Reminder WSLA Families,
$100 is calling your name!
You have a chance to share what you think about how your school works with families. You
can do this by filling out a survey. IN*SOURCE conducts the survey. They are running a
project called EFFECT. This stands for Engagement for Families, Educators, & Community
Together. The U.S. Department of Education is paying for this project. The survey helps them
see how well the project is working. IN*SOURCE is working with another group called the
Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL) to look at the survey results.
The survey will only take 10 to 12 minutes for each child you have in school.
Why you should take the survey:
● Your answers can help make changes in your children's schools.
● You can help schools learn how to work better with families.
● You might win a $100 check for filling out the survey.
Who can take the survey:
● Families with children in Gary Community School Corporation schools.
If you have questions about the survey, contact Dr. Helen Malone (maloneh@iel.org, or
202-822-8405 x 136) or Dr. Emily Cheng (chenge@iel.org or 202-822-8405 x 102) .
If you have questions about your rights, contact Solutions IRB at (855) 226-4472 or
participants@solutionsirb.com
You have a chance to share what you think about how your school works with families. You
can do this by filling out a survey. IN*SOURCE conducts the survey. They are running a
project called EFFECT. This stands for Engagement for Families, Educators, & Community
Together. The U.S. Department of Education is paying for this project. The survey helps them
see how well the project is working. IN*SOURCE is working with another group called the
Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL) to look at the survey results.
The survey will only take 10 to 12 minutes for each child you have in school.
Why you should take the survey:
● Your answers can help make changes in your children's schools.
● You can help schools learn how to work better with families.
● You might win a $100 check for filling out the survey.
Who can take the survey:
● Families with children in Gary Community School Corporation schools.
If you have questions about the survey, contact Dr. Helen Malone (maloneh@iel.org, or
202-822-8405 x 136) or Dr. Emily Cheng (chenge@iel.org or 202-822-8405 x 102) .
If you have questions about your rights, contact Solutions IRB at (855) 226-4472 or
participants@solutionsirb.com
Mark your calendars, set your alarms, tie a string around your finger—do whatever it takes because in EXACTLY ONE WEEK, the WSLA J.R.O.T.C. is rolling out the buckets, hoses, and questionable dance moves for our upcoming **Car Wash** 🧽🚗
Bring your dirty cars, your neighbor’s dirty cars, even that one car that hasn’t been washed since last summer (we won’t judge… much). Our cadets are ready to scrub like their rank depends on it 💪
BUT WAIT—there’s more!
🎉 The J.R.O.T.C. will also be hosting its **Military Ball on Friday, April 17th**. Get ready to dress sharp, take pictures, and pretend you know how to dance (we’re all learning together).
🌊 And for those looking to make some summer money while soaking up the sun, the **City of Gary is hiring summer lifeguards**! Yes, you can get paid to whistle at people and say “no running” like a pro.
Support your cadets, stay fresh, and maybe even save a life this summer 😉
#WSLAPride #JROTC #CarWashReady #MilitaryBall #SummerJobs
Congratulations to Ms. D. Holley for being named Teacher of the Month for March! Her hard work, dedication, and commitment to teaching make a positive impact on students’ lives each and every day.
We would also like to celebrate our outstanding Students of the Month for March:
9th Grade: Eddie Johnson and Laila Mercado
10th Grade: Kristian Lee and Sheryah Green
11th Grade: Timothy Eubanks and Ashley Brown
12th Grade: Joshua Zarate and Natalie Packer
These students have demonstrated exceptional effort and achievement in their studies. We are proud of their accomplishments and look forward to their continued success.
Congratulations to all!
There are many exciting opportunities available for scholars at West Side Leadership Academy!
G.A.P.S. Opportunities:
G.A.P.S. is taking up to 50 students to Chicago State University for the Black College Expo on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
G.A.P.S. will also host its final FAFSA Night on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 3:45 PM – 5:45 PM at WSLA.
J.R.O.T.C. Military Ball:
The WSLA J.R.O.T.C. Military Ball will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM at The Chateau Banquets & Catering in Merrillville, IN.
Ticket cost: $30 per person
Purchase deadline: April 10, 2026
For tickets or questions, please contact Captain Thomas at jthomas3@garycsc.k12.in.us
.
Summer Job Opportunity:
The City of Gary is currently seeking lifeguards for the summer.
If you or someone you know is interested, please apply here:
https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=45063059-c99e-4193-9cd9-195362d0fedf&ccId=9200147175632_2&jobId=439407&lang=en_US
Thank you to all of our scholars who demonstrated exceptional attendance—your commitment and consistency truly make a difference! We’re proud to share that 25 of these dedicated students were entered into a raffle for a special t-shirt prize.
Here are a few pictures from our attendance recognition ceremony, where we celebrated their hard work and positive habits.
Paws up, Cougars! 🐾
We would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible Paraeducators, Teacher Assistants, and Behavior Support Specialists who support our students every day.
Your dedication, patience, and compassion do not go unnoticed. You play a vital role in creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to grow and succeed. Whether you are offering one-on-one support, assisting in the classroom, or helping students navigate challenges, your impact is truly meaningful.
Thank you for the care, commitment, and energy you bring to your work. Our school community is stronger because of you, and we deeply appreciate all that you do.
Dear WSLA Families,
Please take a moment to review this week’s parent newsletter.
We truly value your voice and feedback. Your input helps us improve and better support our students and families, so we encourage all parents to complete the family survey.
📝 Complete the survey here:
https://s.alchemer.com/s3/d1badf3ac989
Thank you for your continued support!
Dear WSLA Families,
Thank you to all the families who attended Parent-Teacher Conferences this past Friday. We truly appreciate your time and involvement in your scholar’s education.
If you were unable to attend in person, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your scholar’s teacher with any questions or concerns.
Special thanks to the parents who have completed the family survey. If you haven't filled out the survey here's a few reasons why you should.
● Your answers can help make changes in your children's schools.
● You can help schools learn how to work better with families.
● You might win a $100 check for filling out the survey.
Who can take the survey:
● Families with children in Gary Community School Corporation schools.
If you have questions about the survey, contact Dr. Helen Malone (maloneh@iel.org, or
202-822-8405 x 136) or Dr. Emily Cheng (chenge@iel.org or 202-822-8405 x 102) .
If you have questions about your rights, contact Solutions IRB at (855) 226-4472 or
participants@solutionsirb.com
Please note that there will be no school on Friday and Monday in observance of Good Friday and Easter Monday.
Thank you for your continued support!
Dear WSLA Parents please enter through door A for parent teacher conferences.
If you are unable to attend in person, you may sign up for a virtual meeting using the following link:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QI8SSpbPWn3Ujf859RMgvbO7NVxm7rkb7J5D-uRjIVs/edit?usp=sharing
Thank you for your continued support.
Parent-teacher conferences will be starting soon. Please enter through Door J when you arrive.
If you are unable to attend in person, you may sign up for a virtual meeting using the following link:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QI8SSpbPWn3Ujf859RMgvbO7NVxm7rkb7J5D-uRjIVs/edit?usp=sharing
Thank you for your continued support.
Dear WSLA Senior Parents,
The students looked amazing this week for picture day—thank you for your continued support!
We want to share a few important reminders as several events are quickly approaching:
Senior fees are $125 and are due now.
The senior class trip will take place on May 30th to Mt. Olympus in Wisconsin. The cost is $70 per student.
Payments for senior dues and the class trip can be made to Ms. Ballard in the office.
Prom tickets are $125 per student. Scholars can see Ms. Collins to make those payments.
Senior ladies: there is still time to sign up for the Caring Closet Prom Dress Boutique experience. Please sign up today using the link below:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=h8SGTXS9Tk6CzU4fvMdHiWuuyjfvZ45EjoUp_fV9O8pURFlFWDdBUVFaNDhWMkQwWVJZT09HWUZXWC4u
Additionally:
G.A.P.S. will be taking interested juniors and seniors to Chicago State University for the Black College Expo on April 4, 2026.
G.A.P.S. will also be hosting its last FAFSA Night of the year on April 7, 2026.
There are still scholarship opportunities available as well.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to the office at 219-413-9870 if you have any questions. Thank you again for your support as we celebrate and prepare our seniors for graduation!
Dear WSLA Families, this is a friendly reminder that tomorrow will be a synchronous learning morning. Students should log in and participate in their scheduled learning sessions. They will also receive instructions on how to complete any additional assignments. Bell schedule is included. In addition, we will be hosting Parent-Teacher Conferences from 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM at your child’s school. We encourage all families to attend and connect with teachers to discuss student progress and support. We will also be having our March PAC meeting with special guest speaker Ms. Hampton Owner of Strike and walk da cup welding LLC. If you have not yet had the opportunity to share your input, we also invite you to complete our Family Engagement Survey. Your feedback is important to us, and all families who participate will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift card. Thank you for your continued partnership and support! https://s.alchemer.com/s3/d1badf3ac989?fbclid=IwdGRjcAQyTW5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeUNJ9YF0sfrk6_txWSHijEQ_1uc76Y8NIVmQheMxgSxS6IbrkkgRxnT5rBfw_aem_YXlXYbCdOyEUq0pfClU9IA
2026 ACT-SO Local Competitions
Saturday, April 25, 2026
10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
(Gary, IND) — The NAACP Gary Branch proudly announces the upcoming Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) program, inviting students in grades 9–12 to showcase their talents, creativity, and academic excellence in a dynamic and empowering competition. The organization is also seeking community judges to support and evaluate student participants across multiple categories.
“ACT-SO is a nationally recognized youth enrichment program designed to recruit, stimulate, and encourage high academic and cultural achievement among African American high school students,” said ACT-SO Chairperson Jeana Payne. “Through mentorship, competition, and exposure, students develop skills that prepare them to become tomorrow’s leaders.”
The local competition will be held at Indiana University Northwest in Savannah Hall, Bergland Auditorium, 3400 Broadway in Gary. Gold medal winners from the local competition will advance to represent the Gary NAACP Branch at the
49th Annual ACT-SO National Competition, taking place in Chicago, Illinois from July 15–19, 2026.
“This is a phenomenal opportunity for the youth that we serve to showcase their talents on a national platform,” said Gary Branch President Steve Mays. “We are calling on the community to spread the word so that we can get as many young people involved as possible.”
The Gary Branch of the NAACP is also seeking judges from the community to support this impactful program. Professionals, educators, artists, and subject matter experts are encouraged to volunteer. Judges may serve in one or multiple categories based on their background or area of expertise.
“This is an opportunity to mentor, inspire, and uplift local youth,” added Payne. “Judges play a critical role in recognizing and encouraging our children to strive for excellence.”
All students in grades 9th through 12th with parental permission and a completed application prior to participation, are encouraged to compete in the following categories:
STEM: - Architecture - Biology/Microbiology -Chemistry/Biochemistry - Artificial Intelligence & Computer Science - Earth & Space Sciences - Physics - Engineering - Mathematics - Medicine & Health - Robotics
Business: - Entrepreneurship
Humanities: - Music Composition - Original Essay - Playwriting - Poetry (Written) - Short Story - Culinary
Visual Arts: - Filmmaking - Drawing - Painting - Photography - Sculpture
Performing Arts: - Dance: Ballet/Contemporary/Modern/Cultural - Dramatic Arts: Acting - Music Instrumental: Classical/Contemporary - Music Vocal: Classical/Contemporary - Oratory - Spoken Word
Students are also encouraged to mentorship meetings to assist in preparation for the competition. These sessions provide guidance, support, and preparation aligned with detailed category criteria. These will take place at:
City Life Center
225 W. 5th Ave, Gary, IN
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM – 7:45 PM
All interested students must register online using the official ACT-SO portal.
For student inquiries, category questions, or judge volunteer interest, please contact:
Laurie Jeana Payne
ACT-SO Chairperson
219-902-2730 (call or text)
actso.gary.3050@gmail.com
###
About the NAACP Gary Branch
The Gary Branch of the NAACP remains committed to empowering youth through education, mentorship, and opportunity. ACT-SO continues to serve as a powerful platform where students can discover their potential, express their talents, and compete on both local and national stages. Join us in developing today’s youth into tomorrow’s leaders—whether as a participant or a valued community judge.
REGISTER
There are so many scholarships and community opportunities available to the GCSC families. Please see the flyers below.
Dear WSLA Families,
This is a reminder of the events happening this week at WSLA.
On Friday, March 27, 2026, we will be holding Parent-Teacher Conferences. Parents will have the opportunity to receive their scholar’s report card and meet with teachers to discuss important information related to their scholar’s progress. Parent teacher conference will be held from 12:30p.m.-5:30-p.m.
We will also be hosting our PAC meeting from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. If you would like to join the PAC meting virtually, please email Mrs. Fullilove at jfullilove@garycsc.k12.in.us for more information.
We encourage you to join us!
Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you.
Is your scholar graduation-ready? Please review the attached flyers for important information regarding senior fees and the senior trip.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the office at 219-413-9870.
Thank you!
📢 WSLA Families & Students – We Want to Hear From You!
As we look toward the future of West Side Leadership Academy, your voice is essential. Help us identify the qualities and leadership you want to see in the next principal by completing the “Stakeholder Input for WSLA Principal” survey.
📝 Take the survey here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1e7YgejEXPwRs1a6VUz4Up-rzcq8B5NX63KtqbTgCYbk/viewform?ts=69bafdae&edit_requested=true
You can also find it on the WSLA webpage.
Together, we build stronger schools.
Dear GCSC Families, Scholarship opportunity. Deadline is April 17, 2026.
Find Criteria & Apply at:
https://urbanleagueofnwi.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b297efa37d395d058d4e5b9fc&id=2cd767a817&e=5d1e770b13
Dear GCSC Families,
Your voice matters in the Gary Community School Corporation. We are asking families to take a few minutes to complete our Family Survey and share your experiences with our schools.
Your feedback helps district leaders and school staff better understand how we can strengthen communication, improve support services, and continue creating positive learning environments for every student.
As a thank you for your participation, families who complete the survey will be entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift card.
📝 Complete the survey here:
https://s.alchemer.com/s3/d1badf3ac989
Thank you for partnering with us as we continue building strong schools and strong communities.
Sincerely,
Gary Community School Corporation
