West Chester Area School District
November Newsletter
A NOTE FROM SUPERINTENDENT DR. DAVID CHRISTOPHER
Dear WCASD Community,
Last week, our schools were filled with the joy of Halloween and Diwali celebrations, and I couldn’t help but feel uplifted by the energy and excitement that radiated through our halls. Halloween is more than costumes and candy—it’s a time for imagination, creativity, and a celebration of the simple joys of childhood. I know that, for many of our students, these moments will become treasured memories filled with laughter, friendship, and fun. Experiences like these are invaluable for our students' social, emotional, and mental well-being, connecting them more deeply to their peers and to our community.
And for our families celebrating Diwali, we hope your celebrations were filled with light and moments spent together.
As we move into this week, we are reminded of the importance of community in other ways as well. Tomorrow is Election Day, and our community, like so many across the nation, reflects a diversity of perspectives and beliefs. This election season has sparked strong feelings across the spectrum. I encourage us all to remember our shared goal: a bright future for our children and students. Whether we’re celebrating the excitement of casting a ballot for the first time or simply witnessing this vital process of democracy, let's keep understanding and respect at the forefront.
In the days to come, let’s stay committed to creating a nurturing and positive environment for our young people. Whether the outcome is viewed as favorable or unfavorable by a particular child or family, we thank you in advance for your continued commitment to promoting a caring and kind school environment where every student feels respected and valued.
Thank you, as always, for your commitment to this community and the children we serve. As always, I’ll see you all as we walk the WCASD way together.
To make sure that you don’t miss any of the events coming up for the WCASD, check out the list of upcoming events below and our Celebrate the Arts Flyer at the bottom of this newsletter.
Important Dates:
November: National Native American Heritage Month | National Scholarship Month
November 1: Diwali | Dia de los Muertos| Schools Closed
November 4: WCASD Choral Fest at East High School
November 5: Election Day | Teacher Inservice
November 8: National STEM/STEAM Day
November 11: Veterans Day
November 12: Combined Pupil Services and Education Committee Meeting | 6:30 PM
November 13: Parent Workshop: Marijuana and Mental Health | 6:30 PM
November 14-16: East & Rustin Fall Shows
November 17-23: American Education Week & Hunger & Homeless Awareness Week
November 18: Policy Review Committee Meeting | 5:30 PM
November 18: Property & Finance Committee Meeting | 6:00 p.m.
November 20: Support Professionals Day
November 22: Substitute Educators Day
November 24: Henderson Fall Choral Concert | 4:00 PM
November 25: Parent Conferences (Half Day for Elementary Students; Full Day for Middle & High School Students)
November 25: School Board Meeting | 7:00 p.m.
November 26: Parent Conferences (Half Day for Elementary & Middle Students; Full Day for High School Students)
November 27: Teacher Inservice AM (No School for Students)
November 28: Thanksgiving Day
November 28-29: School and District Offices Closed
Penn Wood Elementary in Action!
This month in WCASD, Penn Wood Elementary 5th graders wrapped up a math lesson and dove into a quiz review. We also joined first grade for a quick breathing exercise—because even our littlest learners sometimes need a reset—followed by an exciting lesson on exploring fiction vs. non-fiction.
Factoring in Fun at Fern Hill Elementary
Fern Hill Elementary fourth graders were hard at work learning about factors and multiples while also getting comfortable using calculators. Alongside mastering new math concepts, they practiced the important classroom skill of raising their hands before sharing answers—building patience and focus.
Bright Ideas at East High School
East High School’s physics students took on an exciting hands-on project by designing model homes and wiring circuits to light up each room! This creative assignment allowed them to apply their knowledge of circuitry in a real-world scenario—bringing their miniature houses to life.
During National School Bus Safety Week, WCASD joined forces with local and state law enforcement for Operation Safe Stop, an initiative focused on bus safety awareness and education. Students and families at selected bus stops were greeted by our transportation staff, officers, representatives from Krapf School Bus, and members of the Chester County Department of Emergency Services. Students learned about bus safety practices to ensure a safe journey to and from school, while officers emphasized the importance of drivers obeying traffic laws around school buses.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our bus drivers, transportation team, and law enforcement partners for their dedication to our students' safety!
Continuing a beloved tradition, East High School’s senior football players recently shared their Viking pride by presenting handwritten letters and away game jerseys to the teachers, coaches, and staff members who’ve made a lasting impact on their high school journey.
This heartfelt gesture is a meaningful way for students to honor the individuals who've supported and inspired them along the way. 1, 2, 3, Vikings! 4, 5, 6, FAMILY!
At this month’s meeting, Hillsdale Elementary students Alexandra Morettini and Julian Rodriguez led the salute to the flag and shared an exciting update on life at Hillsdale! They spoke about their math lessons, learning to code with robots, and expressed gratitude to their teachers for sparking creativity and providing so many opportunities. They also highlighted their experience at Band Night, where they enjoyed playing alongside students from other WCASD schools and high schoolers.
High school representatives also shared recent successes in athletics, academics, and the arts, and Civics Club students encouraged peers to register to vote. The meeting also celebrated the many charitable donation drives underway. We’re so proud of our students' achievements and their commitment to making a positive impact!
Once again, we’re filled with gratitude as Keystone Volvo has generously donated over 300 brand-new winter coats for WCASD students in need. Their continued support brings warmth to our students and exemplifies the incredible community spirit that defines WCASD.
Thanks to this thoughtful donation, our students will be able to face the winter season with comfort and confidence. Thank you, Keystone Volvo, for helping us ensure every student stays cozy and ready to learn!
Last month, WCASD proudly celebrated the rededication of Glen Acres Elementary School, marking a major milestone for our district. The event brought together school board members, administrators, teachers, parents, and—most importantly—our enthusiastic students, who proudly shared their transformed school with the community.
During the ceremony, Glen Acres students shared a heartfelt poem reflecting on their new learning spaces, followed by a tour of the updated facilities led by Principal Ryan and the students. Principal Ryan, Director of Facilities and Operations Mr. Birster, and Director of Elementary Education Sara Missett expressed deep gratitude to the school community for their patience and support throughout the project. The refreshed Glen Acres is ready to inspire learning and growth for years to come!
We know that our high school homecomings somehow already feel like months ago, but East High School's spirit-filled Rally was just a few weeks ago!
East seniors had an epic win in the powder puff game and students continued to face off in a heated relay-race, an intense game of musical chairs, and a fierce tug-of-war competition. Students brought their energy, everyone cheering loud and proud, showing off East Pride - keep it up all year, Vikings!
Latin American Flavors Delight at Henderson Homecoming Carnival
Henderson High School's Latin American Students Organization (LASO) showcased an array of traditional Latin American flavors at the homecoming carnival!
They had homemade flan, gelatina, and polvorones, along with horchata and agua de Jamaica to wash it all down. To top it off, they supported a small business by offering conchas and pan de muerto, freshly baked by a local Mexican baker!
Sugar Skull Art at Stetson Middle School
Stetson Middle School’s Spanish Club celebrated the vibrant tradition of calaveras de azúcar, also known as sugar skulls, by painting rocks inspired by beautiful Mexican folk art.
These colorful creations not only showcase creativity but also honor the spirits of loved ones who have passed on - a meaningful part of Día de los Muertos traditions.
Henderson High School Retreats to Gretna Glen
Last month, Henderson High School Chamber Choir (Jonathan Kreamer, Director) and Chamber Orchestra (Katrina Kelly, Director) students attended their 2nd annual retreat at the Gretna Glen Retreat Center. The retreat was held to strengthen the musical and friendship bonds between members of both music ensembles as they prepare for their various concerts this year.
The ensembles had a great time with activities that included campfires, boating, archery, hiking and of course rehearsing. Please consider attending their first concert this year which will be on Sunday, November 24 at 4:00 PM at Church of the Good Samaritan in Paoli.
New Form for the 2024-25 School Year!
At various times throughout the year, community members may request a review of instructional materials or books related to the WCASD or the District may begin the process of considering new instructional materials. When either occurs, the Superintendent or their designee can create a committee to review the materials. Parents and community members are an important part of the committee and review process.
If you would be interested and willing to serve on review committee if the need should arise, we encourage you to complete a brief interest form by clicking the blue button. Please be aware, if you signed up to participate last year, you will need to sign up again as it is our goal to keep this list as current as possible year-to-year. Thank you!
Did you know that the WCASD offers a Senior Tax Reduction Incentive Volunteer Exchange Program designed to assist Senior Citizens with the burden of Real Estate Taxes? In return for volunteering their services through this program, senior citizens may be entitled to a rebate of property taxes in accordance with the guidelines outlined on our Senior Tax Reduction Incentive Volunteer Exchange Program webpage.
Before applying to the program, we encourage those interested to review the attached brochure below and the guidelines on our website.
