✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Jacqueline Jeffcoat-Schedtler, Social Studies and Talented & Gifted teacher at Waverly-Shell Rock High School!⭐✨
Jacqueline Jeffcoat-Schedtler is being celebrated for creating an environment where students feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged to reach their maximum potential.
We received nominations for Mrs. Jeffcoat-Schedtler from both parents and students. She is known for being "always nice and welcoming" and bringing "energy and excitement to the classroom."
Mrs. Jeffcoat-Schedtler's dedication is especially evident in how she supports the individual needs of her students. As one parent shared: "She deeply cares for her students' mental wellbeing." This parent noted that her child struggles with social anxiety and dyslexia, and she stated, "Mrs. Jeffcoat-Schedtler recognized this and challenged him in different ways helping him work through his issues. My child wouldn’t have been as successful without her... What a hidden gem of a teacher she is!!!"
By recognizing the unique strengths of her students while actively supporting their mental well-being, Jacqueline ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Please join us in celebrating Jacqueline-Jeffcoat Schedtler, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are still being accepted, but your opportunity to nominate a teacher is coming to a close as the end of the school year is approaching!
Our last two "Teachers of the Week" will be recognized on May 15, and May 22...and then on the LAST DAY OF SCHOOL - May 29 - listen to the Breakfast Club for the $500 drawing in which one of this year's weekly Teachers of the Week will be drawn to receive $500 from CUSB Bank!
Nominations will be accepted continuously through Friday, May 15.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Mrs. Jeffcoat-Schedtler and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
Calendar Reminder
Waverly-Shell Rock's last day of school for the 2025-2026 school year will be Friday, May 29. A "Special Early Dismiss" schedule will be followed on this day. Elementary buildings and the Lied Education Center will dismiss at 12:25 p.m., while the Middle School and High School will dismiss at 12:35 p.m.
Planning ahead to next year? The 1-page planning calendar for the 2026-2027 school year can be viewed here.
✨⭐ This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Cassie McCaslin, a 1st Grade Teacher at North Ridge Elementary! ⭐✨
Cassie is being recognized for her magical ability to engage her students and foster a deep love for learning. Her classroom is a place of wonder where stories don't just stay on the page—they come to life!
Cassie is celebrated as a "warm, inviting teacher" who possesses a unique ability to see each student’s individuality and "meet them where they are." Known for her humble and kind nature, she creates a first-grade classroom that is "fun, engaging, and full of joy," making every child feel deeply valued. One parent shared the impact Cassie has had on their child’s confidence, noting: “My daughter comes home almost every day excited to ‘play school’—her way of reflecting the positivity and inspiration she receives from Mrs. McCaslin.” Whether she is treating colleagues with dignity or helping a student find exactly what they need to succeed, Cassie is an enthusiastic leader who makes the school culture better simply by being herself. As one colleague put it, she is one of those teachers who doesn't "love being credited, but should be!"
Please join us in celebrating Cassie McCaslin, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are still being accepted, but your opportunity to nominate a teacher is coming to a close as the end of the school year is approaching!
Our final three "Teachers of the Week" will be recognized on May 8, May 15, and May 22...and then on the LAST DAY OF SCHOOL - May 29 - listen to the Breakfast Club for the $500 drawing in which one of this year's weekly Teachers of the Week will be drawn to receive $500 from CUSB Bank!
Nominations will be accepted continuously through Friday, May 15.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Cassie McCaslin and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
✨⭐ This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Bailey Lubben, a Special Education Teacher at Shell Rock Elementary! ⭐✨
Bailey is being celebrated for her incredible heart and for the way she consistently goes above and beyond to support everyone around her. Her journey with Waverly-Shell Rock has truly come full circle, as she is now teaching in the very same elementary school she attended as a child!
We received wonderful nominations for Bailey, describing her as the "sweetest person ever" who puts her heart into everything she does. Not only is she a light for her students, but she is also a dedicated mentor to her colleagues. As one nominator shared: “She has helped me become successful as a para sub and has given me the opportunity to do that. She is always so supportive and positive... she applies the Go-Hawk Way every day.” By being a constant source of encouragement and staying dedicated to the success of her entire school community, Bailey ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Please join us in celebrating Bailey Lubben, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the end of the school year. Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Bailey Lubben and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Jason Milke, a teacher and coach at Waverly-Shell Rock High School!⭐✨
Jason Milke is being celebrated for creating an environment where students feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged to reach their maximum potential.
We received a surge of nominations for Mr. Milke from current students, parents, and even alumni. He is known for making his classroom a place that students genuinely look forward to visiting—balancing high challenges with a relaxed, safe environment where kids aren't afraid to ask questions.
Jason's dedication expands far beyond the classroom into his work as a coach. He makes sure to celebrate effort and progress for every athlete, reminding them how important they are to the team whether they finish first or last.
Parents and students alike highlight his unique ability to make everyone feel "seen, heard, and valued." Whether he is applying "fake scenarios" to make lessons more engaging or taking a moment in the hallway to check in on a student's well-being, Mr. Milke consistently goes above and beyond. One former student shared: “I can confidently say I would not be who I am or where I am today without Mr. Milke.” He doesn't just teach the material; he builds the confidence of his students by "celebrating effort and progress in every situation." From the classroom to the cross-country path, he provides the opportunity for every individual to grow into a capable, prepared adult while prioritizing their mental and physical health.
By holding his students to high standards while actively supporting their mental and physical well-being, Jason ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Please join us in celebrating Jason Milke, and in thanking him for his contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!"
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the end of the school year.
Use this form to submit a nomination:https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Jason Milke and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
🗓️ 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱-𝟮𝟲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲
We are pleased to share our anticipated end-of-year dates for Go-Hawk families! Based on our current instructional hours:
✅ 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟰: No School for students (Professional Day)
✅ 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟵: Last Day of School for students (Special Early Dismissal)
We intend to follow this schedule to finish the year barring any significant weather events.
The email linked below (which contains the same information but includes greater detail) was emailed to all Waverly-Shell Rock families earlier this morning: https://bit.ly/4cLXEiT
Thank you for your continued support of the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District.
#GoHawks #WSRSchools #CalendarUpdate
This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Nick Willenborg, who teaches in the Success Center at Waverly-Shell Rock High School!
Nick Willenborg is being celebrated for his dedication to creating individualized pathways to success and for the profound respect he shows to every student he mentors.
Nick was nominated by a parent whose children have worked with Nick in the High School Success Center. Nick is known for his ability to see the potential in every student, treating them with the dignity and respect they need to navigate their unique educational journeys.
As a key part of the Success Center team, Nick doesn't just help students with schoolwork; he helps them build the confidence and opportunities they need for their futures. As his nominator shared: “Nick treats students with dignity and respect, creating opportunities and pathways to success. I cannot say enough good things about him and his team.”
By providing a supportive environment where students can overcome challenges, Nick ensures that every Go-Hawk has the opportunity to succeed.
Please join us in celebrating Nick Willenborg, and in thanking him for his contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the end of the school year.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Mr. Willenborg and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Jessica Hamilton, Academic Interventionist at Waverly-Shell Rock Middle School!⭐✨
Jessica Hamilton is being celebrated for leading with compassion and for her unwavering dedication to the well-being of every student who walks into her classroom.
We received multiple nominations for Mrs. Hamilton, highlighting how she creates a welcoming sanctuary where students feel seen, valued, and safe to decompress. She is known for her immense patience—especially when supporting students through behavioral challenges—and for her commitment to finding and celebrating each child's individual strengths.
Jessica’s dedication doesn't stop when the school bell rings. She is frequently spotted at her students’ events outside of school hours, showing her encouragement and support for their lives beyond the classroom. As one nominator shared: “She leads with integrity, kindness, and a genuine dedication to her students. She meets everyone with patience and care, and her commitment to helping kids succeed inspires everyone around her.”
By fostering mentor relationships and providing a steady, encouraging voice, Jessica ensures that every student has the opportunity to belong and grow.
Please join us in celebrating Jessica Hamilton, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the end of the school year.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Jessica Hamilton and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
✨⭐The latest teacher to be recognized as KWAY's Teacher of the Week is Jim Vowels, Band Director at Waverly-Shell Rock High School!⭐✨
Jim Vowels is being celebrated for his dedication to his students' musical growth and for creating a music department where every student feels safe and supported.
We received several heartfelt nominations from Jim’s students, many of whom describe him as a "perfect example" of the kind of person they want to be when they grow up. Whether he is helping a student prepare for All-State auditions or simply checking in to make sure everyone is doing okay, Jim goes out of his way to make the High School a more enjoyable and accepting place.
As one student nomination shared: “He truly tries his hardest to make the school a safe environment for everyone he meets. He’s helped me grow as a musician, but he also makes every class feel like a place where you can be yourself.”
By fostering a culture of mutual respect and high achievement, Jim ensures that every student in the band program has the opportunity to grow and reach their full potential.
Please join us in celebrating Jim Vowels, and in thanking him for his contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the last week of the 2025-2026 school year.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Jim Vowels and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
🤝 Partnering for Our Students: The WSR Community Schools Foundation🤝
The WSR Community Schools Foundation serves as a catalyst to expand and enhance educational experiences and opportunities for students, staff, and residents of the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District.
Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation operates as a separate 501(c)3 organization from the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District. The Foundation does not receive funds from state or federal sources; instead, they rely on the generosity of our community to fund vital programs, including:
🎓 Go-Hawk Scholarship Fund: Recognizing graduating seniors who have demonstrated good citizenship, community involvement, and academic achievement throughout their school careers.
💡 Smart Money Teacher Grants: Providing funding for educational projects that benefit K-12 learning in the district.
🌱 Nest Money Endowment Fund: A permanent pool of funds supporting teaching excellence and innovation in our district.
🏦 Endowment: A permanent pool of funds generating interest income every year to support all programs of the Foundation.
🔓 Unrestricted: Gifts that provide the greatest flexibility for the Foundation to meet the needs in our district.
All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Stay updated on the amazing projects they fund for our Go-Hawks by giving them a follow! 👇
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/wsrfoundation
#GoHawks #WSRCSD #WSRFoundation #BelongingOpportunityAchievement #InvestInGoHawks #WSRMissionInAction
✨⭐The latest teacher to be recognized as KWAY's Teacher of the Week is Laura Willms, Kindergarten Teacher at North Ridge Elementary!⭐✨
Laura Willms is being celebrated for her "superhuman patience" and for turning the "beautifully unpredictable universe" of Kindergarten into a place of belonging and joy.
In a moving nomination, a parent shared that Mrs. Willms has a unique gift for guiding our tiniest Go-Hawks through one of the biggest transitions of their lives. Whether she is teaching a student to read, helping someone navigate the art of standing in a line, or celebrating the triumph of a small child remembering to raise their hand, Laura meets every student exactly where they are with humor and heart.
Her classroom is described as a sanctuary where students are encouraged to grow into independence—even on days when putting on socks or zipping a coat feels like a major challenge.
As her nominator put it: “Growth doesn’t happen in straight lines, especially in kindergarten... but Laura is the reason so many little humans wake up excited for school. She transforms the start of a child's educational journey into something magical.”
By creating a space where every student feels safe to take risks and make mistakes, Laura ensures that our youngest learners truly BELONG and GROW.
Please join us in celebrating Laura Willms, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the last week of the 2025-2026 school year.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Laura Willms and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
✨⭐The latest teacher to be recognized as KWAY's Teacher of the Week is Joel Hunzelman, Language Arts Teacher at Waverly-Shell Rock Middle School!⭐✨
Joel Hunzelman is being celebrated for his unique ability to connect with his students through humor, kindness, and high expectations.
We received numerous nominations from students who wanted to make sure Mr. Hunzelman was recognized for the joy he brings to his Language Arts classroom. His students describe him as "super funny" and "nice," but they also appreciate that he pays close attention to what they need—both personally and academically.
Whether he’s making the class laugh or challenging them to reach a new goal in their writing and reading, Mr. Hunzelman creates an environment where every student feels seen and valued. As one student nomination put it: “He is a very good teacher. He is super funny and makes everyone feel important. He helps students while also challenging them and helping them learn.”
By balancing a fun classroom culture with a dedication to student growth, Joel ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Please join us in celebrating Joel Hunzelman, and in thanking him for his contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the last week of the 2025-2026 school year.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Joel Hunzelman and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
✨⭐The latest teacher to be recognized as KWAY's Teacher of the Week is Seth McGrane, 4th-grade teacher at Shell Rock Elementary!⭐✨
Seth McGrane is being recognized for his massive heart and for his unwavering dedication to his students both inside and outside the classroom.
We received multiple, moving nominations for Mr. McGrane that highlight his incredible character. One parent shared a story that truly defines what it means to go above and beyond: when one of his students was battling cancer and losing their hair, Mr. McGrane shaved his own head in a powerful show of solidarity.
Beyond the classroom, Seth is a constant presence in the community—whether he’s volunteering at the Shell Rock Super Bowl Brunch, walking with his students in the 4th of July parade, or spending his personal time securing funds to update the basketball hoops and backboards at the school.
As one nominator put it: “He leads by example with his actions. He puts his students' interests above his own and genuinely cares about where their journey takes them beyond his classroom.”
By building these deep personal connections, Seth ensures that every student knows they Belong and are supported as they Grow.
Please join us in celebrating Seth McGrane, and in thanking him for his contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the last week of the 2025-2026 school year.
Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Seth McGrane and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
✨⭐The latest teacher to be recognized as KWAY's Teacher of the Week is Joanna Heyer, First Grade Teacher at Prairie West Elementary!⭐✨
Joanna Heyer is being celebrated for her rare ability to balance high academic standards with a joyful, goofy heart that makes children love coming to school.
We received a beautiful nomination for Joanna, describing her as one of the most dedicated and focused educators you will ever meet. She is constantly seeking out new ways to challenge her students and help them reach their full potential.
But what truly makes her classroom special is her willingness to "flip the switch" and lean into her playful side to make a lesson memorable or share a laugh with her students.
As her nominator shared: “Joanna understands that children learn best when they are happy. Her kindness is the backbone of her classroom, and it is evident to anyone who walks through her door that she truly enjoys her job.”
By creating an environment that is both academically driven and genuinely fun, Joanna ensures that every child in her care has the opportunity to Grow and Succeed.
Please join us in celebrating Joanna Heyer, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the last week of the school year. Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Joanna Heyer and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
We are so proud of these educators for finding creative ways to help our students grow. Way to go, Go-Hawks! 🖤💛🦅
#ItsAGreatDayToBeAGoHawk #GoHawks
Check out the article on KWWL's website: https://www.kwwl.com/news/waverly-shell-rock-teachers-receive-4-712-for-innovative-classroom-projects/article_849ac7c4-896a-46d0-9e3f-97483090d68e.html
✨⭐The latest teacher to be recognized as KWAY's Teacher of the Week is Lindsey Baskett, District Teacher Librarian for the elementary schools!⭐✨
Lindsey Baskett is being celebrated for her incredible creativity and for turning the school library into a vibrant hub of curiosity and connection.
Serving students across the district's three K-through-4 buildings, Lindsey makes it her mission to know every child’s name, interests, and personality. She is known for creating fun, achievable reading challenges—like encouraging students to read to a pet or under a table—to make literacy exciting for everyone.
Lindsey has also expanded the library’s impact by introducing the game chess, which has become so popular that students now check out chess boards during indoor recess and stay after school to play together.
As one nominator shared: “Lindsey’s creativity, dedication, and constant positivity make her truly exceptional. She has turned the library into a space that strengthens minds through books, puzzles, and even chess!”
By personalizing the learning experience for every child, Lindsey ensures that every student has the Opportunity to Grow their love of learning.
Please join us in celebrating Lindsey Baskett, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds!
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the last week of the school year. Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Lindsey Baskett and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
Board Work Session Postponed:
The board work session scheduled to take place on February 20 at 7:00 a.m. at North Ridge Elementary has been postponed due to road conditions. The work session will now take place on Monday, February 23 at 5:30 p.m. in the board room at the district administration building.
✨⭐The latest teacher to be recognized as KWAY's Teacher of the Week is Jessica Harrington, Preschool Teacher at the Little Go-Hawk Learning Center!⭐✨
Jessica Harrington is being celebrated for her genuine love for her students and for making the very first years of school a joyful, inclusive experience.
Jess received numerous nominations, including one from a classroom associate who asked the students what they loved most about "Mrs. Harrington." Their answers say it all:
⭐one student loves that Mrs. Harrington "dances,"
⭐another loves Mrs. Harrington's "question of the day,"
⭐and another student even joked that she calls him "SpongeBob!"
Beyond the fun and games, Jess is recognized by her colleagues for her deep commitment to accessibility. Having served as a paraprofessional before becoming a teacher, she truly understands how to meet every student where they are and treats her entire classroom team as valued partners.
As one nominator put it: “She has a genuine, warm love for everyone... the kids love her, and she makes working every day a blast!”
By creating a classroom where every child feels seen and celebrated, Jess ensures that our youngest Go-Hawks truly Belong.
Please join us in celebrating Jessica Harrington, and in thanking her for her contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where everyone belongs, grows, and succeeds!
Listen to the KWAY radio announcement at this link: https://on.soundcloud.com/flXL2f5ubwF0Yx4e26
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Nominations for KWAY's Teacher of the Week feature are being accepted continuously through the last week of the school year. Use this form to submit a nomination: https://tinyurl.com/WSRTeacherOfTheWeek
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💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Jessica Harrington and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place where EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨
2026-2027 School Calendar Approved
At the February board meeting on 2/9/26, the Waverly-Shell Rock Board of Education approved the proposed calendar for the 2026-2027 School Year. The calendar can be viewed at this link: https://aptg.co/fy46sJ
