A Message of Celebration, Progress, and Gratitude
May and June usher in the promise of sunny skies, vibrant green lawns, open spaces, outdoor barbecues, and the joy of summer vacations. For Westlake, however, this season is especially significant. It’s a time to honor our graduating seniors who are wrapping up their high school and college careers. It’s a true culmination of all their hard work throughout the years, and we couldn’t be prouder.
I specifically want to recognize Westlake Academy's exceptional efforts in preparing these students for the next chapter of their lives. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our graduating seniors for reaching this important milestone and successfully completing the rigorous International Baccalaureate program. Your achievements are a testament to your dedication and resilience, and they have equipped you well for the demands of collegiate life.
The parents, educators, coaches, and mentors who have supported these students throughout their journey are equally deserving of recognition. Your unwavering commitment, guidance, and encouragement have made this success possible. Thank you for your tireless efforts and selfless contributions.
Working alongside Dr. Kelly Ritchie and her exceptional team at Westlake Academy is an immense privilege. Their steadfast devotion to our children’s education and future is the very heartbeat of our community. As a Town, we remain fully committed to supporting the Academy's mission and are enthusiastic about future developments.
Beginning in June, thanks to our community partners' support, we will launch several key infrastructure improvements at Westlake Academy. These include enhancements to the drainage systems and the installation of a synthetic turf surface on the multi-purpose field, used for football and soccer practices, games, and as a playground for elementary students. In addition, Dr. Ritchie has proposed a much-needed expansion of the Margaret Lee Arts and Sciences Building to begin next fiscal year, which will be made possible through a generous donation and matching funds. The Town is proud to partner with the Academy on this vital project.
Beyond her leadership within the Academy, Dr. Ritchie has played a crucial role in promoting our entire community's fiscal health and long-term sustainability. She and her team meticulously reviewed the Academy’s budget, identifying areas for improvement and potential cost savings.
Their work uncovered more than $900,000 in annual operating expenditures funded through the Town, costs that can now be redirected toward pressing infrastructure needs, including long-overdue preventative maintenance on our water and wastewater systems. Her steadfast commitment to fiscal efficiency benefits each and every resident in our community, whether you have a child at the Academy or not.
These efficiencies strengthen our current infrastructure and position Westlake for future growth. With redirected funds and strategic planning, we are poised to welcome new retail services, dining establishments, and industry investments to further support Westlake Academy and the Town for future generations.
Our community owes profound gratitude to Dr. Ritchie and the entire Westlake Academy team. Their dedication shapes future leaders' minds while guiding our town toward a future marked by confidence, sustainability, and excellence. Thanks to their leadership, Westlake remains a shining beacon in Northeast Tarrant County and across the State of Texas.
A strong Academy makes for a stronger Town. That’s what brings Westlake together!
Sincerely,
Wade Carroll
Westlake Town Manager
