W.E. Cherry principal highlights inclusion and staff retention, says 45% of students have IEPs

W.E. Cherry Elementary Principal Angie Whidden took the board podium during the district's school showcase to describe the school's culture, supports for students with special needs and staff stability.

Whidden said that "45% of our students at W. E. Cherry have an individual education plan," and explained the school's configuration of self-contained pre-K units and 11 self-contained classrooms serving students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other needs. She emphasized inclusive practices: "There's no oh, this is this group and this is that group. Everybody counts."

She also highlighted staff retention as a point of pride: "82% of our teachers have been at W.E. Cherry for 5 years or longer," and that 23% of instructional staff began as teacher assistants at the school. Whidden credited relationship-building, family engagement and a supportive culture for those outcomes.

Board members and the superintendent praised Whidden's leadership and noted the school's repeated A ratings. The showcase included performances and student artwork; staff and students were recognized onstage and for photo opportunities following the presentation.

Whidden's remarks provided district leaders and the public with context about inclusion practices and staffing trends at a high-need elementary school.