The Whitley County Consolidated Schools 2027-2028 School Calendar is here!
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WCCS has applied for the 1003 Waiver Days, which will be included as professional development days when the Indiana Department of Education awards recipients. We will update the calendar with School Board of Trustee approval, if awarded and share when we know more.
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WCCS has applied for the 1003 Waiver Days, which will be included as professional development days when the Indiana Department of Education awards recipients. We will update the calendar with School Board of Trustee approval, if awarded and share when we know more.
It's National School Psychology Week! We're sending appreciation to our two school psychologists within WCCS, Aaron Bernier and Abbey Herendeen!
These two bring specialized knowledge and expertise to our schools. Under federal and state requirements, they conduct comprehensive evaluations to help determine students' educational needs and potential eligibility for special education services.
Beyond evaluation, they are valued members of collaborative school teams who help identify student strengths and needs, problem-solve challenges, interpret assessment data, and connect students, families, and educators with appropriate resources and support. Their work contributes to creating supportive learning environments where all students have opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
Thank you for all you do!
These two bring specialized knowledge and expertise to our schools. Under federal and state requirements, they conduct comprehensive evaluations to help determine students' educational needs and potential eligibility for special education services.
Beyond evaluation, they are valued members of collaborative school teams who help identify student strengths and needs, problem-solve challenges, interpret assessment data, and connect students, families, and educators with appropriate resources and support. Their work contributes to creating supportive learning environments where all students have opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
Thank you for all you do!
WCCS Celebrates September and October Teacher and Staff of the Month Winners!
September Teacher of the Month is Jamie Yates, First Grade at Little Turtle Elementary.
"Ms. Yates has already made an incredible impact on our daughter during her first-grade year. What stands out most to my wife and me is the environment she has created in her classroom. [Our daughter] is excited about school, excited about learning, and comes home wanting to tell us about what happened in class. As parents, there is nothing better than seeing your child develop that kind of enthusiasm for learning. Ms. Yates recognizes that first grade is about much more than academics. She is helping her students develop confidence, curiosity, kindness, and a love of learning. She makes her students feel valued and creates opportunities that make school memorable. We truly believe she is planting seeds in Lorelai and her classmates that will continue to grow long after they leave her classroom.," said her nominator.
September Staff of the Month is John Carter, WCCS Bus Driver.
His nomination in part read, "John Carter has a positive impact on our students each day through the consistency, care, and professionalism he brings to his role as a bus driver. John understands that a student’s experience at school begins before they ever walk through our doors. His calm and welcoming presence helps students start their mornings on a positive note and provides them with a safe, dependable environment as they travel to and from school. John does an excellent job of building relationships with the students on his route while maintaining clear expectations for safety and behavior. He treats students with patience and respect and takes the time to know the students he transports. When concerns arise, John communicates with our school staff and works collaboratively with us to support students rather than simply viewing situations as transportation issues. Most importantly, John demonstrates that every employee in our school community has an opportunity to make a difference for students. His reliability, positive interactions, and genuine care for our students make him an important part of their school experience and a valued member of the Northern Heights community."
October Teacher of the Month is Brian Cass, Seventh Grade Social Studies Teacher at Indian Springs Middle School.
"This teacher consistently demonstrates the district’s core values through his dedication to his students and commitment to creating a positive learning environment. He strives for excellence by finding creative and engaging ways to meet the individual needs of his students and by making learning accessible and enjoyable. He demonstrates integrity through the genuine care, patience, and respect he shows each student, treating them as individuals and recognizing their unique strengths and challenges. His commitment to community engagement is evident in the strong relationships he builds with students, families, and colleagues. He creates a classroom environment where students feel valued, supported, and comfortable being themselves. From a parent’s perspective, his influence extends beyond academics he is helping students develop confidence, meaningful relationships, and a sense of belonging within the school community. His dedication and positive attitude make a lasting difference in the lives of his students which creates a stronger, more connected school community," said his nomination.
October Staff of the Month is Rod Murphy, Custodian at Coesse Elementary School.
Rod's nominator wrote, "Rod does so many things every day that goes unnoticed. I have heard it before called "the ministry of tables and chairs". When you have a position that supports the people that are seen and make their lives easier because of providing them a safe and functional place to do their job. So when the general public thinks of a school setting we think of teachers - but Rod is the one making the building what it is so teachers can do their jobs efficiently and effectively!"
Each award recipients received a floral arrangement from Bravo Floral, a t-shirt voucher from Running Around Screen Printing and are entered into the final award presented by City Auto Mall!
Nominations can be submitted at wccsonline.com from our home page!
September Teacher of the Month is Jamie Yates, First Grade at Little Turtle Elementary.
"Ms. Yates has already made an incredible impact on our daughter during her first-grade year. What stands out most to my wife and me is the environment she has created in her classroom. [Our daughter] is excited about school, excited about learning, and comes home wanting to tell us about what happened in class. As parents, there is nothing better than seeing your child develop that kind of enthusiasm for learning. Ms. Yates recognizes that first grade is about much more than academics. She is helping her students develop confidence, curiosity, kindness, and a love of learning. She makes her students feel valued and creates opportunities that make school memorable. We truly believe she is planting seeds in Lorelai and her classmates that will continue to grow long after they leave her classroom.," said her nominator.
September Staff of the Month is John Carter, WCCS Bus Driver.
His nomination in part read, "John Carter has a positive impact on our students each day through the consistency, care, and professionalism he brings to his role as a bus driver. John understands that a student’s experience at school begins before they ever walk through our doors. His calm and welcoming presence helps students start their mornings on a positive note and provides them with a safe, dependable environment as they travel to and from school. John does an excellent job of building relationships with the students on his route while maintaining clear expectations for safety and behavior. He treats students with patience and respect and takes the time to know the students he transports. When concerns arise, John communicates with our school staff and works collaboratively with us to support students rather than simply viewing situations as transportation issues. Most importantly, John demonstrates that every employee in our school community has an opportunity to make a difference for students. His reliability, positive interactions, and genuine care for our students make him an important part of their school experience and a valued member of the Northern Heights community."
October Teacher of the Month is Brian Cass, Seventh Grade Social Studies Teacher at Indian Springs Middle School.
"This teacher consistently demonstrates the district’s core values through his dedication to his students and commitment to creating a positive learning environment. He strives for excellence by finding creative and engaging ways to meet the individual needs of his students and by making learning accessible and enjoyable. He demonstrates integrity through the genuine care, patience, and respect he shows each student, treating them as individuals and recognizing their unique strengths and challenges. His commitment to community engagement is evident in the strong relationships he builds with students, families, and colleagues. He creates a classroom environment where students feel valued, supported, and comfortable being themselves. From a parent’s perspective, his influence extends beyond academics he is helping students develop confidence, meaningful relationships, and a sense of belonging within the school community. His dedication and positive attitude make a lasting difference in the lives of his students which creates a stronger, more connected school community," said his nomination.
October Staff of the Month is Rod Murphy, Custodian at Coesse Elementary School.
Rod's nominator wrote, "Rod does so many things every day that goes unnoticed. I have heard it before called "the ministry of tables and chairs". When you have a position that supports the people that are seen and make their lives easier because of providing them a safe and functional place to do their job. So when the general public thinks of a school setting we think of teachers - but Rod is the one making the building what it is so teachers can do their jobs efficiently and effectively!"
Each award recipients received a floral arrangement from Bravo Floral, a t-shirt voucher from Running Around Screen Printing and are entered into the final award presented by City Auto Mall!
Nominations can be submitted at wccsonline.com from our home page!
The latest edition of our WCCS Connection is here!
There is so much to celebrate throughout WCCS! Student academic, athletic and extracurricular success unfold in the pieces this newsletter.
From running for success in the classroom to collegiate athletics, marching a way to state finals and community partnerships that impact every elementary, it's a publication you won't want to miss.
Mark your calendars! Don't miss the back page!
https://online.fliphtml5.com/ieqmj/WCCS-Connection-Fall-2026_Final/#p=1
There is so much to celebrate throughout WCCS! Student academic, athletic and extracurricular success unfold in the pieces this newsletter.
From running for success in the classroom to collegiate athletics, marching a way to state finals and community partnerships that impact every elementary, it's a publication you won't want to miss.
Mark your calendars! Don't miss the back page!
https://online.fliphtml5.com/ieqmj/WCCS-Connection-Fall-2026_Final/#p=1
Reminder: Monday is a Professional Development Day for our staff. No school for students.
We look forward to seeing students on Tuesday!
We look forward to seeing students on Tuesday!
🎃👻 A SPOOKTACULAR DAY in Whitley County Schools Cafeterias! 👻🎃
Today's breakfast was served up with a side of Halloween humor at Little Turtle Elementary, and Northern Heights brought the lunchtime magic! 🧡
All of our elementary schools enjoyed a special Halloween lunch featuring Bat Nuggets, Scream Beans, an Eek Sidekick, Count Chocula Chip Cookies, and Skeleton Fuel! 🦇💀🍪
Our amazing cafeteria staff got into the Halloween spirit, too! Check out Mrs. Sayers at Little Turtle, Ms. Gerardot from the High School, and our festive crews at Northern Heights and Indian Springs!
A big BOO-tiful shoutout to our cafeteria teams for making Halloween extra special for our students! 🧡
We think it's safe to say lunch was a real TREAT! 🍬👻
Today's breakfast was served up with a side of Halloween humor at Little Turtle Elementary, and Northern Heights brought the lunchtime magic! 🧡
All of our elementary schools enjoyed a special Halloween lunch featuring Bat Nuggets, Scream Beans, an Eek Sidekick, Count Chocula Chip Cookies, and Skeleton Fuel! 🦇💀🍪
Our amazing cafeteria staff got into the Halloween spirit, too! Check out Mrs. Sayers at Little Turtle, Ms. Gerardot from the High School, and our festive crews at Northern Heights and Indian Springs!
A big BOO-tiful shoutout to our cafeteria teams for making Halloween extra special for our students! 🧡
We think it's safe to say lunch was a real TREAT! 🍬👻
During public comment, a community member shared concerns regarding student academic performance, district finances, and the proposed bond project. In response during later discussion, board members and administrators clarified that previous audit findings had been addressed, corrective actions were implemented immediately, and there are no outstanding unresolved audit issues. District leaders explained that reported audit adjustments involved accounting and reporting procedures rather than misuse of funds and noted that all findings were reviewed publicly when audits were presented to the board.
Administrators also clarified that the district is not currently planning or pursuing an operating referendum, addressing comments that had circulated within the community.
Read more: https://www.wccsonline.com/article/3215476
View Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzp3ANb53S0&t=37s
Administrators also clarified that the district is not currently planning or pursuing an operating referendum, addressing comments that had circulated within the community.
Read more: https://www.wccsonline.com/article/3215476
View Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzp3ANb53S0&t=37s
🍎 Happy National Apple Day! 🍎
Our amazing kitchen staff at Little Turtle Elementary and Mary Raber Montessori made sure to celebrate with their students today! We’re grateful for the little moments that make learning fun and delicious. ❤️🍏
Our amazing kitchen staff at Little Turtle Elementary and Mary Raber Montessori made sure to celebrate with their students today! We’re grateful for the little moments that make learning fun and delicious. ❤️🍏
Families,
There is a gas leak on Line Street between Spencer and Radio Road (south of the railroad tracks, near the Humane Shelter).
Line Street will be closed in the morning and potentially until Thursday. Please use State Rd. 9 when traveling to the South campus on Wednesday to avoid the road closure. Busses traveling in that area may be delayed on Wednesay morning due to detours.
Thank you for your understanding,
Dr. Trent Lehman
Whitley County Consolidated Schools recently reviewed the 2027 budget proposal, and we are proud of the stewardship that allows us to lower the levy in 2027 and maintain it through 2023.
In plain terms, WCCS is lowering debt with less cost to taxpayers during a time of inflation, while still getting what we need for students.
WCCS was applauded by Mr. Schumaker, a Stifel representative, for the "years and years of long-term planning." The district's proposed budget and general obligation bond are able to meet the district's needs, while still reducing the impact on taxpayers. A position that would be envied by many districts across Indiana.
Please take the time to listen to the whole summary. As always, we encourage you to join the conversation. Talk with our team and get involved with our Eagle Advocates program. Learn more at wccsonline.com.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SeU7oJd_iDg&t=65s
In plain terms, WCCS is lowering debt with less cost to taxpayers during a time of inflation, while still getting what we need for students.
WCCS was applauded by Mr. Schumaker, a Stifel representative, for the "years and years of long-term planning." The district's proposed budget and general obligation bond are able to meet the district's needs, while still reducing the impact on taxpayers. A position that would be envied by many districts across Indiana.
Please take the time to listen to the whole summary. As always, we encourage you to join the conversation. Talk with our team and get involved with our Eagle Advocates program. Learn more at wccsonline.com.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SeU7oJd_iDg&t=65s
WCCS will be on a 2 hour delay for Monday, October 12, due to patchy, dense fog.
Mr. Mullet led our new staff and their mentors in conversations about classroom culture this afternoon for continuing education and professional development.
Introducing a new grab-and-go option today at the High School: the Chicken Gyro.
It features seasoned grilled chicken wrapped in a soft pita, topped with fresh veggies and cold, creamy tzatziki sauce. It is fully prepped and ready to grab so you can get through the lunch line faster.
Find it in the grab-and-go section during all lunch periods today.
It’s National Instructional Coaches Day!
Shoutout to our amazing Literacy Cadre Coaches, Columbia City High School Academy Coaches, and our Resource Teachers throughout the District! They're the champions behind stronger instruction, empowered teachers and inspired students.
These coaches bring energy, expertise and dedication to our schools. They help shape the learning experiences that make WCCS a place where students grow, explore and achieve.
Join us in thanking them for all they do for our teachers, our classrooms and our community.
Shoutout to our amazing Literacy Cadre Coaches, Columbia City High School Academy Coaches, and our Resource Teachers throughout the District! They're the champions behind stronger instruction, empowered teachers and inspired students.
These coaches bring energy, expertise and dedication to our schools. They help shape the learning experiences that make WCCS a place where students grow, explore and achieve.
Join us in thanking them for all they do for our teachers, our classrooms and our community.
As a reminder, the WCCS Board of School Trustee Work Session is next week.
Stay up to date in the WCCS app or by checking our events calendar on wccsonline.com.
Stay up to date in the WCCS app or by checking our events calendar on wccsonline.com.
Happy School Custodian Appreciation Day!
In every WCCS building, custodians show up before, during, and after school to keep our buildings clean, serve as role models for students, prepare spaces for classes, spread positivity to our teachers, and so much more!
They're truly unsung heroes of our school district, and we appreciate all they do to serve our school community.
If you see one of our school custodians, thank them!
In every WCCS building, custodians show up before, during, and after school to keep our buildings clean, serve as role models for students, prepare spaces for classes, spread positivity to our teachers, and so much more!
They're truly unsung heroes of our school district, and we appreciate all they do to serve our school community.
If you see one of our school custodians, thank them!
Eagle Advocates gathered today to hear from District leadership and staff to learn about bonds, financial stewardship, new administrative leadership goals and tour Little Turtle Elementary and the new CTE Facility.
The group interacted with students in the halls, peeked into classrooms, and visited recess at Little Turtle with a tour hosted by principal Julie Turpin.
The new CTE Facility is nearly finished, and CTE Director Lori Heuer just moved in yesterday, so the group saw the learning labs and classrooms taking shape! Programs will move soon!
Eagle Advocates asked great questions and were engaged throughout the whole day. Look for our next gathering to become an Eagle Advocate, too!
The group interacted with students in the halls, peeked into classrooms, and visited recess at Little Turtle with a tour hosted by principal Julie Turpin.
The new CTE Facility is nearly finished, and CTE Director Lori Heuer just moved in yesterday, so the group saw the learning labs and classrooms taking shape! Programs will move soon!
Eagle Advocates asked great questions and were engaged throughout the whole day. Look for our next gathering to become an Eagle Advocate, too!
As a reminder, WCCS can begin using Synchronous Learning (Virtual Learning) days beginning October 1.
This year, synchronous learning begins at 9:30 a.m. for all students. During synchronous learning, everyone logs in at the same time, listens to the teacher, asks questions and works on activities and assignments together. In addition to providing our students with skills and experiences in a blended learning environment, synchronous learning days also enable us to maintain continuity in student learning and reduce the need for make-up days.
We have listed several frequently asked questions and resources on our website at https://www.wccsonline.com/page/synchronous
In the event of synchronous learning, please have students online and ready for their school day beginning at 9:30 a.m.
This year, synchronous learning begins at 9:30 a.m. for all students. During synchronous learning, everyone logs in at the same time, listens to the teacher, asks questions and works on activities and assignments together. In addition to providing our students with skills and experiences in a blended learning environment, synchronous learning days also enable us to maintain continuity in student learning and reduce the need for make-up days.
We have listed several frequently asked questions and resources on our website at https://www.wccsonline.com/page/synchronous
In the event of synchronous learning, please have students online and ready for their school day beginning at 9:30 a.m.
Happy National School PTO Day, WCCS!
Today we celebrate the incredible parent groups whose energy, creativity and heart strengthen our schools every single day.
At Mary Raber Montessori, the PTSO works to connect families, support students and staff, and create a positive learning environment for all learners. From hosting family events to showing year‑round appreciation for teachers, they make it easy for families to be involved, as much or as little as they choose.
At Coesse Elementary, the PTO may be small in number, but they are mighty in impact. They support students, staff, and families through family fun nights, after‑school programs, field day, classroom contributions, and ongoing staff support.
Today we honor every volunteer, every parent, every caregiver, and every community member who gives their time to help our schools thrive. Your partnership makes a difference!
Thank you, WCCS PTOs, for all you do!
Every school has a PTO or volunteer opportunities to get involved. We encourage you to complete their volunteer application to begin. More info at wccsonline.com.