Philosophy
At Westview, we believe creating successful students begins with an emphasis on educating the whole child in a positive, vibrant campus climate, where students can feel supported and connected on many levels. Whether it be in an academic, social, athletic, inventive, or artistic capacity, we honor the individual and strive to inspire our students to become their very best. Westview creates continuous learning experiences that provide students the space and freedom for intellectual discovery, fostering not only our students’ curiosity and imagination, but their personal identities and interests as well. Because educational connectedness is one of the most important variables in a student’s academic success and social-emotional growth, we truly make an effort to promote a sense of belonging and community among our student body, parents, and staff. Students can feel inspired, accepted, and encouraged to believe in and highlight their own independent talents and abilities. Westview incorporates an innovative educational model combining traditional, therapeutic, and practical skills preparing students with the confidence and competency to thrive in today’s diverse global community. When students interface with their teachers, peers, counselors, and administrators in positive, meaningful ways, this truly shapes their lives and teaches them how to construct valuable, self-assured, rewarding relationships. Therefore, we make it our mission to promote student engagement through a guided, innovative curriculum in a therapeutic, inclusive atmosphere; further knowing that, when individualized academics are coupled with restorative practices, students transform social-emotional, physical, and learning challenges into life-changing opportunities for growth.
Academic Model
Westview’s academic program is designed to engage students through Project Based Learning (PBL) by providing opportunities to learn content at a deeper level and practice 21st-century skills such as collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Academic classes are built with flexibility and understanding to ensure students can meet with our counseling team, take breaks, and step away from the classroom setting when needed. We have also limited homework to 10% of a total grade in classes. Studies show that homework does not directly correlate to learning. We want our students to be present and engaged in class, and less concerned or anxious about a large and unnecessary homework load. We pay careful attention for all students to meet or exceed their graduation requirements in accordance with their individual education program; summer school and online classes are also an option to those students in need of credit recovery. In addition to a rigorous college prep program of A-G classes, students participate in a wide array of visual, performing arts and technology electives.
Our classes are continuing to raise the bar with experiential learning experiences such as Master Class guest teachers and field trips. Half of our classrooms are equipped with laptops carts for students to check out and use during instructional time. Students gain technological and collaborative skills through Google Classroom, Jupiter Ed, and other cloud-based applications, preparing them for the future. Additionally, teachers are incorporating regular visits to our Innovation Lab to give students exposure to STEM technology and makerspace materials.
Therapeutic Model
Westview’s Therapeutic model is informed by principles of the Neurosequential Model of Education (NME). NME is a research-based, developmentally informed approach to working with students who struggle with social and emotional challenges. Best practices consider a child’s history and current functioning to understand behavior. Our model’s primary goal is to foster positive relationships as well as a meaningful learning experience. The therapeutic team collaborates with the educational team in an effort to develop interventions which support emotional regulation in the classroom. NME supports a student’s positive engagement in their program by teaching strategies of emotional regulation. Counselors provide individual and group counseling sessions as outlined by student IEP’s to address social and emotional goals. With this approach to understanding behavior, Westview strives to cultivate a learning environment that is respectful, developmentally relevant and rewarding.
SERVICES & COUNSELING
Many students benefit from additional clinical services in order to fully access the curriculum. Westview recognizes this need and provides on-site, licensed clinicians who deliver Occupational Therapy, Language and Speech Therapy, or Counseling Services as indicated on a student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) or private contract.
These supports are provided during the day making this a unique model of service delivery that affords students the opportunity to learn and practice strategies within the context of a one on one or a small group setting and then apply them in the educational environment. Clinicians work closely with faculty and staff to schedule sessions at a convenient time for the student.
Each of these services provides skill or strategy instruction, modeling and practice, and ongoing assessment all with the intent to improve how a child approaches academic, social or physical challenges.
Counseling is an integral component of the Westview program. We believe therapeutic support through individual and group counseling is beneficial to the overall success of our students. Westview’s therapeutic model is informed by principles of the Neurosequential Model of Education (NME).
Educational based counseling supports academic related goals, which may include:
- Improving the ability to tolerate frustration, manage anxiety, and control impulsivity
- Teach self-advocacy skills
- Learning how to make responsible choices
- Developing pro-social communication and relational skills
- Building feelings of efficacy and self-reliance
As needed, counselors help students with conflict resolution, assisting them in utilizing supportive resources, and developing problem-solving perspectives and strategies.
Kaleidoscope Program
Westview believes that students should celebrate their uniqueness and appreciate their value. For LGBTQ+ youth, Westview offers a safe, inclusive and affirming environment that allows students to explore and embrace their identity while building positive social connections. Young people can meet with counselors who understand what they are experiencing. One-on-one sessions, affinity and diversity groups, family counseling, crisis intervention and connections to community resources are integral components of the Kaleidoscope Program.