Principal's Message

Welcome everyone to another terrific school year! Last year, Western High School received its second California Distinguished School recognition in four years. Additionally, Western was ranked 10 out of 10 on the State Academic Performance (API) for Similar Schools rankings for the second consecutive year. Western increased student achievement as measured by the Academic Performance Index during California Standards Testing in 2008.

This year, our incredible teachers are busy preparing students for the 21st century skills and experiences they will need to compete in a rapidly changing global economy. Western is focused on providing students with a relevant and rigorous standards based curriculum. Teachers are using student achievement results to align their curriculum and benchmark performance exams to the State Standards. Staff development time is used to analyze student achievement progress and benchmark testing results using Data Director Software. In the area of technology, Western continues to use school funds to increase instructional technology access for students and staff. This includes the purchase of classroom LCD projectors, document cameras, computers, digital cameras, and assorted technology software. The new district information system “Zangle” provides a Parent Portal for parents to access and monitor student attendance, grades, and behavior. Multiple Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways are available for students that have career interests in Culinary Arts, Dance, Education, Engineering, Building Industry Technology Academy, Media Arts, and Protective Services pathways. The innovative Pioneer Technology Small Learning Community (PTLC) is in its third year of implementation. Ninth through eleventh grade students are linked together with common teachers in English, Math, and Business classes to create a four-year Media Arts pathway for students. Western has added a new Arts Distinction Program this year to provide a pathway for students interested in pursuing careers in the arts. Lastly, our athletic programs continue to excel by capturing a record nine varsity Orange League Team Championships and Western students have received numerous awards in band, choir, and art. We are continuing our proud tradition of academic and co-curricular excellence here at Western High School. Way to go Pioneers!

Sincerely,
Dr. Paul Sevillano, Principal
Western High School