Cognia recertifies Westwood High as highly effective school prioritizing STEM education

For the second time in five years, Westwood High School has earned Cognia’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Certification. Westwood is in an elite group of schools nationwide with this mark of STEM distinction and excellence only offered to highly effective institutions that prioritize STEM education as a path to success.

Westwood principal Robert Jackson says this continued STEM accreditation by Cognia demonstrates their endless commitment to providing high quality STEM programs and experiences that prepare students with the knowledge, competencies, and specialized skills required to ensure they are college and career ready.

“Our programs are designed to develop the next generation of practitioners, researchers, and leaders. In keeping with a premier Richland Two education, our students graduate with real-world experiences that they can apply immediately to a variety of pathways to ensure their future success. I remain so proud of our entire learning community for their premier commitment to excellence,” said Jackson.

Cognia’s review of Westwood indicated the following:

• Westwood has a very strong STEM program that has grown over the years.
• Westwood gives all students exposure to the STEM curriculum and fields.
• The close community that feeds into the high school is proud of the program and supports it through internships and partnerships.
• Students are prepared with the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in their postsecondary pursuits and as workforce contributors.

Cognia is a global nonprofit that offers accreditation and certification, assessment, professional learning, and improvement services to schools. Westwood’s accreditation lasts for five years.