Signature Programs
Creating Changemakers of Tomorrow
At Westside Neighborhood School, we believe that students thrive when learning is meaningful, relevant, and connected to the real world. Our Signature Programs are designed to ignite curiosity, cultivate creativity, and inspire purpose.
From our youngest learners to our middle school leaders, WNS students engage in immersive, project-based experiences that build essential skills—collaboration, critical thinking, communication, and compassion.
Check out how meaningful projects are woven through the curriculum at WNS from the earliest days at the ECC, to the graduating year of 8th grade.
Capstone Projects
GRADES 6-8
Our Middle School Capstone Projects—DIVE, SPLASH, and SWIM—are the hallmark of our future-focused approach, giving students increasing levels of independence and challenge.
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6th Grade: DIVE (Designing Innovations for Vulnerable Environments)
In 6th grade, the capstone project connects science, coding, robotics, woodworking, website development, and research skills. The goal is for students to develop an understanding of the environmental issues facing us at a local and global level, and to provide them with a sense of agency when considering the future world they will inherit. -
7th Grade: SPLASH (Solving Problems for Los Angeles Society & Health)
This is the initial phase of our comprehensive two-year capstone program at WNS. As the precursor to our 8th-grade SWIM program, SPLASH sets the foundation for students to dive deep into societal, health, and environmental issues. They’ll learn the intricacies of storytelling, capturing their journey and insights on camera. -
8th Grade: SWIM (Solutionary Work in Motion)
The culmination of a WNS student’s journey. SWIM sees students take their proposals from SPLASH and turning them into actionable projects. As they collaborate with local organizations, engage in hands-on work, and navigate the challenges of real-world projects, our students are not just learning; they are making a tangible difference in the community.
Take a look...
Project-Based Learning
GRADES 1-5
Each grade level in our elementary program features a culminating, interdisciplinary project that reflects our commitment to experiential learning and student voice.
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1st Grade: WNSville
A miniature city with a big heart. Students become community planners, business owners, and problem-solvers as they explore economics, civics, and social responsibility by building and running their own town—WNSville, honing their math, interpersonal, and entrepreneurial skills. -
2nd Grade: Changemaker Museum
Second graders research individuals who have made a positive impact in the world and bring their stories to life through an interactive, student-curated museum. Students become historians, biographers, and storytellers. -
3rd Grade: Tongva Project
In this in-depth study of the Indigenous Tongva people, students honor native perspectives through research, storytelling, and hands-on projects that integrate history, environmental science, and the arts. -
4th Grade: California Museum
As part of their exploration of California history, students design and host a museum that showcases the people, places, and pivotal moments that shaped the Golden State. -
5th Grade: Cultural Fair
A celebration of global citizenship and identity. Students research their own heritage or culture of interest, and present their findings through exhibits, food, music, and performances in a vibrant community event.
Social Entrepreneurship Program
ECC-8TH GRADE
Leading with Empathy. Acting with Purpose.
At WNS, social entrepreneurship isn’t just a middle school milestone—it begins in our Early Childhood Center, where even our youngest students learn the power of collaboration and community. Through meaningful conversations and shared decision-making, our youngest Jets establish classroom agreements, fostering a sense of responsibility, empathy, and belonging.
As students grow, so does the depth of their engagement. In the elementary years, learners begin to identify real-world challenges and explore how they can make a difference—whether through fundraising for a cause they care about, building awareness campaigns, or creating products with a purpose.
By middle school, the Social Entrepreneurship program takes on new depth. Students apply design thinking, market research, and strategic planning to develop ventures that address authentic social or environmental issues. These projects often intersect with our Capstone experiences, such as SPLASH and SWIM, allowing students to lead initiatives that are both personally meaningful and socially impactful.
Throughout every stage, students are guided by one core question:
"How can I use what I’ve learned to make the world better?"
