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Dr. Barker's Weekly Report 5.4.25

5/4/25 - Volume 6, Issue 34

Dr. Barker's Weekly Report 5.4.25 5/4/25   -   Volume 6, Issue 34
Dr. Barker's WeeklyReport 5.4.255/4/25 - Volume 6, Issue 34
Downingtown West High School
Visit Downingtown West's website for more information.

Dr. Barker's Message Dr. Barker's Message

Picture of the Principals at Downingtown West
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Good Evening Everyone.


This week we have a number of wonderful events to celebrate. The first is our annual National Honor Society induction ceremony, which will be held in the Auditorium on Wednesday, May 7th @ 7pm. This will be followed by our first senior award opportunity - the Karen Mapes, Whippet Pride Award ceremony which will be held on Friday, May 9th in the Auditorium, beginning at 2pm. Invitations for this event have already been sent to families whose students are being recognized. And finally, on Saturday evening the Junior Class will be hosting the Junior Prom for the first time in the new Atrium. We look forward to celebrating with our students at each of these occasions!

Graduation Letter

The Graduation Information letter was sent out on Friday, May 2nd. If you missed the email or simply want to access the letter from here, the links are available in the FAQ section of the Road to Graduation below.


Parking Raffle for Graduation Day

As part of the our annual graduation preparation, we are excited to once again offer an opportunity for two families to secure reserved parking next to Kottmeyer Stadium the Home and School Graduation Parking Raffle. Please see the information below in the Road to Graduation as well as the Home and School section for entry details.


Post Prom needs your help with volunteers and donations

Each year, the Post Prom committee relies on parent volunteers to help ensure that the Post Prom Party is a safe and fun event for the students to attend. While it is still early, May 30th will be here before you know it and the Post Prom committee wants to provide everyone with plenty of time to sign up. Please look for a separate email early this week with all the sign up details.


Graduation Lawn Signs - arriving soon!

We are anticipating delivery of the signs this week. As soon as we have confirmation from the vendor, please look for communication about the pick up time coming from Home and School Association.


Have a great evening and see you on Monday, May 5th!


Kurt Barker, Ed.D.

Principal, DHS WEST


“Where Every Student Thrives”

WEST: Where Every Student Thrives

Whippet News Whippet News

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  • Attention Class of 2026: This is just a friendly reminder that Graduation Projects will need to be PRESENTED in order to purchase your parking permit for the 25/26 school year. If you have all of your hours completed, please email Mr. Hassel at bhassel@dasd.org so that he can get you assigned to a Grad Project Team. May 23rd will be the last day that teams will be assigned for this current school year.


  • Attention Class of 2027: Please make sure you have your PROPOSAL and MENTOR form submitted by May 30th. Both will be required to be submitted and approved in order to purchase a parking permit for the 25/26 school year. Please start working with coaches, places of worship, local fire departments, etc. to get these papers filled out if you plan on completing hours over the summer. Please submit Proposal and Mentor forms to the main office. From there they will be signed, scanned, and emailed to your school email address. All details and forms can be found on West’s Website under the activities tab or HERE. Please email Mr. Hassel at bhassel@dasd.org if you have any questions.

  • Attention Class of 2028: It is not too early to start thinking about your Graduation Project. Are you working a sports camp this summer, have you gone back to help with your place of worship, are you volunteering with your local fire company? If you have your idea, please fill out the Graduation Proposal and Mentor form and leave a hard copy in the main office. All details and forms can be found on West’s Website under the activities tab or HERE. Please email Mr. Hassel at bhassel@dasd.org if you have any questions.


  • STUDENTS: Do you need help completing any outstanding writing assignments?? The Writing Center has relocated to SGI Room 147B in the Atrium (lower level, under the Learning Steps) while the library is closed for AP and Keystone testing. Please come find us - we’ll have signs posted to guide you. Your writing advisors would love to help you finish the year strong!


  • The Downingtown Cyber Academy (DCA) will once again host both Original Credit and Credit Recovery Options this summer. Registration and dates that the courses run are different for the two options. Please visit this link for the most up to date information regarding registration, pricing and content delivery - https://www.dasd.org/departments/teaching-and-learning/summer-school.
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NCWIT Awards

NCWIT is a nationwide, non-profit community that widens participation in the technology ecosystem through innovative programs and research. NCWIT recognizes students and educators with Aspirations in Computing awards. Congratulations to student Mei Sattler, a 2025 Greater Philadelphia Affiliate Award Winner (pictured) and to Pooja Vadla a winner of the 2025 Greater Philadelphia Affiliate Honorable Mention Award. The NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Educator Award identifies exemplary formal and informal educators of students in computing and technology. Dr. Suzanne Speirs has been awarded the 2025 Greater Philadelphia Affiliate Educator Award.

Living Art Show

Below are some of the highlights and winners from the Living Arts Show at West.

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1st Place - 2D - Maggie Miehl

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1st Place - 3D - Aaron Summers

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2nd Place - 2D - Lily Dugan

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2nd Place - 3D - Ryann Spitz

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Honorable Mention - 2D - Sydney Reeves

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3rd Place - 3D - Liv Amann

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Honorable Mention - 3D - Emma Coates

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West Choice - James Maiale

Familias Fuertes

It is finally our turn to have Familias Fuertes in Downingtown! Family Services of Chester County has one of the prevention contracts with the county and currently provides this program in several Chester County school districts. This is a 7-week (1x/week), evening program that works with the whole family (free dinner and childcare for young ones) with a focus on students 10-14 years old (grades 5-9ish). Familias Fuertes is hoping to start July 10 using The Well's space in town. This evidence-based program yields one of the following notable outcomes: decreased anxiety and decreased truancy in females 10-14 years old. Over the last year, Family Services of Chester County has met with Jamie Nunery, Justin Brown, Silvia and Sandy, the ELD Department and Beth McKee, Sarah Brooks, our Prevention Specialists and Home & School Visitors and others to get this program off the ground in our district/community. They also plan to be at Culture Fest this month, too.

The program's flyer is below and here is the registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VZtI0PFY-paYU6Afygc6bNK1HZ_pxgvD2Y0C0y7fERo/viewform?edit_requested=true

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Familias Fuertes (English version)

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Familias Fuertes (Spanish version)

  • The Science Department will be offering Keystone Review sessions after school. See the flyer below for more information.
Biology Keystone Review
  • The Math Department will be offering Keystone Review sessions after school. See the flyer below for more information.
Algebra Keystone Review Sessions

Attention Class of 2026 Senior Portraits

Class of 2026 Senior Portraits are now able to be scheduled for the week of June 9th. Please use the QR code or link below to schedule your senior portrait at Downingtown West's Auditorium.

Class of 2026 Senior Portraits
Flyer for Homework Club meeting times
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HOMEWORK CLUB

Don't get stuck, seek assistance- Homework Club is a place to get your homework done with a teacher right there. Check it out!

Order a yearbook image
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The yearbook order center closes on April 13th!

The online yearbook order center is closed for the 24-25 school year! All books ordered prior to 4/13, will ship directly home in mid-to-late May. A limited quantity of books will be available for cash sales at the end of May on a first come, first served basis. Stay tuned for more information!

April PBIS Winners

Please join me in congratulating Cara Nogrady and Reese Walker, our DAWG Pack winners for the April monthly drawing! Cara and Reese each received a $25 gift card for showing they are real DAWGS!

April PBIS
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TSA States Results

This past week, the Downingtown West TSA chapter participated in the state competition, and we are thrilled to share that nearly all of our members placed in the top ten of their events!!

We brought 16 members to the competition this year — twice as many as last year — and many of them qualified for the national conference in Tennessee this summer. Below are the highlights of our outstanding results:

  • CAD Engineering: Brady Yarnall (5th place) and Justin Brown (6th place)
  • Digital Video Production: Poojitha Chary Vadla and Meghnaa Chetty Sathyanarayana (9th place)
  • Fashion Design and Technology: Prathyusha Gadekal, Poojitha Chary Vadla, Vaidahi Sachin, and Meghnaa Chetty Sathyanarayana (6th place)
  • Flight Endurance: Lemuel Jang (1st place!) and Cyrus Patel (4th place)
  • Geospatial Technology: Jaden Jansen, Arnav Mamidala, and Ishaan Singh (8th place)
  • Structural Design and Engineering: Siddharth Gupta and Lemuel Jang (2nd place)
  • Webmaster: Cyrus Patel, Alton Mathew, and Akhil Goljana (4th place)

We are incredibly proud of our students hard work, dedication, and achievements. Thank you for your continued support of our TSA chapter!

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West TSA at States

The WEST TSA State qualifying group at the state conference held at 7 Springs Ski Resort.

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West TSA at States

Our ladies group in the TSA club competing in Fashion Design and won 6th place.

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West TSA at States

TSA throwing the "W" to represent unity at West.

The Road to Graduation - Class of 2025 The Road to Graduation - Class of 2025

The Graduation Ceremony held on Wednesday, June 4th at 6:00 pm at Kottmeyer Stadium

  • Graduation plans are as follows: Graduation will be held on Wednesday, June 4th at 6:00 pm at Kottmeyer Stadium. All Seniors will receive a total of 10 tickets which can all be used if we are outdoors. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held indoors in Wagner Gym and only two tickets can be used for an indoor graduation. A decision will be made by 1:00 pm on the day of Graduation and posted on the website. The Graduation Ceremony will also be live streamed.


Graduation FAQs
  • We know the senior class has been looking forward to celebrating their years of hard work with a traditional commencement ceremony, and we thank you for working with us to give the Class of 2025 the best graduation ceremony possible. Please see the attached letter for information about the dates, times, and inclement weather plans for our Commencement Ceremony. Accessible Parking and Seating are also available for those family members who may need them. A link for requesting Accessible Parking/Seating is located here. We will have a drop-off location at the Rock Raymond Road covered sidewalk for ease of getting your loved ones to the stadium for the ceremony. Carts will be available to take those family members to the stadium who cannot walk a far distance. Click here to view the drop-off location on a map.


Important Senior Dates

  • May 9—Whippet Pride Awards @ 2:00 pm in Auditorium
  • May 15 - Senior Survey due - will become an obligation
  • May 22—Senior Department Awards Assembly @ 8:40 am in Auditorium
  • May 22—Senior Scholarship Awards Program @ 6:30 pm in Auditorium
  • May 22 - TCHS Brandywine Commencement Program @ Coatesville Memorial Outdoor Stadium - 7:00 pm
  • May 27 & 28—Senior Laptop and Charger Collection
  • May 30 - Deadline for Class of 2025 to Present Graduation Project to be eligible to participate in Graduation
  • May 30—Senior Prom @ 7:00 pm at The Drexelbrook
  • May 30—Post Prom Party following Senior Prom at Wagner Gym
  • June 2—West Graduation Indoor Practice @ 11:00 am (students report at 10:45 am)
  • June 3—West Graduation Outdoor Practice @ 11:00 am (students report at 10:45 am); Senior Picnic immediately following practice
  • June 4—West Commencement Ceremony @ 6:00 pm in Kottmeyer Stadium* (students report at 4:45 pm) *weather permitting

Senior Survey 2025

Attention Seniors:

Completion of the Senior Survey 2025 is a graduation obligation. Due date for completion is May 15th. Any responses received after May 15th will not be included for recognition in the graduation program. Please answer all questions honestly. In order to enroll at your chosen college next year, you must provide that college with a final transcript proving that you have graduated. Please provide consent for the Counseling Department to send that transcript in Question #5. Lastly, please provide the best estimate regarding scholarships received from all colleges that accepted you, not just the college you plan to attend. Thank you for your help and participation. Senior Survey 2025


Senior Laptop Collection - May 27th

DASD Technology extends their sincerest congratulations on your child’s upcoming graduation. As we prepare for the end of the school year, all district-issued laptops and chargers must be returned. Student email accounts and Google Drive will be active until June 30, 2025. Students will need to move any files from their Google Drive that is associated with their email account to a personal account. Please note that the laptop buyout program has ended.


Prepare for collection:

  • Please place the laptop & charger in a large bag to keep items together.
    All laptops should be fully charged and will be inspected upon return.
  • Laptop collection will be in the Lab inside the Library.
  • Laptop collection is Tuesday, May 27th.


See the schedule below for the collection. Please come during your appointed time.

Last Name Time

Abdullah - Clark 7:30 - 8:15

Coates - Fuehrer 8:15 - 9:00

Furia - Jones 9:00 - 9:45

Junkins - McCarrie 9:45 - 10:30

McCarthy - Pook 10:30 - 11:15

Posner - Schwarzhoff 12:00 - 12:45

Scott - Vaccaro 12:45 - 1:30

Vaughen - Zelesnick 1:30 - 2:15

🚗 Win a Prime Parking Spot for Graduation Day! 🚗

Downingtown West High School Graduation Parking Spots Raffle!

Don’t stress about finding parking on graduation day — enter the raffle for a chance to secure a premium, front-row parking spot right near the ceremony venue! We will raffle 2 spots.

· Raffle Tickets: $10 per ticket

· Deadline to Enter: May 23

· Drawing Date: May 24

· The 2 Winners will be announced via Principal Letter May 25, Parents of 2025 facebook page and by email to the winners.

https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/downingtown-west-high-school-graduation-parking-spots-raffle

Elementary Walk the Halls

Each year the graduating seniors are invited to walk the halls of their elementary school wearing their cap and gowns. Please use this link for the specific date and time your elementary school will welcome the Class of 2025!

Pre Order Flowers for Graduation Day
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The Commencement Group

The Commencement Group will be taking pre-orders for flowers that will be available for pick up on campus Graduation Day. Please see the pre-order flyer for more information and use the link provided to place online orders: https://www.thecommencementgroup.com/downingtown/

Class of 2025 Announcements Class of 2025 Announcements

Pictures of the Senior Class Officers for Class of 2025

Senior Student's Meal Accounts

As the end of the school year approaches, we wanted to take a moment to inform you about any remaining funds left in your senior student's meal account. If your senior student has funds remaining in their meal account, you have several options:


  1. Request a Refund
  2. Transfer Funds
  3. Donate


For more information, please see the account funds letter and Food Service Account Refund Application.

It’s time to get ready for the prom! Here’s the info:

The senior prom will be held on Friday, May 30, from 7-11PM at The Drexelbrook, in Drexel Hill, PA. There will be a buffet dinner (will be sharing the menu soon!) and ice cream sundae dessert bar. Tickets are $80 per person and can be purchased at this link beginning April 28, through May 5: https://app.myschooldance.com/school_dances/downingtown-high-school-west-downingtown-west-senior-prom-2025. You can also purchase them in the Atrium during L & L, with paper permission forms and cash or checks. All of that information and the forms can be found in the Senior Prom Letter by Dr. Barker.


If you have outstanding Obligations, you WILL be blocked from purchasing tickets. This is not a situation we want you to be in! Please come see Mrs. Snow in the Main Office if you want to check on the status of your Obligations.


IMPORTANT: Clear those obligations! Tech fees, negative lunch balances, parking tickets, grad projects, textbooks, library books, etc. To see if you have any obligations, please see Mrs. Snow in the Main Office. NOTE: if you are bringing a guest who is an underclassman, they, too, MUST be cleared of any obligations.

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It's Post Prom Party Time for the Class of 2025!

Registration is open for the 2025 Post Prom Party!!! The event is FREE!! The event is NOT a LOCK-IN EVENT!! You DO NOT have to attend Prom to attend the Post Prom!! Register early even if you don't have your plans finalized, register for the event. Registration allows for quick entry.

Seniors/Senior Parents: The time to register is HERE!!!


Please see the registration link for the upcoming Post Prom Party: 2025 Post Prom Party Registration DISCO DANCE! When students register, parents will be sent a waiver form link. Both documents MUST be completed to ensure quick entry into the event.

Senior Graduation Projects - 4 weeks Left!

  • Graduation Projects must be completed and present in order to graduate. There is approximately 4 weeks of school left to complete this obligation. Please contact Mr. Hassel at bhassel@dasd.org to schedule your Graduation Project presentation. If you have not started your graduation project and need assistance with an idea, please see Mrs. Raines or your guidance counselor.

Clubs @ WEST Clubs @ WEST

Clubs at West
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Get Involved in Clubs @ West!
Click the button above to see a full list of clubs available at Downingtown West! Don't see a club that represents your interests, then consider creating a new club by seeing Mrs. Raines in the Main Office.

Student Reminders

  • Graduation Project Information for proposals and presentations can be found here.
    • Class of 2025 Proposal are now past due!
    • Class of 2026 Proposal are now past due!
  • Music Parents Association: Interested in what is going on in the Music world check out our Music Parents Association page - Downingtown High School Music Parents Association (dhsmpa.org)

Parent Reminders

  • Attention Parents: 2024-2025 Device Fees are now past due! Please review & submit your student’s device payment on PaySchools* Central.
  • Please review the Traffic Pattern Links: AM & PM Traffic Patterns & new traffic patterns for the 24-25 school year: Parent Drop Off Map. Parent pick up at the end of the school day should be limited until after 3:00 pm when all buses have left the campus.
  • Please visit Aramark for available Menus!
  • Any student that requires emergency medication, daily medications or as needed medications to be given during school hours MUST provide a signed DASD Authorization for Medication Administration order from their healthcare provider and a parent/guardian. The medication must be stored in the Health office. Please reach out to dwnurse@dasd.org if you have any questions.

Student Council Student Council

Picture of Student Council Officers
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We are excited and proud to announce our student council officers for the 2024-25 school year!

Co-Presidents: Kaitlyn Dorr & Abigayle Prinder

Vice President: Chloe Friedland

Treasurer: Julia Staffieri

Secretary: Hailey Hartzell

We wanted to take a moment to thank all the students and staff that volunteered to donate blood this past Friday! With your generous help, we were able to collect numerous pints of blood which in return saved numerous lives!

Special Announcements Special Announcements

Jewish American and Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Welcome to May!

May is Jewish American Heritage Month and Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month. As May begins, we enter a month devoted to honoring the rich cultural legacies, stories, and contributions of Jewish Americans and Asian Pacific Islanders.


Jewish American Heritage Month invites us to reflect on a history of resilience, achievement, and vibrant tradition that has shaped our nation in profound ways. At the same time, API Heritage Month celebrates the diverse cultures, languages, and experiences of Asian and Pacific Islander communities—reminding us of the strength found in unity, heritage, and the shared pursuit of belonging.


This month offers an opportunity not only to celebrate, but to deepen our understanding. By opening our hearts to new stories and perspectives, we strengthen the fabric of our community. When we listen with intention and support one another with care, we move closer to a world rooted in empathy, dignity, and hope.


Here’s to a month of learning, connection, and honoring the remarkable impact of these communities.

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🗓️ Thursday, May 22nd
🕐 1:20 PM – 2:40 PM
💻 Virtual Event – Link Here

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (APPI) Heritage Month, the Office of Student Relations and School Climate, in partnership with the Asian Student Alliance (ASA) at Downingtown STEM Academy, is proud to host a virtual Fireside Chat with Hudson Yang. Best known for his breakout role as Eddie on ABC’s groundbreaking sitcom Fresh Off the Boat, Hudson has been named a rising star to watch by Variety, The Wrap, and more. This event is NOT mandatory, but if you have students interested, encourage them to join the chat.

Join us on Thursday, May 22nd from 1:20 PM to 2:40 PM for this special event. Students will have the opportunity to interact with Hudson, ask questions, and hear his perspectives on representation, identity, and creativity in the entertainment industry. His career spans voice work on Family Guy, Disney’s The Lion Guard, and PBS’s Cyberchase, to his recent lead role in the award-winning film Honor Student and his new food travel show Crash Course Cuisine with Hudson Yang on National Geographic, developed through his own production company, Huje Media.

This is a unique opportunity to learn from a powerful voice in young Hollywood and celebrate the stories and contributions of the APPI community.

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The Office of Student Relations and School Climate is honored to host Holocaust survivor Steen Metz for a virtual presentation on Monday, May 19 at 6pm, in partnership with the Holocaust Awareness Museum and Education Center.


At just eight years old, Steen was deported with his parents to the Theresienstadt Concentration Camp from his home in Denmark. He endured 18 months of brutal conditions, lost his father to starvation, and was liberated one month before the camp's gas chamber was set to operate. He is one of fewer than 1,500 children to survive the camp. Now, Steen shares his powerful story to educate and inspire future generations. This is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand about the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance, resilience, and standing against hate.


Sign up here: Click Here

Upcoming College Visits Upcoming College Visits

College and Career Image
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COLLEGE VISITS

COLLEGE VISITS: The complete schedule of college visits is posted on Naviance under the College tab. Juniors and Seniors are invited to meet the representatives by signing up on Naviance and requesting teacher permission to participate. These representatives typically visit once each fall, and are very helpful with the admissions process!
  • The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will host financial help for college webinars for students and families on May 22, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. For more details and to register visit: https://www.pheaa.org/tools-resources/financial-aid-webinars.

Career Center News Career Center News

Employment / Volunteer / Career Opportunities

  • Marsh Creek and French Creek Pools are hiring lifeguard positions and food prep/cook and cashier positions! NOT CERTIFIED? NO PROBLEM! Assistance in lifeguard certification and financial assistance to cover the cost of certification at other locations is available. The minimum age is 15 for lifeguards and 14 for food concession. The hours of operation are 11am - 6:30 pm weekdays and 11am - 7:30 pm weekends. They offer flexible schedules, 10 hours a week plus according to the employee's ability and availability, and competitive pay. For more details and to apply, scan the QR code on the flyer, visit http://www.marshcreekpool.com and click on the "Employment Application" link, OR contact them at (610)458-8535 or info@marshcreekpool.com.


  • Grad Project Opportunity! Quest Therapeutic Services, a nonprofit organization in West Chester that provides equine-assisted therapy to children with special needs, is looking for high school volunteers for their summer programs. See the flyer attached and contact Lisa Newcomb with any questions at Lnewcomb@QuestTherapeutic.com.


  • Volunteers are needed for the annual St. Joseph’s Community Festival, June 17-21, 2025! Help with the food tent, Bingo, ticket sales, and more! Volunteers must provide a permission slip no later than three days prior to the volunteer date to be able to volunteer: https://stjoesfestival.com/volunteers. Please use the link below to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/tabs/43071DD01A6CB0-2022youth#/ and please contact Jack Ousey with any questions at john.ousey@verizon.net.


  • Interested in AI and Machine Learning? STEM student Tanay Vajhala and friends have been working on a non-profit called FII. The program is focused on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, covering everything from building artificial neural networks (ANNs) to exploring Agentic AI for innovation. It culminates in a hackathon and is supported by mentors from top institutions like Waterloo, Georgia Tech, UC Berkeley, UPenn, and Carnegie Mellon. If you are interested in learning more about the program, contact Tanay at tanayvajhala@fiiai.org and/or visit the website: futureimpactinitiativeai@gmail.com
  • Attention Current Freshmen Girl Athletes!! The Live Like Blaine Leadership Academy is accepting applications for their FREE Leadership Academy that will run during the 2025-26 school year. Designed specifically for rising sophomores, this academy gives girls the tools to build leadership and interpersonal skills such as self-awareness, confidence and teamwork. Students receive monthly leadership training, an overnight retreat, community service projects and networking with inspiring female leaders from a range of industries. Meetings are once a month on Sundays 4-6 p.m. in-person sessions empowering students to build confidence, essential life skills and grow personally while making a positive impact in their community. The application deadline is May 15, 2025, so submit applications ASAP! For more information visit: https://livelikeblaine.org/



  • Calling all rising 10th to 12th graders. Looking for a FUN summer job where you can be outside and play all day? Indian Springs Day Camp in Chester Springs is hiring junior counselors! Camp runs from June 23rd to August 15th (off July 4th). Monday to Friday from 9 to 3 with lunch included. Junior Counselor positions are paid positions, but it is a summer stipend (not hourly) that increases per summer depending on age and experience (more of an internship pay) with the opportunity to receive tips from the families at the end of the summer. This is also a great opportunity that can be unpaid for Graduation Projects. Summer vacations can be accommodated and background checks are required. For more details please contact Lori Plans at lplansindiansprings@gmail.com.


  • Summer Opportunity! Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week is a one-week, very low cost, opportunity to learn about the American free enterprise system on a college campus! Students are introduced to business people throughout the state who mentor them as they form their own companies to learn about the decisions that real executives face daily. Students meet motivational speakers and learn the value of teamwork, cooperation, leadership, and communication skills. To apply or learn more about PFEW, visit: www.pfew.org!



  • JUNIOR GIRLS! Vanguard will be hosting a FREE three-day career experience event this summer, July 29-31, 2025, from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. each day for current juniors interested in learning more about Finance, Technology/Computer Science, IT, Risk Management and Cybersecurity, and Marketing from experts in their fields! Students must provide their own transportation, and lunch and snacks will be provided. SEATS are LIMITED. Spaces will be filled on a first-come/first-served basis. If you are interested, and know you can participate, please forward your name and personal email address to cwick@dasd.org to be considered for this opportunity.

  • Carlino’s Market family-owned store in West Chester is hiring part-time cashiers for shifts between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Must be at least 16 to apply. Contact humanresources@carlinosmarket.com or email erin@carlinosmarket.com for more information.


  • A-1 Mulch in Downingtown is looking for part-time summer internal help answering phones and taking deliveries. Interested students should stop by the office at 4604 Edges Mill Road in Downingtown to complete an application, and call 610-269-7022 with any questions.


  • The British Swim School located in LA Fitness in Downingtown is looking for swim instructors for kids! They offer flexible hours and great training! Check out their website for more details or call 610-620-2003. https://britishswimschool.com/downingtown-reading/la-fitness-downingtown/


  • The FBI Philadelphia Summer Teen Academy is now open to rising ninth through 12th-grade students at the Abington Public Safety Training Center in Abington, PA, July 14-15, 2025. The Teen Academy program allows high school students to get a comprehensive look into today’s FBI. Students learn about various topics including terrorism, cyber-crime, public corruption, polygraph exams, evidence response, SWAT, and the day-to-day operations of a typical FBI office. Students also learn from special agents, intelligence analysts, language specialists, and professional staff about investigative tactics that include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and assisting with cases. Applications must be received by Thursday, May 19, 2025, for review.


  • SENIORS….The Well in Downingtown is the community center of Hopewell United Methodist Church, and is hiring part-time staff to support its after-school program, which provides a safe and supportive space for local students to receive academic, emotional, and spiritual empowerment to help them grow and thrive. We are seeking Program Leaders and Program Assistants to work Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30-6:30 PM. This is a great opportunity for current teachers looking for a meaningful side role or for college students and new grads interested in gaining more experience in education or community work. Curriculum and activities are pre-planned, so staff can focus on engaging with students. For more information, please contact Jen Lisowski, Director of The Well, at jen@hopewellumc.org or 610-269-1545.


  • Thinking of a career in the health sciences? West Chester University will be running FREE summer career exploration camps in the Health Sciences field the weeks of July 14-17 and July 21-24 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Majors covered will include Nutrition, Sports Medicine, Nursing, Physician Assistant, Exercise Science, Strength & Conditioning, and Respiratory Therapy. Check out the details at: https://www.wcupa.edu/healthSciences/hcsa.aspx -- Spaces fill quickly!


  • Attention GIRLS! The 5th anniversary of the Girls’ Spark Summit will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Penn State Brandywine from 9 a.m. check-in to 4:30 p.m. pickup. Look forward to powerful workshops that will cover mental health, money moves, self-confidence, and what’s next for your future! Plus, you'll get a free lunch, free busing (if needed), a Girls Spark T-shirt, and a swag bag packed with surprises! The best part? Admission is only $10! All girls are welcome—cost should never be a barrier to attending our Summit! If you need support, we’ve got you covered—no questions asked. Find out more and registration details at https://girlsspark.org/5th-anniversary-summit


  • Flynn O’Hara Uniforms in Exton is hiring for the summer! The minimum age is 15, and this family-run business offers flexible schedules and a friendly work environment. Apply online at: https://flynnohara.com/careers/


  • Kumon Learning Center in Downingtown is hiring! Students may be current freshmen, sophomores or juniors who are proficient in Algebra and have good comprehension and communication skills. Students must be able to work at least two evenings per week from 4-7 p.m. and have reliable transportation. Interested students should contact Heema Shah at heemashah@ikumon.com.
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  • The YMCA is looking for lifeguards! They offer flexible schedules, starting pay is $14/hour, and they offer a FREE family membership! See the QR code on the flyer attached for more information, or contact Fredericka Christmas at fchristmas@ymcagbw.org.

Student Resources Student Resources

Prevention Specialists

Matthew McFadden

Prevention Specialist

(610) 269-4400, Ext. 11467

mmcfadden@dasd.org


Jocelyn White

Prevention Specialist

(610) 269-44000, Ext. 11462

jwhite@dasd.org


Click the blue button above to learn more about the Prevention Specialists.

Mental Health Services

If your student needs additional resources following the recent losses in our community, please contact the Counseling Office at 610-269-4400 x 81422.

QR Code for Whippet Pantry
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Whippet Pantry

24 Hour Crisis Support and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
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24-Hour Crisis Support

Resources and Parent Trainings
Please visit our YouTube channel for past parent trainings and speaker series.
Parent to Parent Building Connections flyer
Communities that Care
CTC - Communities that Care - offerings FREE parent groups that we wanted to share with you. Parent to Parent: Building Connections and Tier 2 Parent to Parent Group.

Summer Overseas Opportunities Summer Overseas Opportunities

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Summer Trips

Trips schedule for Summer of 2026:


  • Big news, for Sophomores and Freshman! Good morning potential travelers! We are currently enrolling for our Greece trip in June of 2026. Check out the info above. If you have any questions, stop by Room 135 and speak with Mrs. Taylor!


  • We’re going to Spain during Spring Break 2026, and you’re invited!

    Please be sure to register for this info session to be considered for this opportunity:

    https://rsvp.eftours.com/r8e6afc

    Join our info session to discover how this trip will benefit the student, explore the exciting itinerary and activities, find out how to earn academic credit, see how we’re keeping it safe and affordable. Plus, get all the details on enrolling during EF’s risk-free period!


Look for more overseas opportunities for the coming summers!

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Attention Travelers! Experience Denmark Next School Year with the Danish Exchange Program

Host Danish students October 21st - November 1st — then travel to Denmark April 9th - 19th for an unforgettable cultural exchange! Explore Copenhagen, make lifelong friends, and immerse yourself in a new way of life — all for $2100.

Don’t miss this chance to make memories that cross continents. Spots are limited — sign up now by joining our Schoology Course with the Course Code: THMV-S3R6-5QVH8

Questions?: See Dr. Mapes, Mrs. Nass, or Mrs. Rutchauskas

Upcoming Events Upcoming Events

Event Information

DW Choir Concert

Please come support our students on their last choir concert of the 24-25 school year.

When?

Friday, May 9, 2025, 07:00 PM

Where?

Downingtown West Auditorium

Click the DASD logo to view a copy of the 2024-2025 Board Approved District Calendar.
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Calendar Information:

To download a copy of the West Calendar (including letter days) to your device, click the DASD logo. Next, click on “Subscribe to Calendar(s) tab for subscription options for your specific calendar application.

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • May 5 - 16 - AP Exams
  • May 7 - NHS Induction - 7:00 pm - Auditorium
  • May 9 - Whippet Pride Awards - 2:00 pm - Auditorium
  • May 9 - Choir Concert - 7:00 pm - Auditorium
  • May 10 - Junior Prom - 7:00 pm in Atrium
  • May 12 - 15 - Keystones Exams
  • May 20 - No School - Professional Development
  • May 23 - Ready Day
  • May 26 - No School - Memorial Day
  • May 29 - Distinguished Honor Roll Breakfast - 8:54 am in Cafeteria
  • May 30 - Senior Prom - Drexelbrook - 7:00 pm
  • June 5 - Last Day of School - 10:45 Dismissal

Athletics Athletics

Picture of Kottmeyer Stadium
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SPECTATOR INFORMATION:

Please see the link below for important information regrading all home DASD high school athletic events.


DASD Athletics: Spectator Information

All Downingtown High School students who attend home football games will be subject to our passive Breathalyzer as they enter the football stadium.

Home Varsity Competitions listed below—For all other competitions, please visit the WEST Athletics webpage.

Students, parents, and community members are reminded that ALL district property and school events are drug, alcohol, and tobacco free. ALL sporting events after 5:00 pm are subject to an entrance fee of $5.00 for students/adults thru Ticket Spicket. District 1 playoff tickets are $7.00 and are purchased through HomeTown Ticketing (see below for link).


Monday 5/5/25

  • Girls Lacrosse vs Notre Dame Academy @ DiSerafino Stadium @ 3:45pm


Tuesday 5/6/25

  • Girls Lacrosse vs Sun Valley HS @ DiSerafino Stadium @ 7:00pm


Wednesday 5/7/25

  • Boys Baseball vs Avon Grove HS @ Baseball Field @ 4:00pm


Thursday 5/8/25

  • Boys Lacrosse vs Kennett HS @ DiSerafino Stadium @ 7:00pm


Saturday 5/10/25

  • Track and Field vs Last Chance Meet @ DWHS Track @ 9:00am

Annual Mulch Fundraiser - Downingtown West Football

Springtime is Mulch time! In partnership with Sweetwater100, LLC, Whippet Football is selling mulch and offering spreading services to support our 2025 West High School football program. This spring you can support DWest Football by buying your mulch from Sweetwater100 and having it spread by members of the 2025 team.

annual mulch fundraiser

Fundraising Fundraising

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Sophomore Class Fundraiser

Purchase a West Coffee Cup and get a discount on coffee from Aramark! Just bring your mug to any Aramark food station at West and order a large coffee for the price of a small!

Downingtown West Home & School Association Downingtown West Home & School Association

The 2024-2025 DWest Home and School Executive Board:

President:

Michele Helveston

Vice President:

Stephanie Steffen

Treasurer:

Komal Ghai

Secretary:

Kathleen Teal

Joint Home & School

Representative:

Maria Dennin

  • Thanks to all who donated towards the teacher luncheon. They loved the food and it was greatly appreciated.


  • Our Final meeting of the year will be on April 30th at 7:00 pm in the West Library. (Please note this is a change in date from last week's newsletter.)


  • Home and School is always looking for more volunteers. If you are interested in being on the board or even just want to help out, please email westhomeandschool@gmail.com


  • Stay in the loop and join the west Facebook page. Downingtown West HSA


POST PROM NEEDS YOUR HELP!

  • Parents Donations for Post Prom:

    https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/donations-for-post-prom--2025

  • Volunteers needed for Post Prom: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA9A929A3FB6-53792816-2025


  • The Post Prom committee has been working hard to plan the best Disco Party for our Seniors. If you’d like to get involved please join us at one our meetings. They are held in the West Library at 7:00 pm. Please plan to attend:

    May 1

    May 15

    Contact Ana Martinez at DTownWestPostProm@gmail.com with any questions.


  • Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @DWest Post Prom for pictures and updates for the Post Prom Party for the Class of 2025! Contact us at DTownWestPostProm@gmail.com with any questions.

School Profile School Profile

Picture of DW staff in the new Atrium space
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Downingtown High School West

The Main Office at West is open during the school year from 7:15 am to 4:00 pm, Monday thru Friday.


DHS West offers a diverse program of study. Our students are involved in academics at all levels. Academic, AP, Honors, Basic, Business Education, Industrial Arts Technology and Vocational-Technical courses are offered throughout our program.


School Profile 2024-2025


Main Office Phone 610-269-4400

Main Office Fax 610-269-1801
Attendance Fax 215-827-5693
Guidance Fax 610-514-0279
Athletic Fax 610-514-0281

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