tournament begins at 11:00 AM
Location: Westbrook High School Gymnasium
Whether you’re a seasoned cornhole competitor or just looking for a fun way to spend a winter Saturday, this event is for everyone. To sign up your team, register using the link below, and be sure to submit pre-payment to secure your spot. Space is limited to 32 teams, so early registration is encouraged. Sign Up Here:
Entry Fee: $50 per team (2 players per team); Prizes: Cash prizes awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams; This is More Than Just Cornhole! Not playing? Come anyway! Enjoy concessions, raffles, music, and a great community atmosphere throughout the event.
Cornhole Tournament Raffle Donations Needed
We are also looking for donations of local gift cards or raffle baskets to help make our raffle a success. If you’re interested in donating, please sign up here. All proceeds from the tournament directly support Westbrook student-athletes and athletic programs. Your participation and generosity help make a meaningful impact. We look forward to another successful tournament and hope to see you there!
Winter Westbrook Apparel Store Open Through January 26th
The Winter Westbrook Apparel Store is OPEN! Gear up for the 2025–2026 season with fresh spirit wear for students, families, and fans. Show your Westbrook pride all winter long! This is a BSN Sprint Store. All items ship within 1–2 business days. Perfect for holiday gifts or adding to your own collection. You can shop the following six stores:
Westbrook Spirit (for everyone): https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/WESTBROOK
Basketball: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/WBBKB25
Indoor Track: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/WBTRK25
Wrestling Co-op: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/jvkDfbHvkS
Girls Ice Hockey Co-op: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/WBHANDHKY
Gymnastics Co-op: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/WBGYM25
Winter Practice Schedules, Game Information, and Meeting Dates
Updated practice schedules, game information, and meeting dates are included below. Volleyball registration is still open, with the season beginning on Monday, February 16th.
Winter Registration Links:
- Intramural Volleyball: https://students.arbitersports.com/westbrook-athletics/ms-westbrook-winter-athletics-2025-2026
Boys Basketball
Head Coach: Doug Spingola | Assistant Coach: Russell Hovick
Schedule: Practices meet Monday–Friday, alternating weekly between 2:30–4:00 PM or 4:15–5:30 PM. On late-practice days, students attend study hall from 2:30–4:00 PM.
Boys Basketball Weekly Practice Pattern: Week of 1/19: Early, 1/26: Late, 2/2: Early, 2/9: Late, 2/16: Late, 2/23: Early (if extended due to weather)
Girls Basketball
Head Coach: Cameron Marshall | Assistant Coach: TBD
Schedule: Practices meet Monday–Friday, alternating weekly between 2:30–4:00 PM or 4:15–5:30 PM. On late-practice days, students attend study hall from 2:30–4:00 PM.
Girls Basketball Weekly Practice Pattern: Week of 1/19: Late, 1/26: Early, 2/2: Late, 2/9: Early, 2/16: Early, 2/23: Late (if extended due to weather)
Intramural Volleyball (Please note the revised dates!)
Starts: Wednesday, February 18
Head Coach: Bill Gombos | Assistant Coach: Heidi Joslyn
Schedule: February 18, 20, 23, 25, 27 and March 2, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, and 25
Unified Sports
Continues through the Winter and Spring Sessions — a great opportunity for inclusive teamwork and fun!
WMS Winter Sports Game Schedules (subject to change—please check regularly)
Important Links
- Today's WMS Athletic Games
- Westbrook Middle School Athletics Website
- CAS-CIAC Website
- Alternate Transportation Form
- Following a Team on ArbiterLive
Contact Information
Caitlin Eichler
PK–12 Director of Athletics, Physical Education, and Health
ceichler@westbrookctschools.orgOpens in a new browser tab
860-399-7099
Emily Gorki
Athletic Trainer
egorki@westbrookctschools.orgOpens in a new browser tab
860-399-6214
Thank you for your continued support of Westbrook Public Schools as we aim to deliver an exceptional education that empowers every student to explore their passion and purpose.
Sincerely,
Matt Talmadge
WHS/WMS Principal
