Testimonials
The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) is a United States professional organization dedicated to “improving the teaching and learning of English and the language arts at all levels of education since 2011.
2024 National Council of Teachers of English
“We truly, truly, cannot thank you enough for providing us this opportunity as a PLC to go to *THE* English teacher convention of the year. We would not have been able to do it without you. The four of us have taken so much from this opportunity and have already been integrating elements into the classroom. We have big plans this semester to build some projects for our sophomores around a couple of the sessions we attended. The graciousness of your financial gift is deeply meaningful. This conference is not only educational, it is refreshing and recharging. Thank you for making it happen!”
Danielle Sorrells, Sarah Green, Chaslyn Waldrop, & Stacey Reece
English Teachers
Social Studies Teacher Ember Lundy received a grant to visit New York City to attend the American Geographical Society’s Fall Symposium.
American Geographical Society’s Fall Symposium
“The symposium provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with AP Human Geography teachers from across the country. These conversations sparked new ideas for instructional strategies and potential collaborations to enhance student engagement in the course. I took extensive notes during the sessions, which were filled with cutting-edge insights and resources directly applicable to our curriculum. These notes have already influenced my lesson planning, enabling me to incorporate new approaches to teaching topics like climate change, urbanization, and the role of geography in global cooperation. In fact, during today’s lesson, I highlighted the ongoing disputes between countries over resources in the Arctic region (a topic discussed during the symposium). One of the most exciting outcomes is the potential to launch a TeenMaptivists Club at West. This club would engage students in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and connect them to an international community of young mapmakers tackling real-world challenges. This initiative aligns with the goals of the symposium and could offer students a unique platform to develop their skills and make meaningful contributions.”
Ember Lundy
Social Studies Teacher
The activities implemented in the new ELL section of the U.S. Government class at West High have had a positiveimpact on both students and staff, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
English Language Learner (ELL) Section of US Government Class
“I have observed significant improvements in my teaching experience this year. Having taught U.S. Government for the past five years, this is my first year teaching an ELL-only section. The grant I received allowed me to spend time over the summer developing lessons, building presentations and assignments, and creating a unit planner specially geared toward ELL students. As a result, I have been able to better meet students where they are in terms of both content understanding and language proficiency. This dedicated time for planning has enabled me to differentiate instruction more effectively, providing tailored support and taking the necessary time to ensure each student’s needs are met. I have seen firsthand how this approach has enhanced student engagement and comprehension, making the learning experience more meaningful and accessible for all. Overall, the introduction of the ELL section in the U.S. Government class has not only improved academic outcomes for the students but also contributed to a more inclusive school culture at West High, where diversity is celebrated and all students have the opportunity to succeed.”
Ember Lundy
Social Sciences Teacher
Biology Teachers Meghan McCauley & David Krebs received an Above and Beyond grant to conduct experiments over the summer months to enrich student understanding and work through difficulties in the process.
Lab Experiments for Honors/IB Biology
“My name is Meghan McCauley and I worked with David Krebs over the summer to vertically align a few labs that both my honors biology students and his I.B. students can both conduct (given some scaffolding). We met at least 6 different times during the month of July and conducted two lab experiments over the course of 4 days. We wanted to work through these labs to enrich our student understanding as well as work out any difficulties that they could encounter. We worked with labs from Edvotek that pertained to DNA gel electrophoresis and virus/bacteria culturing. I am attaching a few photos to show you our work.”
Meghan McCauley
Biology Teacher
Musical Theatre 2 students performing in their musical revue ‘Raise Your Voice’
Private Voice Lessons for Students
“At least half of the students in this class got the chance to get some private voice lessons this year with a professional voice coach, thanks to last year’s grant. I was thrilled to announce at their show that every single student earned a spot in next year’s Musical Theatre 3 class. Though there are many factors that bring success, I am confident that the private lessons are responsible for a lot of the strong vocal technique and inner confidence that the students gained this year.”
Thanks again for your continued support!
Lisa Capps
Fine Arts Teacher
Updated staff workroom featuring new furniture that encourages collaboration among teachers.
Updated Workroom for Teachers
Kathleen Colbert
Mathematics Teacher
West High School Students attending the 2024 International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, California
DECA Conference
“The WHSF Grant was extremely impactful for providing the resources necessary to allow 24 West High DECA students to compete at the 2024 DECA State Development Conference. Students competed in role play scenarios for their Marketing pathways, as our chapter placed 8 students in the top-4 of their respective events. These eight students demonstrated leadership and poise competing against other schools throughout the state and will be eligible to compete at the 2024 DECA International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, California. West High DECA would like to sincerely thank the West High Foundation for their generosity in assisting to make this possible for our students.
We. Are. One. West.
Thank you.”
Paul Romero
Athletic Director