Gary Community School Corporation Celebrates Student Innovation and Support at West Side Leadership Academy
(Gary, IND) – Gary Community School Corporation (GCSC) is proud to highlight two powerful examples of student success and community support at West Side Leadership Academy (WSLA)—showcasing both academic excellence in STEM and a commitment to uplifting students beyond the classroom.
🚀 STEM Excellence at Purdue Northwest Discovery Day
On April 13, 2026, WSLA students participated in the Purdue Northwest AI, Cybersecurity, and STEM Discovery Day, where they demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork, and innovation.
Among the many talented teams in attendance, WSLA stood out as one of the few groups to fully assemble their robot ahead of most participants—a testament to their preparation, collaboration, and technical ability.
Purdue Northwest sponsors and STEM professionals took notice, visiting the WSLA team’s table to personally test the robot’s functionality. After downloading and running the software, the robot performed successfully—driving as designed and meeting competition expectations.
This experience not only highlighted WSLA students’ growing expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, but also reinforced GCSC’s commitment to preparing students for college, careers, and the future of technology.
👗 Prom Boutique: Ensuring Every Senior Shines
In the same spirit of student support, WSLA recently hosted its first annual Prom Boutique, an initiative designed to ensure that every senior has the opportunity to fully experience this milestone event with confidence and pride.
Through generous donations of generous community partners, students were provided access to free prom dresses, shoes, and accessories—creating a boutique-style experience where they could select items that reflect their personal style.
The event removed financial barriers and reinforced a powerful message: every student deserves to feel celebrated and supported.
💚 A District Committed to Excellence and Equity
Together, these two events reflect the heart of Gary Community School Corporation’s mission—empowering students through opportunity, innovation, and care.
From excelling in advanced STEM experiences to ensuring equitable access to memorable life moments like prom, WSLA continues to demonstrate what’s possible when schools, community partners, and families work together.
GCSC remains committed to creating environments where students can build, achieve, and thrive—both inside and outside the classroom.
For the latest district news, please visit garyschools.org.
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