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“A shining example.” “A diligent worker.” “Extraordinarily ambitious.” These are among the many praises heaped upon young recipients of the 30th Annual School Citizen of the Year (SCOTY) Awards, organized by West40 and held on March 19 at West Leyden High School. West40 recognized 142 students from across West Cook County school districts for demonstrating exceptional character in their everyday actions. While academic achievement and participation in activities are considere

This week the West40 Cabinet met to review, discuss, and approve three areas of focus that will define the Strategic Plan that will guide our organization over the next five years.  So far Cabinet members have worked in groups to synthesize and consolidate our findings based on feedback submitted by internal and external stakeholders. Through understanding the importance of responsible and sustainable growth, strong financial stability, and strategic alignment of programs, pa

On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, West40 hosted a day of celebration and professional learning dedicated to the paraprofessionals of Bellwood School District 88. West40 professional learning specialist Demain LaPointe opened the event, which featured workshops led by keynote speakers Brittany Richmond and Dr. Taya Kinzie. Both presenters shared practical strategies designed to support paraprofessionals in their work with students and in their own personal well-being. Dr. Corina Her

Teachers and school administrators across Illinois who feel the weight of education mandates may soon see some relief.  A new bipartisan group of lawmakers and education stakeholders called the School Code Mandate Reduction Council is charged with reviewing mandates considered outdated or overly burdensome and recommending whether they should be streamlined or eliminated — without compromising education quality or student safety. Education mandates, many of which are unfunded