West Chester Area School District
November Newsletter
A SHORT NOTE FROM WCASD
Our community helped shape WCASD's Portrait of a Graduate by identifying five essential skills: adaptability, communication, empathy, responsibility, and problem solving. Now, we're turning to the voices that matter tremendously, our students!
We asked students across WCASD to share why these skills are important to them and how they connect to their lives, both inside and outside the classroom. Their thoughtful responses remind us why this work matters and what we're working together to achieve.
Making Science Come Alive at Fern Hill
Congratulations to Jessica McCullough, fifth-grade teacher at Fern Hill Elementary School, on receiving the 2026 Pennsylvania Science Teachers Association's Donald Keys Excellence in Science Elementary School Teaching Award!
This recognition celebrates her commitment to making science learning authentic, accessible, and relevant for students.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators
Congratulations to Michael Dumas, Technology & Engineering teacher at Peirce Middle School, on receiving the Pennsylvania Middle School Technology & Engineering Teacher Excellence Award!
One of the highest honors in the field, this award recognizes his innovative teaching practices, dedication to students, and contributions to technology and engineering education.
East High School
Pranoy Muthaiyan
Henderson High School
Shrey Shah, ViJay Nair, Audrey Fisher, Cerys Jones, Anvi Verma, Seamus Christoff, and Ethan Bowser (Not pictured)
Rustin High School
Christian Miller and Liam Swett
Our October School Board meeting began with two wonderful fifth-grade representatives, Swara and Paul, from Mary C. Howse Elementary! The students shared their excitement about their newly renovated school, including updated learning spaces and air conditioning, along with their recent Fun Run, which raised an impressive $25,000!
They also highlighted how students are bringing the district's Portrait of a Graduate skills to life and taking on leadership roles through Dragon Patrol, kindergarten helpers, study buddies, and the Community Connections Crew. From the upcoming Macy's Balloon Parade to the Black History Museum, there's plenty to look forward to at the Howse!
The Board also heard comments from community members about the planned middle and high school schedule changes for the 2027–28 school year. We recognize that families have important questions and the district will continue sharing more information, addressing implementation details, and providing opportunities for families to learn more as preparations move forward.
It is with sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Thomas J. Kent, who served as Superintendent of the West Chester Area School District from 1988 to 1997.
During his tenure, Dr. Kent provided leadership during a period of growth and change, helping to shape the strong educational foundation that continues to serve our students and community today. His commitment to public education, dedication to students, and service to the West Chester community left a lasting impact on our schools and the many educators who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Many current and former staff members may remember Dr. Kent not only as a respected educational leader, but also as a mentor whose guidance influenced generations of school and district leaders. His contributions to WCASD will be remembered with gratitude and respect.
On behalf of the District, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Kent's family, friends, former colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by his leadership and service.
Every school day, thousands of WCASD students travel to and from school, and keeping them safe is a responsibility we all share! During National School Bus Safety Week in October, our transportation team partnered with local law enforcement for the 30th annual Operation Safe Stop. Officers rode along with and followed school buses to monitor traffic and raise awareness about the dangers of illegally passing a stopped school bus.
A friendly reminder to all drivers: When a school bus stops with its red lights flashing, students may be getting on or off. Stay alert, slow down, and always follow school bus stopping laws. A few moments of patience can make all the difference!
Technology can open doors to creativity, collaboration, and new ways of learning, but we also know that some of childhood's most important experiences happen away from a screen!
This fall, WCASD introduced its new K-5 Purposeful Technology Use Guidelines, shaped by feedback from educators, families, school leaders, and community partners. Guided by the philosophy Purpose First. Minutes Second., these guidelines establish age-appropriate screen-time ranges, encourage active learning over passive viewing, and protect screen-free opportunities for students to explore, create, and connect.
Our goal isn't simply more or less technology. It's using the right tools at the right times while making room for the relationships, experiences, and hands-on learning that help children thrive.
Kick off your holiday shopping while supporting Gifted Education in WCASD!
Browse more than 60 craft vendors, enter for a chance to win school and vendor gift baskets, and enjoy festive music and delicious food. Best of all, admission and parking are FREE!
Where: Rustin High School | 1100 Shiloh Road, West Chester, PA
When: Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
What would you put in a time capsule to represent WCASD? For East Bradford Elementary fifth grader Summit, the answer was all 17 of our schools!
Inspired by an idea from his Design Lab teacher, Mrs. Adami, Summit designed and created a special 3D-printed piece featuring all 17 WCASD schools and the district logo to be included in a Chester County time capsule. Summit's creativity and thoughtful design capture what makes our district special: the connections between our schools, our students, and our community.
What a wonderful way to leave a little piece of WCASD history for future generations to discover!
Henderson Girls Are State-Bound!
The Henderson Lady Warriors are on a roll! After capturing the Ches-Mont Championship, the girls' varsity cross country team raced to a second-place finish at the PIAA District 1 Championship! Now, they're setting their sights on the State Championship!
Congratulations, Lady Warriors! We're cheering you on!
Peirce Races into the Record Books!
What a finish for Peirce Middle School! The boys' cross country team captured its first Chester County Championship in decades, earning an incredible 29 points—the best team score in meet history! The boys finished 1st - 4th - 6th - 8th - 10th - 11th - 12th, putting five runners in the top ten and seven in the top twelve.
Congratulations to our Peirce runners and coaches on this historic achievement!
An exciting new opportunity is underway for WCASD seniors! Last month, Dr. Karen Pinsky, President of Chester County Hospital, and members of the hospital's leadership and HR teams welcomed students into the Penn Pathway Associates program.
This 14-week rotational program gives students hands-on exposure to healthcare careers, opportunities to learn from industry professionals, and a chance to explore their interests and future career pathways.
Offered in both the fall and spring semesters, the program is another meaningful way we're helping students connect classroom learning with real-world experiences!
High School Schedule: Preparing for 2027–28
As we prepare for the transition to a new high school bell schedule in the 2027–28 school year, our district continues to focus on making the most of instructional time and creating meaningful learning experiences for students. During the November 3 in-service day, teachers from across our three high schools had dedicated time to explore lesson design within the new rotational schedule, collaborate with colleagues, and begin planning for longer class periods.
This professional learning is one part of the district's ongoing preparation, which also includes reviewing student schedules, specialized programs, and opportunities for student support to help ensure a successful transition.
Middle School Schedule: Preparing for 2027–28
As we prepare for the transition to a new middle school schedule in the 2027–28 school year, our district continues to focus on creating meaningful learning experiences and providing consistent opportunities for student support. The new A/B block schedule will allow for longer instructional periods, fewer transitions throughout the school day, and dedicated time for intervention, enrichment, and advisory activities.
Across our three middle schools, staff and administrators are working through instructional planning, student needs, and implementation details to prepare for a successful transition.
Know a WCASD staff member who makes a difference every day? Nominations are now open for the Chester County Champions of Education Awards, celebrating the outstanding educators and support staff who help our students and schools thrive.
Nominate a Champion of the Classroom for educators or a Champion of Service for staff serving in support roles, from paraprofessionals and custodians to food service staff and beyond. Nominations close November 30, 2026.
It only takes a few minutes to recognize someone who makes a lasting impact!
We are so grateful to the local companies who have generously donated their time and resources to support the WCASD Preschool Parent Group over the years! These partners have helped us accomplish our mission of connecting children and families with the District through free educational programs and fun activities for preschool-aged children.
If you are interested in sponsoring an event, contact Allison Garber at agarver@wcasd.net or 484-266-1000 ext# 100011.
