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!
🎃👻 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! 🍬👻
WCCS will be on a 2 hour delay for Monday, October 12, due to patchy, dense fog.
We are just sending message to let everyone know that the internet and phone lines are down. We are troubleshooting the problems with our company.
Remember, there is no school on Friday! Students do not attend school.
We have our first Teacher In-Service Day.
Enjoy your longer weekend, Eagles!
We have our first Teacher In-Service Day.
Enjoy your longer weekend, Eagles!
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!
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.
WCCS is excited to welcome Anna Garmatz, our new SPED Teacher (4th Grade Resource) at Little Turtle Elementary!
Anna is originally from Chicago, Illinois, and holds an undergraduate degree from Taylor University along with a Master’s Degree from Roosevelt University. She brings compassion, patience, and a deep commitment to helping every student feel supported and capable. At home, she enjoys life with her husband and their three dogs.
Her favorite book list is too long to choose from!
Her advice for students this year is:
“You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” - C.S. Lewis
Anna loves coffee, ice cream, lemon curd or jam, cheese, popcorn, and Skor candy bars.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
Anna is originally from Chicago, Illinois, and holds an undergraduate degree from Taylor University along with a Master’s Degree from Roosevelt University. She brings compassion, patience, and a deep commitment to helping every student feel supported and capable. At home, she enjoys life with her husband and their three dogs.
Her favorite book list is too long to choose from!
Her advice for students this year is:
“You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” - C.S. Lewis
Anna loves coffee, ice cream, lemon curd or jam, cheese, popcorn, and Skor candy bars.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
WCCS is excited to welcome Brooke Lickey, our new 2nd Grade Teacher at Little Turtle Elementary!
Brooke is a Columbia City native and holds a Bachelor of Science in Education. Her family, parents Brent and Kim, sister Brayden, and her Great Dane Louie , are a huge source of support, and she’s grateful to have them nearby as she begins her teaching career.
Her favorite book is The Big Friendly Giant (BFG), a perfect fit for someone who believes in imagination, courage and kindness.
Her advice for students this year is empowering and full of heart:
“Be brave enough to try, even when something feels hard. Mistakes help us learn, and every time you take a risk, you grow a little more.”
And if you ever need a snack idea Brooke loves any kind of chip and Sour Patch Kids.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
Brooke is a Columbia City native and holds a Bachelor of Science in Education. Her family, parents Brent and Kim, sister Brayden, and her Great Dane Louie , are a huge source of support, and she’s grateful to have them nearby as she begins her teaching career.
Her favorite book is The Big Friendly Giant (BFG), a perfect fit for someone who believes in imagination, courage and kindness.
Her advice for students this year is empowering and full of heart:
“Be brave enough to try, even when something feels hard. Mistakes help us learn, and every time you take a risk, you grow a little more.”
And if you ever need a snack idea Brooke loves any kind of chip and Sour Patch Kids.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
Help us welcome Kristin Bonecutter, who will be joining the team at Little Turtle Elementary as an EAGLE teacher.
Kristin comes to us from Manistee, Michigan, and is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University. At home, she enjoys life with her husband, Jason, and their daughter, Evelyn. She’s also a fan of A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Her advice for students this year is inspiring and full of belief:
“Never let anyone underestimate what you can achieve. Every student deserves to be challenged, encouraged, and allowed to shine. I can't wait to see all that you'll accomplish this year!”
She loves sushi and Twizzlers.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
Kristin comes to us from Manistee, Michigan, and is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University. At home, she enjoys life with her husband, Jason, and their daughter, Evelyn. She’s also a fan of A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Her advice for students this year is inspiring and full of belief:
“Never let anyone underestimate what you can achieve. Every student deserves to be challenged, encouraged, and allowed to shine. I can't wait to see all that you'll accomplish this year!”
She loves sushi and Twizzlers.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
Mark Your Calendars for these important Back-to-School Nights!
Specific school event details can be found on our website from wccsonline.com.
Also, don't forget to check the WCCS App for even more details and your back-to-school necessities like supply lists, handbooks, and more!
Specific school event details can be found on our website from wccsonline.com.
Also, don't forget to check the WCCS App for even more details and your back-to-school necessities like supply lists, handbooks, and more!
Whitley County Consolidated Schools is excited to introduce our newest eagles!
Welcome Katie Reed, our new 5th Grade Teacher at Little Turtle Elementary!
Katie is a Columbia City native and a Western Governors University graduate. She enjoys hiking, camping, and gardening, and is a big fan of anything written by Frieda McFadden.
Her advice for students this year is simple and powerful:
“You don't know the amazing things you're capable of unless you try. Believe in yourself, learn from mistakes, and be kind to one another.”
For snacks, Katie prefers salty treats like pistachios or chips and salsa.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
Welcome Katie Reed, our new 5th Grade Teacher at Little Turtle Elementary!
Katie is a Columbia City native and a Western Governors University graduate. She enjoys hiking, camping, and gardening, and is a big fan of anything written by Frieda McFadden.
Her advice for students this year is simple and powerful:
“You don't know the amazing things you're capable of unless you try. Believe in yourself, learn from mistakes, and be kind to one another.”
For snacks, Katie prefers salty treats like pistachios or chips and salsa.
We’re thrilled to have her at Little Turtle Elementary!
STOPit, our online anonymous reporting system, is not accepting reports from May 28 to August 12.
If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 9-1-1.
Please know you can still use STOPit to connect to the Crisis Text Line and local resources during the summer.
If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 9-1-1.
Please know you can still use STOPit to connect to the Crisis Text Line and local resources during the summer.
Families,
With the close of the school year rapidly approaching, we're still trying to reach the 100% mark for completed 2026-2027 student registrations! Because of that, we've extended the deadline to receive free device protection coverage for the upcoming school year through Friday, May 1.
If you've been ignoring that weekly reminder email, today's a great day to act so that you don't miss out!
If you have the Skyward mobile app, registration can be completed in a few minutes by using the Registration Poral. Registration and enrollment can also be completed online by visiting the WCCS Skyward page or through this link on our website.
ENROLL TODAY!
Families,
As we prepare to head into Spring Break, it's a good time to complete registration for all returning students or to enroll new students for the 2026-2027 school year.
If you have the Skyward mobile app, registration can be completed in a few minutes by using the Registration Poral. Registration and enrollment can also be completed online by visiting the WCCS Skyward page or through this link on our website. For returning students, it's a quick process, plus, any student registered before the end of the day on Sunday, April 5, will receive free device protection for the upcoming school year, which is valued at $20 per student.
If you haven't completed it yet, ENROLL TODAY!
New and Returning Student Registration is now open for the 2026-2027 school year. All students registered prior to the end of the day on Sunday, April 5 will receive FREE device protection plan coverage ($20 value, per child) for the 2026-2027 school year (see attached). Please review your email for more information.
Families, this is your reminder that WCCS Elementary Schools are hosting Kindergarten Round-Up on Thursday, March 19! If you have an incoming Kindergarten student, or if you know an incoming Kindergarten student, contact your school today!