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 production,...

West40 congratulates Dr. Nick Polyak, superintendent of Leyden High School District 212, for being named the 2026 Illinois Superintendent of the Year by an independent panel commissioned by the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA). According to the IASA, nominees are judge d on the following criteria: academic achievement, preparing students for the future, social-emotional support, teaching and instruction and leadership. “Dr. Polyak’s recognition as the 2026 Illinois...

West40 walks alongside students so they can succeed in the classroom and beyond. Recent graduate Melany, who participated in the West40 employability program, describes how working and being trained in an IT position has impacted her life.