- Go to District...
- District - Contact Information
- District - Staff Directory
- District - Board of Education
- District - Go to Board of Education...
- District - Board of Education - Board Member Directory
- District - Board of Education - Board Member Training
- District - Board of Education - Board Policy
- District - Board of Education - Board Meeting Dates, Times, and Location
- District - Board of Education - Board Meeting Agendas
- District - Board of Education - Board Meeting Approved Minutes
- District - Board of Education - Board Meeting Summary Reports
- District - District Calendar
- District - Calendar of Events
- District - Job Descriptions
- District - Food Service
- District - Technology
- District - Assessments
- District - Bullying Prevention
- District - Delays
- District - Forms
- District - Health Information
- District - Library
- District - Mandated Training
- District - Mental Health Resources
- District - Parent Resources
- District - PERA
- District - Policies
- District - Public Records
- District - Go to Public Records...
- District - Public Records - Annual Financial Report
- District - Public Records - Anti-Bias Education Policy
- District - Public Records - Budget
- District - Public Records - Contracts Over $25,000
- District - Public Records - Discipline Improvement Plan
- District - Public Records - FOIA
- District - Public Records - IHSA
- District - Public Records - Immunization Report
- District - Public Records - IMRF
- District - Public Records - McKinney-Vento Act
- District - Public Records - Pest Management Plan
- District - Public Records - Salary and Benefits Information
- District - Public Records - School Report Cards
- District - Public Records - Shared Services Report
- District - Public Records - Stephens Amendment
- District - Public Records - Student Data Privacy
- District - Public Records - Title IX
- District - Public Records - WCATS Contract
- District - Registration Information
- District - SLP
- District - Skyward
Main Navigation
Top
West Central Elementary School
Sub Navigation
Top
Home > breadcrumbs: Schools > breadcrumbs: West Central Elementary School >
Welcome to West Central Elementary
By Mrs. Kathy Lafary
West Central Elementary
Welcome to West Central Elementary, home to approximately 375 Pre-K through 5th grade students. We have a very dedicated staff that puts the needs of our students first, while upholding our mission statement, “Providing Opportunities, Expecting Excellence.”
Our elementary building promotes positive social/emotional supports, including the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program. We do so by recognizing those students who are following the rules and meeting the expectations set forth by the faculty and staff. “HEAT” points can be earned for their “Families” in the classroom, hallway, lunchroom, or even on the bus. It is a great way to encourage good behavior among our students, while working towards our goal of promoting healthy mental, social, and emotional growth for all of our students. We strive to encourage empathetic and caring individuals who are supportive of one another. Our students benefit from lessons within the Second Step curriculum that addresses the Social/Emotional Standards.
Security is an ongoing concern everywhere. Here at West Central, we continue to work towards ensuring the safety of all students and staff members. We have installed a buzzer system on all main entrances. The doors will remain locked throughout the day and visitors will be monitored closely. Visitors will be allowed inside the building after proper clearance from the school staff. It is important that you continue to follow the procedure of signing in at the elementary office where the office staff will be happy to assist you. Additionally, we have installed security cameras in the hallways and parking lots for monitoring purposes.
The elementary teachers participate in weekly team meetings. During these sessions, they share curriculum ideas to assist one another in teaching those key ideas that have been identified at each grade level that need to be mastered by all students. These skills are referred to as essential skills and have been aligned to the Illinois State Standards. We understand that all students learn at different rates and various needs have to be met. Here at WCE, we provide a rigorous curriculum with several support programs in place. These not only challenge but also assist individuals as needed while teaching these standards. The WCE staff recently began implementing a new math curriculum called enVision Mathematics 2020 Common Core. It challenges their thinking and problem solving abilities. In 2018, we implemented guided reading groups using the Fountas and Pinnell curriculum in grades one and two. Additional materials are used at the other grade levels to teach the Learning Standards.
West Central Elementary likes to recognize students for a job well done. Character Awards are given throughout the year. We encourage positive phone calls home to highlight the successes of our students and individuals can work towards end of the year awards in physical fitness, Accelerated Reader, IXL, and Enrichment. Various individual and team opportunities surface throughout the school year. Our students are very fortunate to be able to participate in the fine arts throughout the week. They have physical education daily. In addition, we offer both music and art on a weekly basis. We feel that our students benefit greatly from these opportunities and we strive to encourage well-balanced, life-long learners.
Here at West Central Elementary, we understand how important a role the parents play in their child’s education. Communication is a key component. In addition to the monthly menus, a parent bulletin called the “Heat Hub” will be sent home with your child. The teachers will be making regular contacts with you and parents are able to keep informed of classroom activities through online platforms such as Google Classroom, Seesaw and Remind. Another great way to keep informed is to access the Skyward program. As a parent, you are able to view your child’s grades, missing assignments, attendance, and lunch account balances. Parents may also get involved by attending PTC meetings. This organization is made up of parents and teachers who work together to raise money and coordinate activities for the students. Furthermore, messages will be sent out via the Connect-Ed/Blackboard system. You can select various options such as phone calls, text messages, and email notifications. Be sure to join our West Central Elementary Facebook page!
West Central Elementary aims for academic excellence while meeting the needs of individual students. Every staff member looks forward to working with you and your child throughout the year. It is my pleasure to serve as principal of WCE and to work collaboratively to create amazing opportunities for your child. Together, we can foster a community in which all students reach their highest potential.
In Partnership,
Mrs. Kathy Lafary
WCEL Heat Hub
Below is a link to West Central Elementary School's monthly newsletter. Within this newsletter is some information you may find valuable as well as some important dates! Please click on each link to access the . . . read more
Kindergarten Night
West Central will host Kindergarten Night at 6:00 on Tuesday, April 30th. Families are invited to hear from guest speakers about Summer Reading, ROE #33's SummerFEST, and Kindergarten transition. A meal and childcare will be . . . read more
*RESCHEDULED* Spring Music Concerts 2024
Join us for West Central CUSD #235's spring concerts! Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd Grade = Monday, April 15th @ 6:30 PM 3rd, 4th, 5th Grade = *RESCHEDULED* Tuesday, April 16th @ 6:30 PM Tuesday, April . . . read more
WCES "You Are Awesome Awards"
West Central Elementary is excited to bring back the YOU ARE AWESOME AWARDS for our faculty and staff. We encourage the families of WCE to tell our staff how much they mean to you! A link to the form can be found on the new Elementary PTC . . . read more
Solar Eclipse Event (4/8/24)
On Monday, April 8, 2024 the West Central District and Community will be in the path of a solar eclipse. It is expected that we will see about a 90% coverage of the sun during this eclipse. Maximum coverage for our area is expected to happen . . . read more
Illinois Youth Survey (8th, 10th, 12th Graders)
During the Spring of the 2023-2024 school year, schools throughout the State of Illinois will have the opportunity to administer the Illinois Youth Survey (IYS) with students in 8th, 10th, and 12th grades. What is the Illinois . . . read more
Parent-Teacher Conferences - Spring 2024
West Central C.U.S.D. #235 Parent-Teacher Conferences for the Spring of 2024 are scheduled for Thursday, March 14th from 4:00 - 7:30 p.m. and Friday, March 15th from 8:00 a.m. - noon. Parent/Teacher Conferences will be . . . read more
WCES Kids Heart Challenge 2024
West Central Elementary School is kicking off our school’s Kids Heart Challenge event! It starts on Feb 1st , 2024 and ends on Feb 16th, 2024. Can you help us reach our goal to have 100% of our families learn about . . . read more
Winter Break Return Reminder 2024
School will resume for ALL PK-12 students on Thursday, January 4th, 2024. Thursday's Lunch (1/5/24) = Pulled Pork/Bun, French Fries, Peas, Peaches Friday's Lunch (1/6/24) = Fajita/Shell, Lettuce, Cheese, Tomatoes, . . . read more
Family Reading Week 2023 - “LEGO” Read a Book Together
There were many, wonderful, creative LEGO people all over the entryway at West Central Elementary the last few weeks! 77 students and their families joined in by reading together, sharing about the book, and decorating a LEGO figure. . . . read more
Winter Music Concerts 2023
Join us for West Central CUSD #235's winter concerts! Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd Grade = Tuesday, December 5th @ 6:30 PM 3rd, 4th, 5th Grade = Wednesday, December 6th @ 6:30 PM Middle School, High School = . . . read more
2nd/3rd Grade Parent Program 2023
The 2nd and 3rd grade students had a wonderful time at the Parent Program on Monday, November 13, 2023! Parents learned about Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and how staff at the school incorporate it with other academic subjects. . . . read more
WCES Summer Reading Postcards
West Central Elementary School had a fantastic response from our students with summer reading postcards. There were 52 students who shared their reading with teachers and staff over the summer. Students read or listened to 10 books, . . . read more
KG/1st Grade Parent Program 2023
West Central Elementary had their first Parent Program on October 2nd during the late start Monday schedule for kindergarten and 1st grade students and guests. Both programs highlighted the school Math curriculum and activities, as well as . . . read more
KG/1st Grade Parent Program - 2023
Upcoming Parent Program Information for Kindergarten and 1st Grade Families These activities will be during our Late Start Monday, so parents will need to provide transportation to the events. No food will be served during . . . read more
FOCC Backpack Program
The Family Outreach Community Center (FOCC) in Stronghurst will once again be offering weekend food assistance. Through their backpack program, they will send home a bag of food to supplement your groceries for the weekend. . . . read more
Back to School Night 2023-2024
Our annual Back to School Nights will be held on Tuesday, August 15th. The Elementary and High School events will be from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. The Middle School event will be from 6:00 – 7:30 pm (part of that time is for Club . . . read more
Family Reading Week - Read Beyond the Beaten Path
The WCE students celebrated this special week from November 14-18. Students shared “What they Book” (their favorite books and authors) and “Where they Book” (where they like to read). Student forms were displayed in . . . read more
Cold & Flu Season
Cold and flu season has arrived! We are seeing an increase in illnesses such as: strep throat, influenza, and RSV. Below is West Central’s policy regarding exclusion periods for sick students as well as some preventative tips. . . . read more
KG/1st Grade Parent Program
On the morning of October 3rd, 2022, K and 1st grade parents were invited to participate with their child in an event involving Nursery Rhymes and STEM activities (Science, Technology, . . . read more
2020-21 WCEL Virtual Art Show
The link below will give you access to the show. Enjoy! 2020-2021 WCEL Virtual Art Show read more
Point Challenge Fall 2020
Congratulations to our WCE students for meeting the challenge of earning 50,000 Heat Points! As a reward, Mrs. Frieden and Mrs. Lafary wore silly costumes all day! The students got to vote on three categories: food, school supplies and . . . read more
2020 WCEL Virtual Locker Night
Click on the link below and then explore by clicking on icons you want to learn more about. 2020 WCEL Virtual Locker Night read more
Fifth Grade Virtual Talent Show of 2020
We are proud to present some of our wonderful 5th graders demonstrating various skills, knowledge, and talents. With the mandated closure caused by Co-Vid 19, students missed out on some fun end-of-the-year activities. But, as the . . . read more
Mama Donkey Gets A Kiss
West Central Elementary students stepped up to the challenge during our remote learning days. From the beginning of April through May 8th they passed 1,197 Accelerated Reader tests. The students were updated regularly on their progress and . . . read more
Kindergarten Transition
Families of Future Kindergarten Students, We have created a video to help as your child transitions to Kindergarten. Please review the video and join us virtually through Zoom on Thursday, May 7th at 7:30pm The video . . . read more
AR at Home
WC Elementary
West Central Elementary School is proud to announce the arrival of: Accelerated Reader At Home Accelerated reader is a comprehension and vocabulary based computer program that tests the children’s knowledge of books . . . read more
New Fish At WCEL
A big thanks to Mr. Buss for his continued support. Take a look at the new arrivals to the tank. read more
2019 ILMEA Music Festival
Twenty-six West Central students were selected to participate in a day of music at the 2019 ILMEA District 2 Elementary Music Festival. Throughout the day students got to experience Creative Music, where they made their own song using . . . read more
Donuts With Dad 2019 - Iggy Peck
Iggy Peck would have been proud of all the towers that were built at West Central Elementary on Friday, November 1st during our Donuts with Dad event. Iggy Peck is the main character of the book, Iggy Peck, Architect by . . . read more
Donuts With Dad 2019
We would like to invite all “Dads” and their K-2nd Grade children to a relaxing morning of breakfast and a STEM/literature activity! Come and enjoy some donuts and juice with your child. You will hear a short . . . read more
Muffins with Mom 2019
Rosie Revere took center stage this year at Muffins with Mom. Rosie is the inventive, engineering main character of the book, Rosie Revere, Engineer written by Andrea Beaty. After the students and their guests enjoyed muffins and . . . read more
Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun?
Mrs. Johnston's 5th grade class recently read the book, Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Having the Courage to Be Who You Are . Students were tasked with building a standing tower, hopefully the tallest, using spaghetti noodles . . . read more
WCEL Back to School Night
West Central Elementary will be hosting their Open House/School Kick Off on Thursday, August 15 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Students and their families will be able to bring in their school supplies and put them in their lockers or in their rooms. . . . read more
WCEL Awards Day 2019
WCEL celebrated the successes of students in Grades PreK - 5. It was a great way to spend part of the morning celebrating all of these student accomplishments! Great job, everyone! read more
Graduation Walk 2019
Following Graduation practice on Friday, May 17, the Class of 2019 walked the halls of WCEL. This gives students and teachers the opportunity to congratulate the class. It is also a good time for younger students to have a visual . . . read more
Hatching Chicks in Kindergarten
If you hear some "peeping" as you walk down the elementary hallways, don't be surprised! All three Kindergarten classes are successfully hatching baby chicks this week. While learning about oviparous animals and the life cycle . . . read more
AWESOME!
We "reeled" in several more awesome behaviors this past week and these lucky "catches" earned some extra fun in the lab! Every Friday we reach into the fishbowl to pull out names of students that have randomly been . . . read more
"Caught Being Awesome"
WC Elementary staff members have been "fishing" to "catch" students doing awesome things! 11 Lucky "Catches" were drawn for an extra recess! read more
Thanks for Your Good Work!
Our 1st and 2nd Grade Girl Scouts picked up trash at the middle school and planted flowers and delivered them to the Oak Lane Assisted Living Residents! read more
Boredom Busters!
While we want the kids to enjoy these snow days, we understand that some may be getting a little stir crazy! Here is a list of ideas of things you can do to make these cold winter days go by and still keep those brains active! . . . read more
WCEL Book Club
These students have been giving up their recess to read the book Ruby on the Outside . They are led by Ms. Lewis. read more
Gifts for the Animal Shelter
The third graders at West Central Elementary voted to collect goodies for the Almost Home Animal Shelter in Henderson County instead of having a gift exchange this year! We were extremely proud of their decision to donate and their tremendous . . . read more
Stronghurst Hustlers 4H complete service project at West Central Elementary School
Members of the Stronghurst Hustlers 4H group volunteered to spread tire chips on the preschool playground on Sunday, November 11th. Volunteers included Addison, Max, Nolan, Emerson, Peyton, Spencer, . . . read more
Nursery Rhyme STEM Challenge
Congratulations to Makayla and Roland for participating in the “Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater” Contest. Both students completed STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math ) activities with their . . . read more
5th Graders to BizTown
Our 5th grade students worked hard in the classroom for 4 weeks to prepare and learn how to run a successful business at JA BizTown in Davenport. They really enjoyed this day and have learned so much about how to handle finances, write . . . read more
West Central Elementary1514 US Route 34Biggsville, IL 61418
(309) 627-2339
Download Our App. Stay Informed.
Optimized for your mobile phone, our app will keep you informed while on the go. Download today from the links below.
© 2024 West Central C.U.S.D. #235
Accessibility
Privacy Pledge
Mobile
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.