WELCOME TO WAA!

August 2, 2022

Dear Westinghouse Arts Academy Students and Families:

I hope you are enjoying a wonderful summer that has helped you get ready to start a new school year! I am thrilled that you are all part of our unique and amazing learning community!  I welcome and value your positive energy and dedication to excellence in education and the arts.  I sincerely look forward to working with all of you!

Our skilled and devoted faculty and staff have been planning and preparing for the 2022-2023 school year. Many changes, improvements and updates have been in the works to ensure students are at the heart of all that we do!

These changes will ensure an incredible and productive school year for all students. Some of our updates include:

• Freshman Seminar class to help transition the incoming 9th grade students.

• Senior Seminar class to assist our 12th grade students transition and develop post-high school goals and plans such as pursuing college or a career.

• We also have implemented a new class schedule that extends instructional time into block periods.

• Student Advisory time has also been incorporated into the daily schedule as a designated time for students to check in with a faculty member who will guide and support students’ academic, and social/emotional needs throughout the year and throughout their time at WAA.  Assigned Advisors will follow the same group of students for their 4 years of high school.

• And many more exciting and supportive learning opportunities for students!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Welcome to WAA: Student Event

This student-only school wide event will take place on Thursday, August 18, 2022 from 12:00-3:00pm.  Students will receive information that will be helpful in preparing for their school year. We will be distributing information such as student schedules, offering guided tours, and opportunities to meet faculty and staff. We will begin this event in the Auditorium.  Students – please enter the school through the Auditorium doors.  Please check in at one of the stations to pick up your Student Welcome Packet.

WAA Parent/Guardian Event 

Much like the afternoon student event, we invite all parents/guardians/families to an evening informational session on Thursday, August 18, 2022 from 6:00-8:00pm (students are welcome to join as well!).  Parents will have a chance to ask questions, tour the school, and meet faculty and staff. We will begin in the Auditorium.  Please enter the school through the Auditorium doors.  Please check in at one of the stations to pick up your Parent Info Packet.

First Day of School for Students – Monday, August 22, 2022

Students will report to their Advisory on the first day of school.  If students do not know their assigned Advisory, we will have faculty/staff to assist students at all entrance points of our school.  Students should arrive between 7:20-7:50am.  

Orientation Week (1st Week of School)
Orientation Week is a new program we are implementing this year. This week-long orientation program will assist new and returning students to a successful adjustment back to school as well as lay the foundation for a positive school year!  Students will be given designated time each day to learn about and ask questions regarding the academic, artistic and behavioral expectations set forth for WAA students. Time will be devoted for reviewing school policies, distributing and accessing devices/technology programs, learning school and class systems and procedures, as well as time to get to know fellow students and faculty.

I eagerly look forward to meeting you all for the first time or seeing you again! It remains an honor and privilege to serve as your principal.  Please stop by and say hello. Together, I know we will make this school year one of growth and achievement for all students!