Founded in 1980 Westside Neighborhood School boasts a rich history. It’s not just a school. It’s a vibrant community. Westside Neighborhood School initially operated as Westchester Neighborhood School. Its location under LAX’s flight paths earned its athletic teams the “Jets” nickname. In 2005 Westside Neighborhood School moved to a larger facility in Playa Vista. A new building followed in 2010 expanding its arts and music programs. A third building is planned adding preschool space a gymnasium and a STEAM complex.
Westside Neighborhood School is unique. Its Family Groups program unites students of all ages. These groups collaborate on projects from theatrical productions to community service. Students remain in their Family Group throughout their time at Westside Neighborhood School leading their group in their final years. This fosters a strong sense of belonging and community. Westside Neighborhood School cultivates a supportive environment. This is reflected in its low student-to-teacher ratio. The ratio is 7:1 in early childhood education rising to 9:1 in kindergarten and 13:1 in grades 1-8.
Westside Neighborhood School’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education is evident. Its hands-on learning approach is constructivist and project-based. It emphasizes growth mindset and social-emotional learning. Students apply their knowledge through diverse learning experiences. Westside Neighborhood School’s success is noteworthy. In 2024 it successfully issued $90 million in bonds. This will finance the purchase and construction of a new 132000 square foot campus. This significantly expands its existing 66000 square feet. The new campus is just 700 feet from its current location. The bond issuance was oversubscribed by 12.3 times. This reflects the strong community support for Westside Neighborhood School.
Westside Neighborhood School is more than just a place to learn. It’s a place where students develop into confident creative and compassionate individuals. It’s a place where community thrives. It’s a place where the future is built one project one Family Group and one student at a time. Westside Neighborhood School stands as a testament to the power of community and the transformative potential of education. The school’s dedication to its students and its community is evident in everything it does. This makes Westside Neighborhood School a truly special place.