Freshman Family FAQs

General Questions

Q: What communication platform does WHS use?
A: WHS uses Parent Square for all official communication. Families are automatically enrolled based on the information provided during student registration. Get the app — it’s easy and worth having.

Q: What is Wildcat Welcome Days?
A: This is the orientation for students and new families at the start of the new school year. It includes welcoming new families during the New Family Welcome Night and assisting students in receiving their schedules, books, school photos, and other materials before classes begin. Additional details can be found on the school's homepage in August.

Q: Where can I find the New Family Welcome Night slides?
A: Here’s the LINK.

Q: What do all of these acronyms stand for?
A: Education is filled with acronyms. Here are a few that come up regularly:

ELAC: English Learner Advisory Committee

PTSA: Parent Teacher Student Association

SDMC: Shared Decision Making Council

Q: What is the pickup/drop-off protocol?
A: Please use the Wildcat Circle in front of the Administration Building or near the J-wing/tennis court circle. DO NOT drop off in the student parking lot area or in nearby residential areas. We need to be good to our neighbors. Plan ahead and arrive a little early.

Q: Can my child ride the bus to school?
A: Yes. SamsTrans routes 78 and 278 service Woodside High School. See here for additional information.

Q: Does WHS offer driver’s education?
A: No. WHS does not offer driver’s education. There are many local private businesses to choose from to meet the requirements. Follow this roadmap from the DMV and good luck!

Calendars & Schedules

Q: Where can I find school calendars?
A: Here are the main ones:

Q: What are A/B days?
A: WHS is on a true block schedule where classes meet on a rotating schedule.

A Day - periods 1, 3, 5, 7

B Day - periods 1, 2, 4, 6

Q: When are school photos?

A: Taken at Wildcat Welcome Days (used for ID, yearbook, and available for purchase)

👉 Order photos at Lifetouch

Picture Day ID: EVTZP3MSX
Order before picture day for free shipping & a Shutterfly gift
Retakes available within one month, see school calendar

Photos available online for 11 months

Q: What upcoming events should I know about?

A: See the school calendar for Back to School Night, athletic games and other events.

Parent Involvement

Q: How can parents get involved at WHS?
A: The more involved we are, the more our students thrive. Here are options:

Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA)

Supports student scholarships, teacher mini-grants, Grad Night, and more
👉 Join PTSA — $50 family membership

Woodside High School Foundation (WHSF)

Helps fund smaller class sizes, counselors, and college prep
👉 Learn more or donate
👉 Buy-in Parties & Events

Volunteer Opportunities

Drama, sports, robotics, and club support
Driving kids to activities
Career Days, Orientation, Test Days, Theater Events, etc.

Stay Informed

Parent Portal Announcements & PTSA newsletter
Read the student-written Paw Print
Follow on Instagram: @whs.ptsa, @woodsideclassof2029, @whswildside, @wildcatspirit
Facebook: Woodside High School PTSA

Q: How do I access Canvas, Infinite Campus, or Minga?

Canvas → Login mailed home (via USPS). Students use it for assignments.
Infinite Campus → Same login as Canvas; used for grades & attendance.
Minga App → Student IDs + digital passes. 👉 Minga Info for Families

Student Involvement

Q: What activities are available for students?
A: Lots! Encourage your child to participate — it builds confidence and friendships.

Sports (Fall, Winter, Spring, Off-Campus)
👉 Athletic Registration Info (requires doctor’s signature)
Clubs – Club Rush is in September, see the school calendar for dates each year
Performing Arts