How did WHCS strengthen your faith in God?
Early on we memorized Scripture and learned to “hide God’s Word in our hearts.” Grasping life application from God’s Word was taught in our Bible classes. Music classes reinforced via Christian music lyrics and chapels every week strengthened it all, too.

What was one of your favorite moments at WHCS?
The joy and fun of helping serve at our annual Spaghetti Dinners, junior highers only, it was an honor and a highlight. We made it a fun contest as students sold tickets not just to West Hills families but to our outlying communities.

Also, I remember that during the first two weeks of December, 7th and 8th graders were paired up to decorate the large library windows that faced the street. We would use an opaque projector to cast, then trace, a Christmas scene on paper mounted to the outside of the window and then paint the scene. It was such a fun memory, and the neighbors always loved looking at them as they’d drive past.

How did WHCS prepare you for your career? Or prepare you in general?
My passion for Jesus, people, music, special needs, communication, and writing (solid English and grammar skills) were fueled by several teachers who not only taught solid core and Enrichment classes and sparked my interest, but by their character, leading by example, and loving their students sincerely. Ultimately that led me back here as a staff member, where I remain today! So in many ways, this place is my home.

How did WHCS cultivate community?
Lots of shoulder-to-shoulder opportunities – family work days on campus, programs and events – where everybody hopped on board to make something great happen. Attitude played a big part. Everyone seemed to be willing participants without resentment or entitlement. Our older grades reached out as school ambassadors to the community, to new students and to our younger students, establishing community and connection.