Western High School

I'm a recent graduate, but keep tabs on school news. I'm glad to report it was a fantastic experience. "Physical" class choices are continuing to be limited, with less offered every year (it's now mostly just core classes being taught by teachers in the room). By moving advanced courses to online AP, we're able to take what interests us, but it's not comparable to having a knowledgeable teacher on-hand, and the AP teacher I had rarely interacted with us. The band program is phenomenal and is routinely rated top-tier. But, there's a cash-flow problem, though that doesn't stop the school from funding programs that really count -- they pay for AP exams as well as ACT testing. Many of the "historic" teachers (the "forming a human wall in the hallway to keep the press out many decades ago" teachers) are retiring and being replaced with fresh meat, for better or worse. Their lack of attunement with other staff and students is noticeable. It's sad to see some of the greatest teachers with a long history in the community go, but I suppose they can't be expected to work until death. Some of the replacements are good and from within the community. Western's certainly in a transition period.

I have been a student at Western for years and I believe that Western has failed me in my longing for education. The class choices are very limited, more so each year, and my school counselor seems unable to do his job.
—Submitted by a student

Best high school around. Amazing teachers and class selection.

I agree with most of the overall ratings. I wish that you had a rating for special needs students. You really have to fight this school to get what your child needs and is entitled to at Western High. It is a great program as far as the special ed staff; it's the 'higher ups' that are the problem. i.e. principal, ISD, etc.
—Submitted by a parent

Western is a great place for young people to grow and develop! I believe the district is experiencing some challenges that haven't been experienced before which makes people uncomfortable. The reality is Western is in a MUCH better position financially than our neighboring districts. I am hopeful that the Board of Education will make sound decisions to keep Western at the front in Jackson county.
—Submitted by a parent

I believe this school is an amazing school, and I'm not one who likes school much. It still isn't perfect. No school is perfect, but this is one of the top schools of the Jackson County area.
—Submitted by a student

Western has great academics. The students do very well and most are in accelerated classes. There isn't a whole lot of choices for extra circular activities but the choices do vary from sports to key club(community service)and even a pep club, etc. The school has a parent and board of education meeting once a month and if you have any concerns that is the best time to bring it up because there is many other parents who attend.
—Submitted by a student