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W.F. West Principal Position

We're Preparing Students for the Journey Ahead

At W.F. West, we believe in The Bearcat Way—a commitment to excellence, growth, and character. Our students receive instruction grounded in best practices, and our staff continually evaluates the effectiveness of planning and instruction by closely examining student performance.  Our students are frequently recognized at the state and national levels for their achievements in athletics, arts and student organizations. We place equal emphasis on developing good ambassadors for our school and community, and building strong character, leadership skills, and an unwavering work ethic that prepare students for success beyond high school.

W.F. West Principal Position - Info & Apply

At W.F. West Our Core Beliefs Are:

  • Teachers inspire and challenge all students and guide them toward achieving their full potential
  • All students are unique individuals who have the potential to become positive contributing members of society. Learning how to learn serves students for a lifetime
  • A positive school climate enhances learning
  • Co-curricular activities enhance learning and develop self-worth, pride and leadership
  • Schools are most effective when parents and the community are integral parts of the educational process

How We’re Helping Students Achieve

  • Targeted academic support systems such as Freshman Seminar, Career & College Readiness (CCR) period, and APEX summer credit recovery to keep students on track for on-time graduation
  • Wraparound student services, including a Freshman Transition Specialist, College Prep Advisor, and Student Achievement Specialist, to support students throughout high school and beyond
  • A state-of-the-art STEM wing providing access to advanced equipment such as an Anatomage Table and a Scanning Electron Microscope
  • Robust Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs offering hands-on, real-world learning aligned with industry standards
  • The Bearcat Connect alumni network, which helps graduates stay connected to W.F. West, reconnect with classmates, and build professional networks with fellow Bearcats

Get to Know W.F. West

  • 1,017 enrollment
  • 97% graduation rate (Washington average is 83.6%)
  • 39% graduate with honors (Class of 2025)
  • 14,630 hours of community service (Class of 2025)
  • $2.52 million in scholarships awarded (Class of 2025)

Senior girls in cap and gowns pose for a group photo

Our District

A collage of images depicting various school activities and events.

 

The Chehalis School District encompasses: W.F. West High School (grades 9-12, 1,017 enrollment) found at this link here; Chehalis Middle School (grades 6-8, 694 enrollment) found at this link here; Orin C. Smith Elementary (grades 3-5, 650 enrollment) found at this link here; James W. Lintott Elementary (grades K-2, 636 enrollment) found at this link here; Turning Point/Lewis County Alternative School (typically 11-12 grade, 39 enrollment) found at this link here; and the VISIONS program found at this link here for students aged 18-22 who receive special education services. Additionally, our district provides educational services to the Green Hill and Lewis County Juvenile detention centers.

Our District Is Known For:

  • Strong community partnerships and support
  • A K-12 approach to career and college readiness
  • Data-informed teaching and learning metrics
  • Multi-grade learning and community building opportunities

Learn More About Working for Chehalis School District

Some of Our Accomplishments:

  • Between 2013-2023 raised percentage of W.F. West graduates from 30% to 65%
  • Between 2013-2023 raised percentage of seniors graduating on time from 77% to 97%
  • Between 2013-2023 raised percentage of students meeting course requirements for admission to state 4-year colleges from 38% to 55%
  • 100% of W.F. West graduating Classes of 2021-2025 were accepted into college or certificated programs

Learn more about our Student Achievement work and goals

Read our District’s 2024-2025 Annual Report

 

A compass-like graphic with the words 'Student Achievement' and an image of a graduate and child.

Our Mission Statement

The mission of the Chehalis School District, in partnership with the community, is to meet the individual learning needs of students by providing a comprehensive student-centered educational program that inspires and prepares them to become responsible, contributing citizens.

Our Student Achievement Goal

Our 75 by 35 student achievement goal is to have 75% of W.F. West High School graduates earn the credentials they need to be responsible, contributing citizens by the Class of 2035. Our overall goal is to prepare and support 100% of our students by cultivating their interests, unlocking their full potential, and guiding them as they align their skills, talents, and purpose with career pathways.

Our Community

a collage of photos shows community support for the Chehalis School District

Community Partners

The strength of the work accomplished in the Chehalis School District is largely driven by a robust network of community partners.

City of Chehalis

The Chehalis School District is located in the Southwest Washington city of Chehalis. Chehalis is located along the Interstate 5 corridor directly between Seattle, WA and Portland, OR. Chehalis residents enjoy the charm of rural life, easy access to Washigton’s many outdoor recreational opportunities and close proximity to amenities offered by larger metropolitan areas.

  • Population: 7,500 
  • Average home price: $427,000-$450,000 (Washington average $600,000)
  • Average rental price: $1,300-$1,800/mo (Washington average $1,800-$2,000/mo)
  • Cost of Living Index: 101.5 (Washington Index 114-120)

CLICK HERE to read the area relocation guide from the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce

CLICK HERE to learn more about the City of Chehalis

CLICK HERE to read the Economic Report from the Economic Alliance of Lewis County