The Waterbury Arts Magnet School (WAMS) showcased its commitment to blending academic rigor with artistic expression during a recent Board of Education workshop. Principal Dr. Maria Stasitis highlighted the school's achievements and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment for students.

One of the standout moments of the evening was the speech by salutatorian Nadina Badrissane, who shared her journey at WAMS and her acceptance into Harvard University. She praised the school for fostering both her artistic talents and academic skills, stating, "WAMS has given me a place to try, to fail, to grow, and to succeed." Her heartfelt remarks underscored the school's unique approach, which encourages students to excel in both the arts and academics.

The workshop also featured updates on various initiatives at WAMS. The school reported a successful year with a strong governance council and numerous community partnerships. Notably, 98 out of 111 seniors completed their FAFSA applications, a significant achievement that reflects the school's dedication to preparing students for post-secondary education.

Vice Principal Joseph Noll discussed the school's focus on post-secondary readiness, highlighting events like college planning nights and financial aid workshops that have seen high family participation. He noted the importance of fostering a supportive atmosphere for students, whether they are college-bound, entering the workforce, or pursuing military service.

WAMS is also seeing growth in enrollment for advanced courses, with a notable increase in students taking AP and dual enrollment classes. This trend indicates a rising interest in rigorous academic opportunities among students.

As the school year wraps up, preliminary data suggests promising outcomes, including expected improvements in standardized test scores and attendance rates. The school continues to prioritize mental health awareness and community involvement, hosting events like career fairs that connect students with local professionals.

Overall, the workshop highlighted WAMS's commitment to nurturing well-rounded students and fostering a collaborative community, setting a positive tone for the future of education in Waterbury.