
More Than a Diploma: What Real Preparation Looks Like Today – Jason Wester
In this episode of Brighter Together, Superintendent Jason Wester explores what it really takes to prepare students for the future—not just graduation.
From reimagining ‘success’ in high school to confronting the mental health stigma in education, Jason shares how his district embraced a whole-child approach and asked the community what really matters. The answer wasn’t just better test scores. It was belonging, connection, and purpose.
Discover how West Burlington ISD is rebuilding trust, aligning school goals with community values, and putting students at the center of their own story.