Westwood High School is a whole-school magnet, the Institute of Research, Engagement, and Design (iRED). Recently, the school was named a certified magnet school with demonstration status by the Magnet Schools of America (MSA) and awarded the MSA Magnet School of Excellence Merit Award.
Our theme for the 2021-2022 school year, #RisingSTRONG embodied the core tenets of our habits of success (Resilience, Integrity, Scholarship, and Engagement). Despite the lingering difficulties amplified by the pandemic, we believe students still need a rigorous education; one that is interdisciplinary and challenges them with real-world experiences. We value each student as individuals and provide varied opportunities to allow students to select courses based on areas of interest and future aspirations.
As a one-to-one technology driven school, students use Chromebook devices and smart phones to collaborate and communicate, not only with other Westwood students, but also with people around the globe. Students engage with authors, doctors, and scientists to bring real-world content and exposure into the classroom. Students also use technology to produce award winning media and a live weekly news show, the Morning News Show.
Our school is committed to helping students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the SC Graduate. We intentionally provide a rigorous education with an emphasis on the development of 21st century skills such as problem solving, collaboration, innovation, and effective communication. Students strive daily to demonstrate our habits of success while safely engaging in service learning activities such as collecting and providing PPE for essential workers in our community. Students also served as community activists and worked to bring attention to issues of social justice. These activities allowed students to demonstrate creativity, teamwork, and a genuine desire to meet the needs of our surrounding community.
While this school year presented new challenges, the Westwood Redhawks continued to soar. This year’s accolades include Cognia STEM Recertification, Beta Club School of Distinction, National Honor Council for Student Government, and Westwood chartered the first and only National Honor Society for Sports Medicine in the state. The class of 2022 included 8 Palmetto Fellows, 87 HOPE Scholarship Recipients, 96 Life Scholars, 181 students who earned industry certifications, 283 students recognized as College and Career Ready, and 13 athletes who signed Letters of Intent. These gains are indicative of the over $27 million dollars that were awarded in scholarship dollars. Significant growth is also evident in the total number of students enrolled in AP courses, increased CATE completers, and 30+ student entrepreneurs. With a continued focus on student centered instruction, productive partnerships with parents and community members, and a laser focus on learner outcomes, Westwood will continue to learn, lead, and design pathways and future opportunities for all students to be successful.
Antionette Boyer, SIC Chairperson
Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Principal