AWARDS & ACCOLADES

Westside Community School District offers a highly regarded early childhood education program. The first early childhood center opened in 1968. By 1986, Westside’s program was declared one of twelve exemplary programs in the nation. Today the District’s elementary schools house two toddler programs, six half-day pre-school programs, and two full-day, five-day-a-week pre-kindergarten programs for four-year-olds.

The District’s K-6 program provides students with challenging, stimulating curriculum presented in enriched learning environments, leading to prestigious honors including a Blue Ribbon School designation by the US Department of Education in 2017 (Paddock Road). Content standards in all curricular areas guide instruction and assessment. Students develop strong skills in math, language arts, science and social studies and receive instruction in library, music, art, and physical education. Technology integration is part of daily life in Westside’s elementary schools; seven Westside elementary schools were named Apple Distinguished Schools for 2017-2019.

Westside Middle School, designated as a Blue Ribbon School in 1997, provides the District’s seventh- and eighth-graders with an exceptional core curriculum and robust electives, including German, French or Spanish. (Accordion here.) Team teaching, hands-on learning, and technology integration are emphasized by staff focused on meeting the academic, social, emotional and physical needs of early adolescents. Accelerated courses, gifted programming, and inclusive special education services support the success of all students. A rich extracurricular program gets all students involved in a variety of sports, arts, and personal interest club activities.

Westside High School is home to one of the premiere college preparatory programs in the nation as evidenced by Blue Ribbon School awards in 1984 and 1996. (Accordion here) Westside High School’s unique modular schedule helps students develop as independent learners and allows students to enroll in an additional semester of courses over the course of a four-year program. Technology integration is extensive. Educators from across the U.S. and from foreign countries visit Westside’s model program of computer integration in instruction. Rigorous graduation requirements include demonstrations of proficiency in “Exit Outcomes.” In addition, all students must meet an 80-hour community service requirement.

Approximately one-third of all graduates earn a commended diploma. A strong list of AP and dual enrollment courses help prepare approximately 85 percent of each class to attend college. A full complement of competitive sports, activities, and clubs engage students in school life and encourage leadership and personal development.

Students and teachers frequently receive local, state and national awards, and at all grade levels Westside students’ scores are among the highest on state and national measures of achievement. Parent, student, and community opinion survey data show high levels of satisfaction with the school district and its programming. Westside’s rich history and continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and community provide the foundation for our students to be internationally competitive.