LATEST NEWS

West40 is excited to announce the opening of StitchED at West40, a student-powered embroidery studio where learning meets craftsmanship and your custom embroidery comes to life. Our shop was created to bridge the gap between education and career readiness. It provides an opportunity for students to bring designs to life for schools, districts, community partners, and local businesses under the guidance of skilled mentors. Additionally, students gain real-world experience in p

“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

Imagine being a teenager interested in pursuing a career in the health field and experiencing what it’s like to work as a nurse without ever leaving the classroom. West40 student interns and staff members are making this a reality  by using virtual reality  technology as a learning tool to support middle and high school students across West Cook County. In partnership with Rush University, West40 staff and student interns recently produced a virtual reality video that allows

Hailey Muellner compares working on cars to a big, satisfying puzzle. “It makes me excited because I get to take it apart, see how it works, and see how all of it connects. It’s never-ending of essentially learning,” Muellner said. Muellner is a certified auto mechanic who started her career journey in a high school trades program. Later she earned an associates degree in automotive technology and gained valuable experience working at privately-owned auto repair shops and car