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About Westridge

Dear Westridge Community,

As we begin the 2025-26 school year, we’re excited to continue building a school culture where every student and adult feels valued, respected, and confident being their true selves. At Westridge, YOU MATTER.

We are committed to cultivating a positive and inclusive environment that supports, empowers, and inspires every learner. Through authentic, rigorous learning grounded in collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking, our students thrive.

With empathy and strong partnerships between staff and families, we believe we are Stronger Together. Communication is key to our shared success. Never hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or ideas. When we stay connected, we’re better able to support every child.

We’re proud to serve this incredible community and can’t wait for all that’s ahead. Here’s to a year of connection, growth, and success.

To stay connected and informed:

Go Tigers!

Jody Kerchal, Principal

 

Portrait photo of Westridge Principal Jody Kerchal.

Principal Jody Kerchal

 

 

 

 

 

Westridge Contact Information

Address: 5500 E.P. True Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50266-2884
Phone: 515-633-5400 

Principal: Jody Kerchal
Assistant Principal: Michelle Knox
Counselor: Erin Read, Nancy Fregoso
Nurses: Anna Shull, Staci Kramer
Secretaries: Norie Boerner, Stephany Marlow 

School Times

Hours: 9:05 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.
Early Out Wednesdays: 9:05 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Tiger Cubs Preschool: 9:05-11:50 a.m. and 1:10-3:55 p.m.

Westridge History

Westridge Elementary is one of eight schools in West Des Moines. It opened in 1990, located at the southwest corner of Interstates 80 and 35. The school is 85,000 square feet with four classrooms for each grade.

The building is designed like a school within a school, with a central media center that's easy to reach from classrooms. Everything from the floor plan to lighting is made to help students learn. In 1991, the National School Board Association and The American Institute of Architects recognized Westridge as the best-designed school for learning. We're always looking for ways to make our building better for students' learning.