Life Ready
To ensure student preparation for after graduation and beyond, we are developing and teaching student skills in three major areas:
ACADEMICS, CAREER and WELLNESS
ACADEMICS LEAF
Academic Leaf: Inspiring Growth and Achievement
OUR FOCUS
At Westfield High School, our focus in the Academic Leaf is to raise the achievement levels of all students.
We believe that both staff and students are lifelong learners, and that growth is essential.
Our goal is to help every individual:
- Love learning
- Champion a growth mindset
- Strive to become the best version of themselves
We want every graduate to be equipped with the skills to go, do, and be whatever they aspire to — and to thrive while doing it.
The three main academic skills we aim to cultivate are:
- Literacy
- Critical Thinking
- Innovation
IN THE CLASSROOM
In our classrooms, students build foundational literacy skills in reading and writing, then learn to:
- Think critically
- Express themselves creatively
- Innovate beyond the expected
When students can teach others, create original work, and produce something that inspires, we know they’ve reached the highest levels of academic growth.
CONTINUOUS GROWTH FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF
For staff, we continue to invest in professional growth opportunities. Through our Professional Learning Communities (PLC'S), Best Practice Workshops, our use of CORE Time four days a week, and within each classroom, the skills of literacy, critical thinking, and innovation are an emphasis in staff and student learning.
For students, these combined efforts help ensure higher test scores, increased access to and success in AP courses, more Academic Honors Diplomas, and ultimately higher graduation rates.
CAREER LEAF
Career Leaf: Preparing Students for Life After Graduation
At Westfield High School, our focus in the Career Leaf is to develop the career skills every student needs to lead a fulfilling, financially secure, and successful life. We believe it’s essential to guide students through career awareness and exploration, helping them connect education to employment.
Students learn key work readiness skills in:
- Personal Development
- Self-Discipline
- Interpersonal Skills
These skills are embedded in classroom lessons and help ensure our graduates are prepared for future employment and success.
WHS continues to align efforts to prepare students for life after graduation by expanding opportunities within Hamilton County.
We’ve formed strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations, including:
- IMMI
- Altex
- Ball Systems
- Hamilton County Tourism
- AgriNovus Indiana
- Westfield Chamber of Commerce
These collaborations help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience.
We continue to expand our course offerings to help students explore potential career paths:
- Career Exploration Internship - Students work alongside professionals in public or private sector workplaces, gaining insight into:
- Daily career activities
- Required skill sets
- The importance of soft skills in today’s workforce
- Health Science Career Cluster
- With growing student interest in health sciences, WHS has expanded into Emergency Medical Sciences (EMS), taught by Heartland Ambulance Services.
- By the end of this course, students are prepared to take state licensing tests.
- Hospitality and Tourism Program
- Students gain hands-on experience in hospitality management while earning up to 12 dual credits through Ivy Tech.
- They also have opportunities for paid field experience within one of the Midwest’s most vibrant tourism markets.
BUILDING A LIFE-READY FUTURE
Partnerships between WHS and community businesses benefit everyone involved:
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Students gain real-world experience and insight into in-demand skills.
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Businesses help shape the future workforce by sharing their expertise.
At WHS, we’re committed to helping every student create a roadmap to a successful career and graduate Life Ready.
WELLNESS LEAF
Career Leaf: Student Wellness at Westfield High School
At Westfield High School, our focus in the Welness Leaf is to strengthen the physical and mental wellness of every student—now and in the future.
Research shows that when students feel connected, they are less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance use, dropping out, or teen pregnancy.
Our mission is to create a strong web of support that helps every student thrive and ensures no one slips through the cracks.
We help students discover their passions and purpose, encouraging them to see their identity as more than performance.
Through relationships with caring adults, peer mentors, clubs, activities, and community involvement, students build essential skills in Self-Awareness, Self-Management, and Relationship Building.
One of our key connection initiatives is the Freshmen Mentoring Program, held bi-weekly during CORE time. Senior mentors lead activities that promote wellness, personal growth, and community building among freshmen.
Throughout the year, freshmen explore their passions, set goals, and discover ways to make a difference within the school. This program provides the support and guidance they need to transition successfully and make the most of their four years at WHS while learning Life Ready Wellness Skills.
Life Ready Wellness Skills
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Discipline
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Initiative
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Grit
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Respect
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Kindness
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Service
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Self Confidence
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Optimistic Thinking
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Positive Attitude
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Gratitude
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