Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average class size at Westlake?
Westlake’s average class has 15 students. In the 2015-16 school year, our smallest grade had 11 and our largest had 22. We limit our lower elementary classes to 22 students and upper classes (4th and up) to 24.
What are times of your school day?
For Preschool through Kindergarten, the day is 8:20 – 11:30 a.m. Students in grades 1-6 have classes 8:20 a.m. – 3:10 p.m. Secondary students (grades 7-12) begin at 8:15 a.m. and are dismissed at 3:20 p.m. Our Concert Band rehearses 7:30 – 8:10 a.m.
Does Westlake offer extended care?
Before and after school care is available for WCA students in Preschool–6th grade. Before school care includes supervised time for play and/or homework. After school care provides structured activities, games, free play, and a time for homework for the older grades. Read more.
Does Westlake provide services for students who struggle academically?
Westlake Christian Academy accepts students with IEP and 504 plans on a case-by-case basis. Westlake works with the Grayslake public school system to maintain IEP and 504 documentation, to acquire resources to help students with specific needs, and to evaluate students who might benefit from accommodations and modifications. Classroom teachers work to differentiate instruction for all students as needed.
Westlake also offers a pull out reading intervention program called SOAR. This program is available at an additional cost for students who need support with reading. The SOAR program is also available to home-school students. Read more.
What is your minimum age for Kindergarten? First grade?
Following Illinois State Board of Education guidelines, Westlake will not enroll Kindergarten students whose fifth birthday is after September 1, nor first grade students whose sixth birthday is after September 1.
Does Westlake require uniforms for its students?
Westlake has elected to have a uniform dress code which provides some variety. As a result, our students and families realize a number of benefits of such a code:
o It is a means of building character and distinction in the lives of our students and it allows them to make choices within guidelines.
o It fosters a level of professionalism, respect for the school environment, and an atmosphere conducive to learning.
o It encourages a sense of unity and camaraderie among the students.
o It resolves fashion issues caused by the comparison of who’s wearing what brand of clothing.
o It helps maintain a focus on learning rather than on fashion.
o It results in a less expensive wardrobe.
o It allows for quicker identification of our students, thus adding another level of security.
For more specifics about the Westlake uniform dress code, please see the Uniform Dress Code section of our handbook.
Is Westlake affiliated with a church?
Westlake has never been attached to a single church ministry but sees itself as a critical partner in the evangelical community, serving a wide variety of churches. The school actively seeks to partner with families and churches who share in the desire to disciple believers in Jesus Christ. For a list of the many churches represented by our school family, read more.
What is the application process?
The entire process involves Application, Interview, Acceptance, and Enrollment. To initiate the process, complete the Application for Admission (Online Form) (Download/Print) and return it to the school office along with:
o Non-refundable application fee of $25 per student entering Kindergarten – 12th Grade
o Birth Certificate
o Pastoral Recommendation Form (Email Form) (Download/Print)
o Principal/Teacher Recommendation Form (Download/Print)
o Records Request Form (Download/Print)
o Student Application (Grades 7-12) (Online Form) (Download/Print)
o Student Commitment Form (Grades 7-12) (Online Form) (Download/Print)
The Application will be reviewed and parents of qualified applicants will be scheduled for an interview. For students entering grades 7-12, the student applicant also will be interviewed. A final decision regarding admission will be made after the interview and the prospective family will be notified as soon as possible. Read more.
