Excellence in Youth

The Excellence in Youth (EY) Program at Westside Community Schools provides expanded learning opportunities for students with high ability, in addition to fostering and encouraging talent development in all students.

The EY program website is the hub of communication for the EY Team. For our K-8 students, monthly challenges, seminars and events, as well as other learning opportunities are posted to the site on a regular basis.

All students are encouraged to participate in the opportunities posted, regardless of whether they have been identified for the EY Program. Students can participate independently by accessing the opportunities at home or during tech time at school. Teachers may also facilitate these whole and small-group enrichment opportunities for students in the classroom.

Click below to check out all our website has to offer!

Every student in Westside has the opportunity to begin earning badges. Working towards earning a badge allows students to dig deep into topics and explore individual interest areas. Badges can be found in various subject and interest areas.

Earn 12 badges to achieve the acclaimed "Digital Dozen" and earn a prize and recognition! Choose from hundreds of badge options on the EY Website or choose one below to get kick started!

The Excellence In Youth Team is excited to showcase Annabelle P. and Olivia T. from Sunset, Barrett M. and Anuj K. from Rockbrook, Jaquith C. and Lucy B. from Oakdale and Teddy S.-C. from Swanson as the most recent recipients of the Digital Dozen award for the 24-25 school year! The Digital Dozen award is presented to WCS students who earn 12 of the digital badges from the EY Website (ey.westside66.org), which is available to students district-wide. It takes self-motivation, grit, and determination to earn these badges, and these star student should be proud of their accomplishment!

Students across the district participated in the writing contest, Scary Tales. Students were challenged to write a spooky story in 100 words or less. The students below were selected to be published in the Scary Tales book published by Young Writers!

Gianna D., Emma H., Anne M., Juliette L., Lucy E.

Ben H.

Emerson L., Myla R., Luke W., Wesley W., Hugo T., Arya N., Kelsey R., Josh C., Hudson V., Hendrix S., Evelyn W., Sarah A.

front row: Lucy R., Danny M.

back row: Luke M., Will R., Celeste B., Andrew E., Luke J.,

front row: Casey S., Celia G.

Grace B. & Arju A.

Varun S., Alice E., Johan P., Yash P., Ananya I., Will F.

Marlys B., Cooper F., Maddox S., Callum O., Henry L., Maddie T., Olivia B., Maddie C.

Caleb C.

Mini Sparks are quick lessons that introduce learners to various topics. Sparks can be found under every subject area on the EY website. These activities require minimal supplies and make for a great family activity!

The Story Spine

We are all storytellers. Good storytelling involves captivating an audience through the effective use of narrative elements, such as compelling characters, vivid imagery, and an engaging plot.

Learn More Here!

SIGMA is a mathematics league that promotes problem-solving through competition. SIGMA provides opportunities for students to apply their mathematical knowledge in a fun and engaging format.

Congratulations to our top scorers from each school. Way to go!

• Swanson
• Sunset Hills

Email: henningsen.jennifer@westside66.net
Website: ey.westside66.org
Twitter: @JHenningsen

• Hillside
• Oakdale
• Rockbrook

Email: sindt.katherine@westside66.net
Website: ey.westside66.org
Twitter: @ksindt1972

• Paddock Road
• Westgate
• Westside Middle School
• Math 7 Honors Coordinator

Email: spady.lynn@westside66.net
Website: ey.westside66.org
Twitter: @LynnSpady

• Loveland
• Prairie Lane
• Westbrook

Email: thompson.megan@westside66.net
Website: ey.westside66.org
Twitter: @MegT_Westside