Wayne-Westland Community School district (WWCS) has recently been in the media for its difficulties with financial management. There is more to the district than headlines and financial turmoil. To begin, what is WWCS?
A large district in the Detroit Metropolitan area, WWCS serves approximately 9,200 students in 16 schools. In addition to the cities of Wayne and Westland, the district includes students from the neighborhood city of Inkster, that does not have a school district.
“Great…futures start right here!” the district’s motto, asserts its dedication to the students it serves. According to the district’s website and mission statement, WWCS promises to “educate and prepare all students to be knowledgeable, responsible, contributing members of a global society.”
Academically, in addition to its 16 primary and secondary schools, the district offers alternative options for students through the William D. Ford Career Technical Center and Wayne-Westland Innovative Academy. Both options serve students that may need or prefer education outside of traditional method, providing all students the opportunity to succeed.
WWCS is also committed to ensuring that athletics are available to all students as they have opted to be part of the “No pay to play” community. This ensures that every student, especially those of low-income homes, are able to participate in school funded athletic programs.
While recent media reporting has uncovered WWCS’s financial struggles, the district continues to seek ways to improve the student experience. During its Jan. 22 school board meeting, board members addressed updating the district’s current wireless access, a critical system in a digital heavy environment. But also, it is one that comes with a high price tag.
On paper, Wayne-Westland Community School district appears to have the best interests at heart for students, parents and community. In the media, they seem to be struggling to meet their goals and intent. Can the district overcome the shadow of financial turmoil lingering over it? Is it as bad as it seems?
