A Word From Our Principal

Welcome to the 2008-09 school year.  It has been a busy summer at Western High School with the building renovations and the preparation for students to return.  As some of you know, I am new to the Bay City Public School district and have been in the building for most of the summer.  During these weeks, I have had the opportunity to meet students, parents, staff and community members.  They have shared with me some of the traditions, academic strength and commitment, points of pride, community support and school spirit which help make Western High School a great place to be.  I am excited to be a part of your school community and look forward to continuing the traditions that define our school.

There is much to be excited about at the High School this year.  The renovations have brought the building up to date with infrastructure support, classroom renovations, and newly constructed science classrooms.   A 9^th grade orientation day is planned for the first day of school to help get the year started for students new to high school.  The introduction of a Chinese    language class provides new opportunities for our students in world languages.  Also there will be an on-line career exploration exercise for each student to complete this year as part of our career pathways program.  On-line support and exercises are available with many of our new text books allowing students to practice at home.  Outside the classroom many students are   participating in athletics and preparing for the fall sports season.  There are also many clubs and extracurricular activities available for our students to join.  We hope that every student finds something extra to get involved with at WHS. 

The staff at WHS is dedicated to improving student achievement.  Our building goals this year are focused on continued improvement in student achievement in the areas of writing and math.  As a staff, we will be working on developing and sharing strategies which will support these goals.  One way for us to share with you, as parents, is to invite you to our Curriculum Night on Monday, Sept. 15 at 6:45 where you can meet your child’s teachers and learn more about our efforts in educating your child.  I will be available between 5:30 and 6:45 in the auditorium to meet with parents before curriculum night begins.  In addition you will be able to see the improvements around the building and the new science rooms.  

Finally, I would like to add that the involvement on the part of the parents and community in our  students’ education is exceptional.  WHS supports and appreciates the ongoing involvement as it is an invaluable support for students in their academic and high school journeys.   Working together encourages student achievement and leads to a successful school year for all students.  I want to wish all students and parents a great school year.  Feel free to call or email anytime.  

GO WARRIORS!!!

Phil Heller, Principal
Western High School