Throughout the 2025–2026 school year, the Westfall High School College and Career Center helped students take meaningful steps toward their futures by offering opportunities to explore their interests and prepare for life beyond graduation.
One of the year’s highlights was the expansion of College Credit Plus offerings through a continued partnership with Ohio University Chillicothe. Students had access to six college-level courses, including Psychology, Public Speaking, Political Science, and History, all taught live in the school’s new OU Rally Room. This opportunity allowed students to earn college credit while experiencing a true university-style classroom without leaving campus.
Career exploration remained a central focus throughout the year. A total of 23 students participated in job shadowing experiences across the community, exploring potential career paths. In addition, Westfall welcomed 17 career speakers who shared their expertise, discussed education and training requirements, and provided real-world perspectives on their professions during Westfall Way Forward: Career Day.
Westfall is also actively combating the shortage of registered athletic officials in Ohio by offering the OHSAA Officiating Credential directly to our students. This initiative addresses a decline in the number of registered officials to ensure student programs are not reduced, and 10 Westfall juniors and seniors successfully earned this newly recognized industry credential this past spring.
Getting a jump start on your career begins early, and multiple local companies have reached out to Westfall directly to advertise anticipated job openings or to hire seniors. These community partners include organizations such as the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction, the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18, the Pickaway County Sheriff's Office, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Complete General Construction, Atlas Butler, LG Energy Solution, Honda, Darby Creek Excavating Inc., Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 189, Engineered Plastics Co. (EPC), and Ripple Run Farms.
Students also had opportunities to connect directly with post-secondary institutions. Representatives from 15 colleges and universities visited our high school, giving students the chance to learn about academic programs, campus life, admissions processes, and scholarship opportunities.
For those pursuing higher education, the hard work of applying for financial aid and local awards truly paid off. Scholarship season, which runs from December to April, proved to be a tedious but rewarding process as 23 seniors earned local scholarships this year, totaling over $230,000 from a remarkably generous community.
Additionally, 56 seniors completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), marking a 14% increase from the previous year. This achievement placed Westfall at the top in Pickaway County and ranked 28th in the state, reflecting a strong commitment from students and families to planning for the cost of higher education.
Preparation for life after high school extended to essential skill-building activities. Senior mock interviews continued as a valued tradition, with 79 seniors participating in interviews with local community leaders. This experience helped students refine their resumes, practice communication skills, and build confidence ahead of real-world job interviews.
For students considering military service, representatives from all branches of the United States Armed Forces visited Westfall 13 times throughout the year. Students were able to explore military careers, ask questions, and learn about enlistment opportunities. The school also hosted its first Military Week in October, further highlighting these pathways. Additionally, 59 juniors and seniors completed the ASVAB assessment, which supports both military entrance and career exploration.
Academic readiness was also a priority. Juniors took the PreACT in the fall, and 30 students participated in a six-hour ACT preparation course ahead of the state-funded ACT exam, helping them strengthen their performance for college admissions and scholarship opportunities.
The College and Career Center also celebrated new pathways into the field of education. Five seniors earned their paraprofessional certification through a pilot program, gaining hands-on experience working in a classroom setting supporting younger students. This opportunity provided a first step for those interested in careers in education and helped build a foundation for future educators. Due to strong interest, the program is expected to continue and expand in the coming years.
The year concluded with a celebration of student commitment and service. Westfall honored four seniors who enlisted in the military during its inaugural Senior Signing Day, held on May 1 in conjunction with National Decision Day. This new tradition recognizes students as they take the next step toward serving their country.
Overall, the 2025–2026 school year demonstrated the College and Career Center’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge, experiences, and skills needed to succeed in college, careers, and beyond.
What a great year it has been! Congratulations to the class of 2026!