Launch the media gallery 1 playerWelcome to West Central Elementary School
By Mrs. Kathy Lafary
Welcome to West Central Elementary School, home to approximately 375 Pre-K through 5th grade students. We have a very dedicated staff that puts the needs of our students first, while upholding our mission statement, “Providing Opportunities, Expecting Excellence.”
Our elementary building promotes positive social/emotional supports, including the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program. We do so by recognizing those students who are following the rules and meeting the expectations set forth by the faculty and staff. “HEAT” points can be earned for their “Families” in the classroom, hallway, lunchroom, or even on the bus. It is a great way to encourage good behavior among our students, while working towards our goal of promoting healthy mental, social, and emotional growth for all of our students. We strive to encourage empathetic and caring individuals who are supportive of one another. Our students benefit from lessons within the Second Step curriculum that addresses the Social/Emotional Standards.
Security is an ongoing concern everywhere. Here at West Central, we continue to work towards ensuring the safety of all students and staff members. We have installed a buzzer system on all main entrances. The doors will remain locked throughout the day and visitors will be monitored closely. Visitors will be allowed inside the building after proper clearance from the school staff. It is important that you continue to follow the procedure of signing in at the elementary office where the office staff will be happy to assist you. Additionally, we have installed security cameras in the hallways and parking lots for monitoring purposes.
The elementary teachers participate in weekly team meetings. During these sessions, they share curriculum ideas to assist one another in teaching those key ideas that have been identified at each grade level that need to be mastered by all students. These skills are referred to as essential skills and have been aligned to the Illinois State Standards. We understand that all students learn at different rates and various needs have to be met. Here at WCES, we provide a rigorous curriculum with several support programs in place. These not only challenge but also assist individuals as needed while teaching these standards. The WCES staff continues to implement a math curriculum called enVision Mathematics 2020 Common Core. It challenges their thinking and problem solving abilities. The elementary staff continues to learn more about the Science of Reading. Several staff members have participated in the Orton-Gillingham training. This is a highly structured approach that breaks reading and spelling into smaller skills involving letters and sounds that are built upon over time. It is characterized by a multisensory approach that uses sight, hearing, touch, and movement to help students learn. Additional materials are used at the other grade levels to teach the Learning Standards.
West Central Elementary School likes to recognize students for a job well done. Character Awards are given throughout the year. We encourage positive phone calls home to highlight the successes of our students and individuals can work towards end of the year awards in physical fitness, Accelerated Reader, IXL, and Enrichment. Various individual and team opportunities surface throughout the school year. Our students are very fortunate to be able to participate in the fine arts throughout the week. They have physical education daily. In addition, we offer both music and art on a weekly basis. We feel that our students benefit greatly from these opportunities and we strive to encourage well-balanced, life-long learners.
Here at West Central Elementary School, we understand how important a role the parents play in their child’s education. Communication is a key component. In addition to the monthly menus, a parent bulletin called the “Heat Hub” will be sent home with your child. The teachers will be making regular contacts with you and parents are able to keep informed of classroom activities through online platforms such as Google Classroom, Seesaw and Remind. Another great way to keep informed is to access the Skyward program. As a parent, you are able to view your child’s grades, missing assignments, attendance, and lunch account balances. Parents may also get involved by attending PTC meetings. This organization is made up of parents and teachers who work together to raise money and coordinate activities for the students. Furthermore, messages will be sent out via the Finalsite Connect system. You can select various options such as phone calls, text messages, and email notifications. Be sure to join our West Central Elementary School Facebook page!
West Central Elementary School aims for academic excellence while meeting the needs of individual students. Every staff member looks forward to working with you and your child throughout the year. It is my pleasure to serve as principal of WCES and to work collaboratively to create amazing opportunities for your child. Together, we can foster a community in which all students reach their highest potential.
In Partnership,
Mrs. Kathy Lafary
