Westview News & Highlights

The saying goes: the more things change, the more they stay the same.

At first glance, The Westview School looks very different these days. New spaces, updated classrooms, and a growing campus reflect how much Westview has evolved, especially in recent years. Yet beneath those visible changes, the heart of Westview remains the same: a place where students are accepted and nurtured for who they are.

That truth was on full display during Westview's first alumni gathering this past February. Former students returned to campus to reconnect with one another and see all the updates since their time at Westview. Westview served burgers on the new greenspace, and staff led tours of the campus. Our former students were excited about Westview's new look, but the best part of the night was seeing just how strong those connections still are.

As each alumnus arrived through the gates, many bringing family members, there was so much excitement to be back at Westview and to see former classmates and teachers. There were hugs, high fives, and even a few tears.

As the best reunions with old friends tend to go, conversations picked up as if no time had passed. Reconnection felt easy and natural. The evening showed that Westview's impact extends far beyond a student's transition off-campus. Relationships formed here continue long after students leave Westview, creating a lasting sense of belonging that many alumni carry with them into adulthood.

We know that building authentic social connections often requires intentional support for many individuals with autism. Watching former classmates reconnect so easily reaffirmed Westview's belief that strong social foundations begin here. The friendships on display that evening were more than memories from school days. They were lasting connections built in a community where every student is encouraged to be themselves and where fitting in has never required changing who you are.

Congratulations to Gina Rafferty, recipient of The Westview School's Donna Marshall Non-Instructional Person of the Year Award. This award recognizes a non-instructional staff member whose dedication and service have an extraordinary impact on Westview's growth and success through support of students, teachers, and administration.

For anyone who has worked alongside Gina, the honor comes as no surprise.

Although Gina’s official title at Westview is Information Technology, Gina's journey into education began with sports. Fourteen years before joining Westview, she was Coach Rafferty, leading volleyball, soccer, and tennis teams.

"My education path came through coaching," said Gina. "I was talked into coaching junior high school volleyball, which evolved into PE, then high school soccer and tennis."

When a move brought her back to Houston, Gina "stumbled" across Westview while searching for another IT position. Although she had worked in technology before, special education was completely new to her.

"In my previous experience in education, I have always been a coach," said Gina. "I pushed students in a different way. So, Westview students challenged me to be patient, understanding, and to learn to meet each student where they are."

That philosophy quickly became one of the things she loves most about Westview.

"Many people told me when I first started, 'If you have met one person with autism, you have met one person with autism.' Every student is unique and special in their own way. This IS Westview! We truly do meet every student where they are. I love this!

There isn't really a "typical day" for Gina. She may spend the morning solving technology issues, helping prepare for MAP testing, or customizing iPads for a Lower Elementary classroom. You could also find her supporting drama in Largent Hall for a stage production, tutoring a student in math, or coaching a teacher with a new technology tool.

Her colleagues describe her as dependable, patient, efficient, and always willing to jump in wherever she's needed.

"Gina wears a thousand hats and excels in every role she takes on. Her knowledge, dedication, and willingness to jump in wherever needed make an enormous difference every single day."
Another colleague added, "Our teachers truly could not do their jobs effectively without her unwavering support, and our school is a better place because of her hard work and commitment."

Despite working largely behind the scenes, Gina's impact is felt by students and staff every day.

"I hope I do a good job of making everyone feel like when they need something from me, it's important," said Gina. "No matter how small it might be. I try to take care of it when they immediately ask for it."

For Gina, the recognition is deeply meaningful.

"It is a wonderful feeling to know you are appreciated for what you do. It is a special compliment to be recognized by everyone on campus."

From solving technology challenges to building meaningful relationships with students, Gina exemplifies the servant-hearted spirit of Westview. Her willingness to step in wherever needed, her commitment to helping others succeed, and her leadership make her a truly deserving recipient of the Donna Marshall Non-Instructional Person of the Year Award.

It is very special to have Westview students take an active part in our yearly Fundraising Luncheon. This year, we invited Middle School student, Preston, to be one of our featured speakers. Preston shared his journey as a longtime Westview student. Reflecting on his early struggles with reading and communication, Preston talked about how support from The Stewart Center and Westview's teachers helped him grow in confidence. Westview helped me communicate better, understand more, and feel more confident," he shared. "Now I'm a teenager, and I'm proud to say that I speak really well." As he looks ahead to high school, Preston expressed gratitude for a school that "understands autism" and provides students with the support they need to succeed. He ended his speech by reminding guests of the impact of their generosity: “Westview isn't just helping students today. It's helping build our future.”