WILDCAT Chronicle
THE WESTVIEW SCHOOL | A PLACE WHERE YOU FIT
Contents
MESSAGEFROMTHEHEADOFSCHOOL
Dr. Koch opens with a look at campus growth, memorable experiences, and the everyday moments that make Westview special.
BUILDINGCONNECTION
Westview’s campus transformation is creating connections and shaping a unified, studentcentered community.
WELCOMEBACK,WILDCATS
Popsicles on the Playground, hosted by POW, brought Westview families together to reconnect after summer break.
IFWESTVIEWWEREAPERSON
A viral moment delivers the perfect answer to what Westview hopes for every student: to feel seen, supported, and at home.
FOUNDER’SDAYATWESTVIEW
In October, the school community gathered to honor Ms. Jane and her lifelong love of reading.
FRESHMANREFLECTIONS
As the first high school class, these students are shaping what comes next at Westview. Hear what the experience means to them, in their own words.
16
RAINORSHINE:TRUNK-OR-TREAT
Chance of rain on Trunk-or-Treat? Not at Westview. The tradition continues, rain or shine.
18
FRIENDSHIP,REIMAGINED
At Westview, making friends is purposeful, meaningful, and part of every student’s day.
20
WILDCATSINACTION
From fun runs and big machines to memorable classroom visits, it was an action-packed fall.
22
ROUTINESTHATBUILDCONFIDENCE
Mr. Livengood shares the power of his “Do Now” routine, and how it builds structure and supports growth with his Middle School students.
26
AMAGICALMOMENTATWESTVIEW
Angela Jennings shares a full circle moment for her son, Carter in our alumni spotlight.
28
MOMENTSTHATMATTER
Westview celebrates family, fun, and Westview traditions, welcoming dads, grandparents, and special friends to campus.
30
TEACHERFEATURE
Westview teachers share what inspires them, how they define success, and the lessons they learn from students each day.
message from the head of school
THEADVENTURECONTINUES
Dear Westview Community,
Each season at Westview brings new milestones, meaningful connections, and moments that remind us why the work we do really matters. In this issue of our Wildcat Chronicle, we highlight how our campus continues to grow not just in spaces, but in relationships, traditions, and opportunities for our students to thrive.
From the intentional design of a more connected school experience to the joyful celebration of Founder’s Day honoring Ms. Jane’s legacy of literacy and love, this issue highlights the heart of Westview. You’ll read about the magic found in everyday moments like Carter’s unforgettable Santa story, rain-or shine Trunk-or-Treat festivities, and the powerful friendships our students build through shared experiences.
We are also proud to spotlight the voices that shape our community: the educators who inspire learning, the pioneering students of Westview High School, and the families and supporters who make events like our Fundraising Luncheon and seasonal celebrations possible.
Together, these stories reflect a school deeply committed to thoughtful teaching, meaningful relationships, and helping every student grow with confidence and purpose.
Thank you for being part of the Westview journey. Your partnership allows us to continue creating a place where students are supported, celebrated, and empowered to reach their full potential.
With gratitude,
Building Connection
CREATINGAUNIFIEDSCHOOLCAMPUSA
At The Westview School, construction has always been about more than new buildings. It has been about creating connection between students and their learning environments, between programs across grade levels, and between three onceseparate buildings now unified into one secure, cohesive campus.
Over the past year, Westview has completed three phases of its campus transformation, wi enhancements scheduled for Summer 2 Together, these projects have reshaped students move through their day, how s collaborate, and how families experienc school, all while keeping student safety autism-informed design at the center of decision.
ACAMPUSDESIGNEDWITH PURPOSE
Before construction began, Westview’s campus was spread across multiple standalone buildings. While each space served its purpose, the physical separati created challenges for security, transitio and daily operations.
The goal of th create a unifie environment routines, safe movement between spaces, and flexible learning environments tailored to the needs of students with autism.
Today, that vision is becoming reality.
BEVAN KOCH, ED.D.
PHASEI:ADEDICATEDHIGH SCHOOLENVIRONMENT
Phase I introduced Westview’s new high school building, designed specifically for young adult learners. The space includes modern classrooms, collaborative learning areas, and dedicated environments that support both academic instruction and life skills development.
For students, the new building provides structure and independence within a supportive setting. For staff, it offers flexible instructional spaces that accommodate small groups, individualized learning, and project-based instruction.
Just as importantly, Phase I established the foundation for campus connectivity, serving as a key link in the larger plan to unite all learning spaces.
PHASEII:THELIBRARYASA CENTRALHUB
Phase II brought the opening of Westview’s new library. Designed with sensorysensitive features and flexible seating, the library supports independent study, small group collaboration, and quiet regulation time. Technology access and open learning areas make the space adaptable throughout the school day.
More than a traditional library, this space functions as the academic heart of campus, encouraging curiosity, connection, and cross-grade interaction.
Bringingallourlibrary resourcesintoonespacehas beenwonderful.Accelerated readerscanbechallenged, andthoseneedingextra supporthavetoolseasily accessible.Olderstudentsare alsoenjoyingthenew Clevertouchforweeklylessons andcollaboration.
TERESATAEGER
PHASEIII:SUPPORTINGEARLY LEARNERS
Phase III focused on transforming early childhood and elementary learning environments within the 1900 Building. Nearly 15,800 square feet of space was reimagined to better support development, transitions, and safety for Westview’s youngest students.
New classrooms were designed to accommodate structured teaching approaches, centers-based learning, and floor activities. Early childhood spaces were expanded and relocated to reduce daily transitions and improve flow. The science lab and clinic were enlarged to enhance hands-on learning and student care.
Secure outdoor play areas and green spaces were also incorporated, providing safe environments for exploration and movement, critical components of early development.
GREENSPACE:CONNECTING THECAMPUS
A key feature of Westview’s transformation has been the thoughtful redesign of outdoor spaces to improve both function and safety.
New canopy-covered walkways now connect buildings, allowing students to move comfortably between learning spaces while remaining protected from weather and excessive sensory stimulation. These covered pathways create smoother transitions and reinforce the sense of one unified campus.
Expanded fencing improves campus security while clearly defining outdoor play and learning areas. Monument signage at campus entrances enhances visibility and creates a welcoming first impression for families and visitors. Directional signage throughout the grounds improves wayfinding, helping guests navigate the campus with confidence.
Together, these improvements ensure that outdoor spaces are not simply pass-through areas, but integrated parts of the daily school experience.
ONESECURE,COHESIVE LEARNINGENVIRONMENT
Perhaps the most significant outcome of the campus project has been the physical connection of Westview’s three buildings into one secure environment.
Centralized access points and unified security systems strengthen safety protocols and improve daily operations. Clear sightlines and connected hallways enhance supervision and communication across grade levels.
For a school community that values structure, consistency, and emotional regulation, this cohesion has made a meaningful difference.
LOOKINGAHEADTOSUMMER2026
With Phases I, II, and III complete, the final stage of work scheduled for summer 2026 will focus on realizing its long-term vision: a seamless, thoughtfully designed Pre-K through 12 campus that reflects best practices in autism education and student-centered design.
Ourcampusisaphysical expressionofWestview’smission, creatingaunifiedPre-Kthrough 12environmentbuiltaround students,connection,andcare. Wearedesigningspaceswhere learninghappenswithintention andstudentsgrowconfidently.
BEVANKOCH
ACAMPUSTHATREFLECTS THEMISSION
Today, Westview’s campus stands as a physical expression of its values. Every classroom, hallway, outdoor pathway, and shared space was designed with intention, supporting learning, independence, and belonging.
While the buildings tell a story of growth and innovation, their greatest impact is felt each day as students arrive, learn, connect, and thrive in an environment created specifically for them.
SCHEDULE A TOUR
Curious to see what’s new at Westview? Come walk our campus and take a look inside our renovated spaces, from refreshed classrooms to welcoming common areas where students learn, gather, and grow each day. A campus tour is a great way to get a feel for how our campus has evolved and what makes Westview such a special place to be.
Email Jolaine Zuccala at jzuccala@westviewschool org
Welcome Back, Wildcats ASWEETSTARTTOTHESCHOOLYEAR
Popsicles on the Playground is the unofficial start to a new year at Westview. On the final Saturday before the first day of school, families visit campus for a morning of reconnecting, meeting new friends, and eking out the last bit of summer together. Both the Lower and Upper School playgrounds were busy all morning with students, families, and faculty eager to catch up after a summer apart
Thank you to POW and all our parent volunteers who make this event possible each year. It continues to set the tone for the school year ahead: welcoming, joyful, and community-focused. The August heat is no match for a morning of sticky hands, laughter, and fun. What a memorable start to another school year at Westview.
MyfavoritepartaboutPopsicles onthePlaygroundiswatching familiesconnect.Itmakes everyonefeelcomfortableright away.I’veseenfamiliesmeetfor thefirsttimeandstartfriendships thatlastforyears.Ittrulyisthe bestwaytobreaktheice.
If WestviewWere a Person VIRALMOMENT
A social media trend asked ChatGPT: If your school were a person, what would it be like? We tried it, and the result felt just right.
It’s exactly how we hope every Westview student feels: seen, supported, and at home.
If The Westview School were a person, it would be the kind of friend who really sees you.
Thoughtful and kind, with a quiet confidence, they would pay attention in all the right ways: asking good questions, noticing your strengths, and helping you make sense of the world on your own terms.
They would bring structure and calm to a busy day, but never forget to laugh or make room for joy. They would stay curious, always learning, and genuinely excited about your growth whether that means mastering a new skill, making a new friend, or figuring out how to speak up for yourself.
They would notice the small things that help you feel safe and supported. They would value routine, but know when it is time to try something new. They would believe that everyone deserves to belong, and they would show that belief through their actions every single day.
In short, Westview as a person would be that rare mix of warmth, wisdom, and dedication. The kind of person who makes you feel like you have found your place.
Founder's Day at Wes HONORINGMS.JANEANDHERLOVE
In October, The Westview School celebrated Founder’s Day, a tradition that honors the vision of our founder, Jane Stewart, and the incredible journey of our school community The day was filled with Westview spirit, gratitude, and a shared sense of purpose. This year, Westview’s all-school assembly featured students from every grade level presenting in front of the school. The students also shared an exciting announcement: a new partnership with the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, which gifted Westview two of Barbara’s Book Boxes.
With the construction of the greenspace nearing completion, our book boxes have now been installed in honor of Ms. Jane. One is near our recently relocated Jane’s Story Spot on the north side of the greenspace near the Lower School building, and another is near the Upper School playground. This partnership feels especially meaningful, as Barbara Bush herself joined us back in 1999 to cut the ribbon at the dedication of our 1900 building. It’s a fullcircle moment that connects our history with our future and continues the legacy of learning and community at the heart of Westview.
estview EDU continues this spring with three maining sessions for parents and caregivers of ildren with autism. Each monthly esentation features Westview professionals d community experts and takes place in rson in Largent Hall on Thursdays at 9:15 M. Sessions run one hour, with a Zoom tion available.
there’s a topic you’d like us to consider for a ture Westview EDU series, we’d love to hear om you Please reach out to mmunications@westviewschool.org.
HURSDAY,FEBRUARY12,2026
rent Panel: Lessons Learned Along the Way Mimi Le, M A , LMFT, LPC nical Director, The Stewart Center
HURSDAY,MARCH5,2026
hat About Me?" Supporting the Siblings Neurodivergent Kids
Jennifer Cervantes, MSW, LCSW-S d Dinah L. Godwin, MSW, LCSW-S ylor College of Medicine - Texas Children's Hospital
HURSDAY,APRIL9,2026
ink Forward: Why Transition Planning atters at Every Age by Brandi Timmons, MEd, BCBA, LBA Education Visionary, Incuentro
FRESHMAN REFLECTIONS In Their Own Words
As the first students at Westview High, these Wildcats are setting the tone for years to come. Here’s how they describe what it means to be the pioneers of Westview’s newest program.
EATING TWENTY HOT DOGS A YEAR OF SMALL VICTORIES
Being the first class in high school is like eating 20 hot dogs and then throwing up. What I am saying is that you want to be an adult (eat a lot of hot dogs) and then find out the work is really hard (throwing up). I like to be independent when I eat lunch outside with my other high schoolers I like to clean the table after lunch, even though I didn't need to. My favorite word to describe Westview is “exciting” because it’s exciting to learn new things every day. For example, my favorite classes are ASL and Art because learning those new things makes me happy. High School can be challenging, but the staff is really supportive and helpful.
The Outsiders Lord of the Flies
This year I learned that I've been getting really smart on my math work (i.e. standard form), but one moment that I’m really proud of is that I've officially conquered the battle with fire drills (it sounds like the alarm from Wall-E, not a party sound like James thinks). Anyways, at first, I thought English was challenging, but when we started to read books like The Outsiders and Lord of the Flies, I made Blookets about them to help me understand. One responsibility I've taken on is being calm, because when I'm nervous I try to calm down which apparently somehow works.
The inaagural class of Westview High School
Well, it feels like in about 20 years, when other people start coming here, they’re going to be like, “Who are these first four high schoolers?” And I’m going to be a legend. Everyone is going to know who I am and stuff. That’s pretty exciting. At the start of this year, Biology was pretty hard for me. It was kind of a rough start, but eventually I improved. Either English or Geography is my favorite subject with Mr. Livengood. He’s one of the funniest teachers I’ve ever met. Westview makes me feel really good. It’s one of my favorite schools
It's interesting that I'm one of the first high schoolers of Westview ever. That means a lot to me Something interesting about our halfday is that it’s an alternative day, blue/grey, which means something different every Thursday. Being in high school is extremely different from middle school because of the new building. I was already used to the old building, but I eventually got used to the new one, just like I got used to Middle School. I like that High School gets to choose electives. I have Theatre Arts because I want to become an actor, and español because I want to learn other languages besides English. Fun fact about High School: 90 minutes of class equals the longest classes. Something I'm proud of is speaking español during the holiday play and volunteering as background assistance for the Middle School play. Lastly, the most important thing about us is that we are the first-ever inaugural High School class.
PROUD TO BE FIRST
PATRICK
DEVAN
Rain or Shine
WESTVIEW’STRUNK-OR-TREATTRADITIONCONTINUES
Chance of rain on Trunk-or-Treat? Not at Westview. With a gloomy forecast predicted, POW quickly pivoted from decorated trunks to festive indoor tables in Largent Hall. The change didn’t slow anyone down. Westview families showed up in full costume, the weather held, and our trick-or-treaters enjoyed a fun, candy-filled morning. It was the perfect kick-off to Halloween week thanks to POW’s Annual Trunk-or-Treat. We are grateful to POW, Westview staff, families, and all the wonderful volunteers from Kinkaid High School, NCL, and YMSL who helped make this beloved tradition another memorable success.
Thiswasmyfirsttrunk-or-treat, andIwassoimpressedbyhow thoughtfulthegroupswerein creatingtheirtrunks.Fromthe sensoryplaytothecreative themes,itwasclearhowmuch carewentintomakinganevent thattrulyputourstudentsfirst. MANDYMCCARTNEY
Friendship, Reimagined
If you follow Westview on social media, you may have seen a recent video where Middle School students shared what they love about Westview and how it makes them feel. Their answers were heartfelt and reminded us why the school prioritizes connection and community. As one student explained, coming to Westview made them feel comfortable: when they were younger, they didn’t always feel included, but here [at Westview], “they were really nice to me, and I made great friends. I was no longer lonely anymore.” Another student said, “Honestly, the fact that I have friends... like, I have loads of friends. Come on, like loads of them.”
FRIENDSHIP,PRACTICEDEVERYDA
Friendship at Westview is intentional. For students whose social skills develop differently, connecting with peers doesn’t always happen naturally. That’s why social-emotional development is an essential part of the Westview curriculum and is built into daily learning. This gives students structured opportunities to practice connecting, collaborating, and communicating.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONALSKILLS INACTION
Fly Five is the social-emotional curriculum used in grades K through Middle School at Westview. After careful research, the school adopted the program campus-wide in 2022 because it directly supports the development of important relationship-building skills, such as empathy, cooperation, self-control, responsibility, and assertiveness. Teachers start these lessons in the classroom and give students opportunities to practice. Over time, what we see is these skills showing up organically across campus, in group projects, interactions outside of class, and everyday moments.
In addition to classroom instruction, programs offered by The Stewart Center provide students with additional opportunities to strengthen peer relationships in smaller groups and therapeutic settings. Families can enroll their students in groups such as Lunch Bunch, Understanding Social Cues, and LEGO Club. Each group is uniquely designed to engage students through interest and use shared activities with peers and gentle guidance from therapists to support conversations and build confidence.
FRIENDSHIPSTAKINGSHAPE INSMALLGROUPS
Theresa Bautista, Occupational Therapist at The Stewart Center, sees this growth firsthand in her Lunch Bunch, Life Skills, and Fitness groups.
“In my Lunch Bunch groups, I’ve had the privilege of watching friendships take shape in meaningful ways,” Theresa shared.
“These students may have different personalities and ways of communicating, but kids have a way of finding common ground when they are in a safe and supported environment.”
During Lunch Bunch, students share special interests, tell stories from their lives, practice turn-taking in conversation, and work through small moments of conflict together Theresa has watched students who were once very quiet begin to speak up, make jokes, and express their ideas with confidence
One of the most rewarding moments comes when those relationships extend beyond the group itself. Students discover shared interests, make plans to spend time together after school, and advocate for one another in the classroom, including speaking up for peers who do not always communicate using spoken language.
Mimi Le, Clinical Director of the Stewart Center and a licensed psychotherapist, has therapy groups available for enrollment that help students build essential skills for staying safe at school, at home, and online. She offered practical tips for being intentional in encouraging social interaction and friendships.
Tip 1: Taking the pressure off by making it a group activity or shared celebration will make it easier for individuals to hangout. It builds anticipation and gives them a reason to make more conversation based on a shared outing.
Tip 2: Group chats can also encourage camaraderie. Some personalities shine brighter when conversations are not face-toface. They can also use gifs and memes to further share laughter and interests.
Tip 3: Working together to accomplish a goal can lead to great bonding time Such as a volunteer event, teaching others about a special interest, a team project, or a fun scavenger hunt can build confidence in themselves and each other
CELEBRATINGFRIENDSHIP
At Westview, friendship is cultivated, practiced, and celebrated. From classroom projects to casual conversations to structured therapeutic groups, students are learning that meaningful connections can be built, moment by moment, together.
RACE FOR A REASON HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FALL Wildcats in Action
Westview showed up big this fall to support causes close to our hearts. Our Wildcats were out in full force at Alex’s 5K Run/Walk and the Breakthrough T1D Walk, bringing energy, smiles, and lots of school spirit.
Students, families, and staff ran, walked, and cheered together, celebrating friends and loved ones while raising awareness and funds for autism and Type 1 diabetes. It was inspiring to see our community come together, showing how much impact a group of Wildcats can make when we support each other.
We couldn’t be prouder of everyone who participated, volunteered, or cheered from the sidelines. Westview truly makes a difference!
Westview Wildcats show support for Type 1 diabetes awareness at the Breakthrough T1D Walk.
CONSTRUCTION ON CAMPUS
One thing we know about our students… they love big machines! On Halloween, our Wildcats got a special treat thanks to Forney Construction and project manager Mr. Nick: a skid steer straight from the construction site, parked right at the front of campus. Students loved getting up close during the “Touch a Truck!” moment. Even beyond Halloween, whenever big trucks were on campus, the contractors were happy to pause, letting students explore the equipment and ask plenty of questions.
A VETERANS DAY VISIT
During the week of Veterans Day, Robert Velazquez, Westview’s Director of Facilities, visited elementary classrooms to share stories and talk with students about service and sacrifice. Our students were so excited to ask questions and were fully engaged with the classroom visitor. Robert took the time to answer all the questions, all while giving a great lesson on the importance of honoring those who serve. It was a meaningful and memorable experience for everyone involved.
BRYAN LIVENGOOD HUMANITIES TEACHER
Routines That Build Confidence
HOWSTRUCTURESUPPORTS GROWTHATWESTVIEW
Who doesn’t appreciate a routine? Seriously, think about it: when your alarm clock blares (probably at the same time every day, or at least every weekday, huh?) and you go through all the steps from bed to work, isn’t that a routine? When you get to work (and I’m talking to you, too, caretakers, what you do is work!), do you have a set of actions you do daily before you truly begin? (You know, a, uh, what’s the word? Oh yeah, “routine”.) Human beings love routine, especially younger ones, aka students. According to the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, “Routine is consistently found to be important for children.” So, with that in mind, let me introduce you to your student’s friend and mine, the “Do Now”.
After the growing pains of the first week or so of school, every student who enters my classroom knows exactly what to do: open their Chromebook, log in, get on Pear Deck, a classroom tool where students respond in real time, and answer the “Do Now”. What’s a “Do Now”, you ask? Great question. In my classroom, it’s generally a thought-provoking question that either revisits a concept we’ve recently covered or hints at something to come in that day’s lesson.
For example, in a recent English I class where we’re knee-deep in our novel study of the brilliant Lord of the Flies, I asked, “Whose priority do you think is more important, Ralph’s or Jack’s? Why?” (Thought-provoking, right? I told you.) The true beauty of this, and roughly 90% of my “Do Now” questions, is that there’s no right or wrong answer. This approach helps students build confidence, think critically, and engage fully, without worrying about making a mistake.
Byremovingthefearofbeing wrong,everystudentcan participate,thinkcritically, andhavetheirvoiceheard.
BRYANLIVENGOOD
With the pressure to get it “right” removed, students can engage freely without fear of ridicule or indecision. They know they can come in and immediately be part of the classroom environment, even if they’ve been absent or didn’t completely comprehend a previous lesson (I answer questions as they come in and get settled, keeping everyone on the same page). And thanks to the technological wonders of Pear Deck, I can display all their responses without names attached, so everyone gets their voice heard without being put on the spot. By creating this safe and inclusive space, every student is empowered to participate, which strengthens both learning and community in the classroom.
What can I say, it’s a great system! (Pause for applause.) But, more than anything, it’s the routine that really steals the show Students know what’s expected of them and can act on it independently (or with help, should they ask for it), immediately exercising their growing brains on a content question instead of anxiously wondering what they’re supposed to do today. This simple routine is just one way that Westview classrooms foster independence, confidence, and curiosity every day And that, dear reader, is a beautiful thing.
MEETMR.LIVENGOOD
Bryan Livengood joined Westview this summer as the Humanities Teacher at Westview High School He brings years of experience teaching across four states and a strong commitment to helping students engage deeply with literature and course content Bryan values the opportunity to work closely with students in Westview’s small class settings. His current courses include Middle School English Language Arts, High School English Language Arts, and Geography.
Congratulations, Wildcats YEARBOOK COVER REVEAL
Westview is so proud of our talented artists who submitted original artwork for this year’s Westview Yearbook Art Contest. The winners span Lower Elementary through Middle School, and the cover pages and special art featured inside are a curated selection of their creative work. Chosen by our yearbook coordinator, Angela Loftin, this year’s cover perfectly reflects the spirit and energy of the school’s theme. Yearbooks remain a favorite keepsake for students, capturing memories, milestones, and the creativity of our Westview community.
Congratulations to all our winners: Lower Elementary: Emery A.; Upper Elementary: Henry M.; Middle School: Kaden C., Tre D., Izelle S.
dates & times
Camp is from 9 AM to 2 PM Monday - Friday
First Session: June 1 -June 18
Second Session: July 6 - July 24
Registration opens Monday, January 26
An early-bird 10% discount is available for camp tuition when registered by March 27.
Each camp session is $1650 Payment is due on May 1.
Fees are non-refundable after May 1.
A Magical Moment at Westview
At Westview, holiday traditions are more than just celebrations, they’re moments that bring our community together. For one Wildcat family, those moments carry a special kind of magic. Ang Jennings, mom to Carter (2013–2023), shares the story of a full circle holiday experience made possible at Westview.
Carter was eight months old the first time we took him to see Santa. I fully expected to walk away with one of those classic screaming-baby photos, but to my surprise, it was perfect. He sat on the big guy’s lap, flashed his very best smile, and in that moment, Carter’s love for Santa, and all things Christmas, began.
Fast forward a few years. We still treasured that smiling Santa photo every season, but one specific visit brought me to tears, not because of the picture, but because of the conversation.
ARTER JENNINGS
Do you remember the scene in Miracle on 34th Street where the precious little girl who’s deaf sits on Santa’s lap and he begins talking to her in sign language? The mother watches with joy and disbelief in her eyes. That mom was me.
Carter climbed onto Santa’s lap, and Santa immediately began asking him questions. I quickly stepped in and explained that we were really just there for the picture, that Carter has autism and is mostly nonverbal. Santa looked me straight in the eyes and said, “Don’t worry, Mom Santa has a special kind of magic I know exactly what he’s wanting to tell me I know what’s in his heart ”
ANGELA JENNINGS WESTVIEW PARENT
Truth be told, Carter is still a believer in all things Christmas, or he’s just really good at fooling us. Either way, we embrace it and soak in every bit of the season. So when Westview reached out and asked if he would be interested in being Santa, the answer was an immediate YES.
FromthelittleboyonSanta’slap whoseheartwasunderstood withoutwordstotheyoungman becomingSantahimselfforothers, itwasafullcirclemomentforme. He could have easily said “okay,” snapped the photo, and moved on to the next child, but he didn’t That compassion, for both me and for Carter, is something I will be forever grateful for.
ANGJENNINGS
I was a little nervous, you never know how your child will react in a brand-new situation, but the moment he stepped into that suit, it was as if he had been born for the role. He was incredible with every child and every situation. Somehow, instinctively, he knew exactly what kind of Santa experience each child needed.
Watching him that day came full circle for me, from the little boy on Santa’s lap, whose heart was understood without words, to the young man becoming Santa himself for others. It is a memory I will cherish forever
ARE YOU A WESTVIEW ALUM?
Whether it’s been a few months or many years, we’d love to know where life has taken you. Send us an update and let us know what you’ve been up to!
Email Sarah Chauvin at schauvin@westviewschool org
Moments That Matter
CELEBRATING FAMILY, FUN, AND WESTVIEW TRADITIONS.
At Westview, the special people in our students’ lives deserve celebration, and each year it becomes a joyful tradition. Dads’ Day in November brings dads of all ages to campus for a morning of games, laughter, and connection, from our youngest Wildcats to the High School.
A few months later, Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day offered families another chance to see Westview in action. Students invited the adults who inspire, support, and cheer them on daily. These events are special to both families and Westview faculty and staff, offering a chance for learning, friendship, and family to come together. Thank you to everyone who joined us. Your presence makes these moments unforgettable!
Wow!Thiswasmyfirsttime experiencingafamilydayat Westview,anditwastrulyawesome toseetheenergyandjoyour familiesbroughttocampus. Watchingstudentsinteractwith theirfamiliesandseeingthepride onourkids'facesastheyshowed Westviewtotheirlovedoneswas inspiring.Itaffirmedwhataspecial placeWestviewisandhowlucky ourstudentsaretohavesucha supportivecommunity.
CEARAWAINWRIGHT-HEROD UPPERSCHOOLPRINCIPAL
Teacher Feature
WHATINSPIRESWESTVIEWEDUCATORS
We asked Westview teachers questions about what keeps them growing, how they define success, and what they learn from students each day. Their answers reflect the heart of Westview classrooms.
SHENNY HARILALL LOWER ELEMENTARY
WHATISONETHINGYOULOVE MOSTABOUTTEACHINGAT WESTVIEW?
One of my favorite parts of teaching here is the relationships and trust we build with students and families Students are encouraged to be exactly who they are while being supported, challenged, and celebrated for their growth. The support from our team and families makes our work incredibly meaningful.
Whenmystudentsleave thedayfeelinghappy andproud,Iknowit’s beenasuccessfulday SHENNYHARILALL
HOWDOYOUMEASURE SUCCESSINTHECLASSROOM?
I know a student is having a successful day when they feel safe. Success isn’t about completing all academic work; it’s about social growth. When students become more independent, use their words to communicate, resolve conflicts, and interact appropriately with peers and teachers, that feels like a successful day to me. Each student has different needs, so I measure success by the progress they make individually.
WHATMOTIVATESYOUTOKEEP GROWINGASATEACHER?
What motivates me most is my tudents. Their daily progress nspires me to keep learning how to upport them in every way possible. Some days can be challenging, but even small progress is meaningful I strive to meet every student where they are, reflecting on my practice, trying new strategies, and staying open to changes to better support them. As my students grow each day, I grow and learn alongside them.
DEIDRE GOODHUE MIDDLE SCHOOL
WHATMOTIVATESYOUTOKEEP GROWINGASATEACHER?
Being both a parent of a child with autism and an educator of a neurodiverse population means this work is deeply personal to me I know what it feels like to sit on the other side of the table, hoping your child will be understood, supported, and believed in. That experience drives me every day to grow, to learn, and to do better for my students and their families.
Iwanteverychildinmy classroomtofeelthe acceptanceand opportunityIwantformy ownchild. DEIDREGOODHUE
WHATISONETHINGYOULOVE MOSTABOUTTEACHINGAT WESTVIEW?
What I love most about Westview is that students are truly seen here. They aren’t defined by their challenges. They’re valued for their strengths, personalities, and potential. As a parent, that gives me peace of mind. As a teacher, it gives me purpose. It feels like a place where kids are safe to be themselves
LIEE MANZUR KINDERGARTEN
WHATMOTIVATESYOUTOKEEP GROWINGASATEACHER?
The small moments of progress keep me going. When I see a student grasp a new concept or become comfortable enough to engage more fully, that is incredibly rewarding Those moments push me to reflect on my teaching, try new approaches, and think creatively so I can create even more of them in the future. As my students grow, I want to grow right alongside them to help them reach their full potential
Communicationdoesn’t alwayscomethrough words.Sometimesit’sin alook,agesture,ora changeinbehavior.
LIEEMANZUR
WHATISSOMETHINGYOU’VE LEARNEDFROMYOURSTUDENTS THISYEAR?
My students have taught me that communication can take many forms, and paying close attention to those moments has helped me understand them better and build stronger connections.
HOWDOYOUMEASURE SUCCESSINTHECLASSROOM?
measure success by the growth and tle victories I see over time When udent transitions between two ctivities easily for the first time, omething that was very difficult at e beginning of the year, that feels ke a truly successful day.
KENNETH CHOO UPPER ELEMENTARY
WHATMOTIVATESYOUTOKEEP GROWINGASATEACHER?
STACEY CLARKE EARLY CHILDHOOD
WHATISONETHINGYOULOVE MOSTABOUTTEACHINGAT WESTVIEW?
I love teaching at Westview for many reasons, but what stands out most to me is our small class sizes, which allow us to connect with and support each student on an individual level. The small class sizes also allow us to build strong connections and meaningful relationships with parents.
WHATISSOMETHINGYOU’VE LEARNEDFROMYOUR STUDENTSTHISYEAR?
This year, my students have reminded me to celebrate progress in all forms They’ve taught me to slow down, notice small successes, and recognize that growth can be seen in communication, behavior, confidence, and independence, not just academics.
What motivates me most is remembering who I’m working for. If I can be a better teacher, it’s for the benefit of the children I teach and their future quality of life Knowing my efforts make a difference keeps me striving to grow every day.
WHATISONETHINGYOULOVE MOSTABOUTTEACHINGAT WESTVIEW?
I love working with our students, all of whom are so special in very positive ways. While some may focus on challenges or shortcomings, I see how much they shine and the ways they are better than the rest of us.
Therestoftheworld mayfocusonthe challenges.Iseehow ourstudentsarebetter thantherestofus.
KENNETHCHOO
WHATISSOMETHINGYOU’VE LEARNEDFROMYOUR STUDENTSTHISYEAR?
Interestingly, this year I’ve learned that even kids can get tired of “sixseven!”
Attendance is complimentary, and no tickets are required. Guests are welcome to attend individually or with a group. At the conclusion of the program, there will be a soft ask to support Westview’s mission and the students we serve.
HOSTATABLE
Looking to deepen your impact?
Consider hosting a table by registering online and inviting friends, family members, or colleagues to join you. Hosting a table is a meaningful way to share Westview’s mission with others who care deeply about making a difference in the lives of children with autism.
BEASPONSOR
Reserve your seat or table by scanning the QR code provided. If you’d like to explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact Julie Aronstein, Director of Development, at 713.973.1900 or jaronstein@westviewschool org
