Wayne-Westland Innovative Academy

Greetings

Upcoming: Parent Teacher Conferences will be held on February 26, 2026, 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Mandatory Senior/Parent Meeting on February 26, 2026 Starting Promptly at 5:00 pm

Wayne-Westland Innovative Academy

WWIA Weekly Newsletter

Quarter 3 – Week 3

Greetings WWIA Students and Families,

Reminder: The Senior / Parent Meeting that was previously scheduled for February 12, 2026, has been rescheduled for February 26, 2026.

This is the same day as Parent Teacher Conferences.

The start time for the Senior / Parent Meeting is 5:00 pm.

Quarter 3 is well underway, and we appreciate the continued effort and commitment from our students and families. Week 3 is an important time to re-focus on routines, expectations, and goals as we continue building momentum toward academic success.

Attendance & Punctuality Matter
Arriving to school on time and making it to every class, every day plays a major role in student achievement. Being present and punctual ensures students receive instruction, stay on track with assignments, and make steady progress toward earning credit. We encourage families to support strong attendance habits and to reach out if there are barriers we can help address.

Honoring Black History Month

February is Black History Month, a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black Americans who have shaped our society. At WWIA, we recognize the importance of honoring history while inspiring students to see themselves as leaders, change-makers, and contributors to the future. We look forward to engaging students in meaningful learning experiences throughout the month.

Stay Connected

Students are encouraged to monitor their grades, stay engaged in class, and communicate with teachers and counselors if support is needed. Families are always welcome to reach out with questions or concerns.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we are helping our students stay focused, engaged, and moving forward successfully in Quarter 3.

New Program Launch: Music Production

We are excited to officially launch our Music Production Program! This new opportunity allows students to explore creativity, technology, and self-expression through music.
Interested students should see Mr. Griffiths.
The Music Production Club meets after school on Thursdays.

New Scholarship Opportunity

https://www.zealcu.org/scholarship/

Student Incentive Field Trip

Students who passed 3 out of 4 classes in Quarters 1 and 2 have earned an invitation to a movie field trip as a reward for their hard work and academic progress.
If you are eligible and interested, please see Mr. Griffiths for more information.

Welcome New Students

We would also like to extend a warm welcome to all new students joining us for Quarter 3. We are excited to have you as part of the WWIA community and look forward to supporting you on your academic journey.

Let’s continue working together to make Quarter 3 productive, positive, and successful for all. As always, thank you for your continued partnership and support!

Important Senior Reminder

All seniors must have a minimum of 14 credits by the start of Quarter III in order to be considered on track for graduation.

Seniors who currently have fewer than 14 credits should contact their counselor immediately to schedule a transcript audit and discuss next steps toward graduation.

As always, we encourage students to arrive on time, attend every class, stay engaged, and take full advantage of the supports available at WWIA. Together, we can make Quarter III a period of growth, accountability, and success.

Let’s start strong and continue moving forward, we believe in you!

Scholarship Information

The 2026 Rosa Parks Scholarship ($3,000) application is now available on the following website: rosaparksscholarship.org

This is an annual scholarship, and we would encourage your school to ensure that our scholarship (and website) is included on your master list of scholarships. This scholarship is open to all Michigan high school seniors.

The application is also available (you can copy/paste into your browser) at:

Apply | Rosa Parks Scholarship Foundation

The deadline for filing is March 1, 2026. Scholarship winners will be announced in mid-May.

If you have questions or problems concerning the application, please email us at: info@rosaparksscholarship.org

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPGs0MH0KcgtrbvTBCjlBwDaVJzIRqpHzBYI3xCoGi6iCGsA/viewform

Important Notice for Seniors

Support Is Available

WWIA staff are here to support our students academically and personally. Please take advantage of available resources and communicate early if assistance is needed.

To our seniors, a special message to you: the clock is ticking on your senior year. Please stay mindful of due dates, graduation requirements, college and scholarship deadlines, and testing commitments. If you need support, reach out to your counselors, teachers, or administrators—we are here to help you finish strong.

Important Information

Wayne-Westland Community Schools is excited to share a new partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services that brings a valuable free resource to families living in Inkster and Wayne. Through this program, residents can receive a no-cost lead inspection in their home. If any issues are found, the team will replace faucets or sinks as needed and work directly with families to address additional concerns-providing real support, not just notification. To learn more or apply for services, visit the Lead Safe Home Program webpage.

Quarter III Reminder: Attendance & Effort

Reminder: WWIA thrives when students are present, engaged, and committed.

Arrive to school on time — every class matters
Attend all classes — missing even one period can set you back
Give your best effort — class participation, formative assessments, summative assessments, homework, and striving to improve all count toward success

Reminder: Our CAREs Program

At WWIA, we live by our PBIS C.A.R.E.s values: Community, Accountability, Respect, and Empathy. As we move forward this quarter, please remember:

Community: We thrive when we support one another — staff, students, and families together.
Accountability: We expect students to take ownership of their behavior and academic progress.
Respect: We treat each other with kindness, even when challenges arise.
Empathy: We strive to understand and support one another’s experiences.

Upholding these values, we build a stronger, more positive school environment — and that includes attending every class, showing up on time, and seeking help when needed.

Tips for Families: Supporting Your Student

Here are a few ways families can support students during Quarter II:

Check MiStar Student/Parent Connect regularly for grades, attendance, and teacher feedback.
Encourage your student to use the daily check-in/check-out process (if they're part of it) to reflect on goals and progress.
Celebrate small wins — on-time arrivals, class effort, or positive behavior — and reinforce our CAREs values at home.
Reach out! If you or your student have concerns, questions, or need support, contact their teacher, mentor, or our counseling team.

Graduation Information

Graduation Cap and Gown orders were due December 19. (Past Due)

Please email Mrs. Brittany with your students name, height, weight, and cap size (reg or XL).

Total is $38. After December 19, a late fee will incur and the total will be $43.

Payment is not due until April 1st.

Important Factors to Remember

On-Time Attendance – Being present and on time to every class is essential. Arriving late or missing class causes students to fall behind and interrupts the learning environment. Consistent, on-time attendance sets the foundation for academic achievement.
Passing All Assigned Classes – Every class matters. Students are expected to complete all assignments, actively participate, and seek support when needed. Our goal is for every student to stay on track for promotion and graduation.
Being in the Assigned Area – For safety and accountability, students must remain in their scheduled classes and designated areas during the school day. This ensures a secure environment where all students can focus on learning.

Virtual Class Procedures

If a student has a virtual class 1st period, they may take that class from home and arrive at school in time for 2nd period.
If a student has a virtual class 4th period, they may leave after 3rd period and complete their 4th period class remotely.

Students must remain in their assigned classes during the school day unless they are scheduled for an approved virtual course.

Academic Habits
Now is the time to establish strong study routines. Stay caught up on assignments, ask for help when needed, and use resources available to you. Small, consistent efforts each day will pay off throughout the semester.

Electronic Benefits Form

Please fill out the Electronic Benefits Form online at: https://waynewestland.familyportal.cloud/benefits/onlyapplying - This information is collected for funding purposes and potential student benefits.

Grading Procedures for the 2025/2026 School Year

Dear Families,

Over the past several months, a group of teachers and administrators from all four of our high school buildings have worked together to develop a consistent grading policy for our students. Our goal is to provide greater clarity and fairness for students and families by ensuring that grading practices are aligned across our schools.

This updated grading policy is designed to:

Provide consistency in how grades are determined and reported.
Communicate more clearly what students know and can do.
Focus on student learning and growth, rather than points lost.

It is important to note that students will continue to earn letter grades on their transcript—this change only impacts how grades are determined within classes.

Key Features of the Updated Grading Policy

Common Categories & Weights

Summative (70%) – Assessments that show what students have learned (tests, quizzes, papers, projects, presentations, etc.).
Formative (30%) – Practice opportunities for learning (homework, exit tickets, classwork, discussions, etc.).

Assessment Redos

For every major test or project, students will have a chance to try again.
Reassessments must be completed no later than one week prior to the end of the semester.
End-of-semester assessments are not eligible for reassessment.
Students will earn full credit for demonstrating improved learning.

Formative Work Expectations

Late or missing formative work will be accepted until the end of the unit (minimum of two weeks).
All formative work must be submitted no later than two weeks before the end of the semester.

Common Grading Scale

Teachers will use a 4-point proficiency scale rather than percentages.
ParentConnect will display number grades that correspond to letter grades on transcripts.

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We believe these updates will provide a clearer, more accurate picture of student learning and help support every student’s academic success. Thank you for your partnership as we implement this consistent approach across all of our high schools.

If you have any questions, please contact your building administrator.

Educationally yours,

Dr. K. Rosser,

Principal, WWIA

Cell Phone Expectations

Wayne-Westland Innovative Academy
Electronic Device Policy – 2025–2026

To support a focused and respectful learning environment, each teacher shall control the use of cell phones, headphones/earbuds, personal iPads, and other non-school-issued technology. They are permitted during class -time. However, during instructional time, the teacher may require students to put devices away.

When Devices Are Not Allowed:

A "No Devices" sign or visual will be displayed when personal devices must be put away.
During these times, all personal devices must be:

Turned off or silenced
Stored in your backpack or in pocket

When Devices Are Allowed:

Teachers may designate specific times (e.g., scheduled breaks) for students to briefly check their phones.
Teachers may also allow personal technology for instructional purposes when appropriate.

If Expectations Are Not Met:

First Reminder – You will be redirected to follow the device policy.
Second Reminder – You may be required to place your device in a designated area or with the teacher for the remainder of the class period.
Continued Refusal or Noncompliance – A behavior referral will be submitted.

Chromebooks for Learning:

The district provides Chromebooks for all students. If internet access or technology is needed for a class activity, your Chromebook is the approved device. Students are expected to bring their charged Chromebook and charger to class daily.

Note to Students:
We understand that class periods are long and that staying connected is important. Scheduled breaks have been built in so you can check your phone at appropriate times. Let’s all practice healthy tech habits and remember—it’s okay not to be available 24/7.

Addendum: Unauthorized Use of Devices

The use of personal devices to record fights, altercations, or any disruptive or inappropriate behavior is strictly prohibited. This includes taking or sharing videos or photos of other students or staff without prior approval or consent.

Students may not take pictures, videos, or audio recordings of others on school property unless directed by a staff member for a school-approved activity.
Sharing, posting, or distributing such unauthorized recordings, especially on social media, may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and possible legal consequences in line with district policy.

We are committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and distraction-free school environment. Misuse of technology disrupts learning and violates the rights of others—let’s work together to prevent it.

Personal Items Expectations

Wayne-Westland Innovative Academy
Personal Items Policy – 2025–2026
Blankets, Sleepwear, and Stuffed Animal Guidelines

To maintain a respectful, clean, and professional learning environment, students are expected to arrive at school prepared to engage in academic work and interact in a setting that reflects real-world expectations.

Effective immediately, the following items are not permitted on school property:

Blankets
Pillows
Teddy bears or stuffed animals
Sleepwear or pajama-like attire
Other items intended for rest, lounging, or sleeping

These items are considered non-age appropriate, unsanitary, and not conducive to a productive learning environment. While we understand students may seek comfort or warmth during the day, school is a place for focus, growth, and preparation for life beyond the classroom. These types of items are not acceptable in professional, college, or career settings, and therefore, are not appropriate at school.

If students are cold...

Students are encouraged to bring a jacket, hoodie, or other appropriate outerwear that aligns with the school dress code if they tend to feel cold during the school day.

Items Brought in Violation of This Policy:

Students will be asked to return the item to their backpack or surrender it for the day.
Repeated violations may result in a parent/guardian conference or disciplinary action in line with school guidelines.

We appreciate your support in reinforcing expectations that support a safe, focused, and future-ready school environment. If your student has a specific support need or concern, please reach out to administration so we can work together on a solution.

Counselor Assignments for the 2025/2026 School Year

All In - Person/Hybrid Students, HS Virtual M-O:

Ms. Horgan

All 23 A Students

Ms. Horgan

All Middle school Virtual Students

High School Virtual Students P-Z

Mrs. Jonna-Moore

All High School Virtual Students A-L

All EMC Students

Mr. Booker

This year, students will be placed in one of two designated tracks. Students will be placed in either the 18 credit or 22 credit track.

Working in conjunction with the counseling team, our leadership team will determine which credit track your child will be placed in, depending upon their current grade and number of credits.

Daily Schedule

1st Period: 7:10am - 8:40am
2nd Period: 8:45am - 10:15am
3rdA Period: 10:20am - 11:00am
Lunch: 11:00am - 11:30am
3rdB Period: 11:35am - 12:25pm
4th Period: 12:30pm - 2:00pm

Hybrid Students Two Way Communication Expectations

Any student that is taking 1 or more virtual classes are expected to engage in Weekly Two Way Communications. You will receive an email from your teacher mentor every Wednesday, that requires your response. When responding to this email, you must directly answer the question(s) that are posed by the Virtual Mentor.

Please let us know if there are any questions.

Attendance Policy Information

Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is crucial for your child's academic success. Please make every effort to ensure your child attends school on time every day and stays throughout the whole day. Consistent attendance throughout the school day allows your child to engage in learning and maximize their educational opportunities fully.

Illness: If your child is not feeling well and cannot attend school, please notify us immediately. Students who are ill should not attend school to prevent the spread of illness to others.

Excused Absences: We understand that there may be instances when your child needs to be absent due to illness, medical appointments, family emergencies, or other legitimate reasons. Please notify the school in advance whenever possible to classify the absence as excused.

Unexcused Absences: Unexcused absences negatively impact your child's education. Absences without valid reasons will be considered unexcused, and appropriate actions may be taken per district policy.

Timely reporting of absences helps us maintain accurate attendance records and ensures that your child's absence is properly documented. Absences must be reported within 24 hours.

There are two convenient methods for reporting your child's absence to facilitate efficient communication and accurate attendance records.

You can notify your child's school through the dedicated attendance line. Please leave a detailed message stating your child's name, grade, and reason for absence.

You can report absences directly through MiStar, our secure online portal for student information. MiStar provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to submit absences.

Thank you for your ongoing support in creating a positive and productive learning environment for all our students.

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