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Academics aren’t the only way Westlake schools are making the grade. // BY LINDA FEAGLER
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here was a time when reading, writing and arithmetic were all that public schools focused on. But a bright new day has dawned in which students’ mental and emotional well-being are just as paramount. “We’re fortunate that three of our buildings are less than 10 years old, and the fourth has experienced renovations,” says Westlake City Schools superintendent Scott Goggin. “What students are able to do inside is even better. We foster a sense of community to ensure every student feels included and enjoys a well-rounded education.”
Arts for All Jennifer Yachanin-Butler, director of choral music and Demon Drama Club advisor at Westlake High School, will never forget the day she fell in love with music and drama. Her uncle was the choir director at Valley Forge High School in Parma Heights, and the youngster saw three of the musicals he orchestrated, including “The Sound of Music.” “I remember being so excited to see what was coming next,” she recalls. “A blind student portrayed one of the nuns walking by in the processional, and she held onto the robe of the student in front
of her for guidance. I thought that was so wonderfully amazing and inclusive.” That poignant image has served as the teacher’s touchstone. If a student wants to be in choir or on stage, regardless of ability, there’s always a place for them in one of Westlake High’s six ensembles. Currently, between 150 and 200 students participate. In addition to taking part in school productions, students perform in area nursing homes and at community events and festivals. “Some of my students have Down syndome or are autistic,” YachaninButler says. “One was a completely nonverbal singer who came down every day in her wheelchair. She wasn’t singing, but she was part of our group.” Hilary Patriok, director of instrumental music at Dover Intermediate School and Westlake High School, picked up the clarinet for the first time in high school and never put it down. In addition to teaching clarinet and viola to 40 fifthgraders, Patriok directs 200 students who are members of two jazz ensembles, two orchestras and concert and marching bands at the high school. “Westlake’s music programs give all students the chance to thrive and be included — even those whose shyness prevents them from rarely speaking up in class,” Patriok says. “These days, we’re
all so technology-driven. It’s wonderful to see students come in, sit down and look at a piece of music that’s not on a screen.”
Friendship Circles Westlake High School psychologist Rebecca Sawchik and Tabatha Devine, transition coordinator for special education, know that being a kid isn’t child’s play. Best Buddies helps allay the fears that students can experience. The colleagues serve as advisors to the Westlake High School chapter of the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to providing social inclusion opportunities for those with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Anyone is welcome to join Best Buddies,” Devine says. “Some of our students have physical and cognitive disabilities. They may be in a wheelchair for the rest of their lives, or unable to communicate. Some have needs that are undiagnosed. We provide opportunities for them to spend time with classmates outside of the classroom.” All students who elect to participate in Best Buddies fill out an application form, which includes permission for a background check and parental approval. If accepted, they’re paired with a peer with
courtesy of westlake schools
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M A G A Z I N E 2 0 2 2 // W W W . C I T Y O F W E S T L A K E . O R G