When students and staff were asked what they were grateful for about West High, their responses ranged from friends to intellectual debates. Here are some of West Side Story’s top answers.
“I am grateful for the amount of opportunities and resources provided for the students at West High and how it sets you up for success as a student,” – Karen Liu ’24
“I’m grateful for the diversity of thoughts. It leads to great conversations and debates because you have such a range of opinions on subjects, and it can be anything from politics to sports. You’ll always find someone to debate with if you try hard enough,” – Elijah Hime ’25
“I’m grateful that our students are intelligent and have a sense of humor so that some of my jokes actually land,” – Nate Frese, Teacher
“I’m very grateful for the secretary ladies, the paraeducations, and the diversity within the school,” – Kristiana Washington ’23
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to have my first library job over here at the high school. It’s been a really amazing experience so far,” – Sara Seipker, Media Secretary
“I’m grateful for the support from the teachers and the dedication they put into bettering students’ school lives and helping them with their grades. I had a really big turnaround from last year to this year, thanks to my teachers,” – Lilly Vick ’25
“I’m grateful for the diversity [at West]. I’m working with all kinds of people, not just people that look like me,” – Ben Nasoni, Paraeducator
“I’m grateful for my friends. This year has taught me who my real friends are, so I appreciate them that much more,” – Phoebe Ephraim Gill
“I’m so grateful for the journalism department at West. I never thought I would find such a welcoming and spirited community. I’m proud to be a part of it and am so thankful for all the new skills and insights I’ve learned,” – Akshethaa Naveen-Kumar ’24
“[I’m grateful for] having so many classes and clubs available for me to try and enjoy,” – Jane Lierly ’27
“The wacky cake slaps,” – Aspen Hermann ’27
“The sports at West are phenomenal, and the coaches are great,” – DiMarco Harris ’26
“The staff and janitors,” – Ester Nyasamaza ’27
“I’m grateful for Mr. Cooper. He’s helped me grow so much as an individual, and he welcomed me into my freshman year at West High,” – Heba Elsayd ’27
