February was a lively and engaging month at Academics West, filled with student-led activities, community celebrations, and meaningful opportunities for connection. From creative broadcasts and mentorship games to fundraising initiatives and special visits, our students and staff continued to build a vibrant school community.
Groundhog Day Student Broadcast
The month began with a fun and creative Groundhog Day segment during our AW Morning Announcements. Middle Schoolers, Meison and Paul led the school broadcast, with Meison presenting a special Groundhog Day news segment. Ahead of the broadcast, Meison even conducted a “pre-interview” with Henry L. from the Lower School, who stepped into the role of our honorary “groundhog” for the day. The segment brought laughter and energy to the start of the school day and showcased the creativity and leadership of our students.
A Visit from Hank Our Therapy Dog
Our students were excited to welcome back Hank, our therapy dog! Visits like these are always a highlight of the school day. Hank brings a calming presence to the building and gives students a chance to pause, connect, and reset during busy school days. For many students, spending time with Hank has also become an opportunity for growth. Some students who were initially nervous or afraid of dogs have been making incredible progress, slowly building the confidence to sit near Hank and even pet him. It has been wonderful to watch those moments of bravery and growth unfold. These small moments of courage and connection are a meaningful part of what makes the AW community so special.
A Sweet Thank You to Our Faculty
On February 13th, our wonderful AW families treated faculty and staff to a Valentine’s Day breakfast. It was such a kind and thoughtful way to show appreciation for the teachers and staff who support our students every day. Gestures like this mean so much and are a great reminder of the strong partnership between our families and the AW community.
Students Give Back: Heroes Council Valentine’s Fundraiser
On February 18th, students from our Heroes Council hosted a Valentine’s-themed candy gram fundraiser in honor of Black History Month. Students had been working behind the scenes to prepare two special items for the fundraiser. They created handmade Valentine’s cards with heart shaped lollipops attached. They also offered a limited number of Valentine-themed boxes with donut-shaped erasers. All proceeds from the fundraiser were donated to the National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Smithsonian. It was wonderful to see students come together to support an important cause while sharing creativity and kindness with the school community.
Picture Day Memories
On February 19th, students and staff gathered for Picture Day at Academics West. It was a great opportunity to capture memories from the school year and celebrate the personalities that make our community so special. We also had a few special guests join the photos. A few students brought their favorite stuffed animals, or “stuffies,” that bring them comfort throughout the school day. It was nice to see these meaningful companions included in the pictures.
100 Days of School
Students celebrated the 100th Day of School with a fun mentorship activity that gave everyone a chance to reflect on the school year so far. Working in their mentorship groups, students played a themed guessing game where they tried to figure out which numbered day of school different events had taken place. The activity sparked lots of conversation, laughter, and teamwork as groups worked together to come up with their best guesses. While there were no prizes this time, the friendly competition made the game even more fun and gave students a chance to look back on many of the moments that have shaped the school year so far.
The Final Quest: Dungeons & Dragons Wraps Up for the Season
February marked the final session of this year’s Dungeons & Dragons program, bringing our campaign to an exciting close. Throughout the program, students gathered around the table to embark on adventures filled with collaborative storytelling, strategy, and imaginative problem-solving. Each session gave students the chance to work together as a party facing challenges, making decisions, and building their story one roll of the dice at a time. Along the way, friendships were formed, creativity flourished, and students embraced the spirit of teamwork and adventure that makes the game so special. We loved seeing so many students join the quest this year and look forward to the next adventure ahead.
Looking Ahead
While the Dungeons & Dragons program wrapped up this month, students will soon have a new creative opportunity to look forward to. Theatre Club will begin during the first week after spring break, giving students a chance to collaborate, express themselves, and build confidence through performance. February was a great reminder that life at Academics West goes far beyond the classroom. Through mentorship activities, creative programs, and community events, students continue to grow, build friendships, and gain confidence along the way. We’re excited for all the moments of connection, creativity, and learning still to come this school year.
