With an Eagle Win on Friday, we also celebrated our Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Gina Johnson, and Staff of the Year, Mr. Brian Bills, for the 2025-2026 School Year.
The continuous partnership with City Ford allows Gina to drive a new car and Brian was awarded a $1,000 check! Thank you, City Ford and Kasey Shirey's team!
When asked if Gina wanted to bring her family onto the field, she simply said, "all those students wouldn't fit. They're our family too!"
Congratulations, Gina and Brian!
Nominations for 2026-2027 school year are open at wccsonline.com, or by clicking the link.
https://whitley.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3racdoht2uVQXu6
The continuous partnership with City Ford allows Gina to drive a new car and Brian was awarded a $1,000 check! Thank you, City Ford and Kasey Shirey's team!
When asked if Gina wanted to bring her family onto the field, she simply said, "all those students wouldn't fit. They're our family too!"
Congratulations, Gina and Brian!
Nominations for 2026-2027 school year are open at wccsonline.com, or by clicking the link.
https://whitley.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3racdoht2uVQXu6
It has been a great start to the school year! Thank you to students, families, staff, and the community for the diligence and support to get this year started well! It takes all of us working together to accomplish “school,” people behind the scenes and the people that you see.
Weather Delays and Cancellations
Wow! On Day 2, we already had a delay! With this happening so early, I want to say a few things about weather delays and cancellations. As pending weather develops, we consult with local emergency preparedness officials and local weather services to inform our decisions. We have multiple team members out early checking roads and potential trouble areas throughout our district. We make sure our buses can safely transport our students to and from school and that our buildings are fully accessible. Altogether, we consider student safety, transportation, facilities, food services, and after-school activities, and, as a team, we make a decision that best aligns with the current and forecasted conditions.
Information regarding school delay and closing guidelines can be found on the main WCCS website under the “Closings and Delays” tab.
WCCS will make use of Synchronous (Virtual) Learning on weather closures after October 1. On these days, students will meet with their teachers live through Google Meet on a schedule established by the elementaries, middle school, and high school. Another choice for school cancellations is using our two built-in school make-up days on February 15 and May 28. This choice will be used if we have a cancellation before October 1. Asynchronous Learning (e-learning) is another option that WCCS may use in certain scenarios. Asynchronous Learning is when students are given learning tasks (online or packets) to complete on their own time by a specified due date. This option will be used in unique situations as determined by administration. WCCS also makes use of a 2-hour delay depending on the extent and timing of the weather. Weather notifications are slated to be sent by 6 AM, but may be earlier or later depending on the scenario. For 2-hour delays becoming cancellations, the decision is made by 8 AM.
Online Learning helps students stay on track with their learning and reduces the need for make-up days later in the year. It also gives students valuable experience using a mix of in-person and online learning tools.
If you have questions regarding weather delays/cancellations and online learning, please review the linked website pages or contact your child’s school.
Thank you,
WCCS Administration
WCCS is excited to welcome CCHS alum back this year as resident teachers. Lillian Richmond and Hayden Baker, will support classrooms, build relationships, and grow in their teaching practice at Northern Heights and Little Turtle.
Lillian Richmond is currently studying Elementary Education at Grace College. She is supported by her family, her dad Dave, mom Kristen, brothers Landon and Logan, and her fiancé Owen. Lillian enjoys the movie *Blended* and just about any Adam Sandler film. Her advice for students is: “Mistakes are proof you are trying.” When she needs a treat, she reaches for ice cream or Skittles.
Hayden Baker is majoring in Elementary Education with a concentration in Exceptional Needs at Purdue Fort Wayne. Her family includes her mom Cindy, dad Steve, and her brothers Nathan and Parker. Hayden’s favorite book is *Where the Crawdads Sing* by Delia Owens. Her advice for students is to always do their best, not someone else’s. Her favorite treat is cotton candy.
We’re thrilled to have both Lillian and Hayden learning and leading alongside us this year. Their enthusiasm, dedication and love for students will make a meaningful impact across our students.
Lillian Richmond is currently studying Elementary Education at Grace College. She is supported by her family, her dad Dave, mom Kristen, brothers Landon and Logan, and her fiancé Owen. Lillian enjoys the movie *Blended* and just about any Adam Sandler film. Her advice for students is: “Mistakes are proof you are trying.” When she needs a treat, she reaches for ice cream or Skittles.
Hayden Baker is majoring in Elementary Education with a concentration in Exceptional Needs at Purdue Fort Wayne. Her family includes her mom Cindy, dad Steve, and her brothers Nathan and Parker. Hayden’s favorite book is *Where the Crawdads Sing* by Delia Owens. Her advice for students is to always do their best, not someone else’s. Her favorite treat is cotton candy.
We’re thrilled to have both Lillian and Hayden learning and leading alongside us this year. Their enthusiasm, dedication and love for students will make a meaningful impact across our students.
We wrap up our new teacher introductions today!
WCCS is excited to welcome Annie Eggleston, our new BSR (Behavior Skills Resource) Teacher at Northern Heights.
Annie is from Middleville, Michigan, and holds a Master’s in Special Education, a Master’s in Teaching, and a Bachelor’s degree. Annie is a proud mom to her daughter Chloe and her son Kyle.
Her favorite book series is The Housemaid.
Her advice for students this year is:
“We got this! Together!”
Annie loves Sour Patch Kids.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS!
WCCS is excited to welcome Annie Eggleston, our new BSR (Behavior Skills Resource) Teacher at Northern Heights.
Annie is from Middleville, Michigan, and holds a Master’s in Special Education, a Master’s in Teaching, and a Bachelor’s degree. Annie is a proud mom to her daughter Chloe and her son Kyle.
Her favorite book series is The Housemaid.
Her advice for students this year is:
“We got this! Together!”
Annie loves Sour Patch Kids.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS!
WCCS is excited to welcome Brant Sheldon, our new Agriculture Teacher at Columbia City High School!
Brant is from Roachdale, Indiana, and is a proud graduate of Purdue University, where he studied Agricultural Education. He brings hands‑on experience, a love for agriculture, and a passion for helping students explore agriculture in meaningful, practical ways.
His favorite movie is Forrest Gump!
His advice for students this year is encouraging and full of growth:
“Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things!”
And if you ever need a treat idea, Brant enjoys Peanut Butter M&Ms.
He'll join veteran teacher and FFA advisor, Mrs. Furthmiller, as another FFA Advisor, too! We’re excited to welcome him to WCCS!
Brant is from Roachdale, Indiana, and is a proud graduate of Purdue University, where he studied Agricultural Education. He brings hands‑on experience, a love for agriculture, and a passion for helping students explore agriculture in meaningful, practical ways.
His favorite movie is Forrest Gump!
His advice for students this year is encouraging and full of growth:
“Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things!”
And if you ever need a treat idea, Brant enjoys Peanut Butter M&Ms.
He'll join veteran teacher and FFA advisor, Mrs. Furthmiller, as another FFA Advisor, too! We’re excited to welcome him to WCCS!
WCCS is excited to welcome Krissy Corbin, our new K–2 Mild Intervention Teacher at Little Turtle!
Krissy is originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, and holds an M.Ed. from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Krissy and her husband have been married for 24 years, and together they have three daughters, a college junior, a high school sophomore, and a seventh grader.
Her favorite book series is The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare.
Her advice for students this year is encouraging and full of heart:
“Always do your best and don't let yesterday's mistakes define your today.”
And if you ever need a treat idea — Krissy loves Mexican food, Nerds Gummy Clusters, and Watermelon Sour Patch.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS! Welcome!
Krissy is originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, and holds an M.Ed. from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Krissy and her husband have been married for 24 years, and together they have three daughters, a college junior, a high school sophomore, and a seventh grader.
Her favorite book series is The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare.
Her advice for students this year is encouraging and full of heart:
“Always do your best and don't let yesterday's mistakes define your today.”
And if you ever need a treat idea — Krissy loves Mexican food, Nerds Gummy Clusters, and Watermelon Sour Patch.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS! Welcome!
WCCS is excited to welcome back Lindsey Smith, our Dean of Students and Literacy Instructional Coach at Little Turtle! She's not new here, you may recognize Lindsey as a veteran teacher in the district, we are so glad she's back!
Lindsey is a lifelong resident of Columbia City and brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary and Special Education from Indiana State University, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a High Ability concentration from Purdue University, and a Science of Reading Literacy Endorsement. Her commitment to strong instruction, student support and literacy growth shines through in everything she does.
Lindsey has been married to her husband Ryan for 22 years, and together they’ve built a life rooted in community and connection. They have two children, Reece, a freshman, and Ella, a junior at Columbia City High School. As a family, they love supporting their kids’ activities, spending time together, and staying active in the community they care so deeply about.
Her current favorite book is Theo of Golden by Allen Levi.
Her advice for students this year is thoughtful and encouraging:
“Come to school each day with a positive attitude, be willing to learn from your mistakes, and never be afraid to ask for help. Growth happens when you challenge yourself, stay curious, and give your best effort every day.”
And if you ever need a treat idea — Lindsey loves Mexican food.
We’re thrilled to have her back at WCCS!
Lindsey is a lifelong resident of Columbia City and brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary and Special Education from Indiana State University, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a High Ability concentration from Purdue University, and a Science of Reading Literacy Endorsement. Her commitment to strong instruction, student support and literacy growth shines through in everything she does.
Lindsey has been married to her husband Ryan for 22 years, and together they’ve built a life rooted in community and connection. They have two children, Reece, a freshman, and Ella, a junior at Columbia City High School. As a family, they love supporting their kids’ activities, spending time together, and staying active in the community they care so deeply about.
Her current favorite book is Theo of Golden by Allen Levi.
Her advice for students this year is thoughtful and encouraging:
“Come to school each day with a positive attitude, be willing to learn from your mistakes, and never be afraid to ask for help. Growth happens when you challenge yourself, stay curious, and give your best effort every day.”
And if you ever need a treat idea — Lindsey loves Mexican food.
We’re thrilled to have her back at WCCS!
Give a warm welcome to Nichole Doehrmann, our new 5th Grade Resource Teacher at Little Turtle Elementary!
Nichole is from Fort Wayne, Indiana, and holds a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Indiana Tech along with her teaching license from IU. At home, she enjoys life with her husband Charles and their three children, Zayne, Layla, and Wyatt.
Her favorite movie series is Fast and Furious, a perfect match for her energetic, “you can do this” approach in the classroom.
Her advice for students this year is simple and uplifting:
“You are amazing.”
Nichole loves Italian food, Snickers, and Starburst.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS!
Nichole is from Fort Wayne, Indiana, and holds a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Indiana Tech along with her teaching license from IU. At home, she enjoys life with her husband Charles and their three children, Zayne, Layla, and Wyatt.
Her favorite movie series is Fast and Furious, a perfect match for her energetic, “you can do this” approach in the classroom.
Her advice for students this year is simple and uplifting:
“You are amazing.”
Nichole loves Italian food, Snickers, and Starburst.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS!
WCCS is excited to welcome Hailey Whiteleather back as a First Grade Teacher at Northern Heights Elementary! She was a resident student teacher last year and has her own classroom this year!
Hailey is from Columbia City and is a proud graduate of Purdue Fort Wayne. She brings warmth, patience, and a joyful energy to the classroom. Her family includes Tiffany, Jason, Devon, and Treyton, along with her pets: her cat Gary and dogs Flash and Tripp.
Her favorite movie is Mamma Mia, a perfect match for her upbeat, encouraging spirit.
Her advice for students this year is calming and reassuring:
“Take a deep breath. You do not have to be perfect, just do your best!”
Hailey loves Nerd Clusters.
We’re thrilled to have her at Northern Heights Elementary!
Hailey is from Columbia City and is a proud graduate of Purdue Fort Wayne. She brings warmth, patience, and a joyful energy to the classroom. Her family includes Tiffany, Jason, Devon, and Treyton, along with her pets: her cat Gary and dogs Flash and Tripp.
Her favorite movie is Mamma Mia, a perfect match for her upbeat, encouraging spirit.
Her advice for students this year is calming and reassuring:
“Take a deep breath. You do not have to be perfect, just do your best!”
Hailey loves Nerd Clusters.
We’re thrilled to have her at Northern Heights Elementary!
Help us welcome Linda Willard, our new Special Education Preschool Teacher at Mary Raber Montessori!
Linda was born and raised in Huntington and now lives in Fort Wayne. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Western Governors University and a Special Education (Mild Intervention) degree from the University of St. Francis. She brings warmth, patience, and a deep belief in every child’s ability to learn and grow.
Linda comes from a family of 11 children, eight brothers and two sisters. She is a proud mom to three adult children. Her son Jonathan lives in Ohio with his wife Amanda and Linda’s only grandchild, Adelaide. Her son Stephen lives in Spencerville with his husband Trey, and her daughter Lina lives with her along with Lina’s dog, Frankie.
Her favorite reads include the Bible and historical fiction, especially stories from WWII and the Holocaust.
Her advice for students this year is:
“Everyone can learn; we just all learn in different ways and speeds!”
And if you ever need a snack idea, Linda loves Nutella anything, pretzels, and Stauffer’s animal cookies.
We’re thrilled to have her at Mary Raber Montessori!
Linda was born and raised in Huntington and now lives in Fort Wayne. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Western Governors University and a Special Education (Mild Intervention) degree from the University of St. Francis. She brings warmth, patience, and a deep belief in every child’s ability to learn and grow.
Linda comes from a family of 11 children, eight brothers and two sisters. She is a proud mom to three adult children. Her son Jonathan lives in Ohio with his wife Amanda and Linda’s only grandchild, Adelaide. Her son Stephen lives in Spencerville with his husband Trey, and her daughter Lina lives with her along with Lina’s dog, Frankie.
Her favorite reads include the Bible and historical fiction, especially stories from WWII and the Holocaust.
Her advice for students this year is:
“Everyone can learn; we just all learn in different ways and speeds!”
And if you ever need a snack idea, Linda loves Nutella anything, pretzels, and Stauffer’s animal cookies.
We’re thrilled to have her at Mary Raber Montessori!
WCCS is excited to welcome Shane Barkley in his new role as our Civil Construction Trades Teacher for Career and Technical Education at Columbia City High School!
Shane is from Churubusco and holds an Associate’s Degree in Architectural Engineering and Construction Management.
He brings hands‑on expertise, real‑world experience, and a passion for helping students build skills that will serve them long after graduation. Shane has been married to his wife Starr for 12 years, and together they have two sons, two daughters‑in‑law, and four grandchildren he loves spending time with.
His favorite movie is Dead Poets Society.
His advice for students this year is powerful:
“The true measure of a person is how they act when no one else is watching.”
And if you ever need a treat idea, Shane enjoys Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
We’re excited to have him teaching CTE!
Shane is from Churubusco and holds an Associate’s Degree in Architectural Engineering and Construction Management.
He brings hands‑on expertise, real‑world experience, and a passion for helping students build skills that will serve them long after graduation. Shane has been married to his wife Starr for 12 years, and together they have two sons, two daughters‑in‑law, and four grandchildren he loves spending time with.
His favorite movie is Dead Poets Society.
His advice for students this year is powerful:
“The true measure of a person is how they act when no one else is watching.”
And if you ever need a treat idea, Shane enjoys Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
We’re excited to have him teaching CTE!
WCCS is excited to welcome Kirsten Norton, our new History Facilitator at Columbia City High School!
Kirsten is from Hudson, Indiana, and is a proud graduate of Manchester University. She brings curiosity, enthusiasm and a passion for helping students explore the past with confidence and creativity. Her support system includes her mother, Faith, and close friends Andrew, Celeste, Sabrina, Lily and Kendra.
Her favorite book is the Throne of Glass series.
Her advice for students this year is simple and empowering:
“Be curious and don't be afraid to ask questions!”
She loves pretzels.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS!
Kirsten is from Hudson, Indiana, and is a proud graduate of Manchester University. She brings curiosity, enthusiasm and a passion for helping students explore the past with confidence and creativity. Her support system includes her mother, Faith, and close friends Andrew, Celeste, Sabrina, Lily and Kendra.
Her favorite book is the Throne of Glass series.
Her advice for students this year is simple and empowering:
“Be curious and don't be afraid to ask questions!”
She loves pretzels.
We’re thrilled to have her at WCCS!
WCCS is excited to welcome Greg Mose, our new Social Studies Teacher at Indian Springs Middle School!
Greg lives in Fort Wayne, originally from Gladwin, Michigan, and is a graduate of Central Michigan University.
Greg enjoys diving into anything related to history or sports.
His advice for students this year is simple and meaningful:
“Do your best and help others.”
Greg enjoys Reese’s.
Greg lives in Fort Wayne, originally from Gladwin, Michigan, and is a graduate of Central Michigan University.
Greg enjoys diving into anything related to history or sports.
His advice for students this year is simple and meaningful:
“Do your best and help others.”
Greg enjoys Reese’s.
Two-Hour Delay and Closing Notifications - "It's in the App!"
When WCCS announces a two-hour delay, like we did this morning, be the first to know with the WCCS App.
From the app screen choose "more" on the far right and then the setting icon in the top right allows you to choose your child(ren)'s school.
Make sure you also have chosen "Whitley County Consolidated Schools," that's where the whole district content and notifications that impact the every school, like 2-hour delays, are posted.
Download the app in your favorite app store by searching "Whitley County Consolidated Schools" and find our eagle logo!
Also, make sure your phone settings are allowing notifications from the WCCS app to populate.
When WCCS announces a two-hour delay, like we did this morning, be the first to know with the WCCS App.
From the app screen choose "more" on the far right and then the setting icon in the top right allows you to choose your child(ren)'s school.
Make sure you also have chosen "Whitley County Consolidated Schools," that's where the whole district content and notifications that impact the every school, like 2-hour delays, are posted.
Download the app in your favorite app store by searching "Whitley County Consolidated Schools" and find our eagle logo!
Also, make sure your phone settings are allowing notifications from the WCCS app to populate.
School will be in session following the 2 hour delay today. The fog has lifted.
WCCS is going on a 2 hour delay for Thursday, August 13 due to dense fog in several areas in our district.
Welcome back, Eagles!
A rainy first day doesn't dampen the "first day feeling" in our buildings!
From new friends, navigating new grade levels, pushing boundaries and remaining persistent and everything in between, it has been a great day!
A rainy first day doesn't dampen the "first day feeling" in our buildings!
From new friends, navigating new grade levels, pushing boundaries and remaining persistent and everything in between, it has been a great day!
As WCCS kicks off a new school year tomorrow, we’re asking our entire community to help keep our roads safe for students, families and bus drivers. Whether you’re dropping off, picking up or simply driving through town, your attention makes a difference.
School Traffic Reminders
- Slow down in all school zones
- Stay patient during drop‑off and pick‑up. Extra minutes mean extra safety.
- Follow staff directions at each building; they’re there to keep traffic flowing and students protected.
- Avoid distractions: phones down, eyes up, especially near crosswalks and parking lots.
Bus Safety Best Practices
- Never pass a stopped school bus when the stop arm is out.
- Leave extra space when following a bus; they make frequent stops.
- Watch for students crossing the road to board or exit.
- Teach your children to wait for the bus to stop completely, use handrails and stay seated while the bus is moving.
- Be predictable. Sudden lane changes or speeding near buses put everyone at risk.
Our bus drivers and staff work hard to make every day safe. With your help, we can ensure students arrive ready to learn and return home safely.
School Traffic Reminders
- Slow down in all school zones
- Stay patient during drop‑off and pick‑up. Extra minutes mean extra safety.
- Follow staff directions at each building; they’re there to keep traffic flowing and students protected.
- Avoid distractions: phones down, eyes up, especially near crosswalks and parking lots.
Bus Safety Best Practices
- Never pass a stopped school bus when the stop arm is out.
- Leave extra space when following a bus; they make frequent stops.
- Watch for students crossing the road to board or exit.
- Teach your children to wait for the bus to stop completely, use handrails and stay seated while the bus is moving.
- Be predictable. Sudden lane changes or speeding near buses put everyone at risk.
Our bus drivers and staff work hard to make every day safe. With your help, we can ensure students arrive ready to learn and return home safely.
Whitley County Consolidated Schools is proud to celebrate our students' IREAD-3 scores!
The 2026 IREAD-3 results are in and WCCS students reached our highest district performance in the past six years: 93.8% proficient!
That continues a strong upward trend for our students:
2021: 87.2%
2022: 83.2%
2023: 86.0%
2024: 87.9%
2025: 92.4%
2026: 93.8%
During the past five years, WCCS has grown 6.6 percentage points, and we have continued to outperform the Indiana state average each year. In 2026, WCCS finished 5.9 points above the state average of 87.9%.
There is also plenty to celebrate across our elementary schools. Little Turtle grew by 8%, reaching 93.4% proficiency, while two schools met and exceeded the state's 95% benchmark: Mary Raber reached 97.3%, and Northern Heights reached 97.5%.
These results represent years of intentional literacy instruction, hard work from our teachers and staff, support from families, and, most importantly, the effort of our students.
93.8% proficient. Our highest performance yet. And we’re still growing!
The 2026 IREAD-3 results are in and WCCS students reached our highest district performance in the past six years: 93.8% proficient!
That continues a strong upward trend for our students:
2021: 87.2%
2022: 83.2%
2023: 86.0%
2024: 87.9%
2025: 92.4%
2026: 93.8%
During the past five years, WCCS has grown 6.6 percentage points, and we have continued to outperform the Indiana state average each year. In 2026, WCCS finished 5.9 points above the state average of 87.9%.
There is also plenty to celebrate across our elementary schools. Little Turtle grew by 8%, reaching 93.4% proficiency, while two schools met and exceeded the state's 95% benchmark: Mary Raber reached 97.3%, and Northern Heights reached 97.5%.
These results represent years of intentional literacy instruction, hard work from our teachers and staff, support from families, and, most importantly, the effort of our students.
93.8% proficient. Our highest performance yet. And we’re still growing!
Help us welcome Matthew Stemmer, our new Columbia City High School Social Studies Teacher!
Matthew is originally from Byesville, Ohio, a small town in Southeast Ohio, and now lives in Bluffton, Indiana. He holds a Bachelor’s in Adolescent to Young Adult Education from Bowling Green State University and is currently working toward his Master’s in History from BGSU as well. At home, he enjoys life with his fiancée, Chelsea, and their pets.
He loves the Star Wars Thrawn series by Timothy Zahn and often dives into history books; especially those exploring the American frontier and the Crusades.
His advice for students this year is thoughtful and encouraging:
“Never be afraid to ask a question when it comes to mind! Very often what makes a question ‘bad’ is only timing.”
He enjoys Biscoff cookies, chocolate chip cookies, and Ferrero Rocher chocolates.
We’re thrilled to have him at WCCS!
Matthew is originally from Byesville, Ohio, a small town in Southeast Ohio, and now lives in Bluffton, Indiana. He holds a Bachelor’s in Adolescent to Young Adult Education from Bowling Green State University and is currently working toward his Master’s in History from BGSU as well. At home, he enjoys life with his fiancée, Chelsea, and their pets.
He loves the Star Wars Thrawn series by Timothy Zahn and often dives into history books; especially those exploring the American frontier and the Crusades.
His advice for students this year is thoughtful and encouraging:
“Never be afraid to ask a question when it comes to mind! Very often what makes a question ‘bad’ is only timing.”
He enjoys Biscoff cookies, chocolate chip cookies, and Ferrero Rocher chocolates.
We’re thrilled to have him at WCCS!
