West Chester Area School District
June Newsletter
A SHORT NOTE FROM WCASD
At Rustin High School's graduation ceremony this year, a student speaker shared a meaningful Winnie the Pooh quote: "You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." It reminded us of another moment of Pooh wisdom that feels especially fitting as we close another school year:
"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."
As we celebrate our graduates, say farewell to retiring colleagues, and send students off for summer adventures, we're reminded just how fortunate we are to be part of this community. The last days of school are exciting, but they are also bittersweet because they reflect the relationships, memories, and experiences we've shared together.
While we look forward to a summer of rest, renewal, and preparation for the year ahead, we want to thank our students, families, staff, and community for making WCASD such a special place. Thank you for giving us something so wonderful that saying goodbye, whether for a season or for a lifetime, is never easy.
We wish you a safe, happy, and memorable summer!
We are so proud of you, of how you’ve grown, what you’ve achieved, and all that you are becoming. As you chase big dreams and celebrate life’s moments, know you’ll always have a home here.
We’re waving goodbye for now, but we hope to see you again soon!
Congratulations, Vikings!
Check out East High School's 2026
Congratulations, Warriors!
Check out Henderson High School's 2026
Congratulations, Golden Knights!
Check out Rustin High School's 2026
Future Scientists in the Making
Students at Penn Wood Elementary rotated through a full and fun-filled lineup of interactive science experiences during this year’s Science Day!
Whether pulling DNA strands from strawberries, meeting sensory‑testing canine visitors, learning about the important role of bees, or designing their own tie‑dye shirts, students were engaged from start to finish.
Third Graders Think Like Entrepreneurs
Fern Hill Elementary's third graders put their economics knowledge to the test during the annual Economics Fair!
Through hands-on activities and real-world simulations, students explored concepts such as trade, negotiation, and supply and demand while developing important problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Teeing Up Innovation
Fifth grade students at Mary C. Howse Elementary put their creativity to the test during a Design Lab challenge, building their own miniature golf courses!
Each hole featured imaginative themes and unique obstacles, and once completed, the student-designed course opened for fellow dragons to test their skills and have some fun!
Turning Ideas into Discovery
Students in Mrs. Mazzagatti's class at Fugett Middle School brought science to life through hands-on learning experiences aligned with Pennsylvania's STEELS standards.
From building models of Earth's layers and creating clouds in a bottle to designing entirely new species using recycled materials, students explored scientific concepts through creativity, problem solving, and discovery. These engaging projects help transform classroom learning into meaningful, interactive experiences.
At our May Board Meeting, we heard from Stetson Middle School students Araoluwa Osimokun and Levi Leshock, who shared the many ways they are learning and growing both inside and outside the classroom. From learning more Spanish and designing complex structures in technology education classes to participating in orchestra and competing in track and field, they reflected on how new experiences, hard work, and teamwork are helping them develop confidence and discover new interests.
The meeting also celebrated the impressive academic, athletic, and musical accomplishments of our graduating seniors from across the district. In addition, we were proud to recognize another amazing group of WCASD Way Makers, staff members who go above and beyond to support students, strengthen school communities, and make a difference each day.
It was an inspiring evening that highlighted the talent, dedication, and impact of both our students and staff!
Thank You to Our Student Representatives
As the school year comes to a close, we thank our 2025-26 School Board Student Representatives, Akshita Dachuri (East), Jackson Ogden (Henderson), and Meera Narayan (Rustin), for their leadership and service.
Throughout the year, they shared student perspectives, celebrated school accomplishments, and helped strengthen the connection between our schools and Board of Directors. We are so grateful for their dedication and wish them all the best in their next adventures!
Families, staff, school board members, and the community came together to celebrate our graduating seniors from East, Henderson, and Rustin High Schools at a meaningful Kente Stole Ceremony.
Each student was presented with a Kente stole and pin, a powerful symbol of heritage, achievement, and pride. Rooted in the rich traditions of Ghana, Kente cloth is known for its vibrant colors and symbolic patterns that represent values such as unity, perseverance, leadership, and pride.
More than just a track meet, the annual WCASD Elementary Track Meet brought together 4th and 5th graders from all 11 elementary schools for two days of competition, teamwork, and school spirit.
From races and relays to cheering on new friends, students made memories that will last long after they crossed the finish line.
Before crossing the graduation stage, our seniors took one final walk through the halls where their WCASD story first began.
During the annual Senior Walk, students returned to their elementary and middle schools, greeted by former teachers, familiar faces, and cheering younger students. It was a celebration filled with smiles, memories, and reflection, a reminder of how much can change in just a few short years.
For our youngest learners, it offered a glimpse of what lies ahead. For our seniors, it was a chance to look back on the journey that brought them here. We are so proud of all they have accomplished and can't wait to see where their next chapter takes them!
The WCASD Board of School Directors approved a $344,989,797 million budget for the 2026-27 school year, continuing the district's commitment to high-quality learning, student support, and responsible financial stewardship.
The budget includes investments in instructional and student support staff, expanded student services, curriculum resources, and ongoing building improvements, while maintaining the lowest property tax rates in Chester and Delaware counties.
Our WCASD Special Olympians proudly represented the district at the Chester County Special Olympics, demonstrating determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the day.
Before heading off to compete, athletes were celebrated with enthusiastic send-offs from their school communities, complete with posters, cheers, high fives, and plenty of encouragement. We are incredibly proud of our athletes and grateful to everyone who helped make the day so special.
Before we close the chapter on another school year, we pause to celebrate the individuals who helped write so many of its pages.
At our annual Retiree Reception, we honored members of WCASD whose years of service have shaped the lives of countless students, supported colleagues, and strengthened our school community in ways both seen and unseen. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment have left a lasting legacy on the district.
To our retirees: thank you for the care you shared, the relationships you built, and the difference you made every day. While your presence will be deeply, deeply missed, your impact will continue to be felt for years to come. We wish you a retirement filled with happiness, health, and new adventures!
Join school and public safety professionals for a day of learning, collaboration, and practical strategies to enhance school safety. Hosted by WCASD Public Safety Supervisor Rik Thornton, the summit will feature expert-led sessions focused on prevention, preparedness, and response.
When: Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 8 AM to 3 PM
Location: Rustin High School Auditorium | 1100 Shiloh Road, West Chester, PA 19382
View the agenda, meet the presenters, and find out more on the School Safety Summit webpage!
Celebrating Creativity at East!
The East High School Senior Art Show once again transformed The Link into a gallery of creativity, talent, and self-expression. Family, friends, and community members had the opportunity to experience an impressive collection of artwork showcasing the skill, dedication, and unique perspectives of East's senior artists.
This year's show was especially meaningful as it marked Ms. Dulli's final Senior Art Show before retirement. Her passion for the arts and commitment to her students have helped make this event a cherished tradition and inspired countless young artists along the way.
Congratulations to all of the student artists and award winners on a fantastic show!
String Fest Strikes a Chord
The Elementary 5th Grade Honors Orchestra, Middle School Select Strings, and High School Senior Strings took the stage for the annual WCASD String Fest Concert, delivering a memorable performance in support of a meaningful cause.
Directed by Leah Jurik, Kinsey Sullivan, Tim Celfo, and Katrina Kelly, the event benefited the Volunteer English Program of Chester County and raised an impressive $1,280, the highest total in the concert's history. Each ensemble is formed through a selective audition process, with students dedicating Monday evenings from January through May to rehearsals. Together, these musicians represent just a portion of the nearly 1,000 student string musicians participating in WCASD's music program across grades 3 through 12.
Special thanks to Dr. Christopher for opening the event and to our district's string teachers, whose dedication helps students achieve such high levels of performance!
An Eagle's Eye for Art
The annual Exton Art Show showcased the creativity, imagination, and talent of student artists from every grade level. Families and staff were invited to explore an impressive collection of artwork highlighting the unique perspectives and artistic growth of Exton's Eagles.
A special thank you to art teacher Ms. Teodecki for inspiring creativity and helping students develop confidence through the arts each day.
The West Chester Area Education Foundation welcomed donors and sponsors for its annual Recognition Breakfast, a celebration of the impact their generosity has on students across WCASD.
Guests heard directly from students and educators whose experiences have been enriched through Foundation-funded opportunities, from innovative classroom mini-grants to life-changing programs like Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week (PFEW). They even had the chance to step inside classrooms and see those opportunities in action.
Every donation helps open doors, spark new ideas, and create meaningful experiences for students throughout our district. Thank you to the donors and sponsors who continue to make a difference in the lives of WCASD students!
