The sixth grade orchestra recently performed for parents at Westside.  This year's group, the largest group ever, performed under the direction of Mandy Batholomew. 

A Penny War, to raise funds for charity, is currently underway.  This fundraiser is sponsored by the Westside student council.  Classes can 'bomb' each other with silver change which detracts from points they earn by bringing pennies or dollar bills.  Employees at Central Bank in Springville are assisting in the counting of the money which involves hundreds of pounds of change.

This year's classified employee Crystal Apple Award was presented to Dustin Crandall.  Dustin is part of the custodial staff at Westside Elementary, and has been for several years.  He is always smiling and willing to help anyone in need.  David Swenson, head custodian at the school had this to say about Dustin, also known as 'Big D': 

Fourth grade students at Westside recently performed their class program for parents and students.  The program gives a brief overview of Utah history, and what makes our state so unique.

Last week, students and teachers were entertained by the Slick Rock Gypsy. He performed “Roots of American Music”  for which integrated various music from all around the world.  Students were able to come up and participate in the program and use authentic instruments from different countries and time periods.

Lori Hansen, a kindergarten teacher at Westside, recently received the Excellence in Service Award.  This award was presented to Lori by Principal Sara Matis at an area PTA meeting.  Westside PTA President Kari Kieffer was on hand to present Lori with this prestigious award.

As a culminating event for Red Ribbon Week, Steve James visited Westside and entertained the students during an assembly.  Steve James is a musician who performs all over the country.  His music is focused on building positive self-esteem through making good choices and living a good life. This music is often incorporated into character education in the schools.

On Halloween, students at Westside participated in a variety of events.  Most classrooms had class parties, and at the end of the day, students entertained parents, teachers, and classmates with a parade.