Whitley County Consolidated Schools

Whitley County Consolidated Schools is proud to announce the 2024/2025 Teacher of the Year and Staff Member of the Year for their contributions that have had a positive impact on students, colleagues, students, families and the community by demonstrating their commitment to the district’s core values of excellence, integrity and community engagement. 

Chris Bechtold, Columbia City High School Eagle Tech Academy Math Facilitator, was selected as the WCCS Teacher of the Year. 

Chris Bechtold was nominated three separate times and won Teach of the Month in February. “This is the best teacher that I have ever had. He has helped me and so many other students whether it be with school or other life issues and he makes sure that every kid knows they are loved and never wants anyone to fail. He is so good that he knows just by how a kid is acting, how he is feeling and he makes us enjoy school, which helps us succeed,” said Teeghun M., one of Bechtold’s nominators. 

Angela Miller, Indian Springs Middle School 8th Grade Office Secretary, was selected as the WCCS Staff Member of the Year. 

Angela was the January Staff of the Month. “Angela goes above and beyond to make students feel special and important. She’s always a face in the crowd at student activities and events. Angela‘s community engagement exceeds what I ever thought possible for just one person. She shows utmost excellence, has a positive attitude, and is the epitome of what Eagle P.R.I.D.E. stands for,” said Kimberly Harrsion, Miller’s nominator. 

Bechtold and Miller were among eight finalists for the year-end award. Nominations were accepted from staff, students, and our community for monthly nominations from September through April. Winners were chosen by a committee of administrators, parents and community leaders. Those monthly winners were eligible for the Teacher of the Year and Staff Member of the Year. In the inaugural year for Teacher/Staff of the Month, 137 nominations were sent to WCCS. 

WCCS is grateful to our exceptional teachers and staff who serve our community well. Each month, nominations are taken from co-workers, families, and the community and then winners are chosen from a selection committee made up of community members, service organizations, a WCCS School Board member, and WCCS staff.

Bechtold and Miller go above and beyond, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching methods, and fostering a positive, engaging learning environment. These exemplary educators embody the WCCS values of Eagle P.R.I.D.E. - Persistence, Respectfulness, Initiative, Dependability, and Efficiency.

They will be acknowledged for their accomplishment on the first staff day for the 2025/2026 school year and presented to the community during a home CCHS football game this fall. 

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About Whitley County Consolidated Schools
Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that empowers all students to achieve their full potential. Serving Columbia City and surrounding communities, WCCS believes in fostering a learning environment that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and character development. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, our district offers a diverse curriculum, dedicated educators, and state-of-the-art facilities designed to inspire and engage every learner. Through partnerships with families and the community, WCCS strives to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. For more information about our schools, programs, and initiatives, visit us at www.wccsonline.com.