Westside Foundation Newsletter

Foundation Grant Highlight: District 66 Elementary Robotics Competition

Let's Keep the Momentum Going: Join the W CLUB Today!

What's Ahead: Impacting Excellence Phase 2, Scholarship Awards and VIVI

Your support has helped bring meaningful learning experiences to life across our schools.

From classrooms filled with new ideas to hands-on opportunities that build confidence and connection—this is what community support looks like in action.

The K–6 Robotics Club students are doing more than building and coding robots. They’re developing problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork skills as they prepare for a culminating robotics competition.

What began as a school-based experience has grown into a district-wide event, bringing students together to connect, compete, and celebrate their work.

The impact is clear: students build confidence, step into leadership roles, and discover what they’re capable of—no matter their experience level.

Thanks to Westside Foundation donors, this program continues to expand, giving more students access to hands-on STEM learning—and the opportunity to see what’s possible.

Join the hundreds of alumni, parents, friends, and community members who believe in the power of exceptional education. Every gift helps create more opportunities like these.

Support W Club today and make a lasting impact on the student experience.

Special Thanks to our 2026 W Club Chairs

Jamie and Ted (WHS ’90) Friedland

“We are excited to chair the W CLUB Campaign this year. As parents of three children who have been raised in Westside schools, we understand how important W CLUB contributions are in supporting our teachers. When we invest in our teachers, they are better equipped to support students through programs and experiences that make District 66 truly special. Please join us in making a meaningful investment in District 66!”

Phase 2 Update

Photo Above: The Studio, a new space at Westside High School, will give Westside Cheer and Dance Teams their own practice space.

New and renovated spaces include:

• College, Career & Life Readiness Center

• Family Resource Center

• Innovation Center

• Life Skills Suite

• The Studio

• Welcome Center

A Phase 2 Dedication will take place once these areas are complete.

Special Thanks to all of the Donors who have supported the Impacting Excellence Campaign.

This year, the Westside Foundation received more than 500 scholarship applications from Westside seniors. Thanks to the generosity of Foundation donors, over $100,000 will be awarded to help students continue their education and pursue what comes next. The Scholarship committee is busy reviewing those scholarships and looks forward to awarding the recipients in May.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available!

Special Thanks to the 2026 Honorary Chairs

Kristen and Jason Papenfuss