Western Center Academy (WCA) was one of 275 schools within California being recognized as a Gold Ribbon School for 2017. The Gold Ribbon Award is given to schools that offer outstanding educational programs and practices to its students.
Western Center Academy prides itself on the various opportunities it offers students in order for them to be successful. Students are able to take college courses due to the relationship the school has with Mount San Jacinto College, Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and Dual Enrollment classes so students are prepared for the rigor of college. In addition to these courses, students are able to join clubs like mathletes, science club, robotics club, and many others in order for them to further advance their knowledge in a STEM field they are interested in.
Throughout WCA’s application, staff focused on highlighting the academic rigor and extensive science opportunities the school offered. Staff went into detail about the uniqueness of the curriculum and how each student is introduced to various fields of science in middle school so they can have a better understanding of where their interests lie. By the time students are in High School they are able to delve deeper into an area of focus and take advanced classes to further their knowledge on a subject they are interested in. This year, the 213 high school students at WCA earned a total of 962 college credits.
Since WCA opened its doors in 2010, it has received multiple awards and recognition for the opportunities it offers to its students. The school has been named a California Distinguished School, a Riverside County Model of Excellence Program, and was just nominated as a National Blue Ribbon School, which they will hear if they were selected around August, 2017.
Principal Paul Bailey is thrilled that his school has been recognized as a Gold Ribbon School for 2017. He commended the work his staff has done in order to further engage students in the curriculum and for lifting these students to new heights.
Congratulations to WCA staff on this tremendous accomplishment and for supporting your students as they continue their educational journey.