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.
We can't wait to see students again on Monday and value the time to work on professional development so we can show up at our best for all of our Eagels!
Every year, students look forward to the day to get outside and move while raising money for their fun events during the school year.
Learn more in our upcoming WCCS Connection publication!
We still have space for our Eagle Advocate gathering on October 1, 2026.
Participants can RSVP by scanning the QR code or visit whitley.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0DIR5BHr8G2BfpA
The meeting is limited to 30 participants for adequate bussing throughout the district.
We have our first Teacher In-Service Day.
Enjoy your longer weekend, Eagles!
It’s hard to believe we’re already more than halfway through September! Northern Heights recently shared photos of a couple of the lunches served this week, and we’re happy to showcase the great work happening behind the scenes.
A BIG thank-you to all of our dedicated food service staff for their commitment to providing nutritious meals and keeping our students fueled throughout the day.
We love seeing our new superintendent jump right in with students across the district!
Video Link: https://youtube.com/shorts/ue8y-OgSMT8?feature=share
Participants can RSVP by scanning the QR code.
The meeting is limited to 30 participants for adequate bussing throughout the district.
Share with who you want to bring with you!
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
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
