Submitted by Westfield Washington Schools
Westfield Washington Schools (WWS) is moving forward with the next major step of Destination Westfield, the district’s long-term, managed growth strategy designed to ensure safe, modern learning environments and protect instructional quality as the community continues to expand.
At its Dec. 9 School Board meeting, the Board of School Trustees approved Phase 3 of the Destination Westfield plan, which outlines a 10- to 15-year capital improvement and facilities roadmap. This approval provides the district the flexibility to respond to future needs. The plan does not constitute an obligation or commitment to implement every projected item.
These projections serve as planning tools, giving the district a clearer understanding of what may be required as enrollment grows and facility demands evolve.
Why Phase 3 matters
Westfield remains one of the fastest-growing communities in Indiana, a trend reflected in demographic studies and historical enrollment patterns. Proactive planning, rather than reactive facility expansion, remains essential for long-term fiscal stewardship and academic excellence.
Atha
“Our goal is to ensure Westfield Washington Schools is prepared for the next decade and beyond – maintaining safe, modern learning environments, supporting instructional quality, and wisely stewarding our financial resources,” Superintendent Dr. John Atha said. “These projections are not commitments, but they ensure our Board has the flexibility to make the right decisions at the right time.”
Long-term considerations (not commitments)
The Phase 3 projections reflect possible needs over the next 10 to 15 years, including:
- Enhancing district programs and specialized learning spaces
- Maintaining and updating existing buildings
- Acquiring land for future schools, including a potential new middle school
- Planning for additional elementary capacity as enrollment increases
- Improving infrastructure such as parking, traffic flow, and utilities
- Managing temporary displacement during large-scale construction
These items are only possibilities and represent strategic foresight to ensure the district is prepared for future growth scenarios.
What this means for the 2025-26 school year
While Phase 3 establishes a long-term vision, families can expect the remainder of the 2025-26 school year to continue normally. Planning for transitions associated with the opening of two new elementary schools and facility updates will increase through 2025-26, with multiple opportunities for family engagement.
Near-term actions
School transition planning
- Principals will develop transition plans for families and students, beginning with welcome messages for each elementary school which can be found here.
- Teachers will complete staffing surveys before Winter Break 2025, with all staffing decisions finalized and communicated throughout January 2026.
- In February 2026, principals will receive their final staff rosters and begin hosting students and families through introductory events and open houses ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
PTO Formation
- Administrators at the two new elementary schools will begin forming their Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs) in the near future.
- These PTOs will play a vital role in shaping culture, identity, and community-building, including hosting tours and welcoming events.
WES Renaming Workshop
In January 2026, Andy Hilton, future principal of Westfield Elementary School (WES), will host a workshop with future WES families to create a new proposed name for the school. This collaborative process will help shape the identity of the school’s next chapter and will culminate with collaboration with the Board to get a new, approved name decided.
Board approves 2 percent raise for support staff & counselors
In addition to Phase 3, the School Board approved a 2 percent raise for all support staff and counselors employed last school year, including retroactive pay.
“We know many of our staff have been waiting for clarity,” Dr. Atha said. “This action reflects our ongoing commitment to fair and competitive compensation for the outstanding professionals who serve our students daily.”
Looking ahead
WWS will continue to update families through School Board meetings, public conversations, and expanded communication efforts as Phase 3 unfolds.
“Partnership and engagement with the community are critical as we shape the future of Westfield Washington Schools,” Dr. Atha said. “Together, we are preparing for a vibrant future for every Life-Ready, Shamrock learner.”
