🍂🧡💙 WSLA FALL BREAK REMINDER! 💙🧡🍂
Hey, Cougar Families! 🐾
Please remember that West Side Leadership Academy will be CLOSED for Fall Break on Friday, October 23rd, and Monday, October 26th. There will be no school on these dates.
We encourage all of our scholars and families to take this time to rest, recharge, spend quality time together, and make wonderful memories! 🍁🍂
📢 IMPORTANT FEMA REMINDER! The FEMA application deadline is quickly approaching! If you have not already done so, please make sure to complete your application before the deadline. Don't miss out on assistance that may be available to support your family.
Enjoy your Fall Break, Cougar Families! Stay safe, enjoy yourselves, and come back ready to finish strong! 🧡💙
🐾 Stay Safe • Stay Positive • Cougar Pride!
#WSLA #CougarPride #FallBreak #CougarFamilies #FEMADeadline #RestRechargeAndReconnect
Hey, Cougar Families! 🐾
Please remember that West Side Leadership Academy will be CLOSED for Fall Break on Friday, October 23rd, and Monday, October 26th. There will be no school on these dates.
We encourage all of our scholars and families to take this time to rest, recharge, spend quality time together, and make wonderful memories! 🍁🍂
📢 IMPORTANT FEMA REMINDER! The FEMA application deadline is quickly approaching! If you have not already done so, please make sure to complete your application before the deadline. Don't miss out on assistance that may be available to support your family.
Enjoy your Fall Break, Cougar Families! Stay safe, enjoy yourselves, and come back ready to finish strong! 🧡💙
🐾 Stay Safe • Stay Positive • Cougar Pride!
#WSLA #CougarPride #FallBreak #CougarFamilies #FEMADeadline #RestRechargeAndReconnect
📣 YOU BELONG HERE: GCSC STUDENT SUCCESS SUMMIT! 💙🧡
During the last two weeks, the Department of Student Services and Accountability hosted the “You Belong Here: GCSC Student Success Summit” for high school scholars in grades 9–12. The first week welcomed our 11th- and 12th-grade scholars, followed by sessions for our 9th- and 10th-grade scholars during the second week.
The summit featured engaging, informative, and restorative sessions focused on attendance, academic achievement, personal accountability, and staying on track for graduation.
📊 KNOW YOUR NUMBERS!
A key message throughout the summit encouraged scholars to understand how their attendance percentages, grades, course performance, and earned credits affect their progress toward graduation. Through real-life scenarios, reflection, and meaningful discussions, students identified practical steps to stay on track or get back on track academically.
🤝 COMMUNITY PARTNERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
We were proud to partner with the Lake County Juvenile Center, whose representatives shared important messages about consistent school attendance, positive decision-making, and personal responsibility. Scholars were reminded that the choices they make today can influence their future opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.
Students were also introduced to Project Rebuild, highlighting additional resources and support available to help students and families overcome attendance barriers and work toward success.
💬 STUDENT VOICE. ACCOUNTABILITY. SUPPORT.
Beyond academics and attendance, the summit provided a supportive space for student voice, reflection, and open dialogue. School and district leaders listened to scholars, reinforced the importance of accountability, and reminded students that they are not alone on their journey to graduation.
🏡 FAMILIES, WE NEED YOUR PARTNERSHIP!
Parents and caregivers, please encourage your scholar to:
✅ Know their attendance percentage.
✅ Monitor grades and earned credits.
✅ Attend school and every class consistently.
✅ Take responsibility for academic progress.
✅ Reach out to school staff when additional support is needed.
Together, we can help every scholar develop positive habits, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals!
As we conclude our high school summit series, our message remains clear:
SHOW UP. STAY ENGAGED. GET SUPPORT. FINISH STRONG.
💙🧡 YOU BELONG HERE!
📸 Take a look at the highlights from both weeks as our 9th–12th-grade scholars participated in meaningful conversations, reflected on their progress, and took important steps toward brighter futures!
#YouBelongHere #GCSCStudentSuccess #KnowYourNumbers #StudentAchievement #AttendanceMatters #FinishStrong #GCSCPride
During the last two weeks, the Department of Student Services and Accountability hosted the “You Belong Here: GCSC Student Success Summit” for high school scholars in grades 9–12. The first week welcomed our 11th- and 12th-grade scholars, followed by sessions for our 9th- and 10th-grade scholars during the second week.
The summit featured engaging, informative, and restorative sessions focused on attendance, academic achievement, personal accountability, and staying on track for graduation.
📊 KNOW YOUR NUMBERS!
A key message throughout the summit encouraged scholars to understand how their attendance percentages, grades, course performance, and earned credits affect their progress toward graduation. Through real-life scenarios, reflection, and meaningful discussions, students identified practical steps to stay on track or get back on track academically.
🤝 COMMUNITY PARTNERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
We were proud to partner with the Lake County Juvenile Center, whose representatives shared important messages about consistent school attendance, positive decision-making, and personal responsibility. Scholars were reminded that the choices they make today can influence their future opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.
Students were also introduced to Project Rebuild, highlighting additional resources and support available to help students and families overcome attendance barriers and work toward success.
💬 STUDENT VOICE. ACCOUNTABILITY. SUPPORT.
Beyond academics and attendance, the summit provided a supportive space for student voice, reflection, and open dialogue. School and district leaders listened to scholars, reinforced the importance of accountability, and reminded students that they are not alone on their journey to graduation.
🏡 FAMILIES, WE NEED YOUR PARTNERSHIP!
Parents and caregivers, please encourage your scholar to:
✅ Know their attendance percentage.
✅ Monitor grades and earned credits.
✅ Attend school and every class consistently.
✅ Take responsibility for academic progress.
✅ Reach out to school staff when additional support is needed.
Together, we can help every scholar develop positive habits, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals!
As we conclude our high school summit series, our message remains clear:
SHOW UP. STAY ENGAGED. GET SUPPORT. FINISH STRONG.
💙🧡 YOU BELONG HERE!
📸 Take a look at the highlights from both weeks as our 9th–12th-grade scholars participated in meaningful conversations, reflected on their progress, and took important steps toward brighter futures!
#YouBelongHere #GCSCStudentSuccess #KnowYourNumbers #StudentAchievement #AttendanceMatters #FinishStrong #GCSCPride
🤖 WSLA STEM Scholars Explore the Future of Technology! 🚀
STEM scholars from West Side Leadership Academy’s Computer Science and Engineering classes recently attended Students PACK the EXPO in Chicago!
During this exciting field experience, students had the opportunity to explore robotics case packing and palletizing systems in motion, observe industrial robotic arms in action, and discover award-nominated packaging designs from around the world. 🌎
This hands-on learning experience expanded students’ awareness of the many rewarding career opportunities available in STEM, particularly within the packaging and processing industries.
🎉 A HUGE SHOUT-OUT TO MS. WILLIAMS! 🎉
We want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Ms. Williams for providing our scholars with this wonderful educational experience! Thank you for going above and beyond to expose our students to real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and innovation. Experiences like these help our scholars dream bigger, explore new possibilities, and envision exciting futures in STEM careers. We appreciate your dedication to our students and their success! 👏🏽💙🧡
At WSLA, we are committed to providing our scholars with opportunities that inspire innovation, spark curiosity, and prepare them for the careers of tomorrow!
💙🧡 Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow. Cougar Pride!
#WSLA #STEMEducation #ComputerScience #Engineering #Robotics #FutureInnovators #TeacherAppreciation #CougarPride #GarySchools
STEM scholars from West Side Leadership Academy’s Computer Science and Engineering classes recently attended Students PACK the EXPO in Chicago!
During this exciting field experience, students had the opportunity to explore robotics case packing and palletizing systems in motion, observe industrial robotic arms in action, and discover award-nominated packaging designs from around the world. 🌎
This hands-on learning experience expanded students’ awareness of the many rewarding career opportunities available in STEM, particularly within the packaging and processing industries.
🎉 A HUGE SHOUT-OUT TO MS. WILLIAMS! 🎉
We want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Ms. Williams for providing our scholars with this wonderful educational experience! Thank you for going above and beyond to expose our students to real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and innovation. Experiences like these help our scholars dream bigger, explore new possibilities, and envision exciting futures in STEM careers. We appreciate your dedication to our students and their success! 👏🏽💙🧡
At WSLA, we are committed to providing our scholars with opportunities that inspire innovation, spark curiosity, and prepare them for the careers of tomorrow!
💙🧡 Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow. Cougar Pride!
#WSLA #STEMEducation #ComputerScience #Engineering #Robotics #FutureInnovators #TeacherAppreciation #CougarPride #GarySchools
🤖 WSLA STEM Scholars Explore the Future of Technology! 🚀
STEM scholars from West Side Leadership Academy’s Computer Science and Engineering classes recently attended Students PACK the EXPO in Chicago!
During this exciting field experience, students had the opportunity to explore robotics case packing and palletizing systems in motion, observe industrial robotic arms in action, and discover award-nominated packaging designs from around the world. 🌎
This hands-on learning experience expanded students’ awareness of the many rewarding career opportunities available in STEM, particularly within the packaging and processing industries.
🎉 A HUGE SHOUT-OUT TO MS. WILLIAMS! 🎉
We want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Ms. Williams for providing our scholars with this wonderful educational experience! Thank you for going above and beyond to expose our students to real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and innovation. Experiences like these help our scholars dream bigger, explore new possibilities, and envision exciting futures in STEM careers. We appreciate your dedication to our students and their success! 👏🏽💙🧡
At WSLA, we are committed to providing our scholars with opportunities that inspire innovation, spark curiosity, and prepare them for the careers of tomorrow!
💙🧡 Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow. Cougar Pride!
#WSLA #STEMEducation #ComputerScience #Engineering #Robotics #FutureInnovators #TeacherAppreciation #CougarPride #GarySchools
STEM scholars from West Side Leadership Academy’s Computer Science and Engineering classes recently attended Students PACK the EXPO in Chicago!
During this exciting field experience, students had the opportunity to explore robotics case packing and palletizing systems in motion, observe industrial robotic arms in action, and discover award-nominated packaging designs from around the world. 🌎
This hands-on learning experience expanded students’ awareness of the many rewarding career opportunities available in STEM, particularly within the packaging and processing industries.
🎉 A HUGE SHOUT-OUT TO MS. WILLIAMS! 🎉
We want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Ms. Williams for providing our scholars with this wonderful educational experience! Thank you for going above and beyond to expose our students to real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and innovation. Experiences like these help our scholars dream bigger, explore new possibilities, and envision exciting futures in STEM careers. We appreciate your dedication to our students and their success! 👏🏽💙🧡
At WSLA, we are committed to providing our scholars with opportunities that inspire innovation, spark curiosity, and prepare them for the careers of tomorrow!
💙🧡 Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow. Cougar Pride!
#WSLA #STEMEducation #ComputerScience #Engineering #Robotics #FutureInnovators #TeacherAppreciation #CougarPride #GarySchools
📣 ATTENTION, WSLA FAMILIES! 📰💙
We encourage all of our WSLA families to take a few moments to read our school newsletter! 🏫✨
Our newsletter is a great way to stay informed and up to date on current school events, important announcements, upcoming activities, and all the exciting things happening at WSLA! 📅🎉
https://app.smore.com/n/t2qvn
📌 Stay connected. Stay informed. Stay involved!
Thank you for being an important part of our WSLA family and for staying engaged in our school community. We appreciate your continued support! 💙🤍
#WSLAFamily #StayConnected #SchoolCommunity #WSLAUpdates
We encourage all of our WSLA families to take a few moments to read our school newsletter! 🏫✨
Our newsletter is a great way to stay informed and up to date on current school events, important announcements, upcoming activities, and all the exciting things happening at WSLA! 📅🎉
https://app.smore.com/n/t2qvn
📌 Stay connected. Stay informed. Stay involved!
Thank you for being an important part of our WSLA family and for staying engaged in our school community. We appreciate your continued support! 💙🤍
#WSLAFamily #StayConnected #SchoolCommunity #WSLAUpdates
💙 A HUGE THANK YOU! 💙
A big thank you to all the parents who came out to Parent-Teacher Conferences tonight! We truly appreciate you taking the time to connect with our teachers, discuss your child’s progress, and continue working together to support student success. Your involvement makes a difference! 🏫✨
🌟 A special shout-out to our amazing teachers! 🌟 Thank you for creating such a warm, welcoming, and inviting environment for our families. Your dedication, kindness, and commitment to building strong relationships with parents do not go unnoticed. We appreciate all that you do to make our school a place where families feel valued and supported! ❤️
When parents and teachers work together, great things happen! Thank you all for being part of our school community. We are stronger together! 🤝📚
#ThankYouParents #AmazingTeachers #StrongerTogether #SchoolCommunity #StudentSuccess 💙
A big thank you to all the parents who came out to Parent-Teacher Conferences tonight! We truly appreciate you taking the time to connect with our teachers, discuss your child’s progress, and continue working together to support student success. Your involvement makes a difference! 🏫✨
🌟 A special shout-out to our amazing teachers! 🌟 Thank you for creating such a warm, welcoming, and inviting environment for our families. Your dedication, kindness, and commitment to building strong relationships with parents do not go unnoticed. We appreciate all that you do to make our school a place where families feel valued and supported! ❤️
When parents and teachers work together, great things happen! Thank you all for being part of our school community. We are stronger together! 🤝📚
#ThankYouParents #AmazingTeachers #StrongerTogether #SchoolCommunity #StudentSuccess 💙
📣 HAPPY FRIDAY, COUGAR FAMILIES! 🐾🧡💙
Today is Friday, October 16th, and we have an important day of learning and family engagement at West Side Leadership Academy!
💻 Synchronous E-Learning | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
All students are expected to log in to Google Meet at 10:00 AM for live instruction with their teachers. Please make sure your scholar is logged in on time and ready to learn!
👨👩👧👦 Parent/Teacher Conferences | 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Parents and guardians, we look forward to seeing you today! This is a great opportunity to meet with your child’s teachers, discuss academic progress, ask questions, and share feedback.
🚪 IMPORTANT: Please enter through DOOR A!
📚 Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting
Our Parent/Teacher Conference Day will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting. Families will receive important information about Title I, parent rights, curriculum, academic assessments, and grade-level expectations.
💻 Virtual conference options must also be available for parents.
❤️ Cougar Families, your voice matters! Your partnership plays an important role in your scholar’s success. Let’s continue working together to help our students thrive!
We look forward to connecting with you today! 🐾🧡💙
#WSLACougars #CougarPride #ParentTeacherConferences #SynchronousELearning #FamilyEngagement #StudentSuccess
Today is Friday, October 16th, and we have an important day of learning and family engagement at West Side Leadership Academy!
💻 Synchronous E-Learning | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
All students are expected to log in to Google Meet at 10:00 AM for live instruction with their teachers. Please make sure your scholar is logged in on time and ready to learn!
👨👩👧👦 Parent/Teacher Conferences | 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Parents and guardians, we look forward to seeing you today! This is a great opportunity to meet with your child’s teachers, discuss academic progress, ask questions, and share feedback.
🚪 IMPORTANT: Please enter through DOOR A!
📚 Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting
Our Parent/Teacher Conference Day will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting. Families will receive important information about Title I, parent rights, curriculum, academic assessments, and grade-level expectations.
💻 Virtual conference options must also be available for parents.
❤️ Cougar Families, your voice matters! Your partnership plays an important role in your scholar’s success. Let’s continue working together to help our students thrive!
We look forward to connecting with you today! 🐾🧡💙
#WSLACougars #CougarPride #ParentTeacherConferences #SynchronousELearning #FamilyEngagement #StudentSuccess
📣 REMINDER, COUGAR FAMILIES! 🐾💙🧡
Tomorrow is Parent/Teacher Conference Day at West Side Leadership Academy! We look forward to connecting with our families and working together to support our scholars’ success!
📅 Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
💻 Synchronous E-Learning for Students
⏰ Students must log in to Google Meet from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
📚 Teachers will provide live, synchronous instruction. Please make sure your scholar logs in on time and participates in class!
👨👩👧👦 Parent/Teacher Conferences
⏰ 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
🚪 ENTRY: Please enter through DOOR A!
📢 Important: Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting
Parent/Teacher Conferences will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting. Families will receive important information about Title I, parent rights, curriculum, academic assessments, and grade-level expectations.
💻 Virtual conference options must also be available for parents.
❤️ Your voice matters! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher, discuss academic progress, ask questions, and share feedback.
We can’t wait to see our Cougar families tomorrow! Let’s continue partnering together for student success! 🐾🧡💙
#WSLACougars #CougarPride #ParentTeacherConferences #SynchronousELearning #FamilyEngagement #StudentSuccess
Tomorrow is Parent/Teacher Conference Day at West Side Leadership Academy! We look forward to connecting with our families and working together to support our scholars’ success!
📅 Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
💻 Synchronous E-Learning for Students
⏰ Students must log in to Google Meet from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
📚 Teachers will provide live, synchronous instruction. Please make sure your scholar logs in on time and participates in class!
👨👩👧👦 Parent/Teacher Conferences
⏰ 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
🚪 ENTRY: Please enter through DOOR A!
📢 Important: Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting
Parent/Teacher Conferences will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting. Families will receive important information about Title I, parent rights, curriculum, academic assessments, and grade-level expectations.
💻 Virtual conference options must also be available for parents.
❤️ Your voice matters! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher, discuss academic progress, ask questions, and share feedback.
We can’t wait to see our Cougar families tomorrow! Let’s continue partnering together for student success! 🐾🧡💙
#WSLACougars #CougarPride #ParentTeacherConferences #SynchronousELearning #FamilyEngagement #StudentSuccess
🐾🧡💙 REMINDER, COUGAR FAMILIES! IMPORTANT DATES THIS WEEK AT WSLA! 💙🧡🐾
Happy Tuesday, Cougar Families! Please mark your calendars for two important reminders for this week at West Side Leadership Academy! 📣
🕧 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 — HALF DAY!
Please remember that students will begin their school day at 8:30 AM and will be dismissed at 12:30 PM. Make sure transportation and pickup arrangements are in place!
👨👩👧👦 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 — PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES!
We invite all Cougar Families to join us for our Parent/Teacher Conferences from 12:30 PM–5:30 PM.
📚 We will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting! All families are invited and encouraged to attend. This is a great opportunity to:
✅ Discuss your scholar’s academic progress.
✅ Review curriculum, assessments, and grade-level expectations.
✅ Learn about our Title I program and parent and family engagement opportunities.
✅ Ask questions, share feedback, and strengthen the partnership between home and school.
💻 Virtual conference options must be available for parents.
Your involvement makes a difference! We look forward to working together to support the success of every scholar.
📢 Please share this reminder with other Cougar Families!
🧡💙 COUGAR PRIDE — TOGETHER, WE ACHIEVE MORE! 🐾
#WSLA #CougarPride #CougarFamilies #ParentTeacherConferences #TitleI #FamilyEngagement
Happy Tuesday, Cougar Families! Please mark your calendars for two important reminders for this week at West Side Leadership Academy! 📣
🕧 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 — HALF DAY!
Please remember that students will begin their school day at 8:30 AM and will be dismissed at 12:30 PM. Make sure transportation and pickup arrangements are in place!
👨👩👧👦 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 — PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES!
We invite all Cougar Families to join us for our Parent/Teacher Conferences from 12:30 PM–5:30 PM.
📚 We will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting! All families are invited and encouraged to attend. This is a great opportunity to:
✅ Discuss your scholar’s academic progress.
✅ Review curriculum, assessments, and grade-level expectations.
✅ Learn about our Title I program and parent and family engagement opportunities.
✅ Ask questions, share feedback, and strengthen the partnership between home and school.
💻 Virtual conference options must be available for parents.
Your involvement makes a difference! We look forward to working together to support the success of every scholar.
📢 Please share this reminder with other Cougar Families!
🧡💙 COUGAR PRIDE — TOGETHER, WE ACHIEVE MORE! 🐾
#WSLA #CougarPride #CougarFamilies #ParentTeacherConferences #TitleI #FamilyEngagement
🐾🧡💙 COUGAR FAMILIES, IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR FAMILY ENGAGEMENT! LET'S SHOW UP AND GET CONNECTED! 💙🧡🐾
West Side Leadership Academy families and GCSC community members, we have THREE exciting opportunities this week to connect, share ideas, support our students, and strengthen our school community! 🎉🙌🏽
☕🎭 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13TH: PARENT CAFÉ — “PARENTING THROUGH THE MASK”
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Frankie Woods-McCullough Academy
📍 3757 W. 21st Ave., Gary, IN 46404
Let's talk, learn, connect, and support one another! ❤️ This is an opportunity for parents and caring adults to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and strengthen our families and community.
✨ Adults only! Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, godparents, and other caring adults are welcome!
🪪 REMINDER: Bring a valid ID to enter the building. Scan the QR code on the Parent Café flyer to register!
📣 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH: PARENT PARTNERSHIP COUNCIL MEETING
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Frankie Woods-McCullough Academy
📍 3757 W. 21st Ave., Gary, IN
🧡💙 PARENTS AND GUARDIANS, YOUR VOICE MATTERS! Join us for important district updates, planning for our new Parent University, and meaningful discussions about parent engagement.
This is your opportunity to share ideas, get involved, and help shape opportunities that support our students and families. Your participation makes a difference!
📞 Questions? Call 219-963-2901 or email ppc@garycsc.k12.in.us.
📚🎓 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16TH: PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES & ANNUAL TITLE I PARENT AND FAMILY MEETING
🕙 Student Google Meet Login: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Teachers will provide synchronous live instruction.
🕧 Parent/Teacher Conferences: 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
📣 FAMILIES, DON'T MISS THIS IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITY! Conferences will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting, where families will receive information about our school's Title I program, parent rights, curriculum, academic assessments, and academic expectations.
✅ Meet with your child's teachers.
✅ Discuss your child's academic progress.
✅ Review curriculum and grade-level expectations.
✅ Learn about our School Parent & Family Engagement Policy.
✅ Ask questions and share your feedback.
✅ Partner with us to help your child succeed!
💙🧡 COUGAR FAMILIES, WE NEED YOU! 🧡💙
When families and schools work together, our students thrive! Whether you're attending the Parent Café, participating in the Parent Partnership Council, or meeting with your child's teachers, your involvement helps build a stronger future for our children.
📢 SHARE THIS POST, TAG A PARENT OR GUARDIAN, AND SPREAD THE WORD!
Let's continue building meaningful partnerships, strengthening family engagement, and showing our students that we are all on their team!
🐾 EVERY FAMILY MATTERS. EVERY VOICE COUNTS. EVERY STUDENT DESERVES TO SUCCEED!
#GCSCFamilies #WSLACougarPride #ParentPartnershipCouncil #ParentCafe #ParentTeacherConferences #TitleI #FamilyEngagement #StrongerTogether #CougarFamilies
West Side Leadership Academy families and GCSC community members, we have THREE exciting opportunities this week to connect, share ideas, support our students, and strengthen our school community! 🎉🙌🏽
☕🎭 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13TH: PARENT CAFÉ — “PARENTING THROUGH THE MASK”
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Frankie Woods-McCullough Academy
📍 3757 W. 21st Ave., Gary, IN 46404
Let's talk, learn, connect, and support one another! ❤️ This is an opportunity for parents and caring adults to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and strengthen our families and community.
✨ Adults only! Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, godparents, and other caring adults are welcome!
🪪 REMINDER: Bring a valid ID to enter the building. Scan the QR code on the Parent Café flyer to register!
📣 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH: PARENT PARTNERSHIP COUNCIL MEETING
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Frankie Woods-McCullough Academy
📍 3757 W. 21st Ave., Gary, IN
🧡💙 PARENTS AND GUARDIANS, YOUR VOICE MATTERS! Join us for important district updates, planning for our new Parent University, and meaningful discussions about parent engagement.
This is your opportunity to share ideas, get involved, and help shape opportunities that support our students and families. Your participation makes a difference!
📞 Questions? Call 219-963-2901 or email ppc@garycsc.k12.in.us.
📚🎓 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16TH: PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES & ANNUAL TITLE I PARENT AND FAMILY MEETING
🕙 Student Google Meet Login: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Teachers will provide synchronous live instruction.
🕧 Parent/Teacher Conferences: 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
📣 FAMILIES, DON'T MISS THIS IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITY! Conferences will begin with our Annual Title I Parent & Family Meeting, where families will receive information about our school's Title I program, parent rights, curriculum, academic assessments, and academic expectations.
✅ Meet with your child's teachers.
✅ Discuss your child's academic progress.
✅ Review curriculum and grade-level expectations.
✅ Learn about our School Parent & Family Engagement Policy.
✅ Ask questions and share your feedback.
✅ Partner with us to help your child succeed!
💙🧡 COUGAR FAMILIES, WE NEED YOU! 🧡💙
When families and schools work together, our students thrive! Whether you're attending the Parent Café, participating in the Parent Partnership Council, or meeting with your child's teachers, your involvement helps build a stronger future for our children.
📢 SHARE THIS POST, TAG A PARENT OR GUARDIAN, AND SPREAD THE WORD!
Let's continue building meaningful partnerships, strengthening family engagement, and showing our students that we are all on their team!
🐾 EVERY FAMILY MATTERS. EVERY VOICE COUNTS. EVERY STUDENT DESERVES TO SUCCEED!
#GCSCFamilies #WSLACougarPride #ParentPartnershipCouncil #ParentCafe #ParentTeacherConferences #TitleI #FamilyEngagement #StrongerTogether #CougarFamilies
📣🐾 WSLA FAMILIES — IMPORTANT HOMECOMING & FAMILY REMINDERS! 🐾📣
Cougar Families, Homecoming 2026 is here! 🎉💙🧡 We have a lot happening over the next week, so please take a moment to review these important reminders!
💻📚 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 — SYNCHRONOUS LEARNING DAY
There will be NO in-person school on Friday, October 9th.
(UPON BOARD APPROVAL)
Students will participate in a Synchronous Learning Day, so please make sure students are prepared to log in and participate in their classes as instructed by their teachers.
🎉🏈 HOMECOMING DAY — FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9
Even though students will be learning remotely, we are still celebrating Homecoming! 🧡💙
🔥 TAILGATE PARTY — 5:00 PM
📍 By the Football Field
Come out and kick off Homecoming festivities with your Cougar Family!
🎊 PARADE — 5:30 PM
🏈 FOOTBALL GAME — 7:00 PM
🆚 Bishop Noll Institute
Bring your family, wear your Cougar colors, and let's pack the field! 🐾🏈
💃🏾👑 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 — HOMECOMING DANCE
⏰ 6:00–9:00 PM
🎟️ $20 in advance | $25 at the door
✨ Semi-formal attire
💵 Cash Only — No Cash App
🎀🏐 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 — BREAST CANCER VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT
⏰ Starts at 8:00 AM
📍 WSLA Gym — 900 Gerry Street
Come support this special event featuring door prizes, vendors, and a special presentation between Games 4 & 5! 🎀🏐💗
☕🧡 PARENT CAFÉ — TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13
⏰ 5:00–7:00 PM
📍 McCullough Elementary School
Haven't signed up yet? There's still time! Join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and community. We encourage all WSLA families to participate!
⭐🗣️ PARENT PARTNERSHIP COUNCIL — WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14
⏰ 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 McCullough Elementary School
Your voice matters! Come share your ideas, connect with other families, and help strengthen the partnership between WSLA families and our school.
🍎📚 PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES & TITLE I INFORMATION
📅 Friday, October 16th
⏰ 12:30–5:30 PM
Parents and guardians, please take advantage of this opportunity to connect with your student's teachers, discuss academic progress, ask questions, and work together to support your child's success. ❤️
📢 There will also be a Title I Meeting and Title I information available during Parent-Teacher Conferences. This is a great opportunity for families to learn more about Title I services, family engagement opportunities, resources, and how Title I supports our students and families.
We strongly encourage all WSLA families to attend! Your partnership and involvement are important to your student's success! 🧡💙🐾
🐾💙🧡 WSLA FAMILIES — YOUR INVOLVEMENT MATTERS! 🧡💙🐾
We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events as we celebrate our students, families, and Cougar community!
ONE SCHOOL. ONE FAMILY. ONE LEGACY.
🐾 GO COUGARS! 🐾
#WSLAHomecoming2026 #CougarPride #WSLAFamilies #SynchronousLearning #ParentCafe #ParentPartnershipCouncil #ParentTeacherConferences #GoCougars
Cougar Families, Homecoming 2026 is here! 🎉💙🧡 We have a lot happening over the next week, so please take a moment to review these important reminders!
💻📚 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 — SYNCHRONOUS LEARNING DAY
There will be NO in-person school on Friday, October 9th.
(UPON BOARD APPROVAL)
Students will participate in a Synchronous Learning Day, so please make sure students are prepared to log in and participate in their classes as instructed by their teachers.
🎉🏈 HOMECOMING DAY — FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9
Even though students will be learning remotely, we are still celebrating Homecoming! 🧡💙
🔥 TAILGATE PARTY — 5:00 PM
📍 By the Football Field
Come out and kick off Homecoming festivities with your Cougar Family!
🎊 PARADE — 5:30 PM
🏈 FOOTBALL GAME — 7:00 PM
🆚 Bishop Noll Institute
Bring your family, wear your Cougar colors, and let's pack the field! 🐾🏈
💃🏾👑 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 — HOMECOMING DANCE
⏰ 6:00–9:00 PM
🎟️ $20 in advance | $25 at the door
✨ Semi-formal attire
💵 Cash Only — No Cash App
🎀🏐 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 — BREAST CANCER VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT
⏰ Starts at 8:00 AM
📍 WSLA Gym — 900 Gerry Street
Come support this special event featuring door prizes, vendors, and a special presentation between Games 4 & 5! 🎀🏐💗
☕🧡 PARENT CAFÉ — TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13
⏰ 5:00–7:00 PM
📍 McCullough Elementary School
Haven't signed up yet? There's still time! Join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and community. We encourage all WSLA families to participate!
⭐🗣️ PARENT PARTNERSHIP COUNCIL — WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14
⏰ 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 McCullough Elementary School
Your voice matters! Come share your ideas, connect with other families, and help strengthen the partnership between WSLA families and our school.
🍎📚 PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES & TITLE I INFORMATION
📅 Friday, October 16th
⏰ 12:30–5:30 PM
Parents and guardians, please take advantage of this opportunity to connect with your student's teachers, discuss academic progress, ask questions, and work together to support your child's success. ❤️
📢 There will also be a Title I Meeting and Title I information available during Parent-Teacher Conferences. This is a great opportunity for families to learn more about Title I services, family engagement opportunities, resources, and how Title I supports our students and families.
We strongly encourage all WSLA families to attend! Your partnership and involvement are important to your student's success! 🧡💙🐾
🐾💙🧡 WSLA FAMILIES — YOUR INVOLVEMENT MATTERS! 🧡💙🐾
We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events as we celebrate our students, families, and Cougar community!
ONE SCHOOL. ONE FAMILY. ONE LEGACY.
🐾 GO COUGARS! 🐾
#WSLAHomecoming2026 #CougarPride #WSLAFamilies #SynchronousLearning #ParentCafe #ParentPartnershipCouncil #ParentTeacherConferences #GoCougars
🐾💙🧡 WHAT’S GOING ON AT WSLA THIS WEEK? 🧡💙🐾
🎉 HOMECOMING WEEK IS HERE! 🎉
Cougar Families, get ready! Homecoming will be celebrated ALL WEEK LONG! Show your Cougar Pride and participate in our Spirit Week activities!
📅 WEDNESDAY – TWIN/TRIPLETS DAY 👯♀️
Grab your besties and coordinate your outfits!
Come dressed as twins or triplets and show off your school spirit!
📅 THURSDAY – SCHOOL SPIRIT DAY 🐾🧡💙
It’s time to represent West Side Leadership Academy!
Wear your Cougar gear, school colors, and anything that shows your WSLA PRIDE!
🚨 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 - HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME
🏫 HOMECOMING PARADE & TAILGATE PARTY
📅 Friday, October 9
⏰ 5:30 PM
🏈 Followed by the Homecoming Football Game at 7:00 PM
📍 West Side Leadership Academy
Come out and support our Cougars as we celebrate Homecoming! 🧡💙🐾
💃 SATURDAY – HOMECOMING DANCE
📅 Saturday, October 10
⏰ 6:00–9:00 PM
📍 West Side Leadership Academy
🚪 Students enter through Door J
🎟️ Tickets:
• $20 in advance
• $25 at the door
🚨 Important: Students from other schools will NOT be permitted to attend the dance.
🏐💗 ALSO HAPPENING SATURDAY!
Don't forget about the WSLA Breast Cancer Awareness Volleyball Tournament!
📅 Saturday, October 10
⏰ 8:00 AM
📍 West Side Leadership Academy Gym
Come out, support our Lady Cougars, and help us recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month! 💗🏐🎀 The tournament includes WSLA and visiting teams, with the championship game scheduled for 2:30 PM.
🧡💙 LET'S MAKE THIS A HOMECOMING TO REMEMBER! 💙🧡
🎉 HOMECOMING WEEK IS HERE! 🎉
Cougar Families, get ready! Homecoming will be celebrated ALL WEEK LONG! Show your Cougar Pride and participate in our Spirit Week activities!
📅 WEDNESDAY – TWIN/TRIPLETS DAY 👯♀️
Grab your besties and coordinate your outfits!
Come dressed as twins or triplets and show off your school spirit!
📅 THURSDAY – SCHOOL SPIRIT DAY 🐾🧡💙
It’s time to represent West Side Leadership Academy!
Wear your Cougar gear, school colors, and anything that shows your WSLA PRIDE!
🚨 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 - HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME
🏫 HOMECOMING PARADE & TAILGATE PARTY
📅 Friday, October 9
⏰ 5:30 PM
🏈 Followed by the Homecoming Football Game at 7:00 PM
📍 West Side Leadership Academy
Come out and support our Cougars as we celebrate Homecoming! 🧡💙🐾
💃 SATURDAY – HOMECOMING DANCE
📅 Saturday, October 10
⏰ 6:00–9:00 PM
📍 West Side Leadership Academy
🚪 Students enter through Door J
🎟️ Tickets:
• $20 in advance
• $25 at the door
🚨 Important: Students from other schools will NOT be permitted to attend the dance.
🏐💗 ALSO HAPPENING SATURDAY!
Don't forget about the WSLA Breast Cancer Awareness Volleyball Tournament!
📅 Saturday, October 10
⏰ 8:00 AM
📍 West Side Leadership Academy Gym
Come out, support our Lady Cougars, and help us recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month! 💗🏐🎀 The tournament includes WSLA and visiting teams, with the championship game scheduled for 2:30 PM.
🧡💙 LET'S MAKE THIS A HOMECOMING TO REMEMBER! 💙🧡
Dear WSLA Families and Students,
Happy Monday, Cougar Families! 🐾💙🧡
We are excited to share this week’s WSLA Weekly Newsletter with you! Please take a few minutes to review the newsletter for important school updates, upcoming events, reminders, athletics information, family engagement opportunities, and other important announcements.
📣 View the WSLA Weekly Newsletter:
WSLA Weekly Newsletter
We encourage all families and students to stay connected and check the newsletter, so you don’t miss out on everything happening at West Side Leadership Academy!
Thank you for your continued support of our scholars, staff, and Cougar community.
Go Cougars! 🐾🧡💙
Happy Monday, Cougar Families! 🐾💙🧡
We are excited to share this week’s WSLA Weekly Newsletter with you! Please take a few minutes to review the newsletter for important school updates, upcoming events, reminders, athletics information, family engagement opportunities, and other important announcements.
📣 View the WSLA Weekly Newsletter:
WSLA Weekly Newsletter
We encourage all families and students to stay connected and check the newsletter, so you don’t miss out on everything happening at West Side Leadership Academy!
Thank you for your continued support of our scholars, staff, and Cougar community.
Go Cougars! 🐾🧡💙
:
🐾🧡💙 COUGAR FAMILIES — HOMECOMING WEEK IS HERE! 💙🧡🐾
It’s time to show your COUGAR PRIDE! 🎉🏈👑 Get ready for an amazing week of school spirit, fun, family, and celebration!
🎉 HOMECOMING SPIRIT WEEK
📚 Monday, October 5: Frat vs. Nerd
🎶 Tuesday, October 6: 1970s, 1980s & 1990s
👕 Wednesday, October 7: West Side We Match — Twin/Triplet Day
📣 Thursday, October 8: Pep Rally Day — School Spirit Wear
Then we finish the week with an exciting Homecoming Parade & Football Game! 🏈🔥
📅 Friday, October 9
🎊 Parade begins: 5:30 PM
🏈 Football Game: 7:00 PM
🆚 West Side vs. Bishop Noll Institute
🧡💙 COUGAR TAILGATE PARTY! 🐾
Before the game, come out and fellowship with our Cougar family!
📅 Friday, October 9
⏰ Starting at 5:00 PM
💵 $5.00 Fee
✨ All proceeds from the $5 tailgate fee will go toward providing uniforms for the Cougar Caring Closet! 👕🐾
Your support will help make sure our scholars have access to the uniform items they need. Come enjoy the fun, support our students, and help us take care of our Cougar family!
☕ PARENT CAFÉ — DON'T FORGET TO REGISTER!
WSLA families, we also want to remind you about the upcoming GCSC Parent Café: “Parenting Through the Mask.” 🎭☕
📅 Tuesday, October 13
⏰ 5:00–7:00 PM
📍 Frankie Woods-McCullough Academy
3757 W. 21st Ave., Gary, IN 46404
This is a great opportunity for parents and caring adults to talk, learn, connect, and support one another. ❤️
👨👩👧👦 Adults Only — Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, godparents, and other caring adults are welcome!
📲 Please use the QR code on the flyer to register.
🪪 Remember to bring a valid ID to enter the building.
Let's make this a Homecoming Week to remember! 🧡💙
ONE SCHOOL. ONE FAMILY. ONE LEGACY.
🐾 GO COUGARS! 🐾
#WSLA #CougarPride #Homecoming2026 #SpiritWeek #CougarFamily #ParentCafe #CougarCaringCloset
🐾🧡💙 COUGAR FAMILIES — HOMECOMING WEEK IS HERE! 💙🧡🐾
It’s time to show your COUGAR PRIDE! 🎉🏈👑 Get ready for an amazing week of school spirit, fun, family, and celebration!
🎉 HOMECOMING SPIRIT WEEK
📚 Monday, October 5: Frat vs. Nerd
🎶 Tuesday, October 6: 1970s, 1980s & 1990s
👕 Wednesday, October 7: West Side We Match — Twin/Triplet Day
📣 Thursday, October 8: Pep Rally Day — School Spirit Wear
Then we finish the week with an exciting Homecoming Parade & Football Game! 🏈🔥
📅 Friday, October 9
🎊 Parade begins: 5:30 PM
🏈 Football Game: 7:00 PM
🆚 West Side vs. Bishop Noll Institute
🧡💙 COUGAR TAILGATE PARTY! 🐾
Before the game, come out and fellowship with our Cougar family!
📅 Friday, October 9
⏰ Starting at 5:00 PM
💵 $5.00 Fee
✨ All proceeds from the $5 tailgate fee will go toward providing uniforms for the Cougar Caring Closet! 👕🐾
Your support will help make sure our scholars have access to the uniform items they need. Come enjoy the fun, support our students, and help us take care of our Cougar family!
☕ PARENT CAFÉ — DON'T FORGET TO REGISTER!
WSLA families, we also want to remind you about the upcoming GCSC Parent Café: “Parenting Through the Mask.” 🎭☕
📅 Tuesday, October 13
⏰ 5:00–7:00 PM
📍 Frankie Woods-McCullough Academy
3757 W. 21st Ave., Gary, IN 46404
This is a great opportunity for parents and caring adults to talk, learn, connect, and support one another. ❤️
👨👩👧👦 Adults Only — Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, godparents, and other caring adults are welcome!
📲 Please use the QR code on the flyer to register.
🪪 Remember to bring a valid ID to enter the building.
Let's make this a Homecoming Week to remember! 🧡💙
ONE SCHOOL. ONE FAMILY. ONE LEGACY.
🐾 GO COUGARS! 🐾
#WSLA #CougarPride #Homecoming2026 #SpiritWeek #CougarFamily #ParentCafe #CougarCaringCloset
The energy inside the gym was electric as the West Side Leadership Academy Lady Cougars volleyball team secured a “straight set” victory over Gary Lighthouse College Prep on October 1st.
The court belonged to West Side's powerhouse senior core. Seniors Jada Womack, Alexis Jenkins, Brooklyn Rhodes, and Lacticyia Cabrera put on a masterclass of leadership, communication, and high-energy athleticism, highlighting the remarkable growth and chemistry the team has built over the course of the season.
The celebration will be short-lived, however, as the Lady Cougars immediately shift their focus to a major weekend challenge. West Side is scheduled to travel to face off against a tough Wheeler squad this Saturday, October 3rd at 10:00 a.m. @Wheeler High School. The “Tuesday Night Lights” of the 2026 Girls Flag Football sectional tournament felt brighter than usual, but the West Side Leadership Academy Cougars ladies didn't blink. In route to a dominant 47-0 shutout victory against 21st Century Charter School, the Cougars have officially put the region on notice. Their offense was an unstoppable buzzsaw, while the defense locked down every square inch of the gridiron.
In the post-game huddle, the message was clear: celebrate the win, but stay hungry. The scoreboard was reset to 0-0, and the real test was just ahead.
Next up, the Cougars are set to march into hostile territory to face the tournament hosts, the Munster Mustangs. They are also coming off a blowout win over Bowman Academy 35-0. Playing the Mustangs on their home turf will be a battle, but West Side is locked in. The Cougars plan to bring that exact same 47-point energy to the next round which continues this Saturday, October 3rd (10:00a) at Munster High School.
The court belonged to West Side's powerhouse senior core. Seniors Jada Womack, Alexis Jenkins, Brooklyn Rhodes, and Lacticyia Cabrera put on a masterclass of leadership, communication, and high-energy athleticism, highlighting the remarkable growth and chemistry the team has built over the course of the season.
The celebration will be short-lived, however, as the Lady Cougars immediately shift their focus to a major weekend challenge. West Side is scheduled to travel to face off against a tough Wheeler squad this Saturday, October 3rd at 10:00 a.m. @Wheeler High School. The “Tuesday Night Lights” of the 2026 Girls Flag Football sectional tournament felt brighter than usual, but the West Side Leadership Academy Cougars ladies didn't blink. In route to a dominant 47-0 shutout victory against 21st Century Charter School, the Cougars have officially put the region on notice. Their offense was an unstoppable buzzsaw, while the defense locked down every square inch of the gridiron.
In the post-game huddle, the message was clear: celebrate the win, but stay hungry. The scoreboard was reset to 0-0, and the real test was just ahead.
Next up, the Cougars are set to march into hostile territory to face the tournament hosts, the Munster Mustangs. They are also coming off a blowout win over Bowman Academy 35-0. Playing the Mustangs on their home turf will be a battle, but West Side is locked in. The Cougars plan to bring that exact same 47-point energy to the next round which continues this Saturday, October 3rd (10:00a) at Munster High School.
Good afternoon Cougar Nation,
Please come out to support our WSLA Boys Varsity Football Team (3-2) as they face undefeated Griffith High School (6-0) right here at Cougar Stadium with doors opening at 6:15pm. Price of admission is $6. We are currently accepting cash and card/tap payments both at concessions and the ticket gate.
Please remember that students (8th grade and younger) must be accompanied by a parent. There are also NO BAGS allowed within our venue.
This game will be broadcasted through Heartland Sports Network and will be available through the following link (https://www.heartlandsportsnet.com/sports.html/?B=4532442).
Consider prepurcharsing your ticket for expedited entrance through the QR Code provided. Thank you and Go Cougars!
Please come out to support our WSLA Boys Varsity Football Team (3-2) as they face undefeated Griffith High School (6-0) right here at Cougar Stadium with doors opening at 6:15pm. Price of admission is $6. We are currently accepting cash and card/tap payments both at concessions and the ticket gate.
Please remember that students (8th grade and younger) must be accompanied by a parent. There are also NO BAGS allowed within our venue.
This game will be broadcasted through Heartland Sports Network and will be available through the following link (https://www.heartlandsportsnet.com/sports.html/?B=4532442).
Consider prepurcharsing your ticket for expedited entrance through the QR Code provided. Thank you and Go Cougars!
🏐💙🧡 TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT, COUGAR FAMILY! 🧡💙🏐
🎓✨ IT’S GIRLS VOLLEYBALL SENIOR NIGHT! ✨🎓
Come out TONIGHT and help us celebrate our amazing senior volleyball players as we honor them for their hard work, dedication, leadership, and all the memories they’ve made on the court! 🥹🏐👏🏽
📣 COUGAR FAMILY — WE NEED YOU IN THE STANDS!
Bring your energy! Bring your school spirit! Bring your loudest cheers! 📢🔥
Let’s pack the gym, make some noise, and show our seniors just how proud we are of them! 💙🧡🐾
🏐 GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
🎓 SENIOR NIGHT
🔥 COME OUT & SUPPORT OUR SENIORS!
🚪 ENTER THROUGH DOOR J
💵 PAYMENT: CASH & CARD ACCEPTED
Don’t just hear about it tomorrow—BE THERE TONIGHT! 🙌🏽
LET’S GO, COUGARS!!! 🐾🏐💙🧡
#CougarPride #SeniorNight #Volleyball #GoCougars #WSLA
🎓✨ IT’S GIRLS VOLLEYBALL SENIOR NIGHT! ✨🎓
Come out TONIGHT and help us celebrate our amazing senior volleyball players as we honor them for their hard work, dedication, leadership, and all the memories they’ve made on the court! 🥹🏐👏🏽
📣 COUGAR FAMILY — WE NEED YOU IN THE STANDS!
Bring your energy! Bring your school spirit! Bring your loudest cheers! 📢🔥
Let’s pack the gym, make some noise, and show our seniors just how proud we are of them! 💙🧡🐾
🏐 GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
🎓 SENIOR NIGHT
🔥 COME OUT & SUPPORT OUR SENIORS!
🚪 ENTER THROUGH DOOR J
💵 PAYMENT: CASH & CARD ACCEPTED
Don’t just hear about it tomorrow—BE THERE TONIGHT! 🙌🏽
LET’S GO, COUGARS!!! 🐾🏐💙🧡
#CougarPride #SeniorNight #Volleyball #GoCougars #WSLA
Dear Cougar Families,
Just a friendly reminder that our Homecoming Dress Giveaway is happening this Wednesday, September 30th, after school! 👗✨
If your daughter is looking for the perfect dress for Homecoming, we would love for her to stop by and shop with us!
📅 Wednesday, September 30th
⏰ 3:45–5:00 PM
📍 Parent Room 120
🚪 Enter through Door A
Appointments are required. Please email Mrs. Fullilove at jfullilove@garycsc.k12.in.us to schedule an appointment.
💙 Parents are welcome to shop with their girls! 🧡
We look forward to helping our Cougar ladies Look Good, Feel Good, and Be Confident!
Cougar Pride! 🐾
Just a friendly reminder that our Homecoming Dress Giveaway is happening this Wednesday, September 30th, after school! 👗✨
If your daughter is looking for the perfect dress for Homecoming, we would love for her to stop by and shop with us!
📅 Wednesday, September 30th
⏰ 3:45–5:00 PM
📍 Parent Room 120
🚪 Enter through Door A
Appointments are required. Please email Mrs. Fullilove at jfullilove@garycsc.k12.in.us to schedule an appointment.
💙 Parents are welcome to shop with their girls! 🧡
We look forward to helping our Cougar ladies Look Good, Feel Good, and Be Confident!
Cougar Pride! 🐾
💙🧡 WHAT’S HAPPENING AT WEST SIDE THIS WEEK! 🧡💙🐾
Hey, Cougar Family! Here’s what’s happening at Gary West Side Leadership Academy this week! 🎉
🏃🏾♀️ GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY PRACTICE
TODAY – Monday, September 28
⏰ 3:50 PM
📍 Meet by the track
Attention, freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors! If you plan on running track this year, Cross Country is the perfect way to start conditioning early! Cross Country helps build endurance, strength, and confidence. All athletes are encouraged to join!
Come ready to move, meet new teammates, and start building your power for the season! 💪🏾🏃🏾♀️
👗✨ HOMECOMING DRESS GIVEAWAY
Wednesday, September 30
⏰ 3:45–5:00 PM
📍 Parent Room 120 — Enter through Door A
Girls, get ready for Homecoming! 💃🏾✨ We’ll have our Homecoming Dress Giveaway after school. Parents are welcome to shop with their girls.
📧 Appointment required: jfullilove@garycsc.k12.in.us
🏐🏈 COUGAR ATHLETICS THIS WEEK
📅 Monday, Sept. 28
🏐 Girls Volleyball JV/Varsity vs. Hammond Academy of Science & Technology
⏰ 5:30 PM / 6:30 PM
📍 GWSLA
📅 Tuesday, Sept. 29
🏐 Volleyball JV/Varsity vs. River Forest
⏰ 5:30 PM
📍 GWSLA
🏈 Flag Football Tournament vs. Munster HS
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Munster High School
📅 Thursday, Oct. 1
🏐 Girls Volleyball JV/Varsity vs. Gary Lighthouse College Prep
⏰ 5:30 PM / 6:30 PM
📍 Gary Lighthouse College Prep
📅 Friday, Oct. 2
🏈 Varsity Football vs. Griffith Sr. High School
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 GWSLA
📅 Saturday, Oct. 3
🏐 Girls Varsity Volleyball at Wheeler
⏰ 10:00 AM
📍 Wheeler
Let’s make it a great week, Cougars! 🐾💙🧡
SHOW UP. GET INVOLVED. SHOW YOUR COUGAR PRIDE!
#WestSideLeadershipAcademy #CougarPride #WhatsHappeningAtWestSide #GWSLA #CougarAthletics #Homecoming
Hey, Cougar Family! Here’s what’s happening at Gary West Side Leadership Academy this week! 🎉
🏃🏾♀️ GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY PRACTICE
TODAY – Monday, September 28
⏰ 3:50 PM
📍 Meet by the track
Attention, freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors! If you plan on running track this year, Cross Country is the perfect way to start conditioning early! Cross Country helps build endurance, strength, and confidence. All athletes are encouraged to join!
Come ready to move, meet new teammates, and start building your power for the season! 💪🏾🏃🏾♀️
👗✨ HOMECOMING DRESS GIVEAWAY
Wednesday, September 30
⏰ 3:45–5:00 PM
📍 Parent Room 120 — Enter through Door A
Girls, get ready for Homecoming! 💃🏾✨ We’ll have our Homecoming Dress Giveaway after school. Parents are welcome to shop with their girls.
📧 Appointment required: jfullilove@garycsc.k12.in.us
🏐🏈 COUGAR ATHLETICS THIS WEEK
📅 Monday, Sept. 28
🏐 Girls Volleyball JV/Varsity vs. Hammond Academy of Science & Technology
⏰ 5:30 PM / 6:30 PM
📍 GWSLA
📅 Tuesday, Sept. 29
🏐 Volleyball JV/Varsity vs. River Forest
⏰ 5:30 PM
📍 GWSLA
🏈 Flag Football Tournament vs. Munster HS
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Munster High School
📅 Thursday, Oct. 1
🏐 Girls Volleyball JV/Varsity vs. Gary Lighthouse College Prep
⏰ 5:30 PM / 6:30 PM
📍 Gary Lighthouse College Prep
📅 Friday, Oct. 2
🏈 Varsity Football vs. Griffith Sr. High School
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 GWSLA
📅 Saturday, Oct. 3
🏐 Girls Varsity Volleyball at Wheeler
⏰ 10:00 AM
📍 Wheeler
Let’s make it a great week, Cougars! 🐾💙🧡
SHOW UP. GET INVOLVED. SHOW YOUR COUGAR PRIDE!
#WestSideLeadershipAcademy #CougarPride #WhatsHappeningAtWestSide #GWSLA #CougarAthletics #Homecoming
Thank You, Steven Hanlon, for this wonderful article!
West Side Football Following Great Footprints
9/24/2026
GARY – Dean “Dino” Hidalgo was a classic American — an Army veteran, a longtime member of the Indiana State Excise Police, and a man who loved sports, friends, family and a good, funny conversation.
Thank you for your life, sir.
“He woke me up at 5 a.m. so I could get my work in,” said West Side football coach and son Mark Hidalgo. “He worked with me on everything, coached me in everything. Our first game this year was tough. It was the first time he wasn’t at one of my games.”
Dean “The Dream” Hidalgo died Oct. 14 last year at age 79.
“One of the last conversations we had, he told me he wanted me to be a head coach again,” Mark said. “That was one of the reasons I took this job.”
For 31 years, Mark has coached football in Northwest Indiana, with head-coaching stops at East Chicago Central (1998-2005), River Forest (2023-24) and now West Side.
And his father was in the stands for every game — until now.
The Cougars are 3-1 heading into Friday’s game at Wheeler, and they have scored 30 or more points in each of their last three games.
Junior running back Chris Rudolph moved to Gary after starring at Mt. Vernon, Illinois, last season. He has rushed for 709 yards and 11 touchdowns in Hidalgo’s high-powered offense, including four touchdowns last Friday against Calumet.
“When I got here, I looked around and thought we had a chance to be real good,” Rudolph said. “Coach H’s offense gets our athletes in the open field. We need to play good defense against Wheeler. Our linebackers need to read their keys and make plays.”
Senior running back Courtney Anderson also plays linebacker alongside Rudolph. In four years, he has never beaten Wheeler — the only team on the Cougars’ schedule they haven’t defeated.
“When coach (Hidalgo) came here, he told us we were going to score points,” Anderson said. “But he wanted me to focus more on defense. I love running the ball, but I like hitting a guy even better. We’re going to have to do a lot of that against Wheeler.
“Levi Murray is a great running back. A tough kid. They gave us a good beating last year.”
Wheeler and Murray beat West Side 42-26 last season, when Hidalgo was an assistant at Calumet.
“Coach H is making great changes,” senior running back Kamari Loggins said. “He knows we have athletes. We’re spreading the ball around on offense. He’s preparing us for the next level. We have to come together. We have to have confidence to do great things.”
Remember the old days?
A couple of generations ago, football was considered a blue-collar sport, where the sons of steelworkers battled it out on muddy fields. It was that way for a long time.
But look at the top-ranked teams in the state today. Many have college-like facilities and resources to build their programs.
High school football has evolved into a game where resources matter. Having the support to build facilities, develop athletes and sustain a program can make a significant difference.
That’s where West Side is running uphill.
The Cougars’ best players are playing on both sides of the ball, logging more minutes than many of their opponents. Fatigue can be a tough opponent.
But right now, Hidalgo has his inner-city team playing at a very high level.
And that is something that would put a huge smile on Dino’s face.
“My father was a huge inspiration in my life,” Mark said. “He taught me everything I knew from when I was a kid. He made me the athlete that I was, and he always made me strive to be the best.”
Hidalgo was a great three-sport athlete at Merrillville. He wrestled for two years at Purdue before playing football, baseball and wrestling at MacMurray College, where he earned Collegiate All-American honors with his father looking on.
Now, the page has turned.
Dino’s life lessons are being passed on to the young men on the west side of Gary — learning to work hard, get better and never stop striving to reach the top.
A great life never dies. It passes its light to the next generation.
That is what’s happening at West Side right now.
It’s stories like this that drew me into sportswriting all those years ago. Inspiration from other people’s lives can change the world.
Well done, Mark and Dino.
And to all the Cougars following in those huge footprints.
By Steve Hanlon
Heartland Sports Network
West Side Football Following Great Footprints
9/24/2026
GARY – Dean “Dino” Hidalgo was a classic American — an Army veteran, a longtime member of the Indiana State Excise Police, and a man who loved sports, friends, family and a good, funny conversation.
Thank you for your life, sir.
“He woke me up at 5 a.m. so I could get my work in,” said West Side football coach and son Mark Hidalgo. “He worked with me on everything, coached me in everything. Our first game this year was tough. It was the first time he wasn’t at one of my games.”
Dean “The Dream” Hidalgo died Oct. 14 last year at age 79.
“One of the last conversations we had, he told me he wanted me to be a head coach again,” Mark said. “That was one of the reasons I took this job.”
For 31 years, Mark has coached football in Northwest Indiana, with head-coaching stops at East Chicago Central (1998-2005), River Forest (2023-24) and now West Side.
And his father was in the stands for every game — until now.
The Cougars are 3-1 heading into Friday’s game at Wheeler, and they have scored 30 or more points in each of their last three games.
Junior running back Chris Rudolph moved to Gary after starring at Mt. Vernon, Illinois, last season. He has rushed for 709 yards and 11 touchdowns in Hidalgo’s high-powered offense, including four touchdowns last Friday against Calumet.
“When I got here, I looked around and thought we had a chance to be real good,” Rudolph said. “Coach H’s offense gets our athletes in the open field. We need to play good defense against Wheeler. Our linebackers need to read their keys and make plays.”
Senior running back Courtney Anderson also plays linebacker alongside Rudolph. In four years, he has never beaten Wheeler — the only team on the Cougars’ schedule they haven’t defeated.
“When coach (Hidalgo) came here, he told us we were going to score points,” Anderson said. “But he wanted me to focus more on defense. I love running the ball, but I like hitting a guy even better. We’re going to have to do a lot of that against Wheeler.
“Levi Murray is a great running back. A tough kid. They gave us a good beating last year.”
Wheeler and Murray beat West Side 42-26 last season, when Hidalgo was an assistant at Calumet.
“Coach H is making great changes,” senior running back Kamari Loggins said. “He knows we have athletes. We’re spreading the ball around on offense. He’s preparing us for the next level. We have to come together. We have to have confidence to do great things.”
Remember the old days?
A couple of generations ago, football was considered a blue-collar sport, where the sons of steelworkers battled it out on muddy fields. It was that way for a long time.
But look at the top-ranked teams in the state today. Many have college-like facilities and resources to build their programs.
High school football has evolved into a game where resources matter. Having the support to build facilities, develop athletes and sustain a program can make a significant difference.
That’s where West Side is running uphill.
The Cougars’ best players are playing on both sides of the ball, logging more minutes than many of their opponents. Fatigue can be a tough opponent.
But right now, Hidalgo has his inner-city team playing at a very high level.
And that is something that would put a huge smile on Dino’s face.
“My father was a huge inspiration in my life,” Mark said. “He taught me everything I knew from when I was a kid. He made me the athlete that I was, and he always made me strive to be the best.”
Hidalgo was a great three-sport athlete at Merrillville. He wrestled for two years at Purdue before playing football, baseball and wrestling at MacMurray College, where he earned Collegiate All-American honors with his father looking on.
Now, the page has turned.
Dino’s life lessons are being passed on to the young men on the west side of Gary — learning to work hard, get better and never stop striving to reach the top.
A great life never dies. It passes its light to the next generation.
That is what’s happening at West Side right now.
It’s stories like this that drew me into sportswriting all those years ago. Inspiration from other people’s lives can change the world.
Well done, Mark and Dino.
And to all the Cougars following in those huge footprints.
By Steve Hanlon
Heartland Sports Network
