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Focus On: Access:Innovation

Students presenting to person
Focus On: Access:Innovation

October 2025

Last November, I shared with you WT’s work in partnership with the Pittsburgh Public Schools, supported by an EE Ford Educational Leadership Grant. WT has a unique identity as the only Junior Pre-Kindergarten through 12th-grade co-educational school all within the city’s limits. Time and time again, WT has demonstrated its commitment to having a transformational presence in the city as we seek to spread our impact across the region. From establishing our signature City as Our Campus℠ program to expanding our campus with the Joan Clark Davis Center for Interdisciplinary Learning, WT is playing an active role in helping Pittsburgh reach its goals.  

After a full year of program development, we launched Access:Innovation this past summer. Combining our commitment to the work of equity and belonging while leveraging our progressive academic approach to learning, this unique initiative challenged students to tackle real-world issues faced by individuals with physical disabilities. Through collaboration, creative problem-solving, and storytelling, participants work together to develop innovative solutions that make a real and meaningful impact in the lives of Pittsburghers. The program culminated in a final presentation and product demonstration, where students showcased their work to the community.  

I am deeply grateful to those who led the development of the program. Under the leadership of Upper School faculty member Graig Marx, colleagues Elisa Belfiore, David Nassar, Matt Bachner, Dr. Michael Naragon, and Elsa Buhler, along with Pittsburgh Public School faculty member Sean Means from Westinghouse High School and the University of Pittsburgh’s Justice Scholars Institute, and Dr. Deanna Sinex, Director of Research & Program Strategy at Youth Enrichment Services (YES). The program was truly transformational for the WT and PPS students who participated, as well as the faculty members and City as Our Campus partners who challenged students to stretch and grow.  


In this month’s Head Space podcast, we feature the remarkable work of this program through the voices of those who created it from the ground up.  And, of course, I remain thankful to the EE Ford Foundation, the RK Mellon Foundation, and the individual donors who have helped us achieve the matching funds required by the grant.  

Watch the Access:Innovation Episode on YouTube

Listen to the Access:Innovation Episode Here

 

Warmly,

Scott D. Fech, Ph.D.
Head of School 

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Dr. Fech's Reflections on Trends and Innovations in Teaching and Learning

 

Join Dr. Fech as he unveils the transformative stories defining our Dear Old WT. Whether you're a cherished member of the WT community or just curious, this podcast offers an inside look at the unique, dynamic, inclusive approach to education.