Several years ago, the Willard Public Schools Board of Education created a special recognition award called the "Excellence In Education" award.  It is typically given to a very select individual who, either through their service in the district as a staff member, board member or student, has left an indelible mark on the district.  

  

I can attest to what an honor it is to be awarded this recognition, and I have had the honor to pass this along to a few special folks in my tenure on the board. This year, the Board recognized two such outstanding retirees with the Excellence Award.  Mrs. Cindy Miles has not only given a lifetime to teaching students, but she used her calm and endearing manner to advocate for teachers and staff in the district over the past several years as a key leader with the local MSTA, and as an integral leader in salary negotiations as a chair of the salary committee.  She quickly earned the respect of the administration and board with her honest, common sense approach to tackling one of the toughest parts of budget development each year, salaries for our staff.  She will be missed as not only a quality teacher who has gotten many Willard students off to a great start in Kindergarten, but for her leadership in the district, as well!

  

The second honoree is one who is most often only seen from the back!  Mr. Chris Church, Director of Bands for Willard has created, with his staff, one of the premier band programs in the state and region.  The Cutting Edge marching band has been a hallmark of excellence in the district for years, thanks to Mr. Church's leadership.  But, more important than the fine band program, Mr. Church has long been an advocate of pursuing excellence within the district, serving on many leadership committees, and offering his help and support through many different projects across the district. His unique perspective of working with such a large group of students and families from grades 6-12 has been valued by the administration and board of education for many years.  He leaves a legacy of greatness as the "leader of the band", but more important, being an advocate for Willard Schools.

  

Congratulations to Mrs. Miles and Mr. Church!

  

Julie Germann

Board President

Last week, the WHS family sent out an awesome Class of 2014 graduates.  This week, the WHS family welcomed the Class of 2018 during Freshmen Transition Day on Tuesday, May 20.  I encouraged our graduates and our new students with the same three challenges: be an organizer, be a communicator, and be a problem solver. 

 

Finals start on Friday, May 23.  Choir students are headed to the Bahamas beginning Sunday, May 25. 

 

Summer school starts June 2nd at 7:30 AM.  Additional information can be found in the guidance office.

 

Congratulations to Mr. Church, Mrs. Schnakenbberg, and Mrs. Steele on stellar careers at WHS!  They each have been tremendous role models, student advocates, and consummate professionals for Willard students.  These three staff members will be missed, never forgotten, and always welcome at WHS. 

 

It is GREAT to be a Tiger!

 

Curt Graves

Principal