Principal’s Message

Welcome to the 2008-09 school year!  We are proud of the fact that West Hills Elementary School has earned the reputation of presenting a high academic program. The staff is committed to high standards in learning as well as providing a safe, nurturing environment. Over the past several years our students have demonstrated mastery in reading, mathematics, and writing as compared to other schools with similar demographics. This coming year we are continuing to build a strong science and math emphasis to help students realize in their future a possibility of a career in these areas.

We are able to achieve strong academic results for several reasons:

• Teachers are continually improving their skills and knowledge through workshops and professional teaming.
• The standards for paraprofessionals, our instructional assistants, have been raised. All of our paraprofessionals have passed a high-level exam or have the equivalent of two years of college.
• Many community volunteers tutor students who are struggling in reading. This individualized approach helps each of the children in the program achieve at a higher rate.
• Teachers work with parents to set up support programs that can be done at home to reinforce the skills learned in school.
• The district and the state set high standards for students. Effective teaching practices, strong curriculum materials, and instructional coaches are all helping us do our best.

Our challenges are to reduce our unexcused absences and discipline referrals. We are addressing these two areas by building a climate of safety, respect, and responsibility. We know that our students will flourish in a school that has these characteristics. We would like to welcome anyone who might be interested in becoming a tutor. Please call or visit our school.

Flint Walpole
Principal