Westminster School District Launches Where's Westie? Campaign, Bringing Its Official Bell Mascot Directly Into the Community
May 11, 2026
Westminster School District announced the public launch of its Where's Westie? community engagement campaign, introducing Westie, the District's official Bell Mascot, as a visible extension of Westminster's commitment to meeting students and families where they are — not just within school walls, but across the neighborhoods, organizations, and events that define community life in Westminster.
Westie was first introduced at the January Governing Board of Education meeting as part of a broader District initiative to deepen community connection and strengthen family engagement. The Where's Westie? campaign marks the next step in that effort, bringing the District into everyday spaces where Westminster families already gather.
"At Westminster School District, we believe that building relationships with families should not wait until enrollment season or Back to School Night," said Gunn Marie Hansen, Ph.D., Superintendent of Westminster School District. "Where's Westie? is our commitment in action, showing up consistently, being present in this community, and making every family feel that WSD is a district that knows them and values them long before their child ever walks through our doors."
The campaign launched on April 26 with appearances at three community events. At the 5th Annual MathCounts Competition at Johnson Middle School, hosted by the Vietnamese American Aerospace Peer Association (VAAPA), WSD students competed alongside peers from surrounding communities in mathematics. The event drew Mayor Charlie Nguyen, Board President David Johnson, Trustee Khalaf, and City Council Member Charlie Manzo, reflecting the strength of the civic and organizational partnerships Westminster has built over time.
Westie and Board President Johnson then made an unannounced visit to Rancho Santa Margarita and Oso Lake Scout Camp, where Scouts from Finley and Schmitt were spending the weekend. Families and students were delighted by the surprise appearance — with photos, a few laughs, and even a curious lizard making an unexpected stop on Westie's hand. The visit was deliberately informal, a reminder that the District's presence in the community extends to the everyday moments and spaces where families spend their time outside of school.
The weekend concluded at the inaugural Cruzin' for Kids event hosted by the Boys and Girls Club of Westminster, where more than 40 cars and bikes were on display alongside a stage fashion show and a Westminster School District enrollment booth. The event provided an opportunity for the District to connect with prospective families in a welcoming, community-centered environment.
Elsie Simonovski, Ph.D., Director of Whole Child and Family Engagement at Westminster School District spoke to the significance of the campaign's community-first approach.
“Westie helps the District connect with our community in a friendly and approachable way. Having a visible mascot in community settings makes it easier for families to engage with the District and learn more about our schools. It supports positive relationships, fosters a sense of belonging, and increases awareness of the programs and opportunities we offer,” said Elsie Simonovski, Ph.D., Director of Whole Child and Family Engagement.
Westminster School District designed the Where's Westie? campaign as an ongoing initiative, with appearances planned throughout the academic year across a wide range of community settings. The campaign reflects the District's recognition that family engagement and enrollment growth are built on sustained presence and genuine relationships, not seasonal outreach alone.
Families interested in learning more about Westminster School District or exploring enrollment opportunities are encouraged to visit the district website for more information about enrollment.