As we begin the 2025–2026 school year, I want to extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome on behalf of the leadership team at Whitley County Consolidated Schools. Each new academic year brings fresh opportunities to grow, lead, and innovate and this year is no exception.
Our vision remains clear to prepare all students for success in a rapidly changing world by delivering high-quality education, supporting the whole child, and working collaboratively with our families and community. This school year, we will continue this important work through three strategic goal areas that serve as the foundation of our district’s continuous improvement efforts.
Improve Student Outcomes Through Data-Driven Instruction and Strategic Program Implementation
We are committed to using common assessments and regular student performance data, including ILEARN checkpoints, to drive instruction and implement timely interventions across all grade levels.
At Columbia City High School, we will complete the final phase of the School Improvement Grant, embedding the “CCHS Way” as a sustainable, daily practice that fosters academic excellence and school culture.
We will implement Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) with fidelity, aiming for measurable reductions in the number of students below grade-level proficiency in both ELA and Math.
Teachers across all schools will be supported in using data to inform planning, with a focus on increasing student proficiency on common assessments.
Strengthen School Culture and Community Engagement
Our new initiative, Project Safe Horizon, will launch this fall to enhance student safety and well-being while addressing bullying through proactive, data-driven strategies and student leadership.
We will continue to prioritize transparent, consistent communication with families and community members through newsletters, public forums and engagement events at every building.
Our schools will build and maintain meaningful partnerships with local organizations to align resources with district needs and broaden the support network available to our students.
Lead with Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Readiness
We will conduct budget overview sessions and share clear, accessible budget summaries to promote understanding and transparency around district finances.
Through targeted leadership development, we will build capacity across departments by identifying emerging leaders and ensuring continuity of operations through shared leadership structures and cross-training.
Together, these goals represent our shared responsibility to create a district where all students can thrive. We are grateful for the dedication of our staff, the support of our families, and the involvement of our greater community. Your continued partnership makes this work possible and successful.
We are excited for all that lies ahead and look forward to working together to make 2025–2026 a year of purpose, progress, and Eagle P.R.I.D.E.!
-Dr. Laura McDermott, Ed.D.
WCCS Superintendent
