Robert E. Willis Elementary School

👏Our amazing teachers are diving into Kagan professional training this week, continuing their commitment to grow, learn, and bring even more engaging strategies to our students. Their dedication to becoming better every year inspires us all.

A huge thank‑you to our incredible 💙 PTO for sponsoring this professional development.
🌏

😊 We are hiring. Please apply online at: https://www.manateeschools.net/o/sdmc/page/careers

This week, our halls were filled with a little extra excitement as we welcomed back former Willis Geckos for Senior Stroll! 💚🎓

From elementary students with big dreams to graduating seniors ready to take on their next chapter, it was a special reminder of how far they’ve come and all that lies ahead. Our current Geckos cheered them on, looked up to them, and got a glimpse of what their own futures can hold.

Once a Gecko, always a Gecko. We are so proud of our seniors and can’t wait to see the impact they make on the world. Congratulations, Class of 2026! 🦎✨

🏆 Today we closed out the school year by celebrating the outstanding staff who make our community shine. Their commitment and care make all the difference, and we’re grateful for each of them.

To top it off, we kicked off our first-ever Golden Gecko Awards ✨️—a little friendly fun to wrap up the year with laughter.
💙 Wishing everyone a restful, joyful, and well‑deserved summer break. Thank you for all you do.
🦎
🌏

🎉✨ 5th Grade Clap Out Magic! ✨🎉

Today we celebrate our incredible Class of 2026 as they walk the halls one last time as elementary students. 👏🎓

We are so proud of everything you’ve accomplished. Your hard work, kindness, and growth this year have been amazing to watch. 🌟

Wishing all our rising middle schoolers the very best—go shine bright, make new memories, and keep being awesome. 💫
Let’s gooooo Geckos 🦎!

🌏

Learning is just more fun when Lego is involved!

Thanks to Florida Power & Light, Lego Education science kits have arrived at Willis! More fun STEM-based building opportunities coming next school year! 🧱

Celebrating our 5th graders last night was so special!A night full of memories, laughter, proud moments, and recognizing just how much this group has grown this year. These students have brought so much heart, personality, and energy to our school, and it’s been such a privilege to watch them reach this milestone. So proud of our Geckos and all that’s ahead for them. Congratulations, Willis Elementary Class of 2026! The best is yet to come! 💚🦎

So much gratitude to our incredible 5th grade team: Mrs. Tomlin, Mrs. McGregor, Mrs. Collett, Mrs. Davidson, Ms. Hubley, Mrs. Deitch, Mrs. Martinez, Mrs. O’Connor, and Mrs. Davidson’s intern, Miss Sandry. Our 5th graders couldn’t have done it without you on the sidelines cheering them on.

🎓 VPK Graduation this morning and our hearts are full!
So proud of our littlest Geckos—they’ve worked hard, grown so much, and are more than ready for kindergarten. 🌟

A huge thank you to our amazing teachers and support staff, our wonderful PTO, and all the incredible parent volunteers who made this year unforgettable. We couldn’t have done it without you. ❤️

Let's go Geckos 🦎
🌏