In 1974 distributive education, a program designed to convey a basic understanding of the concepts of marketing, management, and merchandising was added to the curriculum. Another significant change was made in the curriculum in 1975, Advanced Placement (AP) courses were added. These are college-level courses taught in high school. AP American History was added in 1976-77, AP Biology in 1976-77, AP European History in 1976-77, and AP English IV in 1975-76. In January 1979, New Century Math and Reading labs designed to serve 140 students, each with individually designed programs, were added. In the 1978-79 school year, Westside had four part-time faculty, 48 full-time faculty, one librarian, two counselors, two assistant principals, and one principal serving 954 students in grades 10-12. The 1985-86 school year again brought major changes. The junior high schools were reorganized into middle schools with grades 6-8. The ninth grade was moved to the high schools. This increased the enrollment of Westside High School as well as the number of faculty and staff. By the 1987-88 school year, the enrollment was 1260. During this school year the faculty and staff consisted of one principal, two assistant principals, 70 classroom teachers, three guidance counselors, two library media specialists, and nine support staff. Lakeside Middle School and Southwood Middle School were the feeder schools for Westside. Courses offered included:  According to the 1988 Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Report, 55% of Westside graduates attended colleges, junior colleges, or technical schools. A full in-house computer system was implemented during the 1987-88 school year. During the following school year, the library media center was computerized, allowing the staff to circulate books by the use of a computer system. In 1992 a major renovation at Westside was completed. A fine arts wing was added which now houses the band/orchestra room and chorus room, with practice rooms in both areas. In 1993, hundreds of community members, parents, teachers, and students joined together to plan the future of Anderson School District Five through the strategic planning process. Seven strategies were developed to accomplish the new strategic goals and the mission of Anderson School District Five. Committee members developed plans to create a challenging and rigorous educational environment. The plans included restructuring the 9-12 course of studies. The High School Redesign Committee's goal was to find a way to make the new classes in the school district accessible to the most students.